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•
Contents
1. National News ..................................................................................................................1
• 2. International Affairs......................................................................................................11
• 3. State Affairs.....................................................................................................................16
• 4. Business and Economy..................................................................................................21
• 5. Science and Technology................................................................................................30
• 6. Defence.............................................................................................................................34
• 7. Appointments..................................................................................................................39
• 8. MoUs.................................................................................................................................45
• 9. Summits............................................................................................................................54
• 10. Reports.............................................................................................................................60
• 11. Sports................................................................................................................................63
• 12. Awards and Honours......................................................................................................68
• 13. Government Schemes....................................................................................................74
• 14. Obituary...........................................................................................................................77
• 15. Important Days...............................................................................................................80
Chapter

1 National News

Cyber Security Innovation Challenge (CSIC) sanitation and waste management on November 24,
1.0 launched by the Ministry of Electronics 2025.
and Information Technology (MeitY)

• In a landmark initiative to strengthen India’s

cybersecurity ecosystem, the Ministry of Electronics • MoHUA Minister of State, Shri Tokhan Sahu,
and Information Technology (MeitY) launched the emphasized initiatives under the Swachh Bharat
Cyber Security Innovation Challenge (CSIC) 1.0 under Mission–Urban, transforming waste management
the Information Security Education and Awareness through tech-driven solutions.
(ISEA) Project of MeitY. • A national exchange platform is being developed to
• Strengthen India’s cybersecurity ecosystem by connect startups, urban local bodies, and investors,
addressing emerging threats and enhancing aiming for innovative waste management solutions.
technological capabilities through a national strategy. • Rapid urbanization is increasing demand for smarter
• Aims to expose students to real-world cybersecurity service delivery; startups are reshaping urban local
challenges, promoting professional skills and viable services.
career paths in cybersecurity. • Over 5,000 waste management startups onboarded
• Involves MeitY, CERT-In, NSCS, AICTE, C-DAC, DSCI, by DPIIT are enhancing urban sustainability.
and various academic institutions for collaborative • Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban, initiated in 2014, aims
efforts. for garbage-free cities through waste segregation,
• Features a five-stage process with extensive domain- recycling, and innovative business models.
specific problem statements tailored to critical • Startups like Arc Robotics and EcoKaari are leading
sectors like BFSI, telecom, and healthcare. tech-driven solutions in waste management.
• Domains include Computer & Network Security, • The Swachhata Startup Challenge in 2022 received
Mobile Device Security, Systems & Software 230+ applications, resulting in 30 selected startups
Security, Hardware Security, Futuristic Technologies, with significant revenue and job growth.
Cryptography, Cyber Forensics, Governance,
• Cohort-2 onboarding in 2024 received 400+
Operations & Services, and Fintech Security.
applications, with 32 startups selected to drive
innovation in waste management.
MoHUA & IIT Kanpur Launch Second Cohort
• Startups under Cohort 1 treated over 300 lakh
of 32 Clean-Tech Startups for Swachh Bharat
liters of wastewater and managed significant waste
• India ranked third globally with over 100 unicorns, volumes, creating 2,000+ jobs.
fueled by a strong tech and innovation culture.
• Cohort 2 focuses on circular waste management, led
• The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) by youth and women innovators, supported by IIT
launched the second cohort of startups focused on Kanpur’s mentorship and infrastructure.
• MoHUA aims to build a unified platform for solution • The CAG of India, K Sanjay Murthy, has launched the
exchange to enhance the waste management startup Centre of Excellence for Financial Audit (CoEFA) in
ecosystem Hyderabad to tackle complexities in public finance.
• The centre will use AI and ML tools to enable
Government withdraws mandatory pre- advanced, technology-driven financial auditing.
installation of Sanchar Saathi app • Its key goals include building a future-ready public
sector audit ecosystem, integrating global best
practices, and strengthening human resource
development.
• CoEFA will serve as a hub for research, innovation,
policy support, and capacity building for auditors
and related institutions.
• It will support improved skills and tools in auditing
while upholding the CAG’s constitutional mandate of
• The Indian government decided against making the ensuring transparency and accountability in public
pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app mandatory expenditure.
for mobile manufacturers.
Centre releases ₹37,000 cr under RDSS to
• The Sanchar Saathi app was designed to enhance
cybersecurity for citizens and help them combat boost power distribution
cyber fraud.
• The app has seen significant uptake, with 1.4 crore
downloads and rapid increases in daily registrations.
• Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia addressed
concerns about snooping, asserting that the app does
not enable such practices.
• Prior, the Department of Telecommunications had
mandated that all mobile manufacturers, including
major brands, pre-install the app on devices sold in • The central government has released approximately
India. Rs 37,000 crore as a grant under the Revamped
Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
• This mandate faced criticism from tech analysts
and internet freedom organisations over potential • Released funds represent 38% of the total sanctioned
privacy concerns. Gross Budgetary Support for the RDSS, as stated by
Minister of State for Power, Shripad Yesso Naik.
• The rollback decision was welcomed by industry
representatives, emphasising the need for • Fund release is contingent upon distribution
stakeholder consultation in policy-making. companies (DISCOMs) meeting specific milestones
and fulfilling requirements according to guidelines.
• The Sanchar Saathi app has contributed to tracing 26
lakh stolen handsets and blocking 6 lakh fraudulent • A result evaluation framework with customized
activities. action plans has been created to assess states’ and
DISCOMs’ performance for fund allocation.
CAG sets up Centre of Excellence for • No distribution infrastructure claims from any state
Financial Audit in Hyderabad are currently pending with the power ministry.

Indira Gandhi International Airport becomes

first in India to achieve “Water-Positive”
Status
• Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is the first
airport in India to achieve water positive status.
• The airport has a capacity of over 40 million
passengers per annum.

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2
 ALIMCO Marks 53rd Foundation Day and
Unveils New Logo and Next-Generation
Mobility Solutions for Divyangjan

• CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar highlighted the airport’s

commitment to responsible resource use and
environmental stewardship.
• The achievement is part of IGIA’s long-term vision to • The Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of
become a net-zero airport. India (ALIMCO) on 30th November marked its 53rd
• Water positivity aims to reduce dependence on Foundation Day with a renewed commitment to
natural resources and improve climate resilience. inclusion, dignity and technological excellence.
• The occasion was commemorated by the unveiling of
India Finishes Strong at WorldSkills Asia ALIMCO’s new corporate logo and the launch of two
Competition 2025, Secures 8th Rank in Its advanced mobility solutions — the 3-Wheeler EV
First-Ever Participation Scooter for Divyangjan and Senior Citizens and the
Clip-on Motorised Wheelchair.
Key Features of the Newly Launched Products
• The 3-Wheeler EV Scooter for Divyangjan and Senior
Citizens features a highly stable and ergonomic
design, is eco-friendly with low maintenance
requirements, and is easy to manoeuvre in crowded
and urban environments.
• The Clip-on Motorised Wheelchair transforms a
manual wheelchair into a motorised unit, operates on
• India marked a major milestone on the global skills a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, offers a range of
stage as the country concluded its debut participation up to 25 kilometres per charge, and is equipped with
at the WorldSkills Asia Competition (WSAC) 2025 enhanced braking and reverse-gear functionality.
with an impressive 8th-place finish, among 29 • The commemorative programme was attended
participating nations. by senior officials of the Ministry, representatives
• In its debut against the region’s leading skill of disability organisations, technical experts,
ecosystems, India showcased remarkable discipline, beneficiaries and members of ALIMCO’s leadership,
innovation, and global-standard excellence across reaffirming a shared national commitment to a more
high-demand and emerging trades. accessible, empowered and inclusive India.
• Led by the Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship (MSDE), with NSDC and other Cyclone Ditwah triggers heavy rain in Tamil
technical partners steering training and preparation, Nadu and Puducherry
the Indian contingent comprised 23 competitors,
who competed in 21 skill categories.
• They were accompanied and supported by 21 experts.
• The team showcased exceptional performance across
both traditional and tech-driven skill categories.
• India secured one Silver, two Bronze medals, and
three Medallions for Excellence, signalling the
country’s fast-expanding footprint in global skills
excellence.

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• According to India Meteorological Department • Objectives: Promote market access, visibility for rural
(IMD), Tamil Nadu and Puducherry received heavy women, financial independence, entrepreneurship,
rain as Cyclone Ditwah skirted the state’s coast. and women-led livelihood models.
• This is the third cyclone to form in the Bay after the • Public Access: Event open daily from 11:30 a.m. to
monsoon season of October-November. 9:30 p.m. until December 9.
• The name “Ditwah” means “lagoon” and was • Additional Exhibits: Displays of natural and rural
suggested by Yemen as part of the cyclone naming products to educate visitors about rural livelihoods
convention. and traditional crafts.
• The name specifically refers to the Detwah Lagoon
on Socotra Island, Yemen, known for its unique and Cabinet approves scheme of Conduct of
distinct coastal ecosystem. Census of India 2027
• The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO)
and the UN ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones use
a pre-approved list of names provided by member
countries.
• “Ditwah” denotes the coastline and maritime heritage
of Yemen in this naming system.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurates Saras

Aajeevika Food Festival in Delhi

• The Union Cabinet approved the Census of India

2027 at an estimated cost of ₹11,718.24 crore.
• Census 2027 will be conducted in two main phases:
Houselisting & Housing Census (April–September
2026) and Population Enumeration (February 2027).
• Snow-bound and special regions like Ladakh, parts
• Saras Aajeevika Food Festival 2025 inaugurated by
of J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand will have
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at Sunder
Population Enumeration in September 2026
Nursery, New Delhi.
• Around 30 lakh field functionaries, including
• Presence: Union Women and Child Development
enumerators, supervisors, and district officer,s will
Minister Annpurna Devi attended.
be deployed nationwide.
• Focus: Empowerment of women through self-help
• This will be India’s first fully digital Census, with
groups, showcasing the skills of “Lakhpati Didis”
data collection through a mobile application and
from 25 states.
enhanced security features.
• Government Initiative: Prime Minister Narendra
• A Census Management & Monitoring System (CMMS)
Modi prioritizes women’s development; the Rural
portal will track progress in real-time, and the HLB
Development Ministry aims to enhance livelihood
Creator web-map app will aid field planning and
opportunities for women.
navigation.
Festival Highlights • A self-enumeration option will allow citizens to
• Over 500 traditional dishes offered across 62 stalls. submit their own data digitally.
• Regional cuisines include Himachali Seeddu, • Census data will be available in machine-readable
Tandoori Chai, Kalari Kulcha, Hyderabadi Biryani, formats and through Census-as-a-Service (CaaS) for
North Eastern Momos, Bengali Fried Fish, Rajasthani easy access by ministries and researchers.
Kair Sagari, Malabar Biryani, Litti-Chokha, and • The Cabinet decided to collect caste data electronically
Sarson Ka Saag with Makki Roti. during the Population Enumeration phase.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | January 2026 P

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Operation Sagar Bandhu - Indian Navy as “name@entity”, which will serve as a proxy for a
Deploys Four More Warships To Deliver 1000 physical address.
Tons of HADR Material To Sri Lanka • The government plans to integrate DHRUVA into its
digital public infrastructure initiatives.
• Private firms will be allowed to participate in this
system.

Jyotiraditya Scindia Participates in the

Globally Acclaimed Hornbill Festival of
Nagaland

• Operation Sagar Bandhu is an Indian Navy initiative

to provide Search & Rescue (SAR) and Humanitarian
Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) to Sri Lanka.
• Four additional Indian Navy ships, INS Gharial, LCU
54, LCU 51, and LCU 57, have been deployed to deliver
HADR stores to cyclone-affected areas in Sri Lanka.
• Previously, INS Vikrant, INS Udaygiri, and INS
Sukanya provided relief assistance and heli-borne • Union Minister for Communications & DoNER,
SAR support. Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, participated in the Hornbill
• LCU 54, LCU 51, and LCU 57 arrived in Colombo Festival in Nagaland, highlighting the state’s rich
on December 7, 2025, and delivered critical relief cultural heritage and traditions of its 17 tribes.
materials. • The festival, held in Kisama Heritage Village, has
• INS Gharial is expected to reach Trincomalee on gained global recognition under Prime Minister
December 8, 2025, to continue the humanitarian Modi’s “Act East” vision, with Switzerland, Ireland,
mission. and the UK joining as official Partner Countries this
year.
Postal department considers UPI-like ‘labels’ • A vibrant showcase of tradition and modernity, the
for addresses festival features tribal dances, handloom displays,
indigenous games, culinary exhibitions, and music
concerts.
• Scindia engaged with artisans and entrepreneurs in
Touphema Village, participating in traditional crafts
and coffee-making sessions.
• He took part in the Angami stone-pulling ceremony,
symbolizing unity within Naga society.

Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog and HUL

• The Department of Posts has released a draft
Partner to Accelerate Transition to Circular
amendment to the Post Office Act, 2023, to introduce
a new addressing system called DHRUVA. Economy
• DHRUVA stands for Digital Hub for Reference and
Unique Virtual Address.
• This system aims to create an interoperable,
standardised, and user-centric addressing system.
• A key component of DHRUVA, called DIGIPIN, was
rolled out in March.
• DHRUVA will allow textual addresses to be replaced
with labels similar to email or UPI addresses, such

CURRENT AFFAIRS | January 2026 P

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• NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and Deepavali Inscribed on UNESCO’s
Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) have partnered Representative List of the Intangible
to launch a nationwide start-up acceleration
programme aimed at advancing India’s transition to
Cultural Heritage of Humanity
a circular economy.
• This initiative, under HUL’s flagship Project Circular
Bharat, will identify and support 50 high-potential
circular economy start-ups over the next three years.
• The programme will prioritise start-ups innovating
in plastics circularity with solutions for plastic
recycling, reuse & refill models and next-generation
packaging materials. Beyond plastics, the programme
will also support start-ups tackling material recovery • Deepavali, the festival of light, has been inscribed
in other post-consumer waste streams such as on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible
textiles, e-waste. Cultural Heritage of Humanity for 2025.
• Start-ups selected under the programme will gain • The Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) list includes
access to curated mentorship from business leaders, living traditions, skills, and expressions passed
policy experts, and investors. down through generations, covering oral traditions,
performing arts, social practices/rituals/festivals,
• Selected start-ups may also get grant funding, coupled
nature/universe knowledge, and traditional
with pilot opportunities for market validation.
craftsmanship.
• The partnership brings together AIM and NITI Aayog’s
• India now has 15 elements on the list, including
policy and innovation nurturing expertise, HUL’s
Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja, Garba dance, yoga, Vedic
extensive industry network, and Xynteo’s strategic
chanting, and Ramlila.
expertise to accelerate breakthrough solutions that
drive India’s shift toward a circular economy. • To be included, intangible cultural heritage must be
inclusive, representative, and community-based.
Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Patil • Inclusion on the list elevates a festival’s status,
Launches Sujalam Bharat App encourages safeguarding its traditions, increases
international visibility, boosts tourism and cultural
exchanges, and supports sustainable livelihoods for
artisans.
• The list also has a section for customs most at risk,
with four elements flagged in December 2022 as
needing urgent safeguarding.
• Deepavali’s inclusion on the list signifies its global
cultural importance and aims to contribute to its
• Sujalam Bharat App was launched by C. R. Patil, Union worldwide popularity.
Minister of Jal Shakti, to strengthen rural drinking • India has nominated Bihar’s Chhat Puja for
water governance. consideration in the next cycle.
• Purpose: Provides real-time, comprehensive data on
rural water supply for citizens and institutions. Chief Justice Surya Kant Reconstitutes
• Developed with support from Bhaskaracharya Supreme Court AI Committee
National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-
informatics (BISAG-N).
• Key features: Geo-referenced mapping of water
infrastructure and monitoring tools under the Jal
Jeevan Mission.
• Transparency boost: Introduces Sujal Gaon ID—a
unique ID for each scheme/service area to clearly
track household water supply.

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• Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has reconstituted • The Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Management Programme
the Supreme Court’s Artificial Intelligence Committee. (UPCAMP) has been approved with $299.66 million
• The committee’s mandate is to guide the adoption, in financing.
development, and deployment of AI tools in the • UPCAMP aims to provide clean cooking access to 3.9
higher and subordinate judiciary. million households across Uttar Pradesh.
• Justice PS Narasimha will chair the revised panel.
• Members include Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva, Justice Sonowal flags off first indigenous hydrogen
Raja Vijayaraghavan V, Justice Anoop Chitkara, and fuel-cell vessel in Varanasi
Justice Suraj Govindaraj.
• Anupam Patra will serve as Member-Secretary and
Convenor, with Ashish J Shiradhonkar as a Special
Invitee.
• The committee aims to enhance efficiency,
accessibility, and transparency in the justice delivery
system.
• This reconstitution follows the government’s
statement that no formal AI policy or guidelines have • Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off
been issued, as AI tools are in a controlled pilot phase. India’s first indigenous hydrogen fuel-cell vessel in
• Concerns about algorithmic bias, language Varanasi, marking a major milestone in clean and
limitations, data privacy, and the need for manual sustainable inland water transport.
verification of AI outputs were raised by Minister of • The vessel’s commercial operations were inaugurated
State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal. at Namo Ghat by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and
Waterways.
World Bank approves funds to help UP, • The hydrogen-powered vessel showcases India’s
Haryana improve air quality growing technological capability and commitment to
green energy and indigenous solutions.
• With this launch, India joins countries like China,
Norway, the Netherlands, and Japan in operating
hydrogen-powered vessels.
• The initiative highlights the increasing role of
inland waterways in India’s development under the
visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra
Modi.
• The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors • The project is part of the modernisation of inland
approved financing for two large-scale clean air waterways, focusing on clean transport, better
programmes in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. connectivity, and public convenience.
• The initiatives aim to promote cleaner air, stronger • Several Uttar Pradesh ministers were present at
economic growth, and expanded green job the event, reflecting strong state-level support for
opportunities in the region. sustainable transport initiatives.
• The World Bank stated that the programmes will ADB approves $240 million loan for Chennai
help both states become more attractive business
destinations while improving quality of life. metro expansion in India
• Paul Procee, Acting Country Director of the World
Bank in India, highlighted that air pollution severely
impacts health, productivity, and living standards
across South Asia.
• The programmes mark the first time Indian states
are implementing airshed-based and multi-sectoral
approaches to tackle air pollution.

CURRENT AFFAIRS | January 2026 P

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• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved • Located about 8 miles southwest of Alwar, within the
a USD 240 million loan for the second tranche of the buffer zone of the Sariska Tiger Reserve.
Chennai Metro Rail Investment Project. • Covers approximately 7 square kilometers in a semi-
• This loan aims to expand the metro rail network in arid region.
the Chennai Metropolitan Area, India, providing
cleaner, safer, and more reliable urban transport. University of Patanjali named the country’s
• The second tranche is part of ADB’s USD 780 million first yoga and ayurveda cluster center under
multitranche financing facility approved in 2022, Gyan Bharatam
with the first tranche being USD 350 million.
• The new financing will support key sections of
metro lines 3, 4, and 5, covering 20 kilometers of
elevated and underground corridors and 18 new
stations.
• These stations will feature universal
access and disaster-resilient infrastructure.
• The project will contribute to safer, faster, and more
reliable daily travel in Chennai and align with the
city’s low-carbon development goals.

Siliserh Lake and Kopra Jalashay Added to

the Ramsar List • The University of Patanjali in Haridwar, Uttarakhand,
was designated as India’s first Yoga and Ayurveda-
focused ‘Cluster Centre’ under the Gyan Bharatam
Mission (GBM).
• The Gyan Bharatam Mission (GBM) is a flagship
initiative of the Ministry of Culture, aimed at
preserving ancient Indian knowledge systems
through research, digitisation, and institutional
mentoring.
• The recognition was formalised via an MoU signed
• Siliserh Lake (Rajasthan) and Kopra Jalashay by Yogaguru Swami Ramdev (Chancellor, University
(Chhattisgarh) were designated as India’s 95th and of Patanjali) and Dr. Anirban Dash (Director of GBM).
96th Ramsar Sites.
• Key figures involved include Swami Ramdev
• This brings India’s total to 96 Ramsar Sites. (Chancellor), Dr. Acharya Balkrishna (VC), and Dr.
• Rajasthan now has 5 Ramsar Sites, and Kopra Jalashay Anirban Dash (Project Director).
is Chhattisgarh’s first. • The GBM focuses on safeguarding India’s intellectual
Ramsar Convention heritage, especially manuscripts and traditional
knowledge, through conservation, research, and
• An international treaty adopted in Ramsar, Iran, in
dissemination.
1971 for wetland conservation and sustainable use.
• To date, 33 MoUs have been signed under GBM,
• Came into force in 1975.
including 20 cluster centres (8 of which are
• India acceded on February 1, 1982. universities).
• Headquarters: Gland, Switzerland. • The University of Patanjali has preserved over 50,000
• Secretary-General: Dr. Musonda Mumba. ancient texts, digitised more than 42 lakh pages, and
republished 40 manuscripts.
Siliserh Lake, Rajasthan
• As a Cluster Center, the University of Patanjali will
• Human-made freshwater lake built in 1845 by
now mentor 20 associated institutions, contributing
Maharaja Vinay Singh to supply drinking water to
to nationwide cultural preservation efforts.
Alwar city.

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Ponduru Khadi from Andhra Pradesh cybersecurity frameworks, IT governance, domain
Receives GI Tag migration, and capacity building.
• The initiative is expected to improve customer access,
operational efficiency, and technology adoption in
the cooperative banking sector.

India’s First Wildlife-Safe Road Launched on

NH-45

• Ponduru Khadi, a traditional handspun and

handwoven cotton fabric from Andhra Pradesh, has
been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag
by the Geographical Indications Registry under the
Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• The fabric is made using hill cotton, punasa cotton,
or red cotton, all of which are indigenous to the
Srikakulam region. • India’s first wildlife-safe road has been launched
• From cleaning the cotton to spinning and weaving, on National Highway 45 in Madhya Pradesh by the
the entire production process is done manually, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
preserving traditional skills. • This 2 km stretch of road passes through the
• The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve and connects to
submitted a declaration for Ponduru Khadi’s GI areas near the Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary, making
registration. it crucial for wildlife movement.
• GI Tag identifies goods originating from a specific • The road features innovative table-top red markings,
location and having distinct nature, quality, and inspired by Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road. These 5 mm
characteristics linked to that location. thick, hot-applied thermoplastic layers alert drivers
to danger zones and encourage reduced speeds.
Sahakar Sarathi Launched to Modernise • To protect wildlife, 25 dedicated underpasses have
Rural Cooperative Banks been constructed, along with an eight-foot-high fence
to guide animals toward these underpasses.
• Speed detection devices are also in place to promote
responsible driving.
• The project is part of NHAI’s Green Highways
initiative, aiming for sustainable and environmentally
responsible infrastructure, with cameras monitoring
wildlife movement on minor bridges that also serve
• Sahakar Sarathi is a Shared Service Entity launched as animal crossing points.
by the Government of India to modernize Rural
Cooperative Banks (RCBs). AI-based digital toll collection to be
• It aims to provide standardized, technology-driven implemented across country by 2026
banking services to RCBs.
• Sahakar Sarathi was registered on July 21, 2025, after
receiving approval from the Reserve Bank of India.
• It has an authorized capital of ₹1,000 crore, with
NABARD, the National Cooperative Development
Corporation, and participating RCBs each holding a
33.33% stake.
• Key services offered include Core Banking Solutions
(CBS), digital payment platforms like AePS and UPI,

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• The multi-lane free flow (MLFF) toll system and separation, spent fuel reprocessing, high-level
AI-driven highway management are expected to be radioactive waste management, and heavy water
fully implemented across India by the end of 2026. production.
Key Features DPIIT launches a digital sponsorship letter
• AI-based system: The new technology will be driven generation module under e-Production
by Artificial Intelligence.
Investment Visa (e-B4 Visa)
• This system will allow vehicles to pass through toll
plazas without stopping, at speeds up to 80 km per
hour.
• Satellite-based number plate recognition: This
technology, combined with AI and FastTag, aims to
eliminate physical stops at toll plazas.

President grants assent to SHANTI Bill

that opens up nuclear sector for private
participation

• The Department for Promotion of Industry and

Internal Trade (DPIIT) launched an online module
to enable Indian companies to digitally generate
sponsorship letters for foreign professionals
involved in production-related activities under the
e-Production Investment Business Visa (e-B4 Visa).
• This launch is a key component of the Indian
government’s ongoing reforms to the business
visa regime, aimed at enhancing the ease of doing
• President Droupadi Murmu has granted assent to the business in India.
SHANTI Bill during the Winter Session of Parliament.
• The e-B4 Visa allows foreign professionals to visit
• The SHANTI Bill integrates all laws related to the civil India for various production investment activities,
nuclear sector in India. including:
• It allows private players to participate in the civil Š Installation and commissioning
nuclear sector.
Š Quality checks and essential maintenance
• The Bill repeals the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and
Š Production
the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010.
Š IT and ERP ramp-up
• It facilitates private companies and joint ventures
to build, own, operate, and decommission nuclear Š Training
power plants with a government license. Š Supply chain development for empaneling vendors
• The central government retains exclusive rights over Š Plant design and bring-up
uranium and thorium mining, enrichment, isotopic Š Senior management and executive visits

CURRENT AFFAIRS | January 2026 P

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Chapter

2 International Affairs

India to restart air cargo links with IFFI, WAVES Film Bazaar and LTIMindtree
Afghanistan amid Pakistan rift Launch India’s First AI Film Festival

• The WAVES Film Bazaar and the International

Film Festival of India (IFFI), in collaboration with
• India is set to restart air cargo services with LTIMindtree, launched the first-ever AI Film Festival
Afghanistan to enhance trade and bilateral relations. and Cinema AI Hackathon in this 56th edition of the
• The announcement came during a visit by Taliban International Film Festival of India (IFFI), in Goa.
Commerce Minister Nooruddin Azizi, who seeks • This pioneering initiative marks a significant step
better access to Indian markets amidst border in India’s exploration of Artificial Intelligence in
closures with Pakistan. cinema, merging creative expression with cutting-
• Indian officials confirmed activation of air freight edge technology.
corridors between Kabul and Delhi/Amritsar, with • The Craft honoured the following film projects with
cargo flights expected to start soon. the following distinguished awards to celebrate
• Indian carriers do not currently fly to Afghanistan excellence in AI-driven filmmaking:
due to Pakistan closing its airspace, but Afghan • The Craft Master Award – Best AI Short Film
carriers still operate passenger flights to India. (₹3,00,000) Award was presented to the English
• Despite not formally recognizing the Taliban regime, language film NAGORI, directed by Guillaume
New Delhi has increased pragmatic engagement, Hurbault from France. It stands out as the most
particularly given deteriorating India-Pakistan outstanding AI-generated short film, bagging
relations. recognition for excellence in storytelling, execution,
• Both countries plan to post trade attachés in each and emotional resonance.
other’s embassies to strengthen commercial ties. • The Craft Vanguard Award – Most Innovative Use of AI
• A previously inactive joint working group on trade / Experimental Narrative (₹2,00,000) was presented
will be revived to boost bilateral trade beyond $1 to the English language film ‘The Cinema That Never
billion. Was’ directed by Mark Wachholz from Germany. The
• Afghanistan seeks reliable access to Indian goods film was honoured for its bold experimentation,
such as grains, pharmaceuticals, and industrial unconventional narrative structures, and pioneering
products, especially with land routes blocked. use of AI technologies.
• Air freight was crucial for Kabul’s trade before 2020, • The Craft Spectra Award – Best AI Animation / Visual
allowing quick transportation of perishables and Design (₹1,00,000) was presented to the English
high-value items. language film ‘Kyra’ directed by Meta Puppet from the
• Recent diplomatic warming includes a visit by the USA. It is recognised for its exceptional visual artistry,
Afghan Taliban Foreign Minister to India and the design innovation, and aesthetic accomplishments
reopening of India’s embassy in Kabul. enabled through AI tools and techniques.
• Jury Special Mention was presented to the • India has been re-elected to the Council of the
English language film ‘The Last Backup Final Part’ by International Maritime Organisation (IMO) for 2026-
Sreerithanya M. and the Hindi film ‘Miracle on Kachua 27 with the highest vote tally.
Beach’ by Shivanshu Nirupam. These films have • The Council elections were held during the 34th
demonstrated exceptional promise in AI filmmaking. session of the IMO Assembly in London yesterday.
• India secured the highest number of votes in the
Singapore has been named the top category comprising ten countries with the largest
container port interest in international seaborne trade.
• It received 154 out of 169 valid votes cast during the
election.
• Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
Sarbananda Sonowal expressed delight at the
achievement saying that it is a proud moment for
India’s maritime sector.

Rage bait crowned Oxford’s Word of the Year

2025

• Singapore has been named the top container port

in the world, taking the number-one position in the
Leading Container Ports of the World in the first
edition of the ‘Leading Container Ports of the World’
(LCP) report by DNV and Menon Economics.
• The country also led all five pillars of the index:
enablers, connectivity and customer value,
productivity, sustainability, and overall impact.
• The report credited Singapore’s performance to its
• The Oxford Dictionary announced “rage bait” as the
world-class infrastructure, transparent governance,
Word of the Year for 2025.
and best global connectivity, with links to every major
shipping line and the highest number of mainline • It indicates the dictionary’s continued preference for
services. words linked to the digital world, following its choice
of “brain rot” in 2024.
• Behind Singapore, the global top five comprise
Shanghai, Ningbo-Zhoushan, Rotterdam, and Busan. • Rage bait refers to online content designed to
Shanghai remains the busiest port worldwide with provoke anger or outrage, aimed at increasing traffic
51.5 million TEUs in 2024. or engagement.
• Rage bait is a more targeted form of engagement
India re-elected to International Maritime compared to traditional clickbait, which often relies
Organisation Council for 2026-27 with on misleading or exaggerated content.
highest vote tally • The internet has changed, with social media
algorithms rewarding provocative content, leading
to phenomena like “rage-farming” that aims to
manipulate user reactions over time.
• Rage bait can include polarizing posts or exaggerated
videos on controversial topics, often linked to
fabricated stories, politics, or conspiracy theories.
• Young users find it difficult to disengage from such
content, which is incentivized by platforms to drive
traffic and increase advertising revenue.

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US unveils ‘New G20’ for 2026 summit, adds • The expansion brings the total number of cities in the
Poland, excludes South Africa network to 425, all recognized for their commitment
to making lifelong education a reality for all residents.
• Member cities focus on embedding learning into daily
life to achieve goals like reskilling workers, adapting
to the AI era, and driving economic growth.
• The new intake includes 11 capital cities and marks
the first time 12 countries have joined the network.
• Among the new members are 11 capital cities,
including: Porto Novo (Benin), Bissau (Guinea-
Bissau), Lusaka (Zambia), Cairo (Egypt), Riyadh
• The U.S. announced a “New G20” as it prepares to host (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), Lisbon (Portugal), Ankara
the 2026 G20 Leaders’ Summit in Miami, marking its (Türkiye), Ashgabat (Turkmenistan), Hanoi (Viet
first G20 presidency since 2009. Nam), Buenos Aires (Argentina), Caracas (Bolivarian
• Poland is welcomed as a new member, while South Republic of Venezuela).
Africa is excluded from participation. • The new inductees include three municipalities from
• U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized South Thailand (Rayong, Satun, and Tak) and mark the first
Africa’s presidency for prioritizing “spite, division, time that 12 countries, including the USA and Iraq,
and radical agendas”. have joined the network.
• The “New G20” will focus on three core themes: • GNLC was launched by UNESCO Institute for Lifelong
1. Removing regulatory burdens Learning (UIL) in 2013 and began officially accepting
2. Unlocking affordable and secure energy supply city declarations in 2015.
chains • The network aims to support and promote policy
3. Pioneering technologies, specifically Artificial dialogue, experience exchange and practice sharing
Intelligence among member cities to help cities build capacity
for lifelong learning and sustainable community
• The summit coincides with America’s 250th
development.
anniversary.
• Rubio highlighted Poland’s success as a post-Cold About UNESCO
War example and emphasizes inclusivity in the G20. • Director-General (DG): Khaled Ahmed El-Enany Ali
• Criticism of South Africa includes allegations of poor Ezz
governance, racial quotas, corruption, and economic • Member States: 194
stagnation. • Headquarters: Paris, France
• The U.S. will invite other nations but clearly stated • Established: 1945
South Africa must make significant reforms to be
considered for future participation. India’s Resolution on ‘Strengthening the
Global Management of Wildfires’ adopted at
UNESCO Adds 72 New Cities to Global
UNEA-7, in Nairobi
Learning Network

• UNESCO has added 72 new cities from 46 countries • India’s resolution on “Strengthening the Global
to its Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC). Management of Wildfires” was adopted at the 7th

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 session of the United Nations Environment Assembly • The Italian government, under Prime Minister Giorgia
(UNEA-7) held in Nairobi. Meloni, actively supported this bid, promoting Italian
• India has stressed that wildfires are increasing in cuisine as a vital social ritual deeply connected to
frequency and intensity due to climate change, rising lifestyle, local economies, and national identity.
temperatures, prolonged droughts, and human • The announcement took place during UNESCO’s
activities, resulting in massive environmental and cultural assembly in Delhi.
economic damage.
• Citing the United Nations Environment Programme Jose Antonio Kast Rist Elected as the 38th
(UNEP) report “Spreading Like Wildfire, India warned President of Chile
of a 14% rise by 2030, 30% by 2050, and 50% by
2100 if trends continue.
• Key focus areas of the resolution: stronger
international cooperation, early warning systems,
satellite & ground-based monitoring, and community-
based alert mechanisms
• The resolution also calls for capacity building,
knowledge sharing, ecosystem restoration, national
action plans, and easier access to international
climate and disaster finance.
• Chile has elected far-right candidate José Antonio
Italy Becomes First Country to Get UNESCO Kast as its next president, marking a significant shift
Recognition for Its National Cuisine to the right since 1990.
• His victory comes after a campaign focused on
security, immigration, and crime.
Key Points of Kast’s Presidency and Campaign
Include
• Kast secured over 58% of the vote against left-wing
candidate Jeanette Jara in his third presidential
attempt.
• In December 2025, Italy made history by becoming • Kast has openly praised Chile’s former right-wing
the first country to have its entire national cuisine dictator, Augusto Pinochet. His brother served as
recognized by UNESCO and added to the Intangible a minister during Pinochet’s dictatorship, and his
Cultural Heritage List. father was a member of the Nazi party.
• This recognition highlights Italian cooking as a • Kast, an admirer of Donald Trump, has pledged
living tradition that embodies culture, identity, and policies such as a border wall with Peru and Bolivia,
community life. maximum-security prisons, and mass deportations
of undocumented immigrants, particularly from
• Unlike previous recognitions for individual dishes,
Venezuela.
this inscription encompasses Italy’s diverse culinary
traditions, from pasta and cheese to wine and • The election reflects growing concerns among voters
regional specialties, emphasizing food as a shared about rising immigration and organized crime,
social experience. despite some studies suggesting that these issues
might be exaggerated.
• The decision underscores Italian cuisine as a “cultural
and social blend” that fosters community bonding, • This election aligns with a broader trend of shifts
appreciation for ingredients, and the transfer of to the right in Latin American countries such as
knowledge across generations. Argentina, Ecuador, Costa Rica, and El Salvador.

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Brazil hands BRICS presidency to India after • Symbolic Handover: Brazil’s Sherpa, Mauricio Lyrio,
year of expansion handed an Amazonian wooden gavel to India’s
Sherpa, Sudhakar Dalela, symbolizing environmental
consciousness, shared responsibility, and enduring
BRICS cooperation.
Brazil’s 2025 Presidency Achievements
• Theme: “Strengthening Global South Co-operation
for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”.
• Key Achievements: Launched health and AI
partnerships, approved the first Climate Finance
Framework, advanced trade and multilateral dialogue
Brazil formally passed the BRICS presidency to India
with the expanded 11-member BRICS, and issued the
during the 4th BRICS Sherpas Meeting in Brasília, Brazil.
Rio Declaration with 126 commitments.
• Effective Date: India will officially assume the
chairmanship on January 1, 2026.

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Chapter

3 State Affairs

Arunachal’s Traditional Blade ‘Dao’ Gets

Geographical Indication Tag

• Tourism Minister K Durgesh announced that

• The Arunachal Pradesh ‘dao’, a traditional handcrafted qualified drivers will undergo specialized training
blade, has received the Geographical Indication (GI) in December focusing on state history, culture,
tag. hospitality, and safety.
• This recognition emphasizes the cultural and • The service will be available in Vijayawada, Tirupati,
economic significance of the state’s ancestral and Visakhapatnam.
blacksmithing traditions, as stated by Deputy Chief • The initiative was formalized during an agreement at
Minister Chowna Mein. the CII partnership summit in Vizag.
• The ‘dao’ is hand-forged by master artisans using • The program aims to enhance visitor experience
traditional techniques passed down through while increasing income for cab and auto drivers.
generations. • Tourists will access autorickshaws and cabs through
• Each blade symbolizes functional utility, courage, the Rapido app, with co-branded help desks
identity, and cultural endurance of tribal communities. established at bus stations, railway stations, and
• GI certification aims to empower artisans, enhance airports.
market access, and ensure the preservation of • This initiative is designed as a public-private
authentic production practices. partnership and aims to serve as a national model
• The government plans to support artisans through for tourist transport and services in India.
training, branding, and marketing initiatives to
improve livelihoods. Karnataka Records 14,151 Rooftop Solar
• Arunachal Pradesh has become a significant Installations under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli
contributor to India’s GI-protected products, with Yojana, Benefitting 22,313 Households
several items already tagged.
• The state aims to reach 50 GI tags by 2030, currently
having secured 20 tags including products like Wakro
Orange and Idu Mishmi textiles.

Andhra govt, Rapido launch driver-cum-

guide services to promote tourism
• The Andhra Pradesh government has launched
a driver-cum-guide service in collaboration with
bike taxi aggregator Rapido to improve tourist
experiences.
• As of 31.10.2025, a total of 25,675.39 MW capacity • The performance opened with “Hanuman Chalisa”
of renewable energy has been installed in the state with music by Guru Abhiram Nanda and choreography
of Karnataka, which is around 10.24 % of the total by Mohapatra.
2,50,643.45 MW capacity of renewable energy • Followed by “Saranga Pallavi”, exploring Rag Saranga,
installed across the country. choreographed by Mohapatra with music by Nirmal
• PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG: MBY) is Kumar Mahapatra.
a demand-driven scheme for the installation of • The recital concluded with “Chari Yuga Devi”,
rooftop solar (RTS) systems, wherein all residential showcasing the divine power of Maa Durga.
consumers in the country having grid connected
electricity connection of the local DISCOM can Darjeeling Mandarin Orange gets GI tag
avail the benefits of the scheme by applying on the
National Portal of the scheme.
• As of 26.11.2025, a total of 18,72,499 RTS systems
have been installed, benefitting 23,47,694
households, under the scheme across the country.
• Out of these, a total of 14,151 RTS systems have been
installed, benefitting 22,313 households, in the state
of Karnataka.
• Under the scheme for Development of Solar Parks • The ‘Darjeeling Mandarin Orange’ has received a
and Ultra-Mega Solar Power Projects, a total amount Geographical Indication (GI) tag as of November 24,
of Rs. 351.94 crore has been released as Central 2025.
Financial Assistance (CFA) for the development of
• The Darjeeling Organic Farmers Producer
the Pavagada Solar Park with a capacity of 2000 MW
Organisation (DOFPO) is the registered proprietor of
and its power evacuation infrastructure.
the GI tag.
• The Pavagada Solar Park has been fully operational
• Uttar Banga Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (UBKV) and PIC
with 2000 MW capacity since December 2019.
facilitated the application process.
15th edition of International Sand Art • The GI tag aims to revive the declining cultivation of
Darjeeling Mandarin orange, affected by virus and
Festival begins in Odisha pest issues over the past 15 years.
• Future steps include registering individual growers
in Darjeeling and Kalimpong as ‘Authorised Users’ of
the GI label.
• The fruit holds significant cultural and economic
value for the local community.

Rajasthan Becomes First State to Digitize

100% of Voter Rolls Under SIR

• CM Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the 36th Konark

Festival and 15th International Sand Art Festival.
• The festivals will run for five days, featuring dance,
music, and artistic performances.
• Organized by the tourism department, Odisha Sangeet
Natak Akademi, and Odisha Tourism Development
Corporation (OTDC).
• The inaugural evening included an Odissi • As of December 2025, Rajasthan became the first
performance by Sonali Mohapatra and artists from state to fully digitize its 5.46 crore voter rolls under
Nrutya Upasana Pitha, Bhubaneswar. the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) – 2026 exercise.

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• This initiative was led by Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) • The new Bill will address outdated penalties,
Navin Mahajan. promoting effective enforcement and governance.
• The digitization process leveraged ECINET (Election • Other states, including Maharashtra, Madhya
Commission India Network), the Booth Level Officers Pradesh, Tripura, Gujarat, Haryana, and Odisha, are
(BLO) app, and portal verification. also advancing similar
• The state achieved a 97% nationwide mapping
leadership, meaning only 3% of voters required Google, Telangana govt launch Google for
additional documents during the claims process. Startups hub in Hyderabad
• Meaning of 100% Digitization: Every entry in
Rajasthan’s voter list is now digitized, verified, and
mapped, eliminating all paper-based or partially
digitized entries.
• About SIR: The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a
nationwide program by the Election Commission of
India (ECI) to update, verify, and correct voter lists,
remove duplicates, enroll new voters, and ensure
accurate polling station mapping. • Google and the Government of Telangana have
launched the Google for Startups Hub at T-Hub
• SIR-2026 Goal: The SIR-2026 aims for all states
in Hyderabad to strengthen the state’s startup
to meet full digital and geographic verification
ecosystem.
standards.
• This is the first AI-first startup hub in Telangana,
Chhattisgarh becomes first to bring second aiming to provide mentorship, technology
infrastructure, access to venture investors, and global
edition of Jan Vishwas Bill
market connections.
• The Hub offers year-long co-working spaces,
guidance from Google experts, and international
visibility to selected startups.
• The initiative specifically supports founders from
Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, women entrepreneurs, and
university innovators.
• Google India Country Manager Preeti Lobana
emphasized that the Hub will empower founders
• Chhattisgarh government is introducing the second with AI capabilities and technical expertise, fostering
edition of the Jan Vishwas Act to decriminalise minor innovation to solve real-world challenges.
offences by replacing prison terms with fines.
• The Hub will host networking events, workshops, and
• This second bill, the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of mentorship sessions to support AI-driven ventures
Provisions) (Second) Bill, 2025, aims to amend 116 across India.
provisions across 14 Acts for a total of 279 provisions
• This initiative positions Telangana as a leading
across both Acts.
destination for innovation and entrepreneurship in
• The initiative focuses on trust-based governance and India.
reducing the judicial burden to improve the business
environment. Gujarat Leads India’s Smart Blue Harbours
• The first edition of the Jan Vishwas Act was passed Revolution With AI, 5G Push
in July 2024, which decriminalised 163 provisions
across eight Acts.
• Amendments aim to turn technical violations into
administrative penalties, facilitating quicker case
resolutions.
• Chhattisgarh is the first state in India to propose a
second edition of the Jan Vishwas Amendment Bill.

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• Gujarat is developing “smart blue harbours” using Jammu & Kashmir Gets First Gen Z Post
AI, 5G, and sustainable infrastructure to boost India’s Office
maritime economy and establish the state as a global
coastal leader.
• These next-generation fishing harbors aim to be
hubs for livelihood, export growth, community
development, and a resilient blue economy.
• A national initiative, led by the Department of
Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry
and Dairying, and the UN’s Food and Agriculture
Organisation, is launching a Technical Cooperation • Jammu & Kashmir has opened its first Gen Z Post
Programme for world-class blue harbours. Office at the AIIMS Vijaypur campus, a significant
• Pilot projects for these blue harbours will be step in postal modernization.
implemented at Jakhau in Gujarat, Vanakbara in Diu, • This initiative is part of the Department of Posts’
and Karaikal in Puducherry. broader effort to transform traditional campus
• India’s Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana post offices into technology-driven, youth-oriented
(PMMSY) has allocated ₹452.32 crore to accelerate service centers.
integrated fisheries infrastructure development. • AIIMS Vijaypur is now the first AIIMS in India to have
a Gen Z Post Office.
India’s first forest university to come up in • The inauguration took place on December 17, 2025,
Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh with key officials from AIIMS Vijaypur and the
Department of Posts in attendance.
• The vision behind this new post office is to
provide accessible, modern, and student-friendly
public services, aligning postal services with the
expectations of younger citizens through customer-
centric and technology-enabled solutions.
• The Gen Z Post Office offers a contemporary
environment, digital payment options, streamlined
service delivery, and integrated access to postal,
banking, and insurance services.

• Uttar Pradesh’s first forest university is set to be Madhya Pradesh to develop country’s first
established in Gorakhpur. The campus will be built state-level tiger corridor
on 125 acres and will focus on detailed study of
forests, wildlife and environmental sciences.
• The project was announced by Chief Minister Yogi
Adityanath, who said the university will give students
an opportunity to gain specialised knowledge of
flora, fauna and forestry.
• The campus will be located near the Jatayu
Conservation and Breeding Center.
• The government has now approved the selected 125- • Madhya Pradesh is developing the country’s first
acre land parcel for the project. state-level, multi-national park Tiger Corridor in
• The university will offer subjects such as forestry, collaboration with NHAI and PWD.
agroforestry, social forestry and horticulture. There • The corridor will integrate underpasses in forest
will be degree and diploma programmes for students areas, slow-traffic zones, and wildlife-safe designs
who want to pursue careers in forest sciences and to balance tiger movement, tourism, and local
conservation. connectivity.

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• This project aims to promote eco-tourism and • These projects are expected to be completed by
strengthen the local economy. June 2028 and will reduce travel time, enhance road
• Under Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, roads in Madhya safety, and boost industrial, agricultural, and tourism
Pradesh are seen as a foundation for economic activities.
growth, investment, and new opportunities. • An MOU worth Rs 1 lakh crore was signed with
• A roadmap for 2025-2028 includes the construction NHAI, with Rs 28,000 crore approved for 948 km
of six major expressways and pragatipath projects, of new national highways to strengthen interstate
totaling 3,368 km, with an estimated cost of Rs connectivity, logistics, and industrial investment.
36,483 crore.

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Chapter

4 Business and Economy

Net FDI to India doubles to $7.64 bn in April- • For outward FDI, the key destinations were Singapore,
September, shows RBI data Mauritius, the UAE, and the US while major sectors
included financial services, insurance & business
services, agriculture & mining, and manufacturing.

Crisil raises India’s FY26 GDP forecast to 7%

after strong Q2 growth

• According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, Net

foreign direct investment (FDI) in India — inflows
minus outflows — more than doubled to $7.64 billion
during the first half (April-September) of 2025-26
(H1FY26) from $3.4 billion a year ago.
• However, the data for the month of September 2025
presented an adverse picture, with net FDI in negative • Crisil raised India’s GDP growth forecast to 7% from
at $2.37 billion, higher than negative of $1.17 billion 6.5% for the current financial year.
in September 2024. Net FDI was negative $622
• First half growth reached 8%, with Q2 growth at
million in August.
8.2%, surpassing expectations.
• For H1FY26, gross FDI inflows increased by 16.14
• Nominal GDP growth was lower at 8.7% due to easing
per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) to $50.36 billion from
inflation.
$ 43.36 billion in H1FY25
• Expected slowdown to 6.1% in the second half,
• Overseas investments made by Indian firms, i.e.,
influenced by higher US tariffs.
outward FDI, rose to $16.32 billion in H1FY26 from
$12.17 billion a year ago. • Private consumption emerged as the main driver of
real GDP growth.
• The State of the Economy report in RBI’s November
2025 bulletin noted that gross inward FDI remained • Growth in manufacturing and services contributed
robust in September, with Singapore, Mauritius, the significantly from the supply side.
UAE, Luxembourg, and Qatar together accounting for • Lower food inflation has increased discretionary
about 78 per cent of total inflows. spending.
• The major recipient sectors were manufacturing, • Q3 is anticipated to benefit from ongoing positive
retail & wholesale trade, communication services, trends, with government investment stabilizing.
financial services, and computer services. • Potential for a rebound in private investments is
• Gross inward FDI was $6.60 in September 2025 as expected.
against $6.33 billion in September 2024. • GST rate rationalization, along with income tax cuts
• The outward FDI vaulted to $3.78 billion from $ 2.3 and repo rate reductions by the RBI, is boosting
billion in September 2024. private consumption.
RBI governor releases five-year national
financial inclusion strategy

• In FY25, the Reserve Bank Integrated Ombudsman

Scheme received 13,34,244 complaints, which were
higher than the 11,75,075 in FY24.
• However, the growth in consumer complaints has
more than halved from 33 per cent in FY24.
• As per the Annual Report of the Reserve Bank -
• The Reserve Bank Governor, Sanjay Malhotra, Integrated Ombudsman Scheme, 2021, the 24 Offices
announced the ‘National Strategy for Financial of the RBI Ombudsman (ORBIOs) received 2,96,321
Inclusion (NSFI): 2025-30’ to enhance financial complaints
inclusion over the next five years. • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reported the highest
• The strategy employs a synergistic ecosystem number of complaints against private banks in FY25
approach, aiming to improve last-mile access and the under its Integrated Ombudsman System (IOS).
effective use of financial services.
• It includes five key objectives referred to as Wipro completes $375 million acquisition of
‘Panch-Jyoti’ and outlines 47 action points for Harman’s DTS unit
implementation.
Focus Areas Include
• Gender-sensitive approaches for women in financial
inclusion.
• Strategies to enhance financial resilience for
underserved and vulnerable populations.
• Improving the availability and affordability of
financial services for households and micro
enterprises to ensure financial safety and security.
• The strategy aims to link livelihood, skill development, • Wipro has completed its $375-million acquisition of
and support systems to financial inclusion. HARMAN’s Digital Transformation Solutions (DTS)
• Malhotra noted that the previous five-year strategy business unit.
(ending in 2024) successfully met its goals. • The acquisition was announced on August 21, 2025,
• Financial education will be leveraged to promote and has received regulatory approvals.
financial discipline and enhance customer protection • DTS will operate as part of Wipro’s engineering
and grievance redressal. global business line.
• The strategy was developed with input from various • The deal includes the transfer of over 5,600 DTS
stakeholders, including multiple government employees, including senior leadership, across
departments and financial regulatory bodies. various regions.

RBI receives highest complaints against RBI retains SBI, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank as
private banks in FY25, annual ombudsman systemically important banks
report shows • State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank and ICICI
• As per the Reserve Bank, there was a 13 per cent Bank will continue to be identified as Domestic
jump in the consumer complaints received under the Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs), as per the
Ombudsman scheme in FY25. Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

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 • The government has decided to divest up to 6 per
cent stake in state-owned Bank of Maharashtra
through an Offer for Sale.
• At the current market price, the government would
be able to garner about Rs 2,600 crore by offloading
up to 6 per cent stake in the bank.
• The Government offers to disinvest 5% equity in the
bank with an additional 1% as a green shoe option.
• The government currently holds a 79.60 per cent
stake in the Pune-based bank.
• With the stake dilution, the bank would be able to
meet the minimum public shareholding norm of 25
• The D-SIB designated banks have to maintain per cent as the government stake will come down
additional common equity tier 1 (CET1), in addition below 75 per cent.
to the capital conservation buffer.
• This is in line with the Securities Contract (Regulation)
• The additional CET 1 requirement for the
Rules issued by the Securities and Exchange Board
aforementioned bank continues at last year’s
of India, which mandate that all listed companies,
level. SBI has been prescribed an additional CET 1
including those in the public sector, must have a
requirement of 0.80 per cent as a percentage of its
minimum public shareholding of 25 per cent.
risk weighted assets (RWAs); HDFC Bank (0.40 per
cent) and ICICI Bank (0.20 per cent).
The Department for Promotion of Industry
• Within the CRAR (capital to risk-weighted assets
ratio) of 11.5 per cent for banks, the CET-1 is at 5.5 and Internal Trade Recognises 1,97,692
per cent. So, if SBI wants to make a loan, it will have Startups Under Startup India Initiative
to back it up with 12.3 per cent of the loan amount as
capital, going by the D-SIB prescription.
• If HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank want to make a loan,
they will have to back it up with 11.9 per cent and
11.7 per cent, respectively, of the loan amount as
capital. • The Department for Promotion of Industry and
• The indicators used for identifying a bank as D-SIB Internal Trade (DPIIT) has recognised 1,97,692
are: size, interconnectedness, substitutability entities as startups under the Startup India initiative
(including total value and volume of payments made as of 31st October 2025.
in Rupees) and complexity. • Startup India is an initiative of the Government of
• In its December 2023 Framework for Dealing with India.
D-SIBs, the RBI underscored that D-SIBs are perceived • Under Startup India initiative, the Government is
as banks that are too big to fail (TBTF). implementing three flagship Schemes, Fund of Funds
for Startups (FFS), Startup India Seed Fund Scheme
Govt to divest up to 6% stake in Bank of (SISFS), and Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups
Maharashtra (CGSS) to provide funding opportunities and support
startups across sectors at various stages of their
business cycle.
• FFS has been established with a corpus of Rs. 10,000
crore to catalyze venture capital investments and is
operationalized by Small Industries Development
Bank of India (SIDBI), which provides capital to
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)-
registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs)
which in turn invest in startups.

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• SISFS provides financial assistance to seed stage • For FY27, growth is expected to moderate to 6.4%,
startups through incubators. SISFS is implemented with strong domestic demand continuing, while
from 1st April 2021 with a corpus of Rs. 945 crore. public investment may soften and private investment
• CGSS is implemented for enabling collateral free loans strengthen in H2 FY27.
to startups through eligible financial institutions. • India’s inflation is projected to average 1.5% this fiscal
CGSS is operationalized by the National Credit year, with consumer inflation at 0.3% in October.
Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC) Limited and • A potential rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India to
has been operationalized from 1st April 2023. 5.25% is anticipated during the December 5 policy
meeting, with rates expected to remain steady for the
RBI defers credit information reporting next two years.
norms for CICs to July 1, 2026 • The Indian rupee is expected to strengthen to around
87 per US dollar next year.
• Fitch slightly raised global growth projections for
2025 but noted a potential slowdown in the US and
highlighted a global growth slowdown this year.

RBI to conduct OMO purchases of Govt.

securities of ₹100,000 crore to improve
liquidity
• The RBI postponed the implementation date for new
credit information reporting rules for CICs (Credit
Information Companies) to July 1, 2026, instead of
April 1, 2026.
• After industry feedback, the RBI removed the
requirement to report incremental accounts on the
28th of every month and extended several timelines.
• The RBI clarified that mandatory full data submission
in every cycle would create unnecessary load, so CICs
and CIs may update credit information at shorter, • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a ₹1
mutually agreed intervals. trillion OMO purchase along with a $5 billion dollar–
rupee swap to inject durable liquidity into the
Fitch raises India’s FY26 GDP growth forecast banking system as the rupee weakened past 90/$
to 7.4% on strong consumption, tax reforms amid foreign outflows.
• Open market operations are a key monetary policy
instrument through which the RBI buys or sells
government securities to regulate liquidity in the
banking system.
• It increases bank reserves, lowers short-term interest
rates, and supports smooth monetary transmission.

SEBI launches PaRRVA to verify past returns

• Fitch Ratings revised India’s GDP growth forecast
for FY26 to 7.4% from 6.9% due to strong domestic
of market intermediaries
demand and tax reforms.
• Private consumption is identified as the main growth
driver, supported by strong real income, improved
consumer sentiment, and GST reforms.
• India’s economy grew by 8.2% in Q2 FY26, despite
high effective tariffs on exports to the US (around
35%).

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• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) • Swedish technology firms Cemvision, Kanthal, and
has launched the Past Risk and Return Verification Swerim are collaborating.
Agency (PaRRVA). • Leading Indian institutes including IIT Bombay, IIT-
• PaRRVA is a new mechanism to independently verify ISM Dhanbad, IIT Bhubaneswar, and IIT Hyderabad
the historical returns of SEBI-registered market are participating.
intermediaries. • Pre-pilot feasibility studies will focus on technologies
• It was developed with a recognized stock exchange such as:
acting as the PaRRVA Data Centre and a SEBI- Š Hydrogen use in steel rotary kilns.
registered credit rating agency serving as the verifier. Š Recycling steel slag for green cement production.
• The initiative aims to improve transparency, Š AI-based optimization of concrete mix designs.
accountability, and investor protection in India’s
securities market, setting a new international IIT Bombay’s SINE Launches India’s First
benchmark.
Incubator-Linked Deep Tech VC Fund
• PaRRVA introduces a standardized framework for
validating performance claims made by Investment
Advisers (IAs), Research Analysts (RAs), and
stockbrokers offering algorithmic trading services.
• SEBI expects PaRRVA to counter unverified or
exaggerated claims by unregistered operators and
“finfluencers” who often lure investors with inflated
performance.
• A SEBI survey revealed that only 36% of investors
have adequate market knowledge, 62% of prospective
• IIT Bombay’s Society for Innovation and
investors rely on finfluencer recommendations, and
Entrepreneurship (SINE) has launched India’s first
23% are driven by the possibility of quick gains.
incubator-linked deep tech venture capital fund.
PaRRVA aims to address these gaps with credible
performance data. • The fund is named Y-Point Venture Capital Fund and
has a corpus of 250 crore rupees.
India, Sweden launch seven steel and • Its purpose is to support India’s deep tech startups
cement decarbonisation projects with early-stage risk capital.
• It will invest in pre-seed and seed-stage companies
from IIT Bombay and other leading research
institutions.
• The fund aims to support 25 to 30 startups, with
individual investments up to 15 crore rupees.
• Key investment areas include AI, advanced
computing, manufacturing, materials, space and
defense technology, nuclear technology, climate tech,
and healthcare.

SBI, BoB get RBI nod to set up fraud

• India and Sweden have launched seven joint projects detection platform
to reduce carbon emissions in the steel and cement
sectors.
• The projects are funded by India’s Department of
Science and Technology and the Swedish Energy
Agency.
• Major Indian companies like Tata Steel, JK Cement,
Ambuja Cements, Jindal Steel and Power, and Prism
Johnson are involved.

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• State Bank of India (SBI) and Bank of Baroda (BoB)
have received RBI approval to establish a “Digital
Payments Intelligence Platform”.
• This platform will be a company named ‘Indian
Digital Payment Intelligence Corporation’ (IDPIC).
• IDPIC will be formed as a Section 8 company (non-
profit) under the Companies Act, 2013.
• Its primary goal is to detect and prevent fraudulent
digital transactions within public sector banks.
• The approval is contingent on an exemption from the
Ministry of Finance, allowing the banks to hold over • This deal is the largest foreign direct investment in
30% of IDPIC’s paid-up share capital until October 16, India’s financial sector.
2026, as per Section 19(2) of the Banking Regulation • MUFG will have the right to appoint two nominee
Act, 1949. directors to the board of Shriram Finance.
• The transaction was approved by the board of
Bank of Baroda recognised as ‘Best Bank in Shriram Finance.
India’ by ‘The Banker’ • The floor price for the preferential issue is Rs 840.83
per share, with MUFG set to acquire 47.11 crore
equity shares.
• KPMG India Corporate Finance is the lead financial
advisor to MUFG Bank, with JP Morgan also advising.
• AZB & Partners and Nishimura & Asahi are legal
advisors to MUFG Bank, while Wadia Ghandy & Co.
advises Shriram Finance.

• Bank of Baroda (BoB) was named ‘Best Bank in India’ ADB approves $108 mn loan to Mizoram to
at the “Bank of the Year Awards 2025 – Asia-Pacific” strengthen public healthcare system
by The Banker magazine.
• The recognition highlights BoB’s enhanced customer
experience through its phygital branches, integrating
both in-person and digital services.
• Customers can quickly access statements, generate
income tax certificates, and update nominees
digitally.
• Video calls allow customers to consult banking staff
directly on home loans, term deposits, and car loans,
with in-person assistance available for complex • The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a
needs. $108 million results-based loan for Mizoram.
• BoB expanded its physical presence by opening 184 • The primary goal is to strengthen the public
new branches across India. healthcare system and achieve universal health
• For smaller businesses, the bank introduced the coverage for Mizoram’s 1.38 million residents.
Smart OD (overdraft) product to facilitate access to • The program specifically aims to improve equitable
working capital. access to affordable, high-quality health services for
women, older people, and persons with disabilities.
Japan’s MUFG Bank buys 20% stake in • The loan will support the rollout of MUHCS, a new
Shriram Finance for Rs 39,600 crore health insurance umbrella scheme.
• Japan’s MUFG Bank has acquired a 20% stake in • It integrates existing central (Pradhan Mantri Jan
Shriram Finance for $4.4 billion (Rs 39,600 crore) Arogya Yojana) and state government (Mizoram
through preferential allotment of shares. State Health Care Scheme) programs.

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• It will operate on a single, seamless, cashless, and Lok Sabha Passes seminal Insurance
paperless platform. Bill for 100% FDI, mandates undue gain
• Poor and vulnerable populations will receive free disgorgement
coverage.
• Other households will contribute a premium, and
government employees will pay a fixed share of their
salary.
• The scheme offers coverage of up to Rs 500,000 per
family annually.
• Mizoram is the first state in India to undertake this
type of reform in its universal healthcare system with
ADB support. • The Lok Sabha passed the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha
(Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, introducing
Government to divest up to 3% stake in significant insurance sector reforms.
Indian Overseas Bank • Increased FDI Limit: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
limit raised to 100% from 74%.
Empowerment of IRDAI
• Cap on commissions for insurance agents.
• Authority can demand disgorgement of wrongful
gains from insurers and intermediaries.
• Act Amendments: The bill amends three existing
acts:
Š Insurance Act, 1938
Š Life Insurance Corporation Act, 1956
Š Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority
• The Indian government plans to sell up to a 3% stake Act, 1999
in Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) through an Offer for • Policyholder Protection: Stronger regulations
Sale (OFS). for safeguarding policyholders, ensuring stricter
compliance.
Summary of the Key Details • Leadership Requirement: Insurance company top
• The government will initially sell a 2% base tranche leadership must be Indian citizens.
(approximately 385.1 million shares) with an option
• Merger Provisions: Allowance for mergers between
to sell an additional 1% (192.5 million shares) via a
non-insurance and insurance firms.
green shoe option.
• Historical FDI Increases: FDI limits gradually
• The OFS opens for non-retail investors on Wednesday,
increased from 26% (2015) to 49% (2015), 74%
and retail investors can bid on Thursday.
(2021), and now to 100%.
• Selling up to 3% of the stake could raise approximately
₹2,100 crore for the Centre, based on current market RBI Approves Amalgamation of 2 Gujarat
prices.
Co-Operative Banks
• Up to 150,000 shares (0.001% of the bank’s equity)
may be reserved for eligible employees, who can
apply for shares worth up to ₹5 lakh.
• The stake sale aligns with SEBI norms requiring
all listed companies, including public sector
undertakings, to maintain a minimum public
shareholding of 25% by August 2026. The
government currently holds 94.61% of IOB

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• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the RBI’s central board approves risk-based
voluntary amalgamation of 2 co-operative banks in deposit insurance framework for banks
Gujarat.
• The first merger involves The Amod Nagric
Co-operative Bank Ltd., Amod, with The Bhuj
Mercantile Co-operative Bank Ltd., Ahmedabad.
• The second amalgamation is between Amarnath
Co-operative Bank Ltd., Ahmedabad, and The Kalupur
Commercial Co-operative Bank Ltd., Ahmedabad.
• Both schemes came into effect from December 15,
2025.
• The RBI sanctioned the Scheme of Amalgamation for
both banks under sub-section (4) of Section 44A read • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Central Board has
with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. approved a risk-based deposit insurance framework
• Following the implementation, all branches of The for banks.
Amod Nagric Co-operative Bank will operate as • This new framework aims to differentiate banks
branches of The Bhuj Mercantile Co-operative Bank. based on their financial soundness, allowing sound
banks to pay a lower premium.
BPCL, Coal India to form JV for coal • The existing system charges a flat premium of 12
gasification project in Maharashtra paise per ₹100 of assessable deposits, with insurance
coverage limited to ₹5 lakh per depositor per bank.
• The Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee
Corporation (DICGC) Act allows for an increase in
the insurance premium limit to 15 paise per ₹100 of
deposits with RBI approval.
• It is anticipated that sound banks will pay a lower
premium, while less sound banks may continue
to pay 12 paise or potentially 15 paise per ₹100 of
• Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) and Coal India deposit.
(CIL) are forming a joint venture for a coal gasification • As of March-end 2025, 97.54% of the 293.7 crore
project in Maharashtra. insured accounts were fully protected, and insured
• The JV will construct, operate, and maintain the deposits constituted 41.52% of total assessable
project at CIL’s subsidiary Western Coalfields (WCL). deposits.
• Coal India will hold a 51% stake in the JV, with BPCL • The RBI board also discussed the global and domestic
holding 49%. economic situation and reviewed banking activities
and a draft report on the “Trend and Progress of
• The project aims to produce synthetic natural gas
Banking in India, 2024-25”.
(SNG) as an indigenous alternative to imported
natural gas. Amazon Pay launches UPI biometric
• This initiative promotes clean coal technologies,
authentication for PIN-free payments
enhances energy security, reduces import
dependence, and supports sustainable industrial
growth in India.
• The project at Chandrapur, Maharashtra, is expected
to be commissioned in FY30.
• CIL has allocated provisional coal linkages of 3.9
million tonnes (mt) to its JV companies.
• The Coal Ministry approved a financial incentive
scheme of ₹8,500 crore in January 2025 to support
coal/lignite gasification projects.

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• Amazon Pay has launched UPI biometric seconds, and over 90% user preference for peer-to-
authentication in India, allowing PIN-free peer transfers.
transactions up to ₹5,000 using fingerprint or facial • The biometric data remains on the device, reducing
recognition on Android devices. breach risks, and Amazon Pay adheres to NPCI
• This feature aims to make digital payments faster guidelines.
and more secure, utilizing device-bound biometrics • Girish Krishnan, Director of Payments at Amazon
for enhanced privacy. India, emphasized creating intuitive payment
• The rollout began on December 16, 2025, supporting experiences that align with modern habits.
various transaction types like Send Money, Scan & • This innovation is expected to accelerate contactless
Pay, and merchant payments. payment trends, potentially impacting rivals and
• Key features include non-shareable security tied to fostering financial inclusion.
smartphone hardware, transactions completed in

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Chapter

5 Science and Technology

Dr Jitendra Singh lauds Quantum sensing • Dr. Singh emphasized the need for national
breakthroughs by IIT Bombay, inaugurates collaboration to develop indigenous cryogenic
capabilities.
India’s first Liquid Helium Cryogenic facility
• He praised IIT Bombay for its role in building a
collaborative scientific ecosystem and reiterated the
government’s support for advancements in quantum
science and technology.

CSIR-NIScPR and CSIR-NPL jointly organise

Curtain Raiser for India International Science
Festival (IISF 2025)

• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh visited the

Quantum Research Laboratories at IIT Bombay and
inaugurated a new Liquid Helium Facility.
• The visit reinforces the Indian government’s
commitment to advancing frontier technologies,
including quantum science and cryogenics.
• Dr. Singh reviewed indigenous quantum sensing and
imaging platforms, including India’s first portable
magnetometer (QMagPI), capable of detecting ultra-
low magnetic fields.
• The QMagPI was developed using nitrogen vacancy
(NV) centers in diamond, aimed at strategic sectors
and scientific applications. • The Curtain Raiser for the India International
Science Festival (IISF) 2025 was held today at
• He also observed the Quantum Diamond Microscope
Vivekananda Hall, CSIR-National Institute of Science
(QDM), which allows nanoscale magnetic field
Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR),
imaging and integrates AI/ML systems for
Pusa Campus, New Delhi.
breakthroughs in various fields.
• The event was jointly organised by CSIR-NIScPR
• The Q-Confocal system was examined, enabling
and CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL).
sensitive intracellular detection for early-stage
During the event, the institutes also commemorated
cancer diagnostics, showcasing a convergence of
the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
healthcare and technology in India.
• Dr. Geetha Vani Rayasam, Director, CSIR-NIScPR,
• The newly inaugurated Liquid Helium Facility
highlighted the vision of IISF 2025 and briefed the
aims to enhance India’s capacities in cryogenic
audience on its key thematic events
engineering, superconductivity, and quantum-
related technologies. • Dr. Sanjay R. Dhakate, Officiating Director, CSIR-NPL,
spoke about the 11th edition of IISF and reiterated
• The Liquid Helium Facility will reduce costs for
the role of science in national development. He also
cryogenic experiments and help strengthen India’s
emphasised the importance of India’s time standard,
cryogenics infrastructure for future developments in
maintained by the National Physical Laboratory.
quantum computing.
PM launches Skyroot’s rocket manufacturing Andaman to get India’s first coral reef
facility research centre

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated

• The government will soon set up the National Coral
Infinity Campus, a rocket manufacturing facility, built
Reef Research Institute (NCRRI) in the Andaman and
by the Hyderabad-based space-tech startup Skyroot
Nicobar Islands.
Aerospace.
• NCRRI, which will be set up at Rs 120 crore, will
• The 2-lakh square feet facility will design, develop
function as the nodal and monitoring agency for coral
and test multiple launch vehicles.
reef research across India, he said.
• The facility can build one orbital rocket every month.
• In this context, it becomes important to know what
• He will also launched Skyroot’s first orbital rocket, corals and coral reefs are and what their significance
Vikram-I, which can launch satellites to orbit. is.
• The startup was founded by Pawan Chandana and • Estimated cost for establishing the NCRRI is Rs 120
Bharath Dhaka, both alumni of Indian Institutes of crore.
Technology and former scientists of ISRO.
• The institute will serve as the nodal agency for coral
• The startup launched its sub-orbital rocket, Vikram-S, reef research across India.
becoming the first Indian private company to launch
• It aims to provide scientific data, conservation
a rocket to space in 2022.
strategies, and management support for reef
IIT-Madras develops and deploys India’s ecosystems.
first indigenous Vessel Traffic Management • The NCRRI will be set up at Chidiyatapu in South
Andaman by the Union Ministry of Environment,
System for ports Forest and Climate Change.
• Coral reefs are important for marine life, coastal
protection, and local economies such as fisheries and
tourism.

Indian Scientists Discover ‘Milky Way Twin’

From 12-Billion-Year-Old Universe

• IIT Madras has developed India’s first Indigenous

Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) for ports.
• VTMS provides vessel position tracking,
meteorological hazard warnings, and traffic
management in ports and waterways.
• The system was developed by the National Technology
Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC). • Astronomers in India, Rashi Jain and Yogesh
• Development was based on requirements set by the Wadadekar, discovered an ancient spiral galaxy
Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways named Alaknanda, seen as it existed 12 billion years
(MoSPW). ago, when the universe was only 1.5 billion years old.
• The Shipping Ministry allocated ₹10 crore to IIT • Alaknanda is a “grand-design” spiral galaxy, similar
Madras in 2020 for the software development. to the Milky Way, with a well-organized disk, a

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 bright central bulge, and two symmetric spiral arms, AFMS launches India’s first AI-driven
spanning 30,000 light-years. community screening programme for
• This discovery defies previous astrophysical models diabetic retinopathy
that predicted early galaxies would be chaotic and
irregular due to frequent collisions, suggesting
complex galactic structures could form much earlier.
• The galaxy shows a star-formation rate significantly
higher than the Milky Way’s current rate, indicating
rapid mass build-up in the early universe.
• The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and
gravitational lensing played crucial roles. The
massive galaxy cluster Abell 2744 (Pandora’s Cluster)
magnified Alaknanda’s light, allowing its spiral arms
to be observed.
• The Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) has
• Researchers used JWST images from over 20 filters to launched India’s first AI-driven community screening
precisely determine the galaxy’s distance, structure, program specifically for Diabetic Retinopathy.
dust content, star formation rate, and stellar mass.
• This program is a joint venture between the AFMS,
AIIMS, and the e-Health AI Unit of the Ministry of
India Launches Its First 1.0 GHz, 64-bit Dual-
Health and Family Welfare.
Core Indigenous Microprocessor ‘DHRUV64’ • The Ministry of Defence highlights this initiative as
a crucial step towards strengthening early detection
of diabetic eye disease and establishing a real-time
national health intelligence framework.
• The AI platform automates the screening, grading,
and triaging of retinal images.
• It also generates real-time data on disease prevalence
and geographical distribution, which is vital for
public health planning.
• The AFMS will implement this program in a pilot
phase across seven locations in India: Pune, Mumbai,
• DHRUV64 is India’s first fully indigenous 1.0 GHz, Bengaluru, Dharamshala, Gaya, Jorhat, and Kochi.
64-bit dual-core microprocessor.
• It was developed by the Centre for Development CCI and Nasscom Organise Workshop
of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) as part of the on Artificial Intelligence, Competition &
Microprocessor Development Programme (MDP). Governance
• The processor operates at 1.0 GHz and features
a 64-bit dual-core architecture, offering efficient
processing, improved multitasking, and enhanced
reliability.
• Its design allows for seamless integration with
various external hardware systems.
• DHRUV64 is suitable for a wide range of applications,
including 5G infrastructure, automotive systems,
industrial automation, consumer electronics, and IoT.
• Its launch aligns with India’s broader initiatives like
the India Semiconductor Mission, promoting self-
reliance in technology. • The Competition Commission of India (CCI) and
• The announcement of DHRUV64 was made on NASSCOM organized a workshop on “Artificial
December 15, 2025. Intelligence, Competition & Governance”.

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• This workshop served as a pre-summit event for the Indian satellite internet concept wins top
India–AI Impact Summit 2026, aiming to establish a honour at NASA Space Apps Challenge 2025
balanced framework for AI governance in India.
• An Indian team called Photonics Odyssey, based
• The event brought together policymakers, regulators, in Chennai, won the “Most Inspirational Award” at
industry representatives, and experts to discuss the NASA’s 2025 International Space Apps Challenge.
intersection of AI, competition, consumer protection, • Their winning concept is a sovereign, phased-array
and governance. satellite internet infrastructure designed to expand
• Discussions focused on challenges posed by AI, the broadband access in remote regions of India.
need for coordinated regulatory responses, and • This project aims to connect over 700 million people
maintaining competitive markets while fostering in India who currently lack broadband connectivity
innovation. and reduce reliance on ground infrastructure.
• Three plenary sessions followed, covering AI • The members of the winning team are Manish D., M.
governance and regulatory coordination, the AI K., Prasanth G., Rajalingam N., Rashi M., and Sakthi R.
market and competition landscape, and compliance, • The 2025 NASA International Space Apps Challenge
transparency, ethics, and responsible AI. involved more than 114,000 participants across 551
• CCI’s market study on artificial intelligence and local events in 167 countries and territories.
competition was a key part of the discussions. • Indian American students and participants of
Indian origin were prominent among the winners,
• Plenary Session-I (“AI Governance, Consumer
highlighting the significant contributions of the
Protection, and Regulatory Coordination”) was
Indian diaspora in global science and technology
chaired by Smt. Nidhi Khare.
innovation.
• Plenary Session II (“Understanding the AI Market
• About the Challenge: The International Space Apps
and Competition Landscape”) was chaired by Smt. Challenge, launched in 2012, is NASA’s annual global
Ravneet Kaur. hackathon that encourages citizens worldwide to
• Plenary Session III (“Compliance, Transparency, solve real-world problems using NASA’s open data,
Ethics and Responsible AI for Competitive Markets”) making it one of the largest platforms for STEM
was chaired by Smt. Sangeeta Gupta. innovation.

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Chapter

6 Defence

Indian Navy commissions indigenous anti- • The Indian contingent, of 334 personnels, is being
submarine warfare vessel INS Mahe represented mainly by troops from the ASSAM
Regiment. The Nepal side is being represented by
334 personnels represented mainly by troops from
DEVI DATTA Regiment.
• The aim of the exercise is to jointly rehearse conduct
of Sub Conventional operations under Chapter
VII of United Nations Mandate. The Scope of the
exercise is to strengthen battalion-level synergy
in Jungle Warfare, Counter-Terrorism Operations
in Mountainous Terrain, Humanitarian Assistance
• The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mahe, marking & Disaster Relief (HADR), Medical Response,
the inaugural vessel of the Mahe-class anti-submarine Environmental Conservation, and Integrated
warfare shallow water craft. Ground–Aviation Operations.
• Event Highlights: Army Chief General Upendra • This edition of Exercise SURYAKIRAN–XIX will focus
Dwivedi was the chief guest at the event. on incorporating niche and emerging technologies,
• Indigenous Development: Built by Cochin Shipyard including Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), drone-
Limited, INS Mahe is a part of India’s Aatmanirbhar based ISR,   AI-enabled decision support tools,
Bharat initiative focused on self-reliance in naval unmanned logistic vehicles and armoured protection
design and construction. platforms, enabling both armies to refine and adapt
• Design Features: The ship is designed to be compact, Tactics, Techniques and Procedures for operating in
powerful, agile, and precise, suitable for littoral counter terrorism environment aligned to prevailing
dominance. global dynamics.
• Operational Capabilities: INS Mahe is equipped to
India- Maldives Joint Military Exercise
hunt submarines, conduct coastal patrols, and secure
vital maritime routes for India. EKUVERIN Commences in Kerala

India - Nepal Joint Exercise Suryakiran XIX –

2025 Commenced in Uttarakhand

• The 14th edition of the Joint Military Exercise

• The 19th edition of Joint Military exercise “Exercise EKUVERIN between the Indian Army and the Maldives
SURYAKIRAN XIX - 2025” commenced at Pithoragarh, National Defence Force (MNDF) has commenced at
Uttarakhand. Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
• The exercise is being conducted from 25 November • The exercise will be conducted from 02 to 15
to 08 December 2025. December 2025.
• The Indian Army contingent of 45 personnel, and familiarisation with each other’s operational
represented by a battalion of the GARHWAL RIFLES, is procedures, thereby enhancing interoperability.
participating alongside an equal-strength Maldivian • Exercise Garuda 25 was one of the largest
contingent represented by the MNDF. international air training engagements undertaken
• EKUVERIN in Dhivehi translates to ‘Friends’, by the IAF this year.
underscoring the deep-rooted bonds of friendship, • The exercise reaffirmed the strong strategic
mutual trust and military cooperation between the partnership between India and France and provided
two nations. valuable operational insights to the participating
• Conducted alternately in both countries since forces.
2009, Exercise EKUVERIN continues to be a shining
example of India’s Neighbourhood First Policy Southern Command conducts successful
and its commitment to building enduring defence long-range precision launch of BrahMos
partnerships with friendly nations. missile
• The two-week-long exercise aims to enhance
interoperability and operational synergy in Counter-
Insurgency and Counter-Terrorism operations across
jungle, semi-urban and coastal terrain.
• It will witness participation of troops from both
sides sharing best practices, tactical drills and joint
operational planning to strengthen their capability to
respond to common security challenges in the region.

Exercise Garuda 25 Concludes: Indo–French

Air Forces Successfully Complete 8th Edition
of Bilateral Air Exercise
• The Southern Command of the Indian Army
successfully launched the BrahMos Supersonic
Cruise Missile from a test range in the Bay of Bengal.
• The launch involved coordination with a BrahMos
unit and the Tri-Services Andaman and Nicobar
Command.
• The missile demonstrated advanced guidance
systems, high-speed flight stability, and terminal
accuracy by hitting a designated target.
• The mission achieved all operational objectives
• The 8th edition of Exercise Garuda, a bilateral Indo– under simulated battle conditions.
French air exercise between the Indian Air Force • The launch highlighted the accuracy and effectiveness
(IAF) and the French Air and Space Force (FASF), of India’s indigenous missile systems and progress in
concluded at Air Base 118, Mont-de-Marsan, France. strategic competencies.
• The IAF contingent returned to India on 02 December • It reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance,
2025 after the successful culmination of the exercise. aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
• During the exercise, the IAF participated with • BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between DRDO
Su-30MKI fighters, supported by IL-78 air-to-air and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia, designed and
refuelling aircraft and C-17 Globemaster III transport developed the missile.
aircraft and both air forces conducted a range of
• The BrahMos missile is named after the Brahmaputra
complex air operations in a realistic operational
and Moskva rivers.
environment.
• The first successful test was conducted on June 12,
• The training involved joint mission planning,
2001, at the Integrated Test Range off Odisha’s coast.
coordinated execution of strike and escort missions

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DRDO Successfully Tests Fighter Aircraft Ladakh — the most simultaneous inaugurations by
Escape System BRO to date.
• The projects include 28 roads, 93 bridges, and
4 miscellaneous items, completed at a cost of
approximately Rs 5,000 crore, marking the highest-
value inaugurations in BRO’s history.
• Projects span across Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir,
Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh,
Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Mizoram,
improving last-mile connectivity for remote villages
• The Defence Research and Development Organisation and military locations.
(DRDO) successfully tested a fighter aircraft escape • Among the highlighted projects is the Shyok Tunnel,
system, also known as an ejection system. a 920-metre engineering marvel that enhances all-
• The test ensures that pilots can safely exit aircraft in weather connectivity and military mobility in harsh
emergencies, saving lives and enhancing operational weather conditions.
safety. • The Raksha Mantri virtually inaugurated the Galwan
• The test was conducted in collaboration with War Memorial in Ladakh to honor the bravery and
Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and sacrifice of Armed Forces personnel.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). • BRO’s expenditure reached a record Rs 16,690 crore
• A fighter aircraft escape system is designed to help for FY 2024-25, with a target of Rs 18,700 crore set
pilots escape from a failing aircraft. for FY 2025-26.
• It uses an ejection seat, explosives, and a parachute to • Highlighted a shift from import-dependence to
ensure a safe landing. indigenous production in India’s defense sector, with
• India joins an “elite club of nations” with advanced significant increases in production and exports over
escape system testing capabilities. the past decade.
• Test conducted at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) • DGBR Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan expressed gratitude
facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory for the support and vision that enabled BRO to expand
in Chandigarh. its capabilities, highlighting the organization’s
• A dual-sled system with an LCA aircraft forebody growing role in strategic infrastructure development.
used phased rocket motor firings to reach precise • The BRO budget increased from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs
velocities. 7,146 crore for FY 2025-26, reflecting its critical role
• The demonstration included a simulated ejection in national security.
process using an instrumented anthropomorphic
test dummy to record critical loads and moments. Indian Navy to Commission First Indigenous
• The testing involved advanced imaging systems to Diving Support Craft ‘Dsc A20’
capture the entire ejection sequence.

Defence minister dedicates to the nation 125

border infrastructure projects

• The Indian Navy is commissioning its first indigenous

Diving Support Craft (DSC), DSC A20, at Kochi on
December 16, 2025.
• Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated 125 • Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer
infrastructure projects by the Border Roads Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command,
Organisation (BRO) on December 7, 2025, from will formally induct the ship into service.

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• DSC A20 is the lead ship of five Diving Support Craft mission planning, and the integration of UAS and
being built by M/s Titagarh Rail Systems Limited counter-UAS techniques.
(TRSL), Kolkata. • DESERT CYCLONE–II further strengthens bilateral
• The vessel is designed for various diving and defense cooperation following recent visits by high-
underwater missions in coastal waters and is ranking UAE military officials.
equipped with advanced diving systems. • The exercise signifies the deepening strategic
• It features a catamaran hull, offering superior partnership and military diplomacy between India
stability, enhanced deck area, and improved and the UAE, promoting regional peace, security,
seakeeping characteristics, with a displacement of and stability, and fostering professional bonds and
approximately 390 tons. mutual understanding between the two armies.
• The design and construction adhere to the Naval Rules
and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping Sai Jadhav breaks 93-year record at Indian
(IRS), and it underwent extensive hydrodynamic Military Academy, becomes first woman
analysis and model testing at the Naval Science and officer
Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam.

Indian Army Contingent Departs For India-

UAE Joint Military Exercise Desert Cyclone
2025

• Sai Jadhav is the first woman officer to graduate from

the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun,
ending a 93-year tradition.
• She comes from a family with a long military history,
• An Indian Army contingent of 45 personnel, being the fourth generation to serve.
primarily from The Mechanised Infantry Regiment, • Sai has been commissioned as a Lieutenant in the
has departed for Abu Dhabi, UAE, to participate in Territorial Army, a unique achievement as the first
the second edition of the India-UAE Joint Military woman officer from IMA to join this force.
Exercise DESERT CYCLONE-II, from December 18 to • Her accomplishment has been widely celebrated,
30, 2025. particularly on social media platform X, where it was
• The UAE Land Forces contingent, of similar strength, recognized as an inspiring milestone for women in
will be represented by the 53 Mechanised Infantry the armed forces.
Battalion. • Sai’s entry into the IMA was through special
• The exercise aims to enhance interoperability and permission, involving six months of rigorous training
foster defense cooperation between the Indian Army alongside male cadets, meeting all standards.
and the UAE Land Forces. • The Indian Army is increasingly opening
• Training will focus on joint operations in an opportunities for women, and Sai’s achievement is
urban environment, specifically sub-conventional seen as a significant step in these reforms.
operations under a United Nations mandate, • In June 2026, she will participate in the parade
including peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and in front of the Chetwode Building, an honor for
stability operations. IMA graduates, further highlighting the changing
• Troops will engage in tactical drills such as fighting landscape of military opportunities for women
in built-up areas, heliborne operations, detailed

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Indian Air Force Hosts Joint Exercise Quad partners successfully conduct 1st FTX
AviaIndra 2025 on sidelines of Operation Christmas Drop

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) is hosting Exercise

AviaIndra-2025 with the Russian Federation • The first Indo-Pacific Logistics Network Field Training
Aerospace Force (RFASF). Exercise (FTX) was conducted by Quad partners
• This exercise continues the AviaIndra series, which (Australia, India, Japan, and the US) from December
started in 2014, highlighting the long-standing Indo- 8-12. The exercise aimed to enhance shared logistics
Russian relationship. capacity for rapid and effective responses to regional
humanitarian needs.
• Both forces will engage in joint flying operations
using Su-30 MKI, Tejas, IL-78 aircraft, and Mi-17 Key Points from the Exercise Include
helicopters. • Purpose: To improve the Quad nations’ ability to
• The exercise aims to improve bilateral cooperation, leverage shared logistics capabilities for civilian
mutual understanding, and aerospace synergy responses to large-scale natural disasters in the Indo-
between India and Russia. Pacific, ultimately saving lives and aiding recovery
• Earlier in December, India and Russia agreed to efforts.
strengthen their defense partnership, including • Location: The FTX took place at Andersen Air Force
collaboration on military technologies and defence- Base, Guam, alongside Operation Christmas Drop.
industrial cooperation, during Russian President • Activities: The training involved activities such as
Vladimir Putin’s visit to India. boarding a Japan Air Self-Defence Force C-130H
• Defence ministers from both nations, Rajnath transport aircraft, focusing on interoperability and
Singh and Andrei Belousov, emphasised the strong coordination among the Quad partners.
trust and mutual respect forming the basis of their • Significance: This exercise, along with a Tabletop
relationship. Exercise (TTX) in April 2025, demonstrates the
• A protocol outlining “ongoing and prospective Quad’s commitment to practical cooperation in
areas” of defence cooperation was signed, further addressing regional challenges and promoting a free
reinforcing their strategic military ties. and open Indo-Pacific.

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Chapter

7 Appointments

Justice Surya Kant takes oath as 53rd Chief

Justice of India

• He takes over following the retirement of Sanjay

Kumar Agarwal.
• His appointment was approved by the Appointments
• Justice Surya Kant took oath as the 53rd Chief Justice Committee of the Cabinet.
of India. • Chaturvedi has over 30 years of experience in
• He succeeded Justice BR Gavai and will serve a nearly customs administration, intelligence, data analytics,
15-month tenure, retiring on February 9, 2027. and vigilance.
• The oath was administered by President Murmu at • Previously served as member (tax policy & legal) on
Rashtrapati Bhavan. CBIC, principal director general in the Directorate
• Born on February 10, 1962, in Hisar, Haryana, he General of Vigilance, and chief vigilance officer.
began practicing law in 1984. • He will play a crucial role in the 2026-27 Budget-
• He practiced at the Punjab and Haryana High Court making process, particularly regarding indirect taxes.
from 1985, specializing in constitutional, service, and • His appointment comes amid efforts to maintain
civil matters. revenue following recent GST rate changes.
• Justice Kant was the youngest Advocate General of • He will focus on advancing the next phase of customs
Haryana and became a Senior Advocate in March modernization.
2001.
• Appointed as a permanent judge to the Punjab and RBI appoints Usha Janakiraman as Executive
Haryana High Court in January 2004, he was elevated Director
to the Supreme Court in May 2019.
• He has been a two-term member of the National
Legal Services Authority and is involved in various
committees of the Indian Law Institute.
• A law graduate from Maharishi Dayanand University,
he aims to address case pendency during his tenure.
• The oath-taking ceremony was attended by
dignitaries from several countries, marking a
significant international presence.

Vivek Chaturvedi appointed CBIC chairman

• Vivek Chaturvedi appointed chairman of the Central • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed Usha
Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). Janakiraman as Executive Director (ED).
• Prior to being promoted as ED, Janakiraman was
serving as Chief General Manager-in-Charge,
Department of Regulation.
• Janakiraman has experience of over three decades
in the RBI having worked in the areas of regulation,
external investment and operations, banking
supervision, public debt management, currency
management and other areas.
• As ED, Janakiraman, a CA by qualification, will look
after the Department of Supervision (Risk, Analytics
and Vulnerability Assessment).
• He continues his role as India Country Executive.
Arun Kumar Singh gets rare one-year • Kaku Nakhate, the former India CEO, is now the chair
of India, focusing on key client relationships.
extension as ONGC chairman
• Sahu will report to Jin Su, President of Asia Pacific.
• He has been guiding the leadership team in India,
focusing on governance, regulatory matters, and
client relationships.
• In his new role, Sahu will chair the local management
team and maintain membership on the Asia Pacific
Executive committee and the India CLT.
• He will oversee the bank’s strategic growth plan.
• Arun Kumar Singh has been granted a one-year Prasar Bharati Board Chairman Navneet
extension as chairman of ONGC, extending his tenure
until December 6, 2026.
Sehgal resigns
• The extension reflects the government’s desire
for continuity after Singh’s leadership helped
stabilize ONGC’s management and reverse crude oil
production declines.
• Singh, 63, was previously the first near-60 executive
appointed as chairman of a blue-chip PSU in 2022.
• Significant achievements during Singh’s tenure
include:
Š Technical collaboration with BP for the revival of
Mumbai High oil and gas fields. • Navneet Kumar Sehgal has resigned as Chairperson
Š Oversight of oil production from the delayed of Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcaster.
KG-DWN-98/2 field in the Krishna Godavari basin. • His resignation was accepted by the Information &
• Prior to joining ONGC, Singh had a notable career in Broadcasting Ministry.
BPCL, where he served as chairman and managing • Sehgal, a retired IAS officer from the 1988 batch of
director after various roles. Uttar Pradesh cadre, was appointed on March 16,
• The previous vacancy at ONGC existed since April 2024, for a three-year term.
2021, marked by three interim heads before Singh’s • He retired from the Civil Services in July 2023, having
permanent appointment. served as Additional Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh.
• Sehgal held various roles in State and Central
RBI approves Vikram Sahu as CEO of Bank of Governments over a 35-year career, focusing on
America in India for 3 years infrastructure development and governance reforms.
• Vikram Sahu has been appointed as the CEO of Bank • His expertise encompasses Media, Public Relations,
of America NA in India (BANA India) for three years General Administration, Finance, Industry, Law and
by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Order, Land Management, and Home Affairs.

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Harmanpreet Kaur named Brand • Shombi Sharp was the previous UN Resident
Ambassador for PNB (Punjab National Bank) Coordinator of India.

PNB Housing Finance appoints Ajai Kumar

Shukla as MD & CEO for 5 years

• The World Cup-winning Indian women’s team

skipper, Harmanpreet Kaur, joined Punjab National
Bank (PNB) as its brand ambassador.
• She becomes the first female brand ambassador for
Punjab National Bank (PNB).
• She was presented with a framed PNB jersey bearing
her name and number, along with a custom-engraved • PNB Housing Finance appointed Ajai Kumar Shukla as
PNB bat. its new Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive
• Kaur received a framed PNB jersey and a custom- Officer (CEO), marking a key leadership transition.
engraved PNB bat during her ambassador • The appointment was approved by the Board of
announcement. Directors on 12 December 2025.
• She is also the first customer of the newly launched • Ajai Kumar Shukla will assume charge from 18
PNB RuPay Metal Credit Card Luxura. December 2025.
• Luxura is a premium credit card designed for elite • His tenure will be five years, subject to shareholder
customers. approval.
• Shukla brings extensive experience in banking and
Stefan Priesner appointed as United Nations financial services, with a strong background in retail
Resident Coordinator in India lending and credit operations.
• He also has experience in governance, compliance,
strategic planning, and leading operational
transformation.
• The appointment aligns with PNB Housing Finance’s
objective of strengthening management and
responsibly expanding its footprint in the housing
finance sector.

Coca-Cola appoints Henrique Braun as next

CEO, James Quincey becomes executive
chairman
• Stefan Priesner of Austria has been appointed as the
United Nations Resident Coordinator in India.
• He assumed his position on December 1, 2025.
• Priesner possesses extensive experience in
international development and management.
• Prior to joining the UN, he worked in the private
sector.
• He holds a master’s degree in international relations
from Johns Hopkins University and a master’s degree
in law from the University of Vienna.

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• Henrique Braun will become the new CEO of Coca- income for the period April 1, 2018, to February 3,
Cola, effective March 31, 2026. 2025, following an income tax search.
• James Quincey, the current Chairman and CEO, will • The company has complied with the notice, filing
transition to executive chairman. the return and paying Rs 1.47 crore in tax, with no
• Braun, 57, has been with Coca-Cola for 30 years material impact on its operations.
and previously served as COO, leading operations in
various regions. Former CJI Gavai appointed Ambedkar Chair
• Quincey’s nine-year tenure as CEO saw the addition of Prof at Hyderabad’s NALSAR University of
over ten billion-dollar brands, including BodyArmor Law
and Fairlife, and the company’s entry into the
alcoholic drink market with Topo Chico Hard Seltzer.
• Under Quincey, Coca-Cola underwent a restructuring
in 2020, reducing its brands and laying off employees
to focus on fast-growing products.
• Coca-Cola is currently facing challenges such as
stagnant demand in the U.S. and Europe and increased
customer scrutiny of its ingredients.
• The company is also planning to release a cane sugar • Former Chief Justice of India, Justice B R Gavai, has
version of its trademark Cola following a suggestion been appointed as the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Chair
from President Donald Trump. Professor of Constitutional Law and Social Inclusion
at NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad.
IIFL Finance appoints ex-RBI Deputy
• In this role, Justice Gavai will spearhead the Chair’s
Governor B. P. Kanungo as chairman activities, which encompass research, teaching, and
academic initiatives focused on constitutional law,
enhancing access to justice, and promoting social
inclusion.
• The establishment of this Chair has received financial
backing from the Government of Telangana.
• NALSAR University plans to promptly launch the
Chair’s activities, including recruiting a dedicated
team of researchers, initiating thematic research
projects, developing academic programs, conducting
policy-oriented studies, and organizing public
• IIFL Finance has appointed B.P. Kanungo, former RBI engagement initiatives.
Deputy Governor, as the non-executive chairman of • Surya Kant is the incumbent and 53rd chief justice of
its board, effective immediately. India, and was appointed on 24th November 2025.
• Kanungo brings over four decades of experience
in central banking, monetary policy, and financial SBI gets new MD as Ravi Ranjan takes charge
regulation.
• He previously served as Deputy Governor of the
Reserve Bank of India from 2017 to 2021 and was a
member of the Monetary Policy Committee.
• Kanungo is currently a non-executive independent
director on the board of IIFL Finance Ltd.
• His role will involve leading the board in strategic
direction, enhancing governance standards, and
safeguarding stakeholder interests. • Ravi Ranjan has been appointed as the Managing
• IIFL Finance received a notice under Section 158BC Director of the State Bank of India (SBI) effective
of the Income Tax Act, 1961, requiring a return of December 15, 2025.

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• His tenure will last until his superannuation on • At NCL, his leadership was crucial in projectization,
September 30, 2028, or until further orders, as per a structuring project financing, and developing a
government notification issued on December 15. compensation and rehabilitation framework for the
• Previously, Ranjan served as a Deputy Managing Jayant expansion project.
Director at SBI.
• In his new role, he will be responsible for key Andrej Babis sworn in as Czech Republic’s
portfolios such as risk management, compliance, and new Prime Minister
the Stressed Assets Resolution Group (SARG).
• Before this appointment, he was Deputy Managing
Director for Global Markets and previously headed
the Corporate Accounts Group.
• His past experience also includes serving as chief
general manager of SBI’s Chennai Circle, president
and chief operating officer at SBI Capital Markets in
Mumbai, and general manager of the retail network
in Bengaluru.
• Ranjan has also held overseas postings in Hong Kong • Andrej Babis, a populist billionaire and former Prime
and Los Angeles, California. Minister, was sworn in as the Czech Republic’s new
• He joined SBI as a probationary officer in 1991 and Prime Minister on December 9, 2025.
has over three decades of experience in banking and • His ANO (YES) movement won the October
financial services. parliamentary election and formed a majority
coalition government with the Freedom and Direct
B Sairam appointed Coal India CMD Democracy party and the Motorists for Themselves.
• The new government will have a 16-member Cabinet,
with ANO holding eight posts, the Motorists four, and
the Freedom Party three.
• This coalition will command 108 seats in the 200-
seat Lower House, moving the previous pro-Western
government to the opposition.
• The new government plans to align with Hungary and
Slovakia, reducing support for Ukraine in the Russia-
Ukraine conflict and rejecting certain EU policies on
• B. Sairam has been appointed as the Chairman-cum-
environment and migration.
Managing Director (CMD) of Coal India.
• Babis faces fraud charges related to EU subsidies, and
• Before this appointment, Sairam served as the CMD
the new Parliament will need to lift his immunity for
of Northern Coalfields, a subsidiary of Coal India.
a verdict.
• Sanoj Kumar Jha, who previously held the additional
charge of CMD, ceased to be CMD as of December 15, Ex-IAS officer Raj Kumar Goyal sworn in as
2025.
Chief Information Commissioner
• Sairam possesses over 30 years of experience in the
coal sector, with expertise in mine operations, project
planning, logistics, and regulatory affairs.
• He is a graduate mining engineer from NIT Raipur.
• Prior to his role at NCL, he was Director (Technical)
at Central Coalfields, where he contributed to coal
logistics, First Mile Connectivity projects, and
environmental clearances.
• Sairam was also involved in community development
initiatives as Executive Director at Coal India.

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• Raj Kumar Goyal, a retired IAS officer, was sworn in • Her background suggests a “back-to-basics” approach
as the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) in the for BP, with a clear direction towards oil, gas, and
Central Information Commission on December 15, LNG.
2025. • Carol Howle will serve as interim CEO until O’Neill
• The oath was administered by President Droupadi starts in April.
Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. • O’Neill’s tenure at Woodside involved growing core
• Goyal, a 1990-batch IAS officer, previously served as natural gas assets, including a US LNG plant takeover
Secretary in the Department of Justice and Secretary and extending operations of Australia’s largest gas
(Border Management) under the Ministry of Home export facility.
Affairs.
• He succeeded Heeralal Samariya as CIC. Airtel appoints Shashwat Sharma as MD &
• His appointment was made by the President based CEO
on the recommendations of a committee comprising
the Prime Minister (chairperson), the Leader of
Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and a Union Cabinet
Minister.
• Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok
Sabha, participated in a meeting with Prime Minister
Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah
regarding this and other appointments, reportedly
issuing a dissent note on the selection of officials. • Bharti Airtel appointed Shashwat Sharma as the new
Managing Director and CEO, effective January 1.
Meg O’Neill appointed as first woman CEO of • Sharma has been the CEO Designate for the past 12
BP Plc months.
• Current Vice-Chairman and MD, Gopal Vittal, will
become Executive Vice-Chairman, overseeing Airtel
and its subsidiaries.
• Sharma will report to Vittal in his new role.
• Appointment of these executives subject to
shareholder approval.
• Soumen Ray, current CFO, will become Group CFO
and report to Vittal.
• BP has appointed Meg O’Neill as its new CEO, making
her the first female CEO in Big Oil. • Akhil Garg, currently Financial Controller, will be
appointed as CFO, reporting to Sharma and Ray.
• This leadership change aims to revive BP’s fortunes
after a less-than-successful pivot towards renewable • Rohit Puri will be appointed as Company Secretary &
energy. Compliance Officer.
• The company has been facing pressure from activist • Pankaj Tewari continues as Group Company
investor Elliott Investment Management to return its Secretary, providing leadership at a group level.
focus to oil and gas. • Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal expressed confidence in
• Meg O’Neill previously led Woodside Energy Group the new leadership’s ability to maintain momentum.
Ltd. for four years and worked at Exxon Mobil Corp. • Airtel’s shares closed at ₹2,092.05, down 0.79% from
for over two decades. the previous close.

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Chapter

8 MoUs

MoSJE–DWBDNC and MoRD–DAY NRLM Sign • Drawn from within the community, each Sakhi will
Landmark MoU to Empower De‑Notified, support about 30 families organized into three SHGs.
Nomadic and Semi‑Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) BEL and Safran Electronics & Defence ink
Joint Venture Cooperation Agreement for
production of HAMMER Smart Precision
Guided Air-to-Ground Weapon in India

• The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment

(MoSJE), through the Development and Welfare
Board for De‑Notified, Nomadic and Semi‑Nomadic
Communities (DWBDNC), and the Ministry of Rural • Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Safran
Development (MoRD), through the Deendayal Electronics and Defence (SED) signed a Joint Venture
Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Cooperation Agreement (JVCA) for the production
Mission (DAY‑NRLM), signed an MoU to advance of HAMMER Smart Precision Guided Air-to-Ground
inclusive development and social justice for Weapon in India.
historically marginalized communities. • The agreement was signed in New Delhi by BEL’s
• For generations, DNT communities have faced social CMD, Manoj Jain, and SED’s Executive VP, Alexandre
exclusion, limited access to finance, and barriers to Ziegler.
livelihoods. This partnership seeks to unlock new • The JVCA supports the Make-in-India and
opportunities by: Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives as outlined by Prime
Š Onboarding DNT SHGs into NRLM Village Minister Modi.
Organizations (VOs), Cluster Level Federations • The agreement follows an MoU signed on February
(CLFs), and livelihood value chains. 11, 2025, and aims to establish a Joint Venture
Š Providing capacity building, credit linkages, and Company (JVC) in India with 50:50 shareholding.
diversified livelihood opportunities. • The JVC will localise the manufacturing, supply,
Š Ensuring coordination between DWBDNC and and maintenance of HAMMER, targeting a 60%
State Rural Livelihood Missions (SRLMs) for indigenisation level for key components.
sustained support. • Production transfer will occur gradually, with BEL
Š Strengthening convergence with national missions responsible for final assembly, testing, and quality
to create equitable development pathways. assurance.
• Over the next three years, more than 5,000 DNT SHGs • HAMMER is known for its high accuracy and modular
formed under DWBDNC will be assimilated into the design, compatible with platforms like Rafale and
DAY‑NRLM framework, gaining access to its full range Tejas.
of services. • The initiative aims to enhance India’s defence
• A unique feature of this collaboration is the industrial base by leveraging SED’s expertise in
introduction of a dedicated cadre — DNT Sakhi. smart precision weapons.
Centre for Development of Telematics
(C-DOT) signs MoU with Indian Institute of
Technology, Roorkee (IITR)

• Accordingly, the loan agreements for the Maharashtra

Power Distribution Enhancement Programme for
Agricultural Solarization (USD 500 million), Indore
Metro Rail Project (27,147,200,000 yen, equivalent to
• The Centre for Development of Telematics USD 190.6 million), and Gujarat Skills Development
(C-DOT), a premier R&D centre of the Department Programme (USD 109.97 million) were signed.
of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of • Maharashtra Power Distribution Enhancement
Communications, Government of India, signed a Programme aims to modernize rural power
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the infrastructure and provide reliable daytime solar
Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IITR), a electricity to farmers by 2028.
leading institution of national importance. • Key components include upgrading substations,
• As part of the MOU, C-DOT is setting up a Centre of installing transformers, and deploying battery
Excellence (CoE) at IIT Roorkee. storage.
• The primary objective of C-DOT Centre of Excellence • Gujarat Skills Development Programme Focuses on
(CoE) at IIT Roorkee, is to accelerate indigenous equipping the workforce with skills for high-growth
research, innovation and capacity building in sectors, including logistics, automotive, IT, and
advanced communication technologies. healthcare.
• CoE will have a strong focus on research in the areas • Additional Technical Assistance (TA) grant of USD
of wireless communication, Quantum technologies, 1 million for the Sustainable Wetland and Integrated
Cyber security and AI based applications. Fisheries Transformation (SWIFT) Project in Assam
• Establishing CoE will promote academia–industry to enhance wetland ecosystems and fisheries.
synergy leveraging academic expertise of IITR and
industry strength of C-DOT and enable students, NHAI Signs MoU with Reliance Jio to Deploy
researchers, and start-ups to contribute to India’s Telecom-Based Safety Alert System Across
innovation and self-reliance journey, It will National Highways
strengthen India’s leadership position in global
telecom innovation.
• The centre will drive joint research and prototype
development in key emerging domains including
5G/6G, RF-Sub-THz integrated circuits, sensors,
millimeter wave beamforming antennas with
integrated ICs, V2X Communication, data-driven
wireless communication technologies, energy
efficiency etc.

Govt, ADB sign loan pacts worth $800 mn

• To enhance safety and offer seamless travel
for projects across Maharashtra, Madhya experience on National Highways, NHAI has signed a
Pradesh and Gujarat Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Reliance
• The government of India and the Asian Development Jio to introduce a telecom-based safety alert system
Bank (ADB) has signed agreements for three across the National Highway network.
loans worth over USD 800 million for projects in • Using Jio’s existing 4G and 5G network, travellers will
Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. receive advance warnings on their mobile phones

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 as they approach identified risk locations such as • Key highlights featured talks on small modular
accident-prone stretches, stray-cattle zones, fog- nuclear reactors, green hydrogen, and digital grid
affected areas and emergency diversions. security.
• The initiative aims to strengthen road-safety by
providing timely information to National Highway NMDC Signs MoU with IIT Kanpur to
users, enabling them to adjust speed and driving Strengthen Cybersecurity and Advance
behaviour well in advance. Digital Technologies
• Alerts will be sent through SMS, WhatsApp and high-
priority calls to National Highway users.
• The system will be integrated in a phased manner with
NHAI’s digital platforms, including ‘Rajmargyatra’
mobile application and emergency helpline number
1033.
• The automated system will work for all Jio mobile
users on or near the National Highways and
will provide early warning to National Highway
commuters before they enter a hazardous zone.
• NMDC, India’s largest iron ore producer, signed a
• The solution will use existing telecom towers and
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT
can be deployed quickly, without additional roadside
Kanpur.
hardware.
• Focus areas include cybersecurity and adoption of
• This strategic partnership shall leverage Jio’s digital
digital technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI)
infrastructure – serving over 500 million subscribers
and Machine Learning (ML).
in the country.
• The MoU was signed by NMDC’s Executive Director
Odisha government to organise Global (Digital Transformation) and IIT Kanpur’s Dean
of R&D, attended by senior officials from both
Energy Leaders’ Summit 2025 in Puri organizations.
• Collaboration will involve:
Š Cybersecurity risk assessments
Š Policy, governance, and compliance support
Š AI and ML integration
Š Security operations and incident response
Š Capacity building and knowledge sharing
Š Joint research and innovation

BEML partners with SMFCL to boost India’s

• Odisha hosted the Global Energy Leaders’ Summit maritime sector
(GELS) 2025 in Puri from December 5–7, 2025.
• The summit’s theme was “Powering India: Sufficiency,
Balance, Innovation”.
• It focused on ensuring enough and efficient power
supply, balancing ecology with the economy, and
promoting innovation in the energy sector.
• Discussions covered India’s rising energy demand,
improving supply reliability, sustainable growth, and
the use of new technologies for energy transition.
• Participants included Union and State energy • BEML Ltd partnered with Sagarmala Finance
ministers, policymakers, researchers, innovators, Corporation Ltd (SMFCL) to boost financial support
and industry leaders. for India’s maritime manufacturing sector.

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• This partnership aims to unlock funding for a new Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO)
indigenous production and reduce import reliance. facility in India for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) C-130J
• SMFCL is India’s first non-banking financial Super Hercules fleet.
institution focused on the maritime sector.
• BEML signed an MoU with SMFCL for financial
support in maritime manufacturing.
• BEML also entered a tripartite MoU with HD Korea
Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering and HD Hyundai
Samho Heavy Industries.
• This tripartite collaboration will focus on designing,
developing, manufacturing, and supporting
conventional and autonomous maritime and port
• This collaboration aims to significantly enhance
cranes in India.
India’s in-country defense sustainment capabilities
• The collaboration also includes after-sales services, and potentially open doors for regional and global
spare parts, and training. C-130 support.
• BEML operates in three main business segments: • The IAF currently operates 12 C-130J tactical
defence and aerospace, mining and construction, and airlifters, crucial for strategic transport, special
rail and metro. operations, and humanitarian missions.
• The groundbreaking ceremony for the facility took
Telangana inks MoUs for ₹1.5 lakh crore
place in Bengaluru, with construction expected
investments in green energy to finish by the end of 2026 and MRO operations
starting in early 2027.
• Lockheed Martin views this facility as strengthening
their partnership with India, improving IAF
readiness, and creating opportunities for C-130
operators worldwide.

GELS 2025 Concludes with Draft Puri

Declaration, Signing of 4 MoUs
• The Telangana government has entered into
memorandum of understanding (MoUs) with various
companies for setting up Green Energy projects
involving total investments of over Rs 1.50 lakh crore.
• The MoUs inked on the first day of Telangana
Rising Global Summit here included ₹31,500 crore
investment by Axis Energy Ventures, ₹29,800 crore
by Greenco, ₹16,000 crore by Ecoren, ₹12,500 crore
by AMR India, ₹5,600 crore by Astha Green Energy,
₹5,600 crore by Cerulean Energy and ₹2,500 crore
• The two-day Global Energy Leaders Summit (GELS)
by United Telecom.
2025 concluded with the launch of the Draft Puri
• The proposed investments have the potential to create Declaration and the signing of four knowledge-
about 1.60 lakh direct and indirect employment. partnership MoUs.
Tata Advanced Systems ties up with • The summit focused on strengthening India’s energy
transition, particularly in clean energy generation
Lockheed Martin for MRO facility for C-130J like solar power.
fleet • Key topics explored included AI-enabled grid
• Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. (TASL) and Lockheed security, carbon markets, advanced financing, clean-
Martin are expanding their partnership to establish tech innovation, and institutional reforms.

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• Four strategic MoUs were signed to accelerate • The MoU will also expand AI-driven skilling initiatives
research, pilot projects, and clean-energy deployment through DigiSaksham, providing young people with
in Odisha: skills in AI, cloud technologies, cybersecurity, and
1. Renewable Energy Pilot Projects: A trilateral productivity tools.
MoU between Nanyang Technological University • Microsoft’s Azure and AI capabilities will be
(NTU) Singapore, GRIDCO, and IIT Bhubaneswar leveraged to strengthen the NCS platform, e-Shram
for advanced renewable-energy pilot projects analytics, labour market intelligence, and modernize
and applied research. employment services and job-matching systems.
2. Green Hydrogen Centre of Excellence: An • The MoU will also utilize Microsoft’s partner
MoU among GRIDCO, ReNew, IIT Bhubaneswar, ecosystem to expand employer outreach and increase
and Avaada Group to establish a Green NCS adoption.
Hydrogen Centre of Excellence in Odisha for
R&D, demonstrations, and capacity building. Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium
3. Renewable-Energy Project Development: A Enterprises (MSME) signs MoU with Amazon
tripartite MoU among NLC India Renewables to Strengthen Market Access for PM
Limited (NIRL), OREDA, and GEDCOL to jointly Vishwakarma Artisans
develop renewable-energy projects across
Odisha.
4. Accelerated Renewable-Energy
Development: A multi-agency MoU involving
the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI),
Odisha Hydro Power Corporation (OHPC), Green
Energy Development Corporation of Odisha
(GEDCOL), and the Odisha Renewable Energy
Development Agency (OREDA) for integrated
planning and development.

Ministry of Labour & Employment Signs

MoU with Microsoft in Presence of Union • The Ministry of MSME signed an MoU with Amazon
Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Mr. Seller Services Pvt. Ltd. to help artisans under the
Satya Nadella PM Vishwakarma Scheme access online markets and
expand their customer base.
• The MoU was signed at Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi,
by the Office of the Development Commissioner
(MSME) and Amazon representatives.
• The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, launched on 17th
September 2023, provides end-to-end support
to registered artisans, including skill training,
modern toolkits, access to credit, and preservation
of traditional skills through the guru-shishya
parampara.
• Amazon will collaborate with MSME to support
• The Ministry of Labour & Employment and Microsoft artisans in trades like carpentry, pottery,
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) metalsmithing, goldsmithing, sculpture, tailoring,
to boost employment, AI-led skilling, and prepare locksmithing, basket/mat/coir making, doll/toy
India’s workforce for global opportunities. making, garland making, cobbler work, and more.
• Microsoft will encourage over 15,000 employers and • The partnership will onboard eligible Vishwakarma
partners from its international network to join the artisans onto Amazon’s online marketplace, with
National Career Service (NCS) platform to expand MSME assisting in approvals, registrations, and
formal job access and support high-growth sectors. clearances.

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• It will enhance visibility for handmade products • The 11th United Nations Alliance of Civilizations
through Amazon’s Karigar initiative, promoting (UNAOC) Global Forum took place in Riyadh, Saudi
India’s handicraft heritage and digitizing artisans. Arabia, from December 14 to 15, 2025.
• This collaboration strengthens digital e-commerce • India’s delegation was led by P. Kumaran, Secretary
presence, promotes artisan products nationally and (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
globally, and supports Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar • The forum’s theme was “UNAOC: Two Decades of
Bharat through grassroots empowerment. Dialogue for Humanity – Advancing a New Era of
Mutual Respect and Understanding in a Multipolar
Google signs solar power pact in Malaysia World”.
with Shizen Energy • During the event, India emphasized its rich
civilizational heritage, cultural diversity, and
dedication to pluralism.
• The Indian government reaffirmed its commitment
to the ancient Sanskrit ideals of “Vasudhaiva
Kutumbakam” (The World is One Family) and “Sarva
Dharma Samabhav” (Equal Respect for All Religions).
• The UNAOC, launched by the UN in 2005 through
• Google has signed a solar power agreement in the initiative of Spain and Turkey, aims to foster
Malaysia to secure clean electricity for its global intercultural dialogue, mutual understanding, and
operations. cooperation to combat polarization and terrorism.
• The agreement involves Google purchasing power
from a 30-megawatt solar farm developed by a UEF, UNSDC Signs MoUs at UEF Trade
consortium led by Shizen Energy Inc.’s local unit. Summit 2025 Held in Chennai, TN
• The project, located in Malaysia’s Kedah state, is
expected to commence operations in 2027 and is
part of Malaysia’s initiative to supply green power to
companies.
• This agreement underscores efforts by global tech
companies to decarbonize their energy-intensive
operations, particularly in Asia, which still heavily
relies on fossil fuels.
• Malaysia aims to achieve 70% renewable energy
in its installed power capacity by 2050, up from • The United Economic Forum (UEF) and the United
approximately 26% last year. Nations Sustainable Development Council (UNSDC)
signed 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs)
• The Corporate Green Power Programme is one of
during the UEF Trade Summit 2025.
the initiatives Malaysia has implemented to attract
investment in renewable energy. • The summit took place from December 12 to 14,
2025, at the Chennai Trade Centre in Chennai, Tamil
India reaffirms ideals of Vasudhaiva Nadu.
Kutumbakam at 11th UNAOC forum in • The MoUs were signed by Ahmad Buhari, President
of UEF, and Dr. Ajmal Dastagir, Chairman (India) of
Riyadh UNSDC.
• The primary goal of these MoUs is to promote and
implement the 17 United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) in 45 educational
institutions affiliated with UEF, including community
colleges and schools.
• The UEF Trade Summit 2025, themed “Unnatha
Thamizhagam-4Tn for TN by 2047”, focused on
economic growth and sustainable development.

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• The summit gathered over 4,000 delegates, featured • India and Brazil have signed a tripartite Memorandum
more than 20 industries, and hosted approximately of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation in the
80 global speakers. maintenance of Scorpene-class submarines and
• In addition to the UEF-UNSDC agreements, the other naval platforms.
summit secured nearly 10 other strategic MoUs to • The MoU was signed by the Indian Navy, the Brazilian
foster business growth, improve market access, and Navy, and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)
strengthen networking opportunities. during the visit of India’s Chief of Naval Staff (CNS)
Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi to Brazil from December
India, Oman ink free trade agreement 9 to 12.
• This agreement aims to strengthen the India-Brazil
maritime partnership through enhanced life-cycle
support, logistics, training, experience sharing, and
defense research and development.
• Admiral Tripathi held high-level meetings with
Brazilian defense leadership to discuss bilateral
defense cooperation and potential deeper industry
engagement.
• India and Oman have signed a free trade agreement
• Discussions also focused on expanding operational
(officially termed as CEPA - Comprehensive Economic
engagements, training exchanges, hydrographic
Partnership Agreement) that grants duty-free access
cooperation, information sharing, maritime domain
to over 98% of India’s exports to Oman, including
awareness, and capacity building.
textiles, agricultural products, and leather goods. In
return, India will reduce tariffs on Omani products • The visit highlights the increasing alignment between
such as dates, marbles, and petrochemical items. India and Brazil in maritime security and defense
cooperation.
• The agreement is anticipated to be implemented in
the first quarter of the next calendar year. India, ADB sign loans worth over $2.2 billion
• The agreement was signed by Commerce and for development projects
Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Oman’s Minister
of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion
Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef in Muscat.
• Oman has offered immediate tariff elimination on
97.96% of product categories, covering 99.38%
of India’s exports to Oman. This includes labour-
intensive sectors such as gems and jewelry, textiles,
leather, footwear, and pharmaceuticals.
• India is offering tariff liberalisation on 77.79% of its
total tariff lines, covering 94.81% of its imports from
Oman by value. For sensitive Omani products like
dates, marbles, and petrochemicals, tariff-rate quota • India and ADB have signed agreements for five
(TRQ) based liberalization will apply. loans totaling over $2.2 billion to support various
development projects.
India, Brazil sign tripartite MoU on • These projects are aligned with India’s national
maintenance of Scorpene submarines flagship programs in skilling, rooftop solar
deployment, healthcare, metro development, and
ecotourism promotion across three states.
• The loans were signed by Shri Saurabh Singh, Deputy
Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry
of Finance, and Ms Aarti Mehra, Officer-in-Charge
and Deputy Country Director, India Resident Mission,
on behalf of ADB.

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• The projects include: Here’s a Summary of the Key Points
Š Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability • Strategic Partnership: India and Ethiopia upgraded
Transformation through Upgraded Industrial their relationship to a strategic partnership, aiming
Training Institutes Programme ($846 million) to bring new energy, momentum, and depth to their
to modernise 650 ITIs and upgrade five National bilateral ties.
Skill Training Institutes, improving employability • Agreements Signed: Eight Memoranda of
for 1.3 million youth. Understanding (MoUs) and agreements were signed,
Š Accelerating Affordable and Inclusive Rooftop covering various areas including:
Solar Systems Development Programme Š Customs cooperation.
(Subprogramme 1 – $650 million) to support Š Establishment of a data center at the Ethiopian
Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, Foreign Ministry.
expanding access to clean energy for 10 million
Š Cooperation in UN Peacekeeping training.
households by 2027.
Š Debt restructuring under the G20 framework.
Department of Posts and BSE Sign Landmark
MoU to Expand Mutual Fund Access Across India, Saudi Arabia ink pact to boost official
India travels, bilateral exchanges

• The Department of Posts and BSE have signed an • India and Saudi Arabia signed a bilateral Visa Waiver
MoU to expand mutual fund access across India, Agreement for holders of diplomatic, special, and
particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. official passports to facilitate official travels and
• This partnership aligns with the Budget 2025-26 boost bilateral exchanges under the India-Saudi
announcement, which emphasizes utilizing India Arabia Strategic Partnership Council.
Post’s extensive network to stimulate economic • The agreement was signed by Indian Ambassador to
activity in these regions. Saudi Arabia, Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, and Abdulmajeed
bin Rashed Alsmari, Deputy Minister for Protocol
India, Ethiopia strengthen ties as PM Modi Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi
meets counterpart in African country Arabia, in Riyadh .
• India will soon constitute the India-Saudi Arabia
Parliamentary Friendship Group, an announcement
made by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
• This announcement came during a meeting with
a high-level delegation led by Major General Abdul
Rahman bin Sanhat Al-Harbi, Chairman of the Saudi-
India Parliamentary Friendship Committee from the
Shura Council of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• India and Ethiopia have elevated their historical ties • Speaker Om Birla emphasized the importance of
to a strategic partnership. This development occurred parliamentary diplomacy for deeper understanding,
during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Addis exchange of best practices, and stronger institutional
Ababa, where he met with his Ethiopian counterpart, collaboration, calling for regular engagement between
Abiy Ahmed Ali. parliamentary committees of both countries.

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India and Argentina sign ICAR-INTA Work Agricultural Technology (INTA) to enhance bilateral
Plan 2025-27 to boost bilateral agricultural cooperation in agricultural research, capacity
building, and technology exchange.
research and technology exchange
• The collaboration will cover areas such as natural
resource management, sustainable agronomy
(including zero tillage, mechanization, micro-
irrigation, and fertigation), crop and animal
biotechnology, livestock improvement, production
technologies for temperate and tropical crops, digital
agriculture, biosafety, phytosanitary measures, and
value chain development.
• Implementation methods include joint research,
• India and Argentina have signed a Work Plan (2025- germplasm exchange, expert engagements, and
2027) through the Indian Council of Agricultural structured training and study visits.
Research (ICAR) and the National Institute of

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Chapter

9 Summits

India strengthens textile, sericulture COP30 Summit in Belém, Brazil

cooperation with Georgia in 11th BACSA
International Conference

• The COP30 (United Nations Climate Change

Conference or Conference of the Parties to the
• The Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, led by
UNFCCC, more commonly known as COP30,) climate
P Sivakumar, conducted a successful delegation visit
summit in Belem concluded with a compromise that
to Georgia from November 17-21.
expands financial support for developing nations but
• The purpose was to strengthen cooperation in avoids mentioning fossil fuel phase-out.
sericulture, textiles, apparel, and carpet trade.
• Brazil, holding the COP30 presidency, facilitated the
• The delegation attended the 11th BACSA International agreement after two weeks of intense negotiations
Conference - CULTUSERI 2025, where Sivakumar among representatives from over 190 countries.
delivered the Opening Address and presented a
• The United States did not send an official delegation
paper on wild silk.
to the summit.
• Dr. S Manthira Moorthy presented on Indo-Bulgarian
• India praised Brazil’s leadership for its inclusive
collaboration for developing a bivoltine silkworm
approach and successful navigation of difficult
hybrid.
negotiations, welcoming significant decisions made
• The CSB showcased the “5-in-1 Silk Stole”, integrating at the conference.
various silk types, as a unique product representing
• India’s “High-level Statement” expressed gratitude
India’s silk heritage.
for the presidency’s integrity and balanced guidance,
• Engaged with Georgian institutions like universities noting the acknowledgment of adaptation finance
and textile companies to enhance bilateral textile needs in the Global South.
trade and explore collaborations.
• The final agreement faced pressure from the EU,
• Meetings with Georgian officials focused on new Colombia, Panama, and Uruguay but ultimately
areas of cooperation and expanding market access excluded references to fossil fuels, the main cause of
for textiles and silk products. global warming.
• Key outcomes included strengthened cooperation in • Colombia criticized the lack of consensus on fossil
sericulture research and textiles, promotion of the fuels as “climate denialism”, while Panama labeled
5-in-1 Silk Stole, identification of new trade avenues, the agreement as “complicity”.
and the establishment of institutional partnerships.
• COP30 President Andre Correa do Lago acknowledged
• The visit advanced India’s textile diplomacy and disagreements and plans to issue separate documents
supported cross-border partnerships for the growth on fossil fuel transition and forest protection outside
of the silk and textile sectors. the official agreement.
• The new deal encourages developed countries to • The collaborative initiatives emerging from this
triple climate finance for poorer nations by 2035, platform will further strengthen partnerships with
focusing on adaptation to climate impacts. G20, FAO, CGIAR, and South–South Cooperation.

Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh 13th India-Oman Joint Military Cooperation
Chouhan Inaugurates the 6th International Committee meeting held in New Delhi
Agronomy Congress (IAC-2025)

• Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Oman’s

Secretary General Dr. Mohammed Bin Naseer
co-chaired the 13th Joint Military Cooperation
• Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Committee in New Delhi on November 24, 2025.
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, inaugurated the 6th • Both officials reviewed and appreciated the strong
International Agronomy Congress (IAC–2025 at NPL defence cooperation between India and Oman.
Auditorium, Pusa Campus, New Delhi.
• Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral
• This event is being organized by the Indian Society engagements in various defence areas.
of Agronomy (ISA) in collaboration with the Indian
• Shared insights on regional and international
Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the Indian
security developments, especially concerning the
Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), the National
Indian Ocean Region.
Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), and the
Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences • Emphasized commitment to deepening defence
(TAAS). industrial cooperation, including:
• The congress runs from November 24–26, 2025, Š Joint development
and has over 1,000 participants, including scientists, Š Technology sharing
policymakers, students, and industry experts from Š Expanded production partnerships
India and abroad. • Highlighted the importance of enhancing supply
• International organizations represented include FAO, chains, interoperability, and fostering innovation in
CIMMYT, ICRISAT, IRRI, ICARDA, and IFDC. emerging defence technologies.
• Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri • Aimed to create frameworks supporting the
Shivraj Singh Chouhan, highlighted the importance co-development of advanced platforms, boost
of smart, sustainable, and profitable agriculture for indigenous manufacturing, and improve strategic
India’s future. resilience.
• The minister discussed the need for agriculture to • Both sides agreed on the necessity of closer defence
produce more with fewer resources while preserving industrial collaboration for regional stability and
them for future generations. mutual security interests.
• He emphasized optimizing soil health, water-use • Reaffirmed the commitment to maintaining regular
efficiency, biodiversity, eco-nutrition, and digital high-level dialogue between India and Oman.
agriculture. • Dr. Al Zaabi also met with Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay
• Recommendations from the congress will be Seth and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan
integrated into national policies and regional action during his visit.
plans. • The strategic partnership between India and Oman is
• These discussions will chart new pathways for based on strong political, economic, and cultural ties,
achieving SDG-1, SDG-2, SDG-12, SDG-13, and SDG- focusing on economic collaboration, energy security,
15 through agronomy. counter-terrorism, and maritime security.

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Fourth BIMSTEC Experts Group Meeting on Minister of Industries and Commerce, Santana
Maritime Security Cooperation Concludes in Chakma, in Agartala.
New Delhi

• Initiated by the Rubber Board in 2021, the VTF aims

to promote exports in domestic and international
• The National Security Council Secretariat hosted the markets.
fourth meeting of BIMSTEC Expert Group on Maritime • Provides Indian rubber product manufacturers a
Security Cooperation under the chairmanship of Vice platform to showcase innovations to global buyers.
Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (Retd.), National Maritime • Focuses on “Bharat Sustainable Natural Rubber” to
Security Coordinator from 24-25 November 2025. emphasize eco-friendly rubber production.
• Representatives from all BIMSTEC Member Nations • Connects producers with global markets, promoting
comprising law enforcement agencies, policy makers trade and sustainable practices across the rubber
and senior government officials participated in the industry value chain.
proceedings. • Operates as a digital platform where exporters
• This event marks the successful completion of can display products, allowing buyers to negotiate
another round of result-oriented discussions on the virtually.
identified deliverables under five focus areas in the • Aims to strengthen networking among manufacturers,
field of maritime security. exporters, and investors in the rubber industry.
• The deliberations were focused on adoption of • Highlights India’s growing role in the international
Guidelines on various Maritime Security related rubber trade, enhancing visibility for micro, small,
issues, including HADR aspects. and medium enterprises.
• The participating delegates enthusiastically
articulated their views and provided sound About Rubber Board
professional recommendations related to the • The Rubber Board is a statutory body under the
contents of the guiding documents, highlighting Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of
enhanced understanding and realization for a India.
collaborative approach to address maritime security • It was established under the Rubber Act, 1947 to
threats in the Bay of Bengal region. promote the development of the rubber industry in
• The BIMSTEC Member States further deliberated India.
upon the Action Plan to foster better linkages • Headquarters: Kottayam, Kerala
between the law enforcement agencies, feasibility
of conducting maritime exercises in the near future, India-AI Impact Summit 2026 reflects India’s
enhancing information sharing and collective growing role in global AI discussions
response mechanisms against maritime threats,
capacity enhancement and capability building
through cooperative and collaborative measures.

Rubber Board launches 6th edition of Virtual

Trade Fair
• The sixth edition of Virtual Trade Fair (VTF) for
rubber and rubber products was launched by Tripura

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56
• India will host the India–AI Impact Summit 2026 in 11th India International Science Festival
New Delhi from February 16–20, becoming the first (IISF) 2025 Begins in Panchkula
Global South country to hold a global AI summit
series.
• The event shows India’s rising role in global AI
leadership, following major summits in the UK and
Paris.
• The summit will focus on seven key themes or
‘Chakras,’ including human capital, inclusion, safe
and trusted AI, innovation, resilience, democratized
AI resources, and AI for economic and social good.
• Discussions will aim to develop long-term AI
governance recommendations, covering safety, data
governance, transparency, and accountability.
• The 11th India International Science Festival – IISF
EAM Jaishankar Highlights India’s Efforts to
organized by the Union Ministry of Science and
Protect Intangible Heritage at UNESCO ICH Technology began from 6 to 09 December, 2025 at
Meet the Dussehra Ground in Panchkula, Haryana.
• The theme of India International Science Festival
(IISF) 2025 is – “Prosperity through Science: For an
Atmanirbhar Bharat”, whose purpose is to celebrate
and further promote the spirit of development
through science for a self-reliant and prosperous
India.
• Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra
Singh formally inaugurated the India International
Science Festival – IISF along with Haryana’s Social
Justice and Empowerment Minister Shri Krishna
Bedi.

23rd India–Russia Annual Summit

• External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar said that
besides being home to many UNESCO heritage sites,
India has itself undertaken many projects to preserve
and conserve heritages across the world.
• Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 20th
Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for
Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in
New Delhi, he lauded the country’s efforts to protect
its intangible heritage.
• The Minister added that traditions, languages and
festivals are the most democratic aspects of culture as
they are owned by all, guarded by many and enriched • The 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit concluded
by each generation. with a joint statement reaffirming the Special &
• The six-day event aims at examining nominations Privileged Strategic Partnership.
submitted by States Parties for inscription on the • The Annual Summit is the highest-level institutional
UNESCO ICH Lists, reviewing the status of existing dialogue between India and Russia, where the Prime
elements and providing international assistance for Minister and the Russian President review bilateral
safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. ties and set strategic directions.

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• The 2025 Summit marked 25 years of the Strategic • The National Institute for Smart Government (NISG),
Partnership (2000–2025). in partnership with MeitY and the Directorate of
• Both leaders reiterated commitment to a time- IT, Government of Tripura, organized a high-level
tested, trust-based partnership, emphasising mutual conference on December 5, 2025, in New Delhi.
respect for core interests and a shared vision for a • EY served as the Knowledge Partner.
multipolar world. • The conference focused on the transformative role
• Programme 2030 Adopted: A comprehensive of AI and DPI in improving governance and public
roadmap to deepen cooperation in trade, technology, service delivery in India, aiming for a developed
defence, energy, space, nuclear, and connectivity till India by 2047.
2030. • National Institute for Smart Government (NISG)
is a not-for-profit company set up in 2002 by the
India Hosts 20th UNESCO’s Inter- Government of India (GoI) on the Public-Private-
Governmental Committee Partnership (PPP) model with Secretary, Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) as
its Chairman.
• NISG is shaped as an institution of excellence in
e-governance to assist governments for ushering in
smart governance, process reforms and digitalization.

20th Session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental

Committee for Safeguarding of Intangible
• India hosts the 20th session of UNESCO’s Cultural Heritage Successfully Concludes in
Intergovernmental Committee on Intangible Cultural New Delhi
Heritage at Red Fort, New Delhi.
• The Committee is a 24-member body under the
UNESCO 2003 Convention, working to safeguard
living heritage worldwide.
• Members are elected for 4 years, with half rotating
every 2 years; no consecutive terms ensure wide
participation and continuity.
• Key functions: guide best practices, set operational/
financial plans, and review nominations for the
Representative List and Urgent Safeguarding List.
• Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) includes living
traditions like arts, rituals, festivals, crafts, and oral • Shri Vivek Aggarwal highlighted that delegates
practices passed across generations. engaged with the Convention’s mechanisms and
experienced India’s cultural richness, inclusiveness,
Conference on “Harnessing AI and Digital and diverse traditions.
Public Infrastructure (DPI) for Viksit Bharat” • He emphasized India’s civilizational ethos: “संस््ककृ तेः
रक्षण,ं लोकस््य रक्षणम”् — protecting culture is protecting
humanity.
• A key highlight was the inscription of Deepavali
on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible
Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its global
cultural significance.
• Deepavali symbolizes light, hope, and renewal,
reflecting India’s vibrant living traditions.
• Shri Aggarwal noted that intangible cultural
heritage strengthens communities, social bonds, and

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 continuity of traditions, especially under pressures • The Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional
from globalisation, conflict, and climate change. Medicine was held in New Delhi from December
• Many countries showed interest in multinational 17–19, 2025, co-hosted by the WHO and India’s
heritage nominations, recognizing that several Ministry of Ayush.
traditions transcend national borders. • Key aspects of the summit included:
• India welcomed collaborative efforts and expressed Š Theme: “Restoring balance: The science and
readiness to jointly develop transnational practice of health and well-being”.
nominations in the coming years. Š Goal: To promote the role of traditional medicine
in global health, emphasizing science, evidence,
India hosted Second WHO Global Summit on and sustainable practices, with the aim of
Traditional Medicine achieving balanced, inclusive, and sustainable
health systems.
Š Participants: Policymakers, scientists,
practitioners, Indigenous knowledge holders, and
civil society leaders from over 100 countries.

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Chapter

10 Reports

13-15% of groundwater samples in India • NITI Aayog’s CEO, Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam,
contaminated with uranium: CGWB released a report on December 11, 2025, in New
Delhi, focusing on “Deepening the Corporate Bond
Market in India”.
• The report emphasizes that a robust and diversified
financial ecosystem, particularly a deeper corporate
bond market, is crucial for India to achieve the vision
of Viksit Bharat by mobilizing long-term capital,
expanding market access, improving liquidity, and
strengthening investor participation.
• The Annual Ground Water Quality Report 2025, • It provides a comprehensive overview of India’s
which was made public on Friday, has indicated that corporate bond market, identifies structural gaps,
13 to 15 per cent of the total collected water samples and proposes a reform-oriented roadmap to build a
have uranium contamination. more resilient and inclusive market.
• Released under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the Central • A deep corporate bond market is essential for low-
Ground Water Board’s (CGWB) report is based on cost, long-term financing, diversifying funding
around 15,000 samples collected across India in sources beyond banks, and supporting productive
2024. sectors.
• It revealed that of the 86 monitored locations in Delhi, • Despite growth in outstanding volumes and
on several parameters, the samples exceeded Bureau regulatory frameworks, the market is still constrained
of Indian Standards (BIS) drinking water limits. by limited depth, concentrated investor profiles, and
modest secondary-market activity.
• “Overall, the study shows that while most groundwater
in India is safe, certain regions face rising uranium • The report highlights opportunities for the corporate
levels, emphasising the need for regular monitoring bond market to finance infrastructure, MSMEs, green
and local mitigation measures to protect drinking finance, and emerging sectors.
water quality and health, the report said. • It recommends reforms in legal and regulatory
• It added that of the 83 total samples analysed, 24 frameworks, market infrastructure, issuance by mid-
were found to be exceeding uranium parameters, size firms, investor participation (insurance, pension,
which is roughly around the range of 13.35 per cent retail), product offerings (credit enhancement,
and 15.66 per cent of the total samples collected. long-tenor, sustainability-linked bonds), liquidity
improvement, and digital innovations (tokenized
NITI Aayog releases Report on “Deepening bonds, integrated data systems).
the Corporate Bond Market in India” in New • Shri B.V.R. Subrahmanyam stressed that deepening
the bond market is critical for reducing reliance
Delhi
on bank credit, improving capital allocation, and
mobilizing private finance to support India’s
development priorities and the Viksit Bharat @2047
vision.

India ranks 3rd in Stanford AI Vibrancy Index

• India has achieved a significant milestone, climbing
to third place in Stanford University’s 2025 Global
 AI Vibrancy rankings. This represents a four-spot Key Findings
increase from its seventh position in 2023. • UAE retains top spot: The United Arab Emirates
(UAE) holds the strongest passport for the seventh
consecutive year, with a Mobility Score (MS) of 179.
This allows visa-free access to 126 destinations,
visa-on-arrival in 45 countries, and Estimate Time of
Arrival (ETA) access to 8 countries.
• Singapore and Spain share second: Both Singapore
and Spain are jointly ranked 2nd, each with an overall
Mobility Score of 175.
• India’s ranking: India is ranked 67th globally,
possessing a Mobility Score of 74, which grants visa-
free access to 74 countries.
Summary of the Key Findings from the Report • Third-ranked countries: Eighteen countries share
• Global rank: India now ranks 3rd in AI vibrancy, the 3rd position with an overall MS of 174. These
behind only the United States and China, ahead of the include Belgium, France, Sweden, Germany, the
UK, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. Netherlands, Finland, Luxembourg, Italy, Denmark,
• Why India is rising: Strong growth in AI R&D Portugal, Switzerland, Greece, Austria, Malaysia,
(patents & research papers), expanding AI talent and Norway, Ireland, South Korea, and Japan.
education, and improving digital infrastructure.
• How vibrancy is measured: The Global AI Vibrancy Musk’s worth soars past $600 bn; richer than
Index evaluates countries across 7 pillars—R&D, Bezos, Zuckerberg combined
Responsible AI, Economy, Talent, Policy & Governance,
Public Opinion, and Infrastructure.
• Investments: India announced $1.25 billion for AI;
globally, major investments include China ($47.5
bn), France (€109 bn), Canada ($2.4 bn), and Saudi
Arabia ($100 bn).
• Score & gap: In 2024, India scored 21.59; however, it
slipped 5 places in policy & governance, indicating an
area needing attention.

Arton Capital‘s Passport Index 2025, UAE

Topped as the World’s Strongest Passports • Elon Musk’s net worth has reached $684 billion,
making him the world’s richest person, according to
Forbes.
• This increase is largely due to SpaceX’s rising
valuation and its reported initial public offering
(IPO) move at around $800 billion.
• His wealth increased by approximately $168 billion
and an additional $8 billion.
• Musk’s net worth surpasses the combined wealth of
Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jensen Huang
• Larry Page is the second richest person with $252
billion, followed by Larry Ellison ($239.8 billion) and
Jeff Bezos ($235.2 billion).
• The 2025 Passport Index, released by Arton Capital • Mark Zuckerberg is the 6th richest person with
in December 2025, provides insights into global $225.3 billion, and Jensen Huang is the 8th richest
passport strength and mobility. with $154.4 billion.

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Bloomberg World’s Richest Families Report Eternal’s Deepinder Goyal tops Hurun India
2025: Walton, Al Nahyan families lead; 2025 self-made billionaire list
Indian family ranked 8th

• The world’s top 25 richest families are collectively

worth $2.9 trillion, an increase of $358.7 billion from • Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Eternal (formerly Zomato),
the previous year. is ranked as the top self-made entrepreneur on
• These families have built empires across various Hurun India’s “Top 200 Self-Made Entrepreneurs of
industries, including retail, oil, luxury goods, and the Millennia 2025”.
media. • Deepinder Goyal’s company, Eternal, saw a 27%
• The Walton family (Walmart) is the richest, with a net valuation increase to Rs 3.2 lakh crore, surpassing
worth of $513.4 billion, controlling approximately Radhakishan Damani of Avenue Supermarts.
44% of Walmart. • Radhakishan Damani’s Avenue Supermarts (DMart)
• The Al Nahyan family of Abu Dhabi holds $335.9 experienced a 13% decline in valuation, falling to Rs
billion, derived from investments and control over 3 lakh crore and securing the second position.
the UAE’s economy and resources. • Rahul Bhatia and Rakesh Gangwal, founders of
• The Al Saud family of Saudi Arabia has an estimated InterGlobe Aviation, entered the top three with a
net worth of $213.6 billion, primarily from the company valuation of Rs 2.2 lakh crore.
kingdom’s oil reserves managed through Saudi • Founders of Razorpay, Zerodha, and Dream11, who
Aramco. were previously in the top positions, fell out of the
• Qatar’s Al Thani family is worth approximately Top 10 in 2025.
$199.5 billion, mainly due to offshore gas resources • Peyush Bansal, founder of Lenskart, is ranked at
and investments in hotels, insurance, and luxury number 10, with Lenskart reaching a public valuation
brands like Harrods and Valentino. of Rs 70,236 crore ($8.4 billion) in 2025, a 60%
• The Hermès family maintains a $184.5 billion fortune increase from the previous year.
through their luxury fashion company, known for
products like the Birkin and Kelly bags.

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Chapter

11 Sports

India women win 2nd successive Kabaddi • The Indian men’s hockey team finished as the
World Cup title runner-up at the prestigious Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
in Malaysia.
• The second-string Indian team, devoid of skipper
Harmanpreet Singh and other top players, went
down 0-1 to Belgium in the title clash.
• Thibeau Stockbroekx scored the only goal in the
match to help world No. 3 Belgium win their maiden
Sultan Azlan Shah Cup trophy.
• The loss for India means that the search for a title
since the 2010 edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
extends further.
• India’s women’s kabaddi team won their second • Earlier in the day, New Zealand beat Malaysia 6-1 to
consecutive Women’s Kabaddi World Cup title. bag the bronze medal.
• They defeated Chinese Taipei 35–28 in the final held Sunil Narine becomes first player to claim
on November 24, 2025, in Dhaka.
600 wickets in T20 cricket
• India was unbeaten throughout the tournament,
winning all group matches and defeating Iran 33–21
in the semi-finals.
• Chinese Taipei also had an unbeaten group stage and
advanced to the final after beating hosts Bangladesh
25–18 in their semi-final.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the
team, emphasizing their victory will inspire future
generations to pursue kabaddi.
• He praised the team’s grit, skills, and dedication on • Veteran spinner Sunil Narine has become the first
social media. bowler to reach 600 wickets in competitive T20
cricket.
Belgium win their maiden Sultan Azlan Shah
• Known for his variations, unorthodox release,
Cup trophy and control under pressure, he has significantly
influenced modern T20 bowling.
• The milestone was achieved during a World ILT20
match between Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and Sharjah
Warriorz.
• Narine, at 37, demonstrates longevity and continued
relevance in the sport.
• His achievement reflects sustained excellence across
multiple leagues and his lasting impact on the Knight
Riders franchise.
• The franchise celebrated this historic milestone with
a special tribute post-match.
Lando Norris Won His Maiden F1 Title Men’s Final
• Top seed Velavan Senthilkumar clinched the men’s
title, defeating Egypt’s Adam Hawal 3-1 in the final.
• The victory marks Velavan’s 10th career PSA Tour
title.
• He reached the final after beating France’s Maceo
Levy 3-1 in the semifinal.
• Anahat Singh continues her rise with another title
and repeated win over Joshna Chinappa, while
Velavan Senthilkumar secures his 10th PSA Tour title
• McLaren’s Lando Norris clinched his first world by outperforming international competitors.
championship at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the final
race of the 2025 Formula 1 season. Fifth Khelo India University Games Conclude
• Norris finished third at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, in Jaipur; Chandigarh University Tops Medal
securing the title with a total of 423 points, just ahead
Tally
of Verstappen (421) and Oscar Piastri (410).
• McLaren clinched both the drivers’ and constructors’
championships in the same season for the first time
since 1998.
• Verstappen, who won the race, congratulated Norris
and showed sportsmanship despite missing his
chance for a fifth consecutive title.
• The race saw Oscar Piastri finishing second, 12.5
seconds behind Verstappen, who started from pole.
• Norris faced an early challenge but successfully
navigated through traffic after pitting to maintain his • The fifth edition of the Khelo India University Games
championship lead. concluded today with a grand ceremony held in
Jaipur.
• Notable performances included Charles Leclerc
finishing fourth, and George Russell in fifth, while • Chandigarh University from Punjab topped the medal
Lewis Hamilton finished without a podium finish for tally with a total of 67 medals (42 gold, 14 silver, and
the entire season. 11 bronze).
• Lovely Professional University, also from Punjab,
Anahat Singh Beats Joshna Chinappa to Win secured second place, while Guru Nanak Dev
Chennai Squash Title University stood third.
• The 5th edition of the Khelo India University Games
2025 (KIUG 2025) was held across seven cities in
Rajasthan, including Jaipur, Ajmer, Udaipur, Jodhpur,
Bikaner, Kota, and Bharatpur.
• KUIG 2025, a multi-sport event, was organized under
the Khelo India Programme by the Ministry of Youth
Affairs and Sports (MYAS), in collaboration with the
Sports Authority of India (SAI), Association of Indian
Universities (AIU), and the Rajasthan State Sports
• 17-year-old Anahat Singh won the women’s title at Council (RSSC).
the HCL Squash Indian Tour 4 in Chennai. • The 23 medal sports are Archery, Athletics,
• She defeated veteran Joshna Chinappa (former world Badminton, Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Boxing,
No. 10) 3-2 in a close 52-minute match. Cycling, Fencing, Football, Hockey, Judo, Kabaddi,
• This is Anahat’s second consecutive win over Joshna, Kayaking and Canoeing, Mallakhamb, Rugby,
having also beaten her 3-2 in the SRFI Indian Open Shooting, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Volleyball,
final last month. Weightlifting, Wrestling, and Yogasana.

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Virat Kohli announces partnership with • In 2023, Egypt won the title against Malaysia, and
Agilitas Sports, picks up minority stake India achieved its best-ever result, finishing third.
• Egypt holds the most World Cup titles with two wins.
• The inaugural Squash World Cup was held in Malaysia
in 1996 and was won by Australia.

Simranpreet Kaur Brar Wins Gold in Women’s

25m Pistol at ISSF World Cup Final 2025

• Cricketer Virat Kohli has partnered with Agilitas

Sports after ending his long-term association with
Puma.
• Kohli has acquired a minority stake in Agilitas Sports
for approximately ₹40 crore.
• Agilitas Sports is acquiring one8, the sportswear
• Simranpreet Kaur Brar (21 years old) won the gold
brand co-created by Virat Kohli.
medal in the women’s 25-meter pistol event at the
• Kohli joins Agilitas as an investor and co-founder ISSF World Cup Final 2025 in Doha, Qatar.
of one8, aiming to build India’s first global high-
• She equaled the Junior World Record by hitting 41
performance sports brand.
out of 50 shots.
• Kohli expressed excitement about the partnership,
• Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar secured the silver
highlighting Agilitas’ manufacturing capabilities and
medal in the men’s 50m rifle 3-positions event,
expertise.
scoring 413.3.
• one8, initially launched in 2017 with Puma, will now
• He finished narrowly behind Jiri Privratsky of Czechia
operate as an independent global sportswear brand
(414.2) and ahead of Liu Yukun of China.
within Agilitas.
• India is currently second in the medal tally with a
India to host Squash World Cup for third total of five medals (two gold, two silver, one bronze).
consecutive time in Chennai GM R Praggnanandhaa creates history,
becomes first Indian to qualify for
Candidates 2026

• The Squash World Cup will be hosted in Chennai,

India, at SDAT Stadium.
• Twelve nations will compete, including India,
defending champions Egypt, and 2023 runners-up • Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has qualified
Malaysia. for the Candidates 2026 tournament by winning the
• Each team consists of two men and two women, FIDE Circuit 2025, making him the sole male Indian
playing matches to seven points with sudden-death player in the event.
tiebreaks at 6-6. • Praggnanandhaa achieved several victories in 2025,
• India’s squad includes Abhay Singh and Velavan including the Wijk Aan Zee Masters, Superbet Chess
Senthilkumar for the men’s team, and Joshna Classic Romania, UzChess Cup Masters, and London
Chinappa and Anahat Singh for the women’s team. Chess Classic Open.

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• He also secured second place at the Stepan Avagyan • India won a Bronze Medal in the ‘FIH Hockey Men’s
Memorial and 12th Sinquefield Cup and reached the Junior World Cup 2025’ by defeating Argentina
fourth round of the FIDE World Cup.
• Seven of the eight participants for the Candidates Indian equestrian riders win five medals at
2026 are confirmed: Anish Giri, Fabiano Caruana, FEI Asian Equestrian Championships 2025
Matthias Bluebaum, Javokhir Sindarov, Wei Yi,
Andrey Esipenko, and R Praggnanandhaa.
• The final spot will go to the player with the highest
six-month average rating between August 1, 2025,
and January 1, 2026, provided they meet specific
game requirements.
• American GM Hikaru Nakamura is a strong contender
for the remaining spot.
• The Candidates 2026 tournament will be held in
Pegeia, Cyprus, from March 28 to April 16, 2026. • Indian riders secured five medals at the FEI Asian
• Divya Deshmukh, Koneru Humpy, and R Vaishali have Equestrian Championships 2025.
qualified for the Women’s Candidates tournament. • Shruti Vora won three silver medals in dressage:
Š Individual event
Germany defeat Spain in shoot-out to win
Š Intermediate freestyle-I
Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup
Š Team category (with Divyakriti Singh and Gaurav
Pundir)
• Ashish Limaye earned two medals, including a gold:
Š Individual gold in eventing
Š Team silver in eventing (with Shashank Kanumuri
and Shashank Kataria)
• The championship was held at the Thai Polo and
Equestrian Club in Pattaya, with over 80 athletes
• Germany won the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World from 13 countries competing.
Cup 2025 for a record-extending eighth time, • This was the second edition of the event, which will
defeating Spain 3-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 now be held biennially.
tie in Chennai. • Limaye expressed that the win was a “redemption”
• Goalkeeper Jasper Ditzer was named Player of the after a disappointing performance at the previous
Final and Goalkeeper of the Tournament, making Asian Games, crediting his horse, ‘Willy Be Dun’, and
crucial saves during the match and the shootout. his supporters.
• Germany’s coach, Mirko Stenzel, praised Ditzer’s • A 16-member Indian delegation attended the
talent, confidence, and technique, stating that championship.
Germany’s goalkeeping future is secure.
• Spain had several penalty corners in the first quarter Shafali Verma Wins ICC Women’s Player of
but failed to convert them, allowing Germany to take the Month for November
a 1-0 lead with a goal from Justus Warweg.
• Spain equalized in the third quarter with a goal from
Nicolas Mustaros.
• In the shootout, German co-captain Ben Hasbach
scored a memorable goal by artfully lobbing the
goalkeeper.
• Ditzer secured the win when Spain’s Andres Medina
missed his shot, leading to Germany’s celebration of
their eighth title.

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• Shafali Verma, an Indian opener, received her first ICC • Harmer’s bowling was crucial in South Africa’s
Women’s Player of the Month award for November. historic 2-0 Test series win in India, their first since
• She was a late replacement in the World Cup squad 2000.
for the injured Pratika Rawal. • He surpassed Taijul Islam (Bangladesh) and
• Verma played a pivotal role in India’s victory in the Mohammad Nawaz (Pakistan) to win the award.
Women’s Cricket World Cup. • This is Harmer’s first ICC Men’s Player of the Month
• She surpassed Thipatcha Putthawong (Thailand) and award, determined by a voting process involving
Esha Oza (UAE) to win the award. global fans and an expert panel.
• The selection process involves votes from global • The two-Test series was held in Kolkata and Guwahati,
cricket fans and a specialist panel. where South Africa achieved a 2-0 clean sweep.
• In the World Cup Final against South Africa, Verma • Harmer was also named Player of the Series due to
scored an impressive 87 runs off 78 deliveries. his significant contributions.
• This was the highest score by an Indian opening • He concluded the series with 17 wickets at an average
batter in a Women’s World Cup Final. of 8.94 and an economy rate of 5.66.
• Her innings helped set India’s total of 298 for seven. • His performance elevated South Africa to second
• She also took crucial wickets of Suné Luus and place in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27
Marizanne Kapp, shifting the momentum for India. standings.
• Verma’s all-round performance earned her the Player
Manu Bhaker & Simranpreet Kaur Brar
of the Match award in the final.
win gold at 68th National Shooting
• The ICC Player of the Month Awards recognize
outstanding individual performances in international Championships
cricket and involve fan participation in voting.

Simon Harmer Named ICC Men’s Player of

the Month for November 2025

• Manu Bhaker won gold in the senior women’s 25m

sports pistol event at the 68th National Shooting
Championship Competitions.
• Simranpreet Kaur Brar won gold in the junior
• Simon Harmer, South Africa’s off-spinner, was named women’s 25m sports pistol event.
ICC Men’s Player of the Month for November 2025. • The championships were held at the Dr. Karni Singh
• He earned the award for his exceptional performance Shooting Range in New Delhi.
in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) against • Both athletes showcased strong performances,
India. reinforcing India’s talent in women’s pistol shooting.

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Chapter

12 Awards and Honours

Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch Wins 74th Miss

Universe 2025 in Thailand

• The award was presented at the 72nd All India

Cooperative Week 2025 organised by Karnataka
State Urban Cooperative Banks Association.
• The bank has demonstrated remarkable performance
in the financial year 2024-2025. As on March 31,
2025, its deposits stood at ₹402.78 crore, loans
• Fatima Bosch from Mexico won the Miss Universe
₹252.79 crore and the net profit reached ₹8.94 crore.
2025 title.
• These achievements reflect a strong leadership of
• The event was the 74th edition of the pageant held
the board of directors and the management, the
in Thailand.
unwavering dedication of the bank’s staff and the
• She competed against over 100 contestants, including continued trust and support of its members and
contenders from Thailand, Venezuela, Cote d’Ivoire, valued customers.
and the Philippines.
• This marks the fourth time Mexico has won the Miss National Awards for Empowerment of
Universe title. Persons with Disabilities 2025
• The 25-year-old received the crown from last year’s
winner, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark.
• Manika Vishwakarma from India finished in the
Top 12, extending India’s wait for the crown since
Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu’s win in 2021.
• Finalists included contestants from Chile, Colombia,
Cuba, Guadeloupe, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela,
China, the Philippines, Thailand, Malta, and Côte
d’Ivoire.
• Indian badminton icon Saina Nehwal was on the
judging panel.
• Miss Universe Thailand 2025, Praveenar Singh, • The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu,
finishes as first runner-up. presented the National Awards for the Empowerment
• Praveenar Singh comes from an Indian family and of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2025.
later became a naturalised Thai citizen. • The event was held in New Delhi on the International
Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 03,
Rani Channamma Mahila Cooperative Bank 2025).
wins award • The President emphasized that Divyangjan deserve
• Belagavi-based Rani Channamma Mahila Cooperative equality and should be included in society’s
Bank has won the Best Profit-Making Bank Award. developmental journey.
• The theme for the 2025 International Day of Persons Archery Premier League Wins ‘Emerging
with Disabilities is “Fostering disability-inclusive Professional Sports Event of the Year’ at
societies for advancing social progress”.
India Sports Awards 2025
• A rights-based and dignity-focused approach for
persons with disabilities is being adopted in India,
moving away from a welfare mindset.
• The term “Divyangjan” has been used since 2015 to
show respect for people with disabilities.
• Millions of Divyangjan have received Unique
Disability ID cards to access special facilities.
• The President urged society to be actively involved in
safeguarding the interests of Divyangjan. • The Archery Premier League (APL) won the
• Citizens are encouraged to ensure the dignity, self- “Emerging Professional Sports Event of the Year” at
reliance, and self-respect of Divyangjan and to involve the India Sports Awards 2025.
them in efforts for social and national progress. • The awards took place during the FICCI TURF 2025
15th Global Sports Summit in New Delhi.
Duplantis & McLaughlin-Levrone named • APL had a successful debut year, praised for its fast-
world athletes of year paced archery style and high levels of professionalism
and fan engagement.
• Organized by the Archery Association of India (AAI),
APL is the world’s first professional archery league.
• The inaugural season occurred from October 2 to 12,
2025, at the Yamuna Sports Complex in New Delhi.
• Featured top Indian and international archers in
both recurve and compound categories.
• The league employs a franchise-based model and
gender-balanced team structures, aiming to create
an exciting broadcast format for viewers.
• Armand Duplantis and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone
have been crowned world athletes of the year at the US President Donald Trump receives FIFA
World Athletics Awards in Monaco. Peace Prize
• Sweden’s Duplantis set four new pole vault world
records in 2025, the most recent at September’s
World Championships in Tokyo when he became the
first human to clear the 6.30m barrier.
• This year, Duplantis was undefeated in 16
competitions, and won the world titles both indoors
and outdoors, as well as a fifth consecutive Diamond
League crown.
• McLaughlin-Levrone (America) also went undefeated
through 2025 in both the 400m and 400m hurdles. • Donald Trump received the first FIFA Peace Prize at
• She became 400m world champion in Tokyo when the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington.
she ran 47.78 seconds - the second fastest time in • The award was presented by FIFA President Gianni
history - to break the 42-year-old championship Infantino to recognize exceptional actions for peace.
record. • Trump claimed credit for resolving global conflicts,
• Duplantis and McLaughlin-Levrone also won the including a ceasefire between India and Pakistan,
athlete of the year prizes for men’s field and women’s which India denies but Pakistan acknowledges his
track respectively. role in.

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• Infantino commended Trump’s efforts in promoting • President Droupadi Murmu conferred the National
peace. Handicrafts Awards for 2023 and 2024 in New
• This award follows Trump’s unsuccessful campaign Delhi, recognizing exceptional artistic mastery and
for the Nobel Peace Prize earlier this year. promoting India’s handicraft heritage.
• The decision has been criticized by football fans who • The President emphasized that handicrafts serve as a
view it as politically motivated and a breach of the cultural identity and a vital component of livelihoods,
separation of sports and politics. employing over 32 lakh people, predominantly in
• The 2026 World Cup, hosted by Mexico, Canada, and rural areas.
the United States, begins on June 11 with a match • She highlighted the significant role of women in
between Mexico and Canada. the handicraft sector, with 68% of the workforce
being women, and expressed satisfaction that 20
ACS Supriya Sahu of Tamil Nadu wins UNEP craftswomen received awards.
2025 Champions of the Earth Award • Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh noted that the
reduction in GST rates from 18% to 5% is boosting
the sector and aims to achieve ₹1 lakh crore in
handicraft exports by 2031-32.
• Shilp Guru Awardees 2023:
Š Ajit Kumar Das (West Bengal) - Hand-painted
textiles
Š D Sivamma (Andhra Pradesh) - Leather puppet
• National Awardees 2023:
Š Hirabai Jhareka Baghel (Chhattisgarh) - Metal
• Ms. Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary of the craft
Department of Environment, Climate Change and Š Imtiyaz Ahamad (Uttar Pradesh) - Handmade
Forests of Tamil Nadu, has been awarded the UN carpet
Environment Programme’s 2025 Champions of the Š Roshan Chhipa (Rajasthan) - Artistic textiles
Earth Award. • Shilp Guru Awardees 2024:
• She is recognized as a climate forerunner addressing Š Subhash Arora (Haryana) - Metal Craft
urgent environmental challenges. Š Mohammad Dilshad (Uttar Pradesh) - Wood
• The UN Environment Programme selected Ms. Sahu carving
for her inspiring actions. • National Awardees 2024:
• Her initiatives demonstrate how integrated Š T Baskaran (Tamil Nadu) - Stone carving
governance, nature-based solutions, and a blend
Š Rupban Chitrakar (West Bengal) – Painting
of low and high-tech interventions can safeguard
vulnerable communities and decrease greenhouse Š Baldev Baghmare (Madhya Pradesh) - Tribal
gas emissions. artisans category
• In total, 12 artisans received Shilp Guru Awards and
President Droupadi Murmu confers National 36 craftsmen received National Awards across 2023
Handicrafts Awards in New Delhi and 2024.

Time honors ‘Architects of AI’ as 2025 Person

of the Year

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• Time recognized the “Architects of AI” as its 2025 losses, improved employee welfare, and increased
Person of the Year due to AI’s significant impact productivity.
across various aspects of American life, including • HML was selected for the final presentation after
education and industry. competing with 12 organizations from both the
• Time’s Editor-in-Chief, Sam Jacobs, noted that this private and public sectors in the Southern Region.
year marked a shift from debating AI creation to
a race for its deployment, leading to substantial PM Narendra Modi becomes first world
societal consequences. leader to receive Ethiopia’s highest honour
• The recognition highlights the concentration of
power among a few individuals involved in designing
and building AI, drawing parallels to the Gilded Age’s
progress and inequality.
• The magazine also explored the conflict between AI
proponents and those concerned about its potential
harmful effects.
• Jensen Huang of Nvidia stated that AI is the most
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded ‘The
impactful technology of our time, essential for every
Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia,’ Ethiopia’s highest
industry, company, and nation.
award, by his Ethiopian counterpart Abiy Ahmed Ali.
• Two distinct Time covers, illustrated by different
• The award was presented during a special ceremony
artists, depict the “man vs. machine” duality of AI,
at the Addis International Convention Centre.
featuring prominent tech and AI leaders.
• Modi received the honor for his exceptional
Harrisons Malayalam bags Outstanding contribution to strengthening the India-Ethiopia
partnership and his visionary leadership as a global
Industrial Relations award for 2024–25
statesman.
• He is the first global head of state/government to
receive this award.
• Modi dedicated the award to the 1.4 billion people
of India.
• He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Abiy and
the people of Ethiopia, noting the honor of accepting
the award from one of the world’s most ancient
civilizations.
• Harrisons Malayalam Limited (HML) received the
national award for Outstanding Industrial Relations • Modi acknowledged Abiy Ahmed Ali’s invitation to
for 2024–25 from the All India Organization of visit Ethiopia during their previous meeting at the
Employers (AIOE). G20 Summit in South Africa.
• The award recognizes HML’s exemplary practices • He also praised Prime Minister Abiy’s leadership in
and excellence in industrial relations. promoting national unity, sustainability, and inclusive
development in Ethiopia.
• Alok Chandra, Secretary, Labour & Employment,
presented the award to HML’s team, including CEO Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound shortlisted
Santosh Kumar, Manager – HR & IR Aneesh B. S., and
Deputy Personnel Manager Bijo Manual Vettom, at
for Best Int’l Film
AIOE’s 91st AGM.
• The AIOE, affiliated with FICCI, aims to strengthen
industrial harmony by promoting employer-
employee engagement.
• The award honors organizations that use innovative
approaches to foster harmonious industrial relations,
resulting in fewer conflicts, reduced manday

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• Neeraj Ghaywan’s ‘Homebound’ has been shortlisted • This campaign has engaged over 1 million viewers,
for the Best International Feature Film category at achieved more than 10 million views, and received
the 98th Academy Awards. over 150 curated entries.
• The film, starring Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, • The awards were presented at the 47th All India Public
is among 15 films eligible for final nominations. Relations Conference in Dehradun, Uttarakhand,
• The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences from December 13 to 15, 2025.
(AMPAS) announced that films from 86 countries
were eligible, and Academy members participated in PM conferred with Oman’s highest honour
the preliminary voting round. for his contributions to boosting ties
• ‘Homebound’ is shortlisted alongside films like
Argentina’s ‘Belen’ and France’s ‘It Was Just an
Accident’.
• Dharma Productions, the film’s producer, shared
their gratitude for the international support.
• Academy members who opt-in for the nominations
round must view all 15 shortlisted films to vote.
• The movie follows childhood friends Shoaib (Ishaan
Khatter) and Chandan (Vishal Jethwa) and their • Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the
dream of joining the police force, with Janhvi Kapoor Order of Oman, the Sultanate’s highest civilian
also in the cast. honor, by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for his role in
strengthening bilateral ties.
National Council of Science Museums • This award was received during Modi’s two-day
Conferred with Two Prestigious National visit to Oman, part of a three-nation tour that also
Awards 2025 included Jordan and Ethiopia.
• The Order of Oman is one of over 28 highest civilian
awards Modi has received from foreign nations,
including Ethiopia’s Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia
and Kuwait’s Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer.
• Modi’s visit to Muscat coincided with the 70th
anniversary of diplomatic relations between India
and Oman, with a focus on enhancing strategic
partnerships in trade, investment, energy, defense,
and culture.
• The National Council of Science Museums (NCSM),
under the Ministry of Culture, received two PRSI
Singapore’s Changi Airport named the
National Awards in 2025.
world’s best in 2025
• One award was for the “Har Ghar Museum” initiative
in the Best Use of Social Media in a Corporate
Campaign category.
• The other award was for the “Waste to Art” publication
in the Special/Prestige Publication category.
• The “Waste to Art” publication showcases how
approximately 1,250 kg of waste was transformed
into art installations and educational exhibits across
NCSM units, promoting sustainability and circular
economy principles.
• The “Har Ghar Museum” campaign encourages
individuals and families to share photographs, videos, • Singapore Changi Airport has been named the world’s
and stories of their personal collections, creating a best international airport for 2025 by Travel+Leisure
digital archive of India’s living history. readers at India’s Best Awards.

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• The airport was recognised for its exceptional overall • The award, part of the 14th edition of India’s Best
travel experience, comfort, and facilities. Awards, reflects global traveller preferences based
• Changi Airport is known for its unique features, such on an online voting process for various travel and
as sky-lit interiors, indoor gardens, attractions like hospitality categories.
the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, and butterfly • This recognition solidifies Changi Airport’s role in
gardens, which enhance the layover experience. shaping travel memories and setting global standards
• It provides diverse dining and shopping options, for combining efficiency with comfort and design,
transit hotels, sleeping pods, and rest areas, alongside making it a destination itself.
efficient layouts and processes to minimise waiting
times.

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Chapter

13 Government Schemes

Govt approves ₹305 cr scheme to promote for transparent and effective disbursal of subsidy
research, innovation in textiles across the country.
• Under PAHAL Scheme, all domestic LPG cylinders
are sold at a uniform Retail Selling Price (RSP) and
applicable subsidy to LPG consumers is transferred
directly into their bank accounts.
• Government continues to take measures on ongoing
basis to ensure that LPG distribution and subsidy
transfers in respect of domestic LPG consumers are
efficient, transparent, and inclusive.
• Implementation of initiatives like the PAHAL (DBTL)
scheme, Aadhaar-based verification, biometric
• The government has approved the ₹305 crore Tex-
authentication and weeding out of ineligible or
RAMPS scheme for the textiles sector.
duplicate connections have significantly strengthened
• The scheme aims to promote research and innovation the system of transfers of targeted subsidies.
and will be implemented from 2025 to 2031.
• PAHAL has played a crucial role in the identification
• Total outlay for the scheme is ₹305 crore for FY2025- and blocking of ‘ghost’ accounts, multiple accounts,
26 to FY2030-31, funded entirely by the Ministry of and inactive LPG connections, thereby helping curb
Textiles. the diversion of subsidised LPG for commercial use.
• Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh emphasizes the
scheme’s role in empowering India’s textile sector Atal Pension Yojna crosses 8.34 crore
and enhancing global competitiveness. enrolments; Women account for 48%
• Tex-RAMPS is designed to address gaps in research,
data systems, innovation support, and capacity
development in the textiles and apparel ecosystem.

PAHAL (DBTL) Scheme Delivers Improved

Efficiency, Transparency, and Consumer-
Centric Reforms

• Atal Pension Yojana (APY) was launched on

09.05.2015, with the objective of creating a universal
social security system for all Indians, especially the
poor, the under-privileged and the workers in the
unorganised sector.
• It is open to all citizens of India between 18-40 years
of age, having a savings account in a bank or post
office.
• As per the Scheme, the subscriber will receive
pension benefits on attaining the age of 60 years.
• Direct Benefit Transfer of LPG (DBTL)-PAHAL Hence, the pension benefit under APY is expected to
Scheme has been implemented since January 2015 start from 2035 onwards.
• However, the gross enrolment under Atal Pension • Annual Action Plans submitted by States and
Yojana as on 31.10.2025 is 8,34,13,738. research institutions were reviewed, and budgets
were allocated for holistic sectoral development.
The Trade Enablement and Marketing • The Board emphasized consolidating seed
(TEAM) Scheme leverages Digital Public requirements to be supplied by SAU Sabour and CAU
Infrastructure to empower MSMEs Samastipur, Bihar for the current and next year.
• SAU, CAU, and NRC Makhana Dharbhanga will train
trainers from various states on the latest technologies
in the makhana value chain for cultivation in
traditional and non-traditional areas.
• Focus areas highlighted include need-based
research, development of cultivation and processing
technologies, infrastructure for grading, drying,
popping, and packaging, modern cultivation
• The Trade Enablement and Marketing (TEAM)
Initiative is a three-year Central Sector Scheme under PM MITRA textile parks: ₹5,567 crore DPRs
the ‘Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance’ finalised across three states
(RAMP) program, with an outlay of Rs. 277.35 crore
from 2024 to 2027.
• It aims to empower Micro and Small Enterprises
(MSEs), particularly by leveraging the Open Network
for Digital Commerce (ONDC).
• The initiative provides MSMEs with government-
backed digital storefronts, integrated payment
solutions, and logistics support, reducing the need
for them to create their own e-commerce platforms. • The Ministry of Textiles (MoT) and the National
• Features include a TEAM portal for digital registration Industrial Corridor Development Corporation
and business profiling, as well as capacity-building Limited (NICDC) recently held a stakeholder
workshops. consultation in New Delhi to engage prospective
• The initiative targets to support 5 lakh MSEs, with 50% developers for the PM MITRA Parks.
being women-owned, as mentioned by the Minister • Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) totaling Rs. 5,567
of State for MSMEs, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje. crore have been finalized for three greenfield textile
parks.
National Makhana Board holds first • These three parks will be located in:
meeting; ₹476-crore Central Sector Scheme 1. Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: Spanning 1,000
acres.
2. Kalaburagi, Karnataka: Covering 1,000 acres.
3. Navsari, Gujarat: Spread over 1,142 acres.
• The parks will be developed under a Public-Private
Partnership (PPP) using the Design, Build, Finance,
Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) framework, with
Master Developers playing a crucial role.
• The first board meeting of the National Makhana • There is significant investor interest, with reported
Board was held at Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi, chaired investments exceeding Rs 20,054 crore for these
by Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, Department of three parks.
Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. • The Pradhan Mantri – Mega Integrated Textile
• The meeting initiated implementation of both the Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Parks scheme was
Board and the Central Sector Scheme for Makhana announced in the Union Budget for FY 2021-22 with
Development. a total financial outlay of Rs 4,445 crore.

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G Ram G Bill replaced MGNREGA livelihood assets, strengthens planning through
Gram Panchayats, and uses technology to improve
transparency. To ensure agricultural labour
availability, the scheme includes a 60-day pause
during peak farming seasons.
• Under MGNREGA, although the law allowed flexibility,
100 days became a practical ceiling due to software
constraints, with limited extensions for drought-
affected areas and certain tribal households. VB–G
RAM G makes 125 days a standard legal entitlement,
marking a clear shift from the earlier system. Funding
• The Viksit Bharat – G RAM G Act, 2025 is India’s new is now shared at 60:40 between Centre and States
rural employment framework, replacing MGNREGA (with special ratios for NE/Himalayan states and
to align with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. UTs), unlike MGNREGA where the Centre paid 100%
• It raises the statutory employment guarantee to of unskilled wages.
125 days, links work to rural infrastructure and

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Chapter

14 Obituary

Dharmendra, the He-man of Indian cinema • Simone Tata, a key figure in India’s business world
passes away and the step-mother of Ratan Tata, passed away at
95.
• She played a major role in shaping India’s beauty
industry through Lakmé and later founded Trent
Ltd., influencing retail for over four decades.
• Her life journey—from arriving in India as a tourist
in 1953 to becoming a leading business figure—
remains highly inspiring.
• Born in Geneva, she settled in Mumbai after marrying
Naval Tata in 1955, marking the start of her impactful
corporate legacy.
• Dharmendra, veteran actor and Padma Bhushan
awardee, passed away at his Mumbai residence at
Former England Cricketer Robin Smith
the age of 89.
Passes Away at 62
• He had been battling health issues and was recently
admitted to Breach Candy Hospital.
• Renowned for his incredible screen presence, he was
affectionately known as Bollywood’s He-Man, leaving
behind a legacy of over six decades.
• Made his debut in 1960 and starred in over 300 films,
including classics like ‘Sholay’, ‘Phool Aur Patthar’,
and ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’.
• His last appearances included the 2024 film ‘Teri
Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya’ and the upcoming film
‘Ikkis’.
• Born on December 8, 1935, in Ludhiana, he also
served as a Member of Parliament from 2004 to 2009.
• Awards included the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement
Award and the National Film Award for Best Popular
Film. • Former England cricketer Robin Smith, known for
his fearless batting, especially his iconic square cut
Simone Tata passed away at 95 against fast bowlers, has passed away at 62 in Perth,
Australia,
• His family confirmed in early December 2025, with
tributes highlighting his resilience, popularity, and
significant contributions to England and Hampshire
Cricket.
• He played 62 Tests, scoring nearly 4,200 runs with
9 centuries, and was a key part of the 1992 World
Cup finalist squad, remembered for his courage and
impactful performances in challenging eras of cricket.
Frank Gehry, world-renowned architect, • He won the Latur Lok Sabha seat seven times and
passes away was the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to
1996.
• He held several Union portfolios, including Defence,
Commerce, Science and Technology, and Home
Affairs (2004-2008), resigning after the 26/11
Mumbai terror attack.
• Patil also served as Governor of Punjab and
Administrator of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015.
• He was known for his dignified conduct, vast reading,
• Frank Gehry passed away at 96 in Santa Monica after meticulous study, articulate presentation, and strong
a brief respiratory illness; he founded his practice in command of Marathi, English, and Hindi, along with
Los Angeles (1962) and rose to fame after redesigning his exceptional grasp of constitutional matters.
his own home in 1978.
• He won the Pritzker Architecture Prize (1989), gaining Veteran journalist, Padma Shri awardee
global recognition for his bold, unconventional Prafulla Govinda Baruah passes
architectural style.
• His most acclaimed work, the Guggenheim Museum
Bilbao, is famous for its sculptural, titanium-clad,
flowing form.
• Gehry used advanced software originally made
for fighter jets and drew inspiration from nature
(especially fish), music, sports, and Japanese temples.
• Major works include Walt Disney Concert Hall,
Museum of Pop Culture, and Louis Vuitton
Foundation; he received the Presidential Medal of
Freedom (2016) and rejected the label “starchitect”.
• Prafulla Govinda Baruah, a veteran journalist and
Veteran Congressman and former Union Padma Shri awardee, passed away on December 14
minister Shivraj Patil passes away at the age of 94 in Guwahati.
• He was a highly respected figure in Assamese
journalism, known for his ethical and independent
approach.
• Born on July 26, 1932, in Dibrugarh, he dedicated his
life to print journalism in the Northeast, continuing
the legacy of his father, Radha Govinda Baruah,
founder of The Assam Tribune.
• Under his leadership, The Assam Tribune maintained
its credibility and integrity, earning the trust of
readers.
• Shivraj Patil, former Union Home Minister and senior
• He received the Padma Shri in 2018 for his
Congress leader, passed away at age 90 in Latur,
contributions to journalism, education, and literature.
Maharashtra, after a brief illness.
• Krishna Kanta Handique State Open University
• Patil’s political career began as president of Latur
awarded him an honorary doctorate on February 3
municipality (1966-1970).
of this year.
• He served as an MLA for two terms and held positions
• His passing is considered a significant loss to Assam’s
as Deputy Speaker and Speaker in the Maharashtra
media heritage.
assembly (1977-1979).

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78
Ram Vanji Sutar: Statue of Unity sculptor Veteran Malayalam actor Sreenivasan passes
passes away at 100 away

• Noted sculptor Ram Sutar passed away at his Noida • Veteran Malayalam actor, director, screenwriter, and
residence due to age-related illnesses. producer Sreenivasan passed away in Kochi at 69
• He is renowned for designing the Statue of Unity after a prolonged illness.
in Gujarat, the world’s tallest statue, which honors • His career spanned over five decades, with more than
Sardar Patel. 250 films to his credit.
• His other notable creations include iconic statues • He was known for his sharp satire, humour, and
of Mahatma Gandhi in a meditating pose and socially relevant storytelling, which significantly
Chhatrapati Shivaji riding a horse, both located on influenced modern Malayalam cinema.
the Parliament premises. • Sreenivasan received numerous accolades, including
• Born on February 19, 1925, in Gondur village, National Film Awards, Kerala State Film Awards,
Dhule district, Maharashtra, Sutar showed an early Filmfare Awards South, and several lifetime
inclination towards sculpting. He was a gold medalist achievement honours.
from the JJ School of Art and Architecture, Mumbai. • He is survived by his wife, Vimala, and his sons, actors
• Ram Sutar received several prestigious awards and filmmakers Vineeth and Dhyan Sreenivasan.
for his contributions to art, including the Padma
Shri in 1999, the Padma Bhushan in 2016, and the
Maharashtra Bhushan Puraskar, the highest award in
his home state.

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Chapter

15 Important Days

International Day for the Elimination of National Milk Day (NMD): 25th November
Violence against Women 25 November 2025

• The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying

(DAHD) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal
Husbandry and Dairying is celebrated “National Milk
Day” on November 26, 2025.
• National Milk Day (NMD) marks the birth anniversary
of Dr. Verghese Kurien, who has been referred to as
the “Father of the White Revolution” in this country.
• It was on November 26, 2014, that National Milk Day
was first celebrated in India.

• November 25 is the International Day for the Growth of India’s Milk Industry
Elimination of Violence against Women. • Kurien’s Anand model was eventually implemented
• Established by the United Nations General Assembly nationwide, on the orders of Prime Minister Lal
in 2000, this day marks the start of the global 16 Days Bahadur Shashtri.
of Activism against Gender-Based Violence from • The cooperatives were then developed under project
November 25 to December 10. “Operation Flood” in three phases; 1970-1980, 1981-
• For 2025, the global theme is “UNiTE to End Digital 1985 and finally, 1985-1996.
Violence against All Women and Girls”. • As a result, the number of milk sheds increased, urban
• The Government of India has prioritised the outlets expanded and the volume of milk production
elimination of violence against women through increased exponentially.
a multi-pronged approach, encompassing robust • Today, India contributes to 25 percent of the global
legal frameworks, institutional support, dedicated milk production, financially aiding 8.5 crore rural
helplines, and flagship schemes. households in India.
• These efforts align with the observance of the
International Day for Elimination of Violence Constitution Day of India 2025: November
Against Women (November 25), emphasising 26, 2025
not only immediate redressal but also long-term
empowerment.
• The Ministry of Women and Child Development
(MWCD) leads these initiatives, integrating
safety (Sambal) and empowerment (Samarthya)
components under the umbrella Mission Shakti
scheme.

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• Samvidhan Divas, or Constitution Day of India, is an India celebrates Navy Day with Spectacular
annual observance that commemorates the official Maritime Display in Kerala
adoption of the Indian Constitution on November
26, 1949, establishing India as a sovereign and
democratic republic.
• The government of India declared November 26 as
Constitution Day in 2015, under the Ministry of Social
Justice and Empowerment, to promote constitutional
values and commemorate Ambedkar’s 125th birth
anniversary.
• Previously, the day was honoured as Law Day.
• Ever since 2015, November 26 has been observed • Navy Day is celebrated on December 4th each year to
annually as the Constitution Day of India, or honor the Indian Navy’s achievements.
Samvidhan Divas, with this year, it will be observed • Commemorates the events of December 4, 1971,
on November 26, 2025 during Operation Trident, when the Indian Navy
sank four Pakistani vessels, including PNS Khaibar.
World AIDS Day: 1st December 2025 • This year’s celebration includes an Operational
Demonstration at Shangumugham beach in
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
• The event showcases the Navy’s operational
platforms and its role as the ‘Preferred Security
Partner’ in the Indian Ocean Region, aligned with the
MAHASAGAR initiative.
• The demonstration features coordinated maneuvers
by frontline platforms, highlighting the Navy’s
capabilities in power and precision across maritime
operations.

International Cheetah Day: 4th December

2025
• World AIDS Day is a global observance held on
December 1 every year to raise awareness about the
HIV/AIDS epidemic, remember those who have died
from HIV-related illnesses, and support people living
with HIV/AIDS.
• It was first marked in 1988 by the World Health
Organisation (WHO) and has since become a platform
for governments, communities, and individuals to
unite in the fight against the disease.
• The theme for this year is “Overcoming disruption,
transforming the AIDS response”.
• This theme highlights the urgency of addressing
disruptions caused by pandemics, conflicts, and
inequalities that limit access to care.
• India marks World AIDS Day each year through
nationwide awareness campaigns, community • Every year 4th December is marked as International
outreach activities, and renewed government Cheetah Day since 2010.
commitments led by the National AIDS Control • The day is dedicated to emphasizing global efforts
Organisation (NACO) under the Ministry of Health & to prevent the cheetah’s extinction and promote its
Family Welfare. conservation.

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• American zoologist, Dr. Laurie Marker, founder of the National Energy Conservation Day 2025
Cheetah Conservation Fund in 1991, designated this observed on December 14, 2025
day in honor of Khayam, a cheetah she raised.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the
cheetah as a remarkable creature and reaffirmed the
government’s commitment to its protection.
• He highlighted Project Cheetah, launched three years
ago, which aims to safeguard the species and restore
their ecosystem.
• Modi described this initiative as a way to revive India’s
ecological heritage and strengthen biodiversity. • Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal addressed the
gathering for the National Energy Conservation
• The project includes a translocation program that
Awards (NECA) 2025, with MoS Power Shri Shripad
brought cheetahs from Namibia, South Africa, and
Naik, Secretary Shri Pankaj Agarwal, and BEE DG Shri
Botswana to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh,
Dhiraj Kumar Shrivastava also present.
marking it as one of India’s most ambitious wildlife
conservation efforts. • The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under
the Ministry of Power, organized NECA annually
International Mountain Day (IMD): 11th to recognize industrial units, institutions, and
establishments for their efforts in energy efficiency
December 2025
and conservation.
• Applications for NECA 2025 were invited across
approved categories—Industries, Transport,
Buildings, Institutions, Appliances, Energy
Professionals & Influencers, and Innovation—and
680 applications were received.
• NECA 2025 had 28 subsectors under 7 broad
categories, and a new category for Social Media
Influencers and Digital Content Creators was
introduced to acknowledge their role in promoting
energy conservation awareness.
• The National Painting Competition on Energy
• International Mountain Day is celebrated annually on Conservation, organized since 2005, aimed to instill
December 11th to raise awareness about mountain energy-saving behavior among children.
ecosystems. • The competition was held in three stages—School,
• The United Nations General Assembly recognized State/UT, and National Levels—with two groups:
the day in 2003, following the International Year of Group ‘A’ (5th–7th standard) and Group ‘B’ (8th–10th
Mountains in 2002. standard).
• Mountains provide essential resources like water, • In 2025, over 80 lakh students from 1,10,000 schools
minerals, and agricultural products, and are home to participated, showing widespread engagement of
diverse cultures and traditions. children in energy conservation awareness.
• Approximately 15% of the world’s population lives
in mountainous regions, which also host about half International Human Solidarity Day 2025:
of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. 20th December 2025
• The day serves as a platform to discuss challenges
such as climate change, deforestation, and mining,
and promotes conservation and sustainable
development efforts.
• The theme for International Mountain Day 2025 is
“Glaciers matter for water, food and livelihoods in
mountains and beyond”.

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• International Human Solidarity Day is observed • The celebrations aim at spreading awareness
annually on December 20th. about the importance of mathematics and the
• It promotes unity, cooperation, and shared contributions made by Srinivasa Ramanujan in the
responsibility in addressing global challenges. field of mathematics.
• The United Nations established it on December 22, • Srinivasa Ramanujan was born on 22nd December
2005, emphasizing interdependence and solidarity 1887 in Erode, Tamil Nadu.
for sustainable development. • At the age of 12, he had gained knowledge in
• The day highlights the UN’s commitment to fostering trigonometry.
a culture of solidarity among nations and individuals • At the age of 15, he obtained a copy of George
to tackle global issues. Shoobridge Carr’s Synopsis of Elementary Results in
• The 2025 theme is “Solidarity for Sustainable Pure and Applied Mathematics.
Development: Uniting Communities for a Shared • In 1911 Ramanujan published the first of his papers
Future”, focusing on solidarity’s role in achieving in the Journal of the Indian Mathematical Society.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and He was awarded in 1916. Degree by research of the
addressing global health and social challenges. Cambridge University.
• The World Solidarity Fund was established by the UN • He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of
General Assembly on December 20, 2002, and later London in Feb. 1918.
became a trust in February 2003 under the United
Nations Development Programme to eradicate Winter Solstice: 21st December
poverty and promote social and human development.

National Mathematics Day 2025: 22nd

December

• The Winter Solstice occurs on 21 or 22 December

each year.
• National Mathematics Day is celebrated on 22 • On this day, the Sun is overhead at the Tropic of
December every year to mark the birth anniversary Capricorn (23½° S).
of legendary Indian mathematician, Srinivasa • It is the shortest day and longest night in the Northern
Ramanujan. Hemisphere.
• December 22 was designated as National Mathematics
Day (NMD) by the Government of India in 2012.

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