Daily Current Affairs: 7 January 2026

Analysis for 07 January 2026

Punnapra Appachan passes away at 77

Key Updates:

Punnapra Appachan died while undergoing treatment after sustaining injuries from a fall.
He breathed his last at a hospital in Alappuzha.
Appachan made his silver screen debut in 1965 with Othenante Makan, produced by Udaya Studio.
He gained wider recognition for his performance in Anubhavangal Paalichakal as a trade union leader.
One of his last films was Ottakkomban, starring Suresh Gopi.
He appeared in several films directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan.
Over his career, he acted alongside all major superstars of Malayalam cinema, mainly in villainous and character roles.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the FEFKA Directors’ Union condoled his demise.

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Kumari Kamala, celebrated danseuse, passes away (End of November) ▼

Kumari Kamala, also known as Kamala Laxman, a celebrated danseuse, passed away at the age of 91 in the US.
She began her career at the age of three and appeared in nearly 100 films across Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada languages.
Her tutelage under Vazhuvoor Ramaiah Pillai shaped her into a star performer.
Kumari Kamala was born in Mayuram, now Mayiladuthurai, in Tamil Nadu in 1934.
She appeared in a dance scene in ‘Kismat’ (1943), remembered as Hindi cinema’s first major hit.
In ‘Ram Rajya’ (1943), the only film Mahatma Gandhi ever watched, she performed a Kathak sequence.
She was married to cartoonist R K Laxman, and they divorced in 1960.
Her dance in ‘Naam Iruvar’ (1947), shown in double exposure, celebrated the spirit of freedom on the verge of India’s Independence.
She featured in a one-song role in ‘Parasakthi’ (1952), Sivaji Ganesan’s hugely successful debut film.
In M V Raman’s ‘Konjum Salangai’ (1962), the first Tamil film to be shot and released entirely in technicolour, she was paired with Gemini Ganesan.
Her ‘Tandava’ dance at the climax of ‘Sivagangai Seemai’ gave a macabre dimension to the hanging of the Marudu brothers and their lieutenant.

Kalyan Chatterjee passes away at 81; Veteran Bengali actor (Start of December) ▼

Kalyan Chatterjee passed away at the age of 81 after battling typhoid and age-related ailments.
He made his acting debut in the 1968 film 'Apanjan' and appeared in over 400 films.
Chatterjee was known for portraying the everyday Bengali man and worked with directors like Satyajit Ray and Sujoy Ghosh.
His notable films include 'Pratidwandi', 'Kahaani', 'Dhanyee Meye', 'Dui Prithibi', 'Sabuj Dwiper Raja', and 'Baishe Srabon'.
He also acted in Hindi films and web series like 'Tansener Tanpura'.

Punjabi singer Harman Sidhu dies in road accident (End of November) ▼

Harman Sidhu, 36, died after his car collided with a canter truck in Punjab’s Mansa district.
He was best known for the 2007 duet “Paper Te Payar” with Miss Pooja.
Other popular songs include “Mela”, “Sari Raat Parhdi”, “Thakevan Jattan Da” and “Pai Gaya Payar”.

Sreenivasan passed away as Veteran Malayalam Actor and Screenwriter (End of December) ▼

Veteran actor, director, producer, and screenwriter Sreenivasan passed away in Kochi, Kerala, at the age of 69.
He was born on April 6, 1956, in Patyam near Thalassery in the Kannur district of Kerala.
He acted in more than 225 films and wrote several landmark screenplays over a career spanning nearly five decades.
He received the National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues for directing the film Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala.
He won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Film for Vadakkunokkiyanthram and the Kerala State Film Award for Best Popular Film for Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala.
He won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Screenplay for the films Sandesam and Mazhayethum Munpe.
He received a total of one National Film Award, two Filmfare Awards South, and six Kerala State Film Awards during his career.
He made his acting debut in Manimuzhakkam in 1976 and played his first lead role in Sanghaganam in 1979.
He had undergone heart surgery in 2022 and was undergoing dialysis at a private hospital in Kochi before his passing.

Suresh Kalmadi passed away as former Union Minister of State for Railways and former President of Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

[Indian Olympic Association (IOA)]

Key Updates:

Suresh Kalmadi passed away at the age of 81 after prolonged illness at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune.
He served as Union Minister of State for Railways and as President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
He represented Pune multiple times in the Lok Sabha.

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9th Siddha Day celebrations on 3 January 2026 themed 'Siddha for Global Health' (Start of January) ▼

Siddha Day is annually observed on 6 January to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sage Agathiyar, revered as the father of Siddha medicine.
The 9th Siddha Day celebrations will be held on 3 January 2026 at Kalaivanar Arangam, Chennai.
The theme of the 9th Siddha Day is 'Siddha for Global Health'.
The Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, will preside over and inaugurate the 9th Siddha Day celebrations.

Swaraj Kaushal passed away, former Mizoram Governor (Start of December) ▼

Swaraj Kaushal, former Mizoram Governor and husband of the late Sushma Swaraj, passed away on December 4, 2025, at the age of 73.
He was a senior advocate with a distinguished public and legal career.
He was born on July 12, 1952, in Solan, Himachal Pradesh.
He was appointed the Governor of Mizoram in 1990 at the age of 37.
He is survived by his daughter, Bansuri Swaraj, who is a New Delhi Member of Parliament (MP).
He was rushed to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) after complaining of chest pain, where he was declared dead.
He will be cremated at the Lodhi Road crematorium.

Shivraj Patil passed away as former Union Home Minister (Mid of December) ▼

Shivraj Patil, former Union Home Minister and senior Congress leader, passed away at the age of 90 in Latur, Maharashtra.
He served as the 10th Speaker of the Lok Sabha between 1991 and 1996.
Patil held the office of Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008.
He was Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015.
He won the Latur Lok Sabha seat seven times.

Mahantesh Bilagi died in road accident while serving as Managing Director of Karnataka State Minerals Corporation Ltd (KSMCL). (End of November) ▼

Mahantesh Bilagi, IAS, was the Managing Director of Karnataka State Minerals Corporation Ltd (KSMCL).
He previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Zilla Panchayats and as District Collector in multiple districts.
He died in a car crash near Gounahalli, Kalaburagi district, Karnataka, along with relatives Shankar Bilagi and Eranna Bilagi.

Kannan Pattambi passes away at 62

Key Updates:

Kannan Pattambi, Malayalam actor and production controller, died while undergoing treatment for a kidney-related ailment at a private hospital in Kozhikode, Kerala.
His elder brother Major Ravi confirmed the news through a Facebook post.
Pattambi worked extensively with Major Ravi and Mohanlal on films including Mission 90 Days, Pulimurugan, Kandahar, Karmayodha and Kurukshetra.
He acted in 23 films including Black, Vettam, Odiyan and 12th Man.

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Kumari Kamala, celebrated danseuse, passes away (End of November) ▼

Kumari Kamala, also known as Kamala Laxman, a celebrated danseuse, passed away at the age of 91 in the US.
She began her career at the age of three and appeared in nearly 100 films across Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada languages.
Her tutelage under Vazhuvoor Ramaiah Pillai shaped her into a star performer.
Kumari Kamala was born in Mayuram, now Mayiladuthurai, in Tamil Nadu in 1934.
She appeared in a dance scene in ‘Kismat’ (1943), remembered as Hindi cinema’s first major hit.
In ‘Ram Rajya’ (1943), the only film Mahatma Gandhi ever watched, she performed a Kathak sequence.
She was married to cartoonist R K Laxman, and they divorced in 1960.
Her dance in ‘Naam Iruvar’ (1947), shown in double exposure, celebrated the spirit of freedom on the verge of India’s Independence.
She featured in a one-song role in ‘Parasakthi’ (1952), Sivaji Ganesan’s hugely successful debut film.
In M V Raman’s ‘Konjum Salangai’ (1962), the first Tamil film to be shot and released entirely in technicolour, she was paired with Gemini Ganesan.
Her ‘Tandava’ dance at the climax of ‘Sivagangai Seemai’ gave a macabre dimension to the hanging of the Marudu brothers and their lieutenant.

Poet Ande Sri, author of Telangana state anthem, passes away (Mid of November) ▼

Poet Ande Sri, renowned for the Telangana state song 'Jaya Jayahe Telangana', has died.
He passed away at the age of 64.
His death has left a deep void in the state’s literary and cultural circles.
Ande Sri's contributions to the Telangana movement and his ability to capture the people's emotions through his folk-inspired lyrics are remembered.
Former chief minister and BRS president K. Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR) described him as “a pivotal voice in the cultural movement that fueled Telangana’s statehood.”

Veteran actor Kamini Kaushal passes away at 98 (Mid of November) ▼

Kamini Kaushal dies at 98: Veteran actor’s career spanned from Neecha Nagar to Laal Singh Chaddha
Often called the oldest living actor of Hindi cinema, she passed away at home.
She made her debut with Chetan Anand’s 1946 film Neecha Nagar, which won the Palm d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
Her last appearance was in the Aamir Khan film Laal Singh Chaddha.
Born as Uma Sood, Kamini told SCREEN in 2017 that she was “bullied” into the world of cinema after she finished her graduation in English honours from Lahore.
Kamini married her brother-in-law since she had promised her dying sister that she would take care of her two daughters.
By the mid-60s, she transitioned to author-backed character parts that left a strong impact.

Kalyan Chatterjee passes away at 81; Veteran Bengali actor (Start of December) ▼

Kalyan Chatterjee passed away at the age of 81 after battling typhoid and age-related ailments.
He made his acting debut in the 1968 film 'Apanjan' and appeared in over 400 films.
Chatterjee was known for portraying the everyday Bengali man and worked with directors like Satyajit Ray and Sujoy Ghosh.
His notable films include 'Pratidwandi', 'Kahaani', 'Dhanyee Meye', 'Dui Prithibi', 'Sabuj Dwiper Raja', and 'Baishe Srabon'.
He also acted in Hindi films and web series like 'Tansener Tanpura'.

Ida Liu appointed Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Private Bank

[HSBC]

Key Updates:

Ida Liu has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Private Bank effective 5 January 2026.
She joins HSBC from Citigroup where she most recently served as Global Head of Citi Private Bank.
Liu brings more than 25 years of international experience in wealth management and private banking.

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Brendan Nelson appointed as Chairman of HSBC Holdings (Start of December) ▼

Brendan Nelson succeeded Mark Tucker as Chairman of HSBC Holdings.
Nelson had been serving as interim chair since October 1 and joined the HSBC board in September 2023.
He will continue as chair of HSBC's group audit committee until the 2025 results are published in February 2026.

Chitra Talwar appointed Part-Time Chairperson of Jana Small Finance Bank (JSFB) (End of November) ▼

Chitra Talwar has been appointed as Part-Time Chairperson of Jana Small Finance Bank effective February 8, 2026.
She succeeds R Ramaseshan who is retiring after completing the maximum tenure of eight years.
Her tenure as Part-Time Chairperson is until January 30, 2028.
The appointment has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India.

Ajai Kumar Shukla appointed as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PNB Housing Finance (Mid of December) ▼

Ajai Kumar Shukla has been appointed as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PNB Housing Finance for five years starting December 18.
He succeeds Girish Kousgi, who was seen as a key driver of the company’s push into the affordable housing segment.
Shukla is currently the chief business officer at Tata Capital Housing Finance and has previously worked with ICICI Bank and LIC Housing Finance.

Vikram Sahu appointed CEO of Bank of America NA India (Start of December) ▼

Vikram Sahu has been approved by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as the chief executive officer (CEO) of Bank of America NA (BoFA) in India.
He will assume the charge in addition to his current responsibilities as India country executive.
He will replace Kaku Nakhate, who served as the bank CEO for about 15 years.
Nakhate will take over as the India chair with a focus on deepening relationships with key clients of the India franchise.
Sahu will report to Jin Su, president of Asia Pacific for the US bank.

Manoj Kothari passes away as former world billiards champion and India chief coach

Key Updates:

Manoj Kothari, former world billiards champion and current chief national coach, died following a massive cardiac arrest at a hospital in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu.
He won the IBSF World Billiards Championship in 1990 and the World Doubles Billiards Championship in 1997.
He served as chief coach of the Indian billiards team from 2011 for over a decade.
The Government of India conferred the Dhyan Chand Award on him in 2005 for lifetime achievement in sports.
He is survived by his wife, son Sourav Kothari—also a former world billiards champion—and daughter Shreya Kothari.

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Nicola Pietrangeli passed away at age 92 (Start of December) ▼

Nicola Pietrangeli was the first Italian player to win a Grand Slam trophy, triumphing at the French Open in 1959.
He is the only Italian player inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
Pietrangeli holds the Davis Cup record for most total wins and most singles wins, having played 164 matches for Italy in 66 ties.
As Davis Cup captain, he led Italy to the title in 1976.

PM Modi inaugurates 72nd National Volleyball Championship in Uttar Pradesh (Start of January) ▼

PM Modi inaugurated the 72nd National Volleyball Championship in Uttar Pradesh via video conferencing.
The tournament is being held in Varanasi with 58 teams participating.
The championship will conclude on January 11.

Rohan Bopanna Announces Retirement After Record-Breaking Career (Start of November) ▼

Tennis veteran player Rohan Bopanna has bid adieu to his Tennis career on Saturday.
The 45-year-old took to social media to announce his retirement.
Bopanna became the oldest player to win a men’s double grand slam in 2024 at the Australian Open.
He became the oldest to win an ATP 1000 Title in the Miami Open 2024.
After claiming the prize in Australia, he also went on to become the oldest to get the world’s number 1 in double’s category.
Bopanna’s final appearance came at the Paris Masters 1000, where he partnered up with Alexander Bublik.
Across various tiers, Bopanna has won 26 titles in the doubles category, which also includes six ATP Masters 1000 Titles.

Raahul VS becomes India’s 91st Grandmaster after winning 6th ASEAN Individual Championship (Start of November) ▼

Raahul VS became India's 91st Grandmaster after winning the 6th ASEAN Individual Championship with a round to spare.
Raahul VS is 21 years old and had previously attained the International Master title in 2021.
Illamparthi AR became India’s 90th Grandmaker a week earlier after achieving his final norm at the Bijeljina Open 2025 in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
S Rohith Krishna became India’s 89th Grandmaster in August after making his final GM norm at the Almaty Masters Qonaev Cup in Kazakhstan.

Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) flags import curbs on Low Ash Metallurgical Coke raise steel prices

Key Updates:

Low Ash Metallurgical Coke accounts for 35-40% of steel production costs.
India imposed country-wise quantitative restrictions limiting imports to 1.4 million tonnes per half-year.
Provisional anti-dumping duties of $60-$120 per tonne were levied on LAM Coke from Australia, China, Colombia, Indonesia, Japan, and Russia.
Investigation used container freight benchmarks 8-10 times higher than actual dry-bulk freight of USD 20-25 per tonne, inflating dumping margins.
Steelmakers secured only about 1.5 million tonnes of met coke against demand of over 3 million tonnes in first half of 2025.
A 20-25% rise in coke prices translates into a 3-5% increase in finished steel prices.

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S&P Global Ratings (S&P) flags safeguard duties raise steel import parity floor (Start of January) ▼

India extended safeguard duties on select steel products until April 2028, starting at 12 per cent and tapering to 11 per cent.
The Director General Trade Remedies (DGTR) investigation found imports of specific steel products had increased in a recent, sudden, sharp and significant manner, causing and threatening serious injury to domestic producers.
Benchmark hot rolled coil prices corrected by more than 10 per cent to Rs 46,000 per ton in early December 2025 from a high of Rs 52,500 per ton in May 2025.
S&P assumes average prices of Rs 48,000 per ton over the next 12 to 18 months.
S&P projects domestic steel consumption will expand at 8 per cent annually over the next three to four years, significantly higher than the 2-3 per cent global average.
With the levy in place, import parity increases by about Rs 6,500 per ton.
If current prices are maintained at Rs 50,000 per ton, this could increase the aggregate earnings of select steel companies representing 50 per cent of India's total steel output by about 10 per cent.

CoalSETU: Auction of Coal Linkages Without End-Use Restrictions (Mid of December) ▼

The Union Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Policy for Auction of Coal Linkage for Seamless, Efficient & Transparent Utilisation (CoalSETU).
The government approved the 'CoalSETU' window for the auction of coal linkages for diverse industrial uses and exports.
The policy will allow allocation of coal linkages on an auction basis on long-term for any industrial use and export by adding a separate window named CoalSETU in the NRS Non-Regulated Sector Linkage Auction Policy of 2016.
Any domestic buyer requiring coal can participate in the linkage auction, irrespective of the end use.
The coking coal shall not be offered under this window.
Linkage holders can now export up to 50 per cent of their quantity and flexibly utilise the fuel among group companies as needed.

Anti-Dumping Duty on Chinese Refrigerant Gas and Steel Products (End of December) ▼

India has imposed anti-dumping duty on two Chinese goods -- a refrigerant gas and certain kinds of steel products.
On steel goods, India has imposed $223.82 per tonne on certain Chinese firms, while on few others $415 per tonne was imposed for five years.
On the gas, up to $5,251 per tonne was slapped for five years.

Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) secures 100% duty-free access for Indian exports to Australia (End of December) ▼

Australia will provide duty-free access to 100% of its tariff lines for Indian exports starting Jan 1, 2026, under the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA).
India's exports to Australia grew by 8% in 2024-25, with significant gains in manufacturing, chemicals, textiles, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and petroleum products.
Gems and jewellery exports to Australia recorded a growth of 16% during the April-Nov 2025 period.
Agri-exports witnessed broad-based growth in categories including fruits, vegetables, marine products, spices, and coffee.
The ECTA, which came into force on Dec 29, 2022, serves as the foundation for ongoing negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).

State Bank of India (SBI) facilitates rupee trade settlement with Israel

[State Bank of India (SBI), Israel]

Key Updates:

State Bank of India (SBI) is the only Indian bank with a presence in Israel.
SBI Tel Aviv has all requisite approvals to facilitate settlement of exports and imports in Indian rupees.
Israel has been identified as a partner country under the RBI mechanism for rupee trade settlement.
SBI Tel Aviv is working to streamline rupee remittances for over 40,000 Indian workers in Israel.
SBI opened its Israel branch in 2007 and operates from the Diamond Exchange in Ramat Gan.

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NPCI International and BENEFIT Partner for India-Bahrain Cross-Border Remittances; NBBL Launches Forex on Bharat Connect (Mid of November) ▼

NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) partnered with Bahrain’s BENEFIT to link India’s UPI with Bahrain’s Fawri+ for real-time cross-border remittances.
The collaboration is established under the guidance of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB).
NBBL, in collaboration with Clearcorp Dealing Systems (India) Ltd (Clearcorp), introduced the Forex category on Bharat Connect by integrating with Clearcorp’s FX-Retail Platform.

SBI becomes first bank to trade as Special Category Client on India International Bullion Exchange (Start of November) ▼

State Bank of India executed its inaugural gold trade as a special category client (SCC) on the India International Bullion Exchange (IFSC) Ltd.
SBI was the first bank to become a Trading-cum-Clearing (TCM) Member at India International Bullion Exchange in 2024.
As a special category client, SBI facilitates seamless bullion transactions for jewellers, bullion dealers, and other stakeholders importing gold through IIBX.

NPCI International-BENEFIT pact links India’s UPI with Bahrain’s Fawri+ for instant cross-border remittances (Mid of November) ▼

NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) and Bahrain’s BENEFIT signed an agreement to connect India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with Bahrain’s Electronic Fund Transfer System (EFTS) Fawri+ service for real-time cross-border remittances.
The collaboration is established under the guidance of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB).
NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited (NBBL) and Clearcorp Dealing Systems (India) Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Clearing Corporation of India Ltd. (CCIL), launched forex services on Bharat Connect by integrating with CCIL’s FX-Retail Platform.

India–EU Cross-Border Payments: UPI–TIPS Link Enters Realisation Phase (End of November) ▼

The Reserve Bank of India stated that the process of interlinking UPI with the Eurosystem’s TARGET Instant Payment Settlement (TIPS) platform has entered the realisation phase.
The proposed link is expected to facilitate cross-border remittances between India and the Euro Area and benefit users across both jurisdictions.
The RBI noted that it will continue working with the European Central Bank alongside NPCI International Payments Limited on technical integration, risk management, and settlement mechanisms required to operationalise the link.

Indian carriers to induct 100 aircraft annually for next 15 years

Key Updates:

Indian carriers inducted 80 aircraft in calendar year 2025.
106 more aircraft are expected to be inducted in 2026.
For the next 10-15 years, Indian carriers will induct about 100 aircraft annually given the orders of airlines like AI Group, IndiGo and Akasa.
India has 843 aircraft as of now.
Indian carriers (primarily Air India) are in double digits for wide-body aircraft, while Emirates has 250 wide bodies.

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Air India and airBaltic sign codeshare agreement (Start of January) ▼

Air India has signed a codeshare agreement with Latvia’s national carrier airBaltic to improve travel connectivity between India and the Baltic region.
The airline announced the partnership on December 30, 2025.
Under the unilateral codeshare, Air India has started placing its ‘AI’ flight code on airBaltic-operated services between Riga and several major European cities.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Civil Aviation Ministry slash IndiGo weekly flights by 10%. (Start of December) ▼

IndiGo’s weekly domestic departures were approved at 15,014 for the winter schedule.
IndiGo actually operated 59,438 flights in November 2025 against 64,346 approved domestic flights.
The airline recorded 951 flight cancellations during November 2025.
IndiGo could operate only 339 aircraft in October 2025 and 344 aircraft in November 2025 against an estimated 403 aircraft.
The 10% cut translates to a minimum reduction of 216 daily flights from the summer level of over 2,200 daily flights.
Air India and Air India Express weekly domestic flights were reduced by 0.8% and 6% respectively from summer to winter schedule.
Akasa Air’s weekly domestic schedule reduced by 5.7% from 1,089 to 1,027 flights.
SpiceJet increased weekly domestic flights by over 26% from 1,240 to 1,568.

Air India wins Travel + Leisure Best Domestic Airline Award (Mid of December) ▼

Air India has been recognised as the ‘Best Domestic Airline’ at the Travel + Leisure India and South Asia’s Best Awards 2025, for the second consecutive year.
The recognition is decided through a customer vote and reflects the trust placed in Air India by its patrons.
The award underscores the strides made by Air India in delivering an elevated product and service experience across touchpoints for millions of passengers.
Air India is investing significantly in modernising its fleet and enhancing customer experience, including a USD 400 million retrofit programme to refurbish existing aircraft cabins.

Safran Aircraft Engine Services India facility inaugurated to establish India as global MRO hub (End of November) ▼

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Safran Aircraft Engine Services India facility located at the GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park - SEZ, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad.
The facility is Safran’s largest Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility for LEAP engines which power Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
The facility is designed to service up to 300 LEAP engines annually and employ over 1,000 highly skilled Indian technicians and engineers upon achieving full operational capacity by 2035.
The Government of India is developing the country as a strong MRO hub under initiatives such as MRO Guidelines 2021 and the National Civil Aviation Policy 2016.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announces India surpasses China as world's largest rice producer

[China]

Key Updates:

India's rice production reached 150.18 million tonnes, exceeding China's 145.28 million tonnes.
184 new high-yielding varieties of 25 crops released to boost production and farmers' income.
Since 1969, a total of 7,205 crop varieties have been notified, including 3,236 approved under the Narendra Modi-led government.
India transformed from food-deficient to global food provider with abundant foodgrain stocks ensuring food security.
Newly released varieties include 122 cereals, 6 pulses, 13 oilseeds, 11 fodder crops, 6 sugarcane, 24 cotton, and one each of jute and tobacco.
Varieties developed by ICAR institutes, state/central agricultural universities, and private seed companies are climate-resilient and pest-disease resistant.

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India Strengthens Global Nutrition Trade with Fortified Rice Export (Start of November) ▼

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the export of 20 metric tonnes of fortified rice.
The export of fortified rice was from Chhattisgarh to Papua New Guinea (PNG).
The Commerce Ministry provided information regarding this trade.
Sponge Enterprises Pvt Ltd, Raipur, was identified as the exporter.
Abhishek Dev serves as the Chairman of APEDA.
Mukesh Jain is the President of the Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh (TREA-CG).

Bharat International Rice Conference 2025 to be held in Delhi, aiming to boost India's global leadership in rice exports (Start of November) ▼

The event, named "Bharat International Rice Conference 2025" (BIRC 2025), is set to be held in Delhi.
The conference will take place at Bharat Mandapam, Delhi, on October 30-31.
It is "Organised by the Indian Rice Exporters’ Federation (IREF) in collaboration with APEDA" and in "partnership with the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry."
The event "aims to position India as a global hub for rice exports and innovation."
"Ministers from the Philippines, Myanmar, The Gambia, and Ghana are also expected to participate."
BIRC 2025 "will introduce India’s first AI-based rice sorting technology."
The conference "aims to tap Rs 1.80 lakh crore in new rice import markets and facilitate Rs 25,000 crore in export MoUs and contracts."
"India is the world’s largest exporter of rice, shipping approximately 20.1 million metric tonnes worth $12.95 billion in FY 2024-25 to over 172 countries."
"E&Y and S&P Global are knowledge partners, while IRRI-SARC, Varanasi, is the research partner."
"Partner countries include the Philippines, Myanmar, Niger, Comoros, Jordan, Liberia, The Gambia, and Somalia."

“Kuposhan Mukt Bharat” Initiative: Key Features and Fortified Rice Distribution (Start of November) ▼

The initiative is named “Kuposhan Mukt Bharat” (Malnutrition-Free India).
It is a visionary programme of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
The initiative is being implemented under the Poshan Abhiyan.
Through this initiative, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) is distributing fortified rice across the country.
Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) is produced by blending rice flour with micronutrients such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, extruded and shaped to resemble rice grains, which are then blended with regular rice to enhance nutritional value.

FAO flags human-driven land degradation imperilling crop yields for 1.7 billion people (Start of November) ▼

Human-induced land degradation lowers crop yields by ~10% in areas where 1.7 billion people live (FAO SOFA report).
Key indicators compared: soil organic carbon, soil erosion, and soil water, measured against native/natural baselines via a machine-learning model.
Asian countries are the most affected due to accumulated degradation and high population densities.
Reversing 10% of degradation on existing croplands could feed an additional 154 million people annually.
Sustainable practices such as crop rotations and integrated land-use management are highlighted as actionable solutions.

Financial Software and Systems (FSS) becomes first payments company in India, Middle East, APAC and South Africa to achieve ISO IEC 42001 Certification.

[Financial Software and Systems (FSS), Middle East, South Africa]

Key Updates:

Financial Software and Systems (FSS) is the first payments company in India, the Middle East, APAC and South Africa to be certified as an ISO IEC 42001 Certification Lead.
ISO IEC 42001 establishes clear ownership of AI systems, defined governance structures and ongoing performance monitoring.
FSS AI governance framework has been independently assessed by TUV SUD.

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Tripura State Load Dispatch Centre becomes first in Northeast to secure ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification (Start of January) ▼

Tripura State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC) has achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, making it the first in the northeast to do so.
The certification is designed to safeguard critical computerised systems from escalating cyber threats, ensuring the security of the national power grid.
Power minister Ratan Lal Nath announced the certification during the 22nd foundation day celebration of the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL).

Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) mandates NISM certification for Alternative Investment Funds (AIF) compliance officers from 2027. (Start of January) ▼

Sebi requires the Compliance Officer of Manager of an AIF to obtain certification from the National Institute of Securities Market by passing the NISM Series-III-C: Securities Intermediaries Compliance (Fund) Certification Examination.
From January 1, 2027, only certified persons can be appointed or continue as compliance officers of managers of AIFs.
Trustee/sponsor/managers of AIFs must reflect compliance with this requirement in the 'Compliance Test Report' prepared by the manager.

Hub71, UAE-India CEPA Council sign pact to boost cross-border startup expansion (End of November) ▼

Hub71, Abu Dhabi's global tech ecosystem, has entered into a strategic partnership with the UAE-India CEPA Council.
The agreement was signed on November 21 on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) in Mumbai.
Hub71 will onboard the five winning startups selected through the Series into the Hub71 Immersion Programme.
From the five winning startups, Hub71 will select one startup to be onboarded into the Access programme.
The UAE-India Startup Series has already received more than 10,000 applications from across India.

RBI Recognizes SRPA as First SRO for Payment System Operators (Mid of November) ▼

The Reserve Bank of India has recognised the Self-Regulated PSO Association (SRPA) as the first Self-Regulatory Organisation for Payment System Operators.
In October 2025, the RBI recognised the Finance Industry Development Council (FIDC) as the SRO for NBFCs.
The RBI granted SRO status to the FinTech Association for Consumer Empowerment (FACE) in August 2024.
The recognition follows the RBI’s Framework for Recognition of a Self-Regulatory Organisation (SRO) for Payment System Operators, issued in October 2020.
The recognition also follows the Omnibus Framework for Recognition of SROs for Regulated Entities of the Reserve Bank released in March 2024.
According to the 2020 framework, an SRO must be a not-for-profit entity comprising only regulated payment system participants, both banks and non-banks.
Once recognised, an SRO like SRPA is tasked with setting behavioural and professional standards for its members, resolving inter-PSO disputes, and acting as the collective voice of the payments industry in consultations with the RBI and other authorities.
An SRO will also monitor member compliance and report violations of RBI guidelines or the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.

IDFC FIRST Bank launches Zero-Forex Diamond Reserve Credit Card for international travelers.

[IDFC FIRST Bank]

Key Updates:

IDFC FIRST Bank introduces the Zero-Forex Diamond Reserve Credit Card with zero foreign exchange markup on international transactions.
The card offers reward points on travel and regular spending, with higher earn rates on hotel and flight bookings made through the bank’s platform.
Cardholders receive airport lounge access in India and overseas, complimentary golf sessions, selected hotel stay offers, and entertainment-related discounts.
Travel-related insurance covers include baggage loss, flight delays, trip cancellation, accident insurance, personal accident, and air accident cover.
Reward points carry lifetime validity with no cap on accumulation and flexible redemption across online purchases.
Annual fee is ₹3,000 plus GST, with a waiver from the second year for customers meeting a specified annual spending threshold.
The card is available through digital channels for eligible customers.

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IDFC FIRST Bank Launches Gaj: Metal Credit Card for Private Banking Customers (End of December) ▼

IDFC FIRST Bank has launched 'Gaj:', an invitation-only premium metal credit card designed for high-net-worth individuals (HNI).
The card represents the final installment of the Bank's Ashva- Mayura- Gaj: trilogy of premium metal credit cards.
The card carries a joining and annual fee of ₹12,500 plus GST, with the annual fee waived on annual spends of ₹10 lakh.
The offering includes 12,500 invitation Reward Points, where 1 Reward Point equals ₹1 for travel bookings.
Key features of the card include 0% foreign exchange markup and interest-free global ATM cash access.
The card provides a ₹50,000 Trip Cancellation Cover and offers up to 50X rewards on hotels and 25X on flights via the bank's ecosystem.
As of September 30, 2025, IDFC FIRST Bank serves 35 million customers with a total business value of ₹5,35,673 crore ($60.4 billion).
The bank's customer deposits grew 23.4% year-on-year to ₹2,69,094 crore, while loans and advances grew 19.7% to ₹2,66,579 crore.
IDFC FIRST Bank operates 1,041 branches and reaches over 60,000 cities, towns, and villages across India.
The bank has impacted over 40 million lives through social initiatives, including financing 3.6 million women entrepreneurs and 300,000+ SMEs.

Wise launches mid-market rate Travel Card in India (Mid of December) ▼

Wise launched its multi-currency Travel Card in India.
India recorded 3.89 crore outbound departures in 2024.
Over 75,000 Indians joined the waitlist for the Wise Travel Card.
Indians spent nearly USD17 billion overseas last year, a steep increase from the USD3–4 billion annual average before FY22.
Traditional forex cards apply 2–4 per cent non-transparent margins on currency conversions.
These margins add INR4,000– INR8,000 in extra costs on a INR2 lakh transaction.
The Wise Travel Card supports more than 40 currencies.
The card works across 160+ countries on the Visa network.
Users receive free ATM withdrawals up to USD200 per month.
Beyond the USD200 limit, a fee of USD 1.40 plus 3.25 per cent applies for ATM withdrawals.
Wise is waiving its INR460 card issuance fee for new customers signing up before 10 February 2026.
The Wise Travel Card carries no annual, subscription, or inactivity fees.

IDFC FIRST Bank launches zero-fee USD and EUR Global Savings Account for NRIs. (Mid of December) ▼

IDFC FIRST Bank offers the IDFC FIRST Global Savings Account in USD and EUR through GIFT City, Gujarat for Non-Resident Indians.
Both the principal and the interest earned are freely and fully transferable to overseas bank account without any limits or restrictions.
The account allows holding funds in USD or EUR without conversion risk and with global flexibility.
Zero remittance fee is charged on transfers from the account.
Interest earned is TDS exempted for NRIs on the FIRST Global Savings Account and fixed deposits.
The USD Savings Account currently offers an attractive interest rate of 4.75%.
Monthly interest credit results in monthly compounding interest earning for customers.
Customers can book USD and Euro fixed deposits at attractive rates.
A single mobile banking app manages both NRI and GIFT City Global Savings accounts.
Integrated banking experience provides a single Relationship Manager for NRI and GIFT City banking needs.

IDFC FIRST Bank launches entry-level credit card with zero forex markup and dual UPI-Mastercard access (Start of December) ▼

IDFC FIRST Bank launched the FIRST WOW! Black credit card, the country's first entry-level card with zero forex markup on international spends.
Customers receive two cards: a physical Mastercard and a virtual RuPay credit card for UPI use.
The card is available to individuals aged 18 or above by opening a fixed deposit of at least ₹20,000 with the bank.
Cash withdrawals from ATMs in India or abroad do not attract interest for up to 45 days, but incur a ₹199 withdrawal fee.
Users earn 4 reward points per ₹150 on everyday spends and 3 reward points per ₹150 on UPI payments above ₹2,000.
Travel bookings on the IDFC FIRST Bank app earn 50 bonus reward points per ₹150 on hotel bookings and 30 bonus reward points per ₹150 on flight bookings.
Each reward point is worth ₹0.50 when redeemed for travel on the app.
The card includes four domestic airport lounge visits a year and trip-cancellation cover of up to ₹10,000.
Other benefits include 25% off on one movie ticket a month (up to ₹100), a 1% fuel surcharge waiver up to ₹200 a month, roadside assistance worth ₹1,399 once a year, ₹2 lakh personal accident insurance, and lost-card liability cover up to ₹25,000.
The joining fee is ₹750 plus GST, with the same annual fee from the second year onward.
The annual fee is waived if yearly spending reaches ₹1.5 lakh.
Welcome benefits worth more than ₹5,000 include travel deals, dining and lifestyle offers, and 5% cashback up to ₹1,000 on the first EMI transaction within 30 days.

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) form joint venture to enter ethane shipping segment.

[Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL)]

Key Updates:

ONGC subscribes to 2,00,000 equity shares of ₹100 each in Bharat Ethane One IFSC Private Limited and Bharat Ethane Two IFSC Private Limited.
Each joint venture company will own and operate one Very Large Ethane Carrier (VLEC) under the Indian flag.
The vessels will transport ethane from the United States to ONGC Petro additions Limited (OPaL), a subsidiary of ONGC.

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Cochin Port and BPCL Sign MoU for ₹500 Crore LNG Bunkering Facility (End of October) ▼

The Cochin Port Authority and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding.
The MoU is to establish LNG bunkering facilities for LNG-powered and dual-fuel vessels.
The proposed project involves an estimated investment of ₹500 crore.
The MoU was signed during the India Maritime Week 2025 held in Mumbai.
The collaboration aims to position Kochi as a leading LNG bunkering hub on the South Indian coast.

MoS&T-TDB and VMSPL Sign IC-CIR&D Pact for 20-Passenger Electric Boat (Start of January) ▼

The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science & Technology (MoS&T), signed an agreement with Vijai Marine Services Private Limited (VMSPL), Goa for the 'Smart Sea Project by Vijai Autonomous Craft for Environment (VACE)'.
The project will develop and demonstrate a 20-passenger electric boat with IRS-certified FRP hull, electric propulsion and battery systems supplied by Canadian partner ACEL Power Inc.
Aimed at reducing emissions and noise, the initiative supports India’s goals of clean waterways and sustainable tourism under the Indo-Canada Collaborative Industrial Research and Development Programme (IC-CIR&D).

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries signs $220 mn LoI to build 6 chemical tankers for Norway’s Rederiet Stenersen (Mid of November) ▼

The Letter of Intent covers six IMO Type II chemical tankers, each of 18,000 DWT capacity, valued at approximately $220 million.
The vessels will be built at SDHI’s facility in Pipavav, Gujarat.
Each ship will be built to Ice Class 1A standards and feature an advanced hybrid propulsion system.

India Signs First Long-Term US LPG Import Deal to Boost Energy Security (Mid of November) ▼

Indian public sector oil companies have signed a one-year deal to import liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from the United States.
The deal is for imports of around 2.2 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of LPG for the contract year 2026.
This volume represents close to 10 per cent of India's annual LPG imports and will be sourced from the US Gulf Coast.
The purchase has been benchmarked to Mount Belvieu, a key pricing point for global LPG trade.
Teams from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) held discussions with major American producers.
The Government of India absorbed a burden of over Rs 40,000 crore to shield consumers from international price shocks, ensuring Ujjwala consumers paid Rs 500-550 per cylinder against an actual cost of over Rs 1,100.

India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) projects India GDP growth at 6.9% for FY27

[India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra)]

Key Updates:

India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) forecasts real GDP growth of 6.9% in FY27.
Ind-Ra expects retail inflation to average 3.8% in FY27.
Union government debt as a percentage of GDP is projected to decline to 55.5% in FY27 from an estimated 56.3% in FY26.
Ind-Ra anticipates the Indian Rupee to average 92.26 against the US dollar in FY27, compared with 88.64 in FY26.
Ind-Ra estimates total budget size to rise to Rs 52 lakh crore in FY27 from the budgeted Rs 50 lakh crore in FY26.
Tax revenue is expected to fall short by Rs 2 lakh crore in FY26, to be offset through higher non-tax revenue and slightly lower capex.
Fiscal deficit for FY26 is retained at the budgeted 4.4% of GDP, amounting to Rs 15.69 lakh crore in absolute terms.

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Goldman Sachs (GS) forecasts India GDP growth at 6.7% for 2026 and 6.8% for 2027. (End of December) ▼

Goldman Sachs projects India’s real GDP growth at around 6.7 per cent in 2026 and 6.8 per cent in 2027.
Global growth is expected at 2.8 per cent in 2026, above the consensus estimate of 2.5 per cent.
Emerging markets, including India, are expected to outperform developed peers amid stronger domestic demand and favourable structural trends.
India’s growth benefits from strong domestic consumption, public infrastructure spending and limited exposure to global trade disruptions.
Goldman Sachs estimates China to grow at 4.8 per cent in 2026 and 4.7 per cent in 2027.
Inflation pressures are expected to ease across most economies by end-2026, supporting accommodative monetary stances in several emerging markets.

Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) estimates India’s Q2 FY26 GDP growth at 8.2% (End of November) ▼

India’s real GDP expanded 8.2% in Q2 FY26, according to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
MoSPI estimates India’s first-half (H1) FY26 real GDP growth at 8.0%.
Real Gross Value Added (GVA) increased 8.1% in Q2 FY26.
The secondary sector grew 8.1% and the tertiary sector grew 9.2% in Q2 FY26.
Manufacturing output rose 9.1% in Q2 FY26.
Financial, real estate, and professional services grew 10.2% in Q2 FY26.
Real Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) grew 7.9% in Q2 FY26.
Government consumption (GFCE) contracted 2.7% in Q2 FY26.
Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) rose 7.3% in Q2 FY26.
Exports grew 5.6% and imports increased 12.8% in Q2 FY26.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raises FY26 GDP growth forecast to 7.3% (Start of December) ▼

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revised India’s GDP forecast for FY2025-26 upwards to 7.3% from the earlier 6.8%.
RBI raised Q3 FY26 growth estimate to 7.0% from 6.4%.
RBI raised Q4 FY26 growth estimate to 6.5% from 6.2%.
RBI raised Q1 FY27 growth projection to 6.7% from 6.4%.
RBI projected Q2 FY27 growth at 6.8%.
RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) cut the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25%.
India’s economy grew 8.2% in Q2 FY25, 7.8% in Q1 FY25, and 6.5% for full-year FY25.
RBI announced Rs 1 lakh crore OMO purchases and a 3-year USD/INR swap of USD 5 billion.
IMF projects India to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by end of 2025.

India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) raises India's FY26 GDP growth projection to 7% (Start of December) ▼

India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) expects GDP in FY26 to grow 7 per cent year-on-year.
Ind-Ra revised forecast 70 basis points higher than earlier 6.3 per cent projected in July 2025.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) projected India's GDP growth in current fiscal at 6.8 per cent.
India's real GDP grew 7.8 per cent in April-June period of FY26.
India's GDP expanded 6.5 per cent in last fiscal year.
Ind-Ra expects private final consumption expenditure to grow 7.4 per cent YoY in FY26.
Private final consumption expenditure grew 7.2 per cent in FY25.
Indian exports to US fell 11.9 per cent YoY in September 2025.
Indian exports to US fell 8.9 per cent YoY in October 2025.
Indian exports to US averaged USD 7.2 billion per month in FY25.
Indian exports to US averaged USD 7.4 billion from April to October 2025.
Indian exports to US dropped to USD 5.9 billion during September-October 2025.

Specialised Training Program in Cancer Care for BIMSTEC Countries launched to strengthen oncology capacity

[BIMSTEC Countries]

Key Updates:

The second phase of the Specialised Training Program in Cancer Care for BIMSTEC Countries was formally launched at the Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Visakhapatnam.
The program brings together participants from BIMSTEC countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Nepal.
The initiative was announced by the Prime Minister of India at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit and is being implemented by the Tata Memorial Centre with support from the External Affairs Ministry.

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Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) adjudged India’s Best Health Technology Assessment Institute for second straight year (End of December) ▼

PGIMER, Chandigarh, has been recognised as the country’s Best Health Technology Assessment Institute for the second consecutive year by the Union Health Ministry at the ARISE 2025 national conclave.
The award was presented by Prof V K Paul, member (health), NITI Aayog, and Dr Rajiv Bahl, director-general, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and secretary, Department of Health Research (DHR).
The HTA Resource Hub at PGIMER’s Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, led by Prof Shankar Prinja, anchors the institute’s leadership in HTA.

Assam Proton Therapy Machine Procurement for Cancer Care (Start of January) ▼

Assam government will purchase a proton therapy machine at a cost of Rs 500 crore for cancer care.
The machine will be part of the cancer grid in Assam and is aimed at making the state a hub of medical tourism.
Assam will be the first state in the country to have a proton-based therapy machine in the public health system.

Tata Memorial Breakthrough: India-led Study Shows Radiation Therapy Reduces Bladder Cancer Recurrence (Mid of November) ▼

An India-led research study has shown that radiation therapy after surgery safely reduces the risk of relapse for bladder cancer.
It is a post-operative treatment used for patients with high-risk, muscle-invasive bladder cancer to reduce the risk of recurrence in the pelvic area.
Dr Vedang Murthy, professor of Radiation Oncology at Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), is the principal investigator of the bladder adjuvant radiotherapy trial.
The Bladder Adjuvant Radiotherapy (BART) trial is the largest randomised trial in the world to evaluate the role of radiation therapy after bladder cancer surgery.
The trial enrolled more than 150 patients across four cancer centres in India between 2016 and 2024.
Results showed a marked reduction in potentially painful local cancer recurrences among patients who received radiation after surgery, without an increase in side effects.
The study observed a consistent 12–15% absolute improvement with radiotherapy in disease-free survival, cancer-specific survival and overall survival.

National Cancer Awareness Day observed on 7 November: Theme 2025-2027 - "United by Unique" (Start of November) ▼

India observes National Cancer Awareness Day on 7 November.
The date was chosen to commemorate the birth anniversary of Marie Curie, whose research on radioactivity laid the foundational work for cancer therapy.
The initiative was launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare under the leadership of then-Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan.
The global theme for 2025-2027 is "United by Unique", which places people at the centre of cancer care.

Uttar Pradesh Braille Library: 4,000 Academic Books for Visually Impaired Students

[Uttar Pradesh]

Key Updates:

Uttar Pradesh has launched its first Braille library at Dr Shakuntala Mishra National Rehabilitation University (DSMNRU) in Lucknow.
The library houses more than 4,000 National Education Policy (NEP)-based academic books produced by the university’s Braille press covering 54 undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
The facility is open to visually impaired individuals beyond university students through membership, including special categories for scholars, researchers, academicians, and Lucknow residents with proof of residence.

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World Braille Day observed on January 4 (Start of January) ▼

World Braille Day marks the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, the French educator who developed the six-dot code that bears his name.
Braille is a tactile writing system of raised dots arranged in cells of six, enabling representation of letters, numbers, punctuation, and even musical and mathematical notation through touch.
India is home to one of the largest populations of visually impaired individuals in the world, with millions living with partial or complete vision loss.

Gujarat launches India’s first tribal-focused genome sequencing project under Genome India initiative (Mid of November) ▼

Scheme Name: 'Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population' approved for FY 2025-26 by Gujarat government
Objective: Decode genetic blueprint of 31 tribal communities across 11 districts to develop targeted diagnostics, treatment strategies and preventive care for inherited disorders like thalassemia, sickle-cell anaemia and G6PD deficiency
Implementing Agency: Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) operating three genome-sequencing platforms, including a long-read sequencer

Meri Yojana Portal Launched to Facilitate Citizen Access to Welfare Schemes (Mid of December) ▼

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the 'Meri Yojana' portal to make welfare schemes more accessible.
The Programme Implementation Department released 'Meri Yojana' books detailing central and state government programs.
The state government is focused on simplifying processes to deliver social welfare benefits swiftly and effectively.

Srikant Bolla receives Ramoji Excellence Award 2025 in Youth Icon category (Mid of November) ▼

Srikant Bolla was awarded the Ramoji Award of Excellence in the Youth Icon category at Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad.
Bolla is the founder of Bollant Industries, which employs over 500 people including a quarter who are specially-abled.
He was the first international blind student admitted to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Indore Epidemic Response: Chlorination & Tanker Supply Drive

[Indore]

Key Updates:

Indore health administration declared the Bhagirathpura waterborne outbreak an epidemic.
Specialised teams from ICMR-NIRBI and NCDC were called in to contain the spread and identify contamination sources.
Narmada water supply in the affected zone remains suspended until pipelines are certified fully decontaminated.

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Karnataka Health Advisory for Sabarimala Pilgrims (Mid of November) ▼

Karnataka issues advisory for Sabarimala pilgrims amid rising cases of Amoebic meningoencephalitis.
The state health department has advised the pilgrims travelling to Kerala to exercise caution during their travel.
The advisory requested the visitors to use nose clips or close the nose tightly while bathing from water bodies during their visit to Kerala.
The department asked the travellers to visit the nearest hospital and seek treatment if they experience fever, unbearable headache, vomiting, tightness in neck area, changes in mental state or behavioural disorders within seven days of the visit.

IMD Issues Orange, Yellow Alerts as Heavy Rain Batters TN, Puducherry (End of November) ▼

Heavy rainfall is expected on Monday in several southern and delta districts in Tamil Nadu due to a low-pressure system that may intensify over the Bay of Bengal.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow alerts for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on Monday.
An orange alert means very heavy rain of 11 cm to 20 cm, and a yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 cm and 11 cm.
Southern and coastal districts like Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur and nearby areas are under alerts.
Some of these districts are seeing waterlogging, travel disruption, and deployment of State Disaster Response Force teams, especially in Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli.
Chennai is likely to have cloudy skies with light to moderate rain and occasional thunderstorms and is under a lower-level (yellow) alert.
Schools and in some cases colleges are closed on Monday in several southern and coastal districts due to heavy rains.
Normal life was affected in Puducherry and Karaikal regions on Monday due to heavy rains and schools and colleges were declared holiday.

Middle-Aged Woman Dies with Scrub Typhus Symptoms in Vizianagaram District in Andhra Pradesh (Start of December) ▼

Scrub typhus is caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi and spreads through bites of infected larval mites.
Common symptoms include fever, body pain, rash, a scab-like lesion and swollen lymph nodes.
Most patients respond well to doxycycline, with azithromycin recommended for pregnant women.
Early treatment with antibiotics prevents complications affecting the lungs, liver, kidneys or central nervous system.
Health authorities advise avoiding overgrown vegetation, wearing protective clothing and using repellents to reduce mite bites.
Chittoor reported the highest number of infections this year at 384.

Maharashtra Government Declares Leprosy a Notifiable Disease (Start of November) ▼

The Maharashtra government has officially declared leprosy a “notifiable disease.”
It is now mandatory for all doctors and healthcare institutions to report every diagnosed case of leprosy within two weeks to the respective district health office, Assistant Director (Health Services – Leprosy), and local municipal health authorities.
The state had set a goal of achieving a ‘Leprosy-Free Maharashtra by 2027.’
Objectives include completely breaking the chain of infection, reducing disease transmission to zero, eliminating deformities among children, and eradicating social discrimination against persons affected by leprosy.
All doctors—both in public and private sectors—as well as pathologists, microbiologists, healthcare staff, and field officers are required to ensure proper treatment, follow-up all diagnosed cases, and administration of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) to their close contacts.
Leprosy was declared notifiable in 2005 uniformly under the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP), Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and was once again redeclared as notifiable in 2017 to strengthen the surveillance.

Goa Bill bars land sale till mundkar rights settled

[Goa]

Key Updates:

The Goa government will introduce a bill to stop landlords from selling land until mundkars’ rights are settled.
The bill is likely to be introduced in the winter session of the Goa legislative assembly beginning from Jan 12.
CM Pramod Sawant said the move protects mundkars who live in landlords’ properties but are yet to be officially declared mundkars.

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Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) provides 125 days of guaranteed wage employment (End of December) ▼

"President Droupadi Murmu has given assent to the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025, which replaces the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005."
"The VB-G RAM G provides for a new rural job programme with the statutory wage employment guarantee of 125 days per financial year."
"The Ministry of Law and Justice (MLJ) published a notification in the official gazette, declaring that the President gave her assent on December 20."
"As per the Section 3(1) of the Act, the State government shall within six months from the date of commencement of this Act, by notification, make a scheme consistent with the provisions of this Act."
"The provision for unemployment allowance in case of failure to provide work has been further strengthened and there is also a provision for providing additional compensation if wages are delayed."
"With the guarantee of 125 days of employment, provisions have also been made to ensure that small farmers do not face difficulties during agricultural work."

Tamil Nadu District Mineral Foundation Rules 2025 Mandate 70% of DMF Funds for Directly Affected Areas (Start of January) ▼

The Tamil Nadu District Mineral Foundation Rules, 2025 supersede the 2017 rules.
A minimum of 70% of the District Mineral Trust Fund must be spent on directly affected areas and high-priority sectors such as drinking water supply and health care.
Mining lease holders who contravene contribution norms face a penalty equal to a one-time payment of the contribution plus 12% interest for the contravention period.
The District Collector concerned will be the chairperson of the District Mineral Foundation Trust, Managing Committee, and Governing Council.
All royalty or seigniorage fee payments must include the Trust Fund component; no such fee shall be accepted without the mandatory contribution.
Districts with annual collections of ₹10 crore or more shall maintain an endowment fund of up to 10% of annual receipts to create sustainable livelihoods in areas where mining has ceased.

Land Stack and Glossary of Revenue Terms (GoRT) launched to modernise India’s land governance (Start of January) ▼

Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications, launched the Land Stack in pilot locations of Chandigarh and Tamil Nadu.
Land Stack is an integrated GIS-based digital platform that aggregates land and property information from multiple government departments into a single-window interface.
Glossary of Revenue Terms (GoRT) standardises land-related terminology across states and is available in English and all 22 scheduled languages.
Both initiatives are part of the Digital India Land Record Modernisation Programme (DILRMP).

Assam Fixation of Ceiling on Land Holdings (Amendment) Act 2025 grants ownership of labour-line land to tea garden workers (End of November) ▼

The Assam Legislative Assembly passed the Assam Fixation of Ceiling on Land Holdings (Amendment) Act, 2025.
The amendment excludes labour lines from land ancillary to special cultivation, allowing government to declare them surplus and acquire them.
Government shall "give settlement of such lands to tea garden workers residing and in occupation of such lands".
Land allotted per family "shall be such as may be notified by the Government from time to time".
Allotted land will be heritable but not transferable for 20 years; thereafter sale/transfer is allowed only to a tea garden worker residing in the same tea estate.

Nutrient-Based Subsidy Scheme Rabi 2025-26 rates approved with Rs 37,952 crore outlay

Key Updates:

The Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme of the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers approved subsidy rates for Rabi 2025-26 effective from October 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026.
The tentative budget requirement for Rabi 2025-26 is approximately Rs 37,952 crore, about Rs 736 crore higher than the budgetary requirement for the Kharif 2025 season.
The approved rates cover Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers, including DAP and NPKS grades.

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Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Rates for Rabi 2025-26: Key Features and Budget (End of October) ▼

The Union Cabinet has approved Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) rates for Rabi season 2025-26 on Phosphatic and Potassic fertilisers.
This decision, effective from October 1, 2025, aims to ensure affordable availability of key fertilisers like DAP and NPKS for farmers.
The estimated budgetary requirement for the Rabi 2025-26 season is Rs 37,952.29 crore.
Under the approved NBS rates, the subsidy has been fixed at Rs 43.02 per kg for Nitrogen (N), Rs 47.96 per kg for Phosphorous (P), Rs 2.38 per kg for Potash (K), and Rs 2.87 per kg for Sulphur (S) for the current Rabi season.
Under the NBS scheme, which has been in effect since April 1, 2010, the government provides subsidies on 28 grades of P&K fertilisers, including DAP, through fertiliser manufacturers and importers.

ONGC–NSTFDC MoU for Eklavya Model Residential Schools Rs 28 crore CSR Outlay

[ONGC]

Key Updates:

ONGC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) to implement CSR-funded infrastructure and education-focused initiatives at Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS).
Under the CSR project, ONGC has sanctioned Rs 28 crore for strengthening digital learning infrastructure, health and hygiene interventions for girl students, capacity building of teachers, and career counselling and entrepreneurship training for students.
The initiative will cover 144 EMRS located across 11 States and Union Territories, benefiting over 35,000 tribal students.

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MoSJE–DWBDNC and MoRD–DAY NRLM Sign Landmark MoU to Empower De‑Notified, Nomadic and Semi‑Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) (End of November) ▼

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 Development (MoRD), through the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY‑NRLM), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The MoU aims to advance inclusive development and social justice for historically marginalized communities, specifically De‑Notified, Nomadic and Semi‑Nomadic Tribes (DNTs).
Over the next three years, more than 5,000 DNT Self‑Help Groups (SHGs) formed under DWBDNC will be assimilated into the DAY‑NRLM framework.
A dedicated cadre, DNT Sakhi, drawn from within the community, will support about 30 families organized into three Self‑Help Groups (SHGs).
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on November 25, 2025.

Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) signs MoUs with spiritual organisations to boost mass awareness (End of December) ▼

Department of Social Justice & Empowerment signed MoUs with Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram and University of Patanjali under NMBA.
NMBA launched on 15th August 2020 in 272 vulnerable districts and now covers all districts of India.
25.7+ crore people sensitised on substance use including 9.2+ crore youth and 6.3+ crore women.
15.98+ lakh educational institutions participated to spread NMBA message among children and youth.
MoUs signed with 8 spiritual organisations: The Art of Living, Brahma Kumaris, Sant Nirankari Mission, ISKCON, Shri Ram Chandra Mission, All World Gayatri Pariwar, Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram and University of Patanjali.

Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS) Initiative: Key Features and Launch Details (Start of November) ▼

Initiative Name: Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS) – jointly by Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
Launch: Unveiled in New Delhi; rollout planned across "over one thousand schools nationwide."
Objective: "Strengthen Janbhagidari and promote participatory local governance by engaging students in simulated Gram Sabha sessions."
Key Features: Includes release of a "Training Module on Model Youth Gram Sabha" and the "MYGS Portal."
Ministers Attending: Minister of State for Panchayati Raj SP Singh Baghel and Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey.

GSH India and IIIT Manipur sign MoA for joint research and skill development in sustainable facility management (Mid of November) ▼

GSH India Private Ltd (Indian arm of US-based GSH Group UK) signed a Memorandum of Agreement with IIIT Manipur to collaborate on facility management, IoT, sustainability and smart building systems.
The partnership will focus on joint research, internships, training and skill development programs to bridge the industry-academy gap and promote innovation in sustainable technology-driven facility management.
GSH India also signed an extended MoA with Anna University to strengthen collaboration in energy management, sustainability and technical skill development through expert lectures, internships, joint research and training programs.
The MoA was signed at the fifth GSH Sustainable Energy Forum in Chennai, a biennial event fostering dialogue and innovation for a cleaner, greener future.
Discussions at the forum covered renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, carbon accounting and market mechanisms of energy purchase.

Live Events Development Cell (LEDC) to double sector size and generate 15–20 million jobs

Key Updates:

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has set up a Live Events Development Cell (LEDC) to serve as a single-window facilitation mechanism for India’s live entertainment industry.
The LEDC was constituted under the directions of Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The cell aims to double the sector’s size, generate 15–20 million jobs, and position India among the world’s top five live entertainment hubs.

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Live Events Development Cell (LEDC) launched to position India among top five global live entertainment hubs (Start of January) ▼

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has constituted the Live Events Development Cell (LEDC) as a single-window facilitation mechanism to streamline processes for the live entertainment sector.
LEDC aims to double the sector’s size, generate 15–20 million jobs and place India among the top five global live entertainment hubs by 2030.
The cell brings together representatives from the Central and State governments, industry bodies and major event companies to coordinate policy support and sectoral expansion.

India's Waves Film Bazaar Attracts International Participation, Aims for Global Content Bridge (End of November) ▼

The 56th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) launched the freshly rebranded Waves Film Bazaar.
The event is held in Panaji, Goa.
International attendees included South Korean MP Jaewon Kim, South Korean actor Kim Jaewon, Australian filmmaker Garth Davis, and Waves Bazaar adviser Jerome Pilloard of France.
Waves Film Bazaar is positioned as one of Asia’s most important film markets and aims to help bridge Indian stories with world producers.
Dr L. Murugan declared that India is emerging as a global power in production, digital content, gaming, fashion, and music.

Federal Bank Launches Bharat Surotsav: A Cultural Extravaganza (Mid of November) ▼

Federal Bank has introduced its new cultural initiative, Bharat Surotsav, aimed at celebrating India's rich artistic heritage through an immersive dance and music festival.
The launch was graced by several dignitaries from the bank's regional headquarters.
The inaugural event is set for November 22 at the Madras Music Academy, featuring acclaimed artists like Padma Shri Shobana and the Carnatic-rock group Agam Band.
Federal Bank is offering a special 15% discount on tickets for its debit and credit cardholders.
MVS Murthy, Chief Marketing Officer at Federal Bank, emphasized the festival's role in blending finance with culture, fostering unity and pride among diverse audiences.
Each city in the Bharat Surotsav series will spotlight local cultural talents, enriching the community's connections with their unique heritage.

DRDO's Samanvay 2025 Meet in Bengaluru Sees Tech Transfer Agreements (Start of November) ▼

The event, Samanvay 2025, is a two-day industry synergy meet organised by the Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS) cluster of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Proof: "The handover took place during the inaugural session of Samanvay 2025 , a two-day industry synergy meet being organised by the Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS) cluster of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Bengaluru."
The meet took place in Bengaluru.
Proof: "The handover took place during the inaugural session of Samanvay 2025 , a two-day industry synergy meet being organised by the Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS) cluster of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Bengaluru."
The DRDO handed over 12 Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LATOTs) for eight products to industry partners.
Proof: "the DRDO handed over 12 Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LATOTs) for eight products to industry partners on Wednesday, the defence ministry said."
The event is being attended by representatives of more than 150 industry partners.
Proof: "The event, being attended by the representatives of more than 150 industry partners, has been organised to apprise and update industries, especially the MSMEs and start-ups, about various industry-friendly initiatives and policies of the DRDO in line with the vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'."

History That India Ignored Book Launch Highlights Neglected Freedom Struggle Narratives

Key Updates:

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant launched the new edition of 'History That India Ignored' authored by ANI Chairman Prem Prakash.
The book documents overlooked aspects of India's freedom struggle, including the life of Veer Savarkar and the Goa liberation movement.
Sawant described the publication as an act of national service and emphasized its importance for educating the younger generation.

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Amit Shah releases Gujarati edition of 'Chunotiya Mujhe Pasand Hai' based on life of Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel (Start of December) ▼

Amit Shah released the Gujarati edition of the book 'Chunotiya Mujhe Pasand Hai' chronicling the life of Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel.
Anandiben Patel served as the first woman Chief Minister of Gujarat and later as Governor of three states.
The book portrays her journey from a lower-middle-class background to holding key public offices.
Shah noted that Anandiben executed gubernatorial responsibilities with perfection and discipline.
He credited Anandiben for her role in the Narmada project land acquisition during her tenure as Revenue Minister.
Shah highlighted that Anandiben, at 85, continues to work with energy and diligence in Uttar Pradesh.

Centres of Excellence for Classical Languages Literary Works Release (Start of January) ▼

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveiled 41 literary works by Centres of Excellence for Classical Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Odia.
A 45-episode Sign Language interpretation series of the Tirukkural was announced, developed by the Central Institute of Classical Tamil.
The Minister emphasized that budgetary constraints are not an issue as a supporting framework is being established.

Goa Liberation Day observed on December 19 (Mid of December) ▼

Goa Liberation Day is observed on December 19 to commemorate Goa’s liberation from Portuguese rule and its formal integration into India in 1961.
The day marks the end of 451 years of Portuguese dominance in Goa.
Purushottam Kakodkar led the newly established Goa branch of the Indian National Congress after liberation and served as a member of parliament for North Goa in the Lok Sabha.

Vice President releases second and final series of 'Mahamana Vangmay' at Bharat Mandapam (End of December) ▼

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan released the second and final series of 'Mahamana Vangmay', a comprehensive collection of writings and speeches of Bharat Ratna Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya.
The final series comprises 12 volumes and approximately 3,500 pages.
The first series of the collected works was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023.
The event was organized by the Mahamana Malaviya Mission in collaboration with the Publications Division of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Tamil Nadu Government–UN Women MoU for Gender-Responsive Governance

[Tamil Nadu, UN Women]

Key Updates:

The MoU aims to strengthen institutional capacities for gender-responsive governance and planning.
It focuses on achieving Sustainable Development Goals through a gender-equality perspective.
It seeks to strengthen gender-responsive planning and budgeting and create economic opportunities for women.
UN Women will provide technical support to the Government of Tamil Nadu for implementing these initiatives.
The Social Welfare and Women’s Rights Department, Home, Prohibition and Excise Department, and Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department will be directly involved.

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United Economic Forum (UEF) and United Nations Sustainable Development Council (UNSDC) Sign MoU at UEF Trade Summit 2025 (End of December) ▼

The United Economic Forum (UEF) Trade Summit 2025, scheduled for 12th–14th December at the Chennai Trade Centre, had a grand inauguration by Thiru TRB Rajaa, Honourable Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce, Government of Tamil Nadu.
A historic MoU was signed between UEF and the United Nations Sustainable Development Council (UNSDC) to transform 17 of UN's SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).
The UNSDC will lead the execution of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across 45 UEF-associated Educational Institutions, including colleges and schools.
A 100 crore fund is being set up for entrepreneurs, startups and to scale up businesses, with an initial MoU of 50 crores signed between UEF and Anicut Capital.
The overarching theme, 'Unnatha Tamilagam – 4Tn for TN,' emphasizes the commitment to empowering 4,500 startups, enabling partnerships, and fostering inclusive economic development.
A total of 10 MoUs will be signed during the Summit to strengthen strategic partnerships aimed at enabling 10X business growth through advisory support and market access.

GeM–UN Women Sign MoU to Empower Women Entrepreneurs in Public Procurement (End of November) ▼

The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with UN Women.
The partnership aims to integrate more women entrepreneurs from the informal sector into India’s public procurement ecosystem.
The MoU was signed at GeM’s headquarters in the Jeevan Bharti Building, New Delhi.
The MoU places a strong emphasis on advancing GeM’s Womaniya initiative.
The Womaniya initiative is designed to increase procurement from women-led enterprises and expand government market access for women entrepreneurs and SHGs.
Smt. Kanta Singh, Country Representative, UN Women India, and Shri Ajit B. Chavan, Additional CEO, GeM, officially signed the MoU.
GeM serves as the national online procurement portal for Central Government Ministries, State Governments, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), and Autonomous bodies.
UN Women will contribute strategic expertise and global best practices by designing training tools and recommending global models of gender-responsive procurement.
GeM will complement these efforts through capacity-building training for women-led enterprises and sensitisation workshops for government buyers.
The MoU directly contributes to SDG 5: Gender Equality and Empowerment of All Women and Girls.
The initiative also aligns with the Government of India's broader missions, including Skill India, Startup India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and Digital India.
The GeM–UN Women MoU marks a transformative step toward building an inclusive, equitable and gender-responsive public procurement ecosystem in India.

GeM–UN Women MoU: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Public Procurement (End of November) ▼

MoU signed between Government e-Marketplace (GeM) under Ministry of Commerce & Industry and UN Women to integrate women entrepreneurs from informal sector into India’s public procurement ecosystem.
Aims to advance GeM’s Womaniya initiative to increase procurement from women-led enterprises and expand government market access for women entrepreneurs and SHGs.
UN Women will design training tools, recommend global gender-responsive procurement models, support validation criteria for women-led businesses, and mobilise women trainers.
GeM will conduct capacity-building training, sensitisation workshops for buyers, onboarding events, and connect women-owned enterprises with Government Labs & R&D for product development and quality enhancement.

Manali Makarand Kshirsagar appointed as first woman Vice-Chancellor of Nagpur University (NU). (Start of December) ▼

Manali Makarand Kshirsagar is an NU alumna with a PhD in computer science.
She holds an MBA in finance and marketing.
She is currently director-technical and adviser at Nagpur’s Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering.
Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat made the announcement of her appointment.
Her tenure will be for five years.

China commissions upgraded Type 052D guided missile destroyer Loudi

[China]

Key Updates:

The Chinese People's’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has commissioned a new Type 052D guided missile destroyer named Loudi.
Zhang Shengwei, a crew member of the Loudi, said the warship adopts a new system and architecture, giving it enhanced combat capabilities in air defence, sea attack and task force command.
The Loudi can conduct long-range assault and strike missions against its targets and also defend friendly ships in defensive missions.
With the addition of Loudi, the Chinese navy has added 11 combat vessels, including the aircraft carrier Fujian, in 2025.
China’s four largest shipyards - Dalian, Guangzhou, Jiangnan and Hudong-Zhonghua - produced 39 warships with a combined displacement of 550,000 tonnes between 2019 and 2023.
China launched a fourth Hangor-class submarine named Ghazi for Pakistan last month; Pakistan has signed an agreement with China for eight Hangor-class submarines.

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India considers S-500 air defence system during Russian President Putin's visit on December 3, 2025 (Start of December) ▼

The Russian-made S-400 air defence system brought Pakistan to its knees during India's Operation Sindoor earlier this year, shooting down at least six enemy aircraft.
The IAF called the S-400, a surface-to-air missile system, the 'game-changer' during the three-day hostilities.
India is eyeing the S-500 Prometheus air shield, described as the S-400's 'bigger, stronger, and smarter brother'.
Discussions on procuring the advanced S-500 missile defence shield during Russian President Vladimir Putin's two-day visit are very much on the table.
India is considering the S-500 due to newer threats emerging from both China and Pakistan, which has been on a warmongering spree under army chief Asim Munir.
The S-500 is manufactured by Russia's Almaz-Antey.
It is engineered to specifically neutralise advanced ballistic missiles, hypersonic glide vehicles, as well as hypersonic cruise missiles.
The S-500's ability to engage certain low-orbit satellites or space-launched threats sets it completely apart.
While the S-400 can shoot down targets up to 400 km away, the S-500 can reach up to 600 km.
The S-500 can simultaneously counter up to 10 ballistic supersonic terminal ICBM warheads flying at jet speed.
The S-500 can engage targets at an altitude of 200 km, almost at the edge of space, compared to the S-400's 30 km.
The system relies on upgraded 40N6M missiles, which are capable of exo-atmospheric interception, shooting down targets more than 100 km above the Earth.
The S-500 also uses 77N6-N and 77N6-N1 missiles, which have a 'hit-to-kill' approach, destroying incoming threats by ramming straight into them.
A new generation of radars built on Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology backs these missiles, offering longer range, quicker tracking, and far better jamming resistance than those in the S-400.
One S-500 air shield unit can include up to a dozen launchers, along with command posts and three high-performance radars.

Ministry of Defence signs Rs 4,666 crore contracts for CQB Carbines and Heavy Weight Torpedoes (Start of January) ▼

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed contracts worth Rs 4,666 crore for procurement of Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbine and Heavy Weight Torpedoes.
Over 4.25 lakh CQB carbines, along with accessories worth Rs 2,770 crore, were contracted with Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd for the Indian Army and Indian Navy.
The CQB Carbine provides rapid, decisive lethality in confined spaces and replaces legacy systems under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision.
The contract for 48 Heavy Weight Torpedoes for Kalvari Class Submarines (P-75) of the Indian Navy, worth Rs 1,896 crore, was signed with WASS Submarine Systems S.R.L., Italy.
Delivery of torpedoes will commence in April 2028 and be completed by early 2030.

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries signs $220 mn LoI to build 6 chemical tankers for Norway’s Rederiet Stenersen (Mid of November) ▼

The Letter of Intent covers six IMO Type II chemical tankers, each of 18,000 DWT capacity, valued at approximately $220 million.
The vessels will be built at SDHI’s facility in Pipavav, Gujarat.
Each ship will be built to Ice Class 1A standards and feature an advanced hybrid propulsion system.

China commissions advanced aircraft carrier Fujian in Hainan (Start of November) ▼

China's third aircraft carrier, the domestically-built Fujian, officially entered service after a commissioning ceremony in Hainan province overseen by Xi Jinping.
Fujian is equipped with electromagnetic catapults—technology only previously fielded on a US carrier—allowing it to launch three aircraft types with heavier weapons and fuel loads.
State media hailed the carrier as a 'major milestone' that strengthens China's navy, already the world's largest by number of ships.

Indian Army declares 2026 as 'Year of Networking & Data Centricity' and affirms Operation Sindoor still ongoing

[Indian Army]

Key Updates:

The Indian Army declared 2026 as the 'Year of Networking & Data Centricity' to boost connectivity, real-time decision-making, and combat effectiveness.
Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi stated that jointness, self-reliance, and innovation are the core pillars of military power.
Gen Dwivedi confirmed that Operation Sindoor, initiated last year against the enemy's nefarious designs, continues even today.

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Indian Air Force Software Development Institute and IIT Madras sign MoU for indigenous airborne communication system (End of December) ▼

The IAF's Software Development Institute (SDI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT-Madras for the joint design and development of an indigenous digital communication system for airborne applications.
The MoU was signed by Air Vice Marshal R Guruhari, Commandant, SDI; Prof V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras and Dr M J Shankar Raman, CEO, Pravartak Technologies Foundation.
The collaboration aims to develop advanced algorithms for networking and encryption critical for secure, reliable, and high-performance data exchange in dynamic airborne environments.
Key focus areas include advanced encryption protocols, secure data transmission, resilience against threats, scalability for airborne networks, and integration with existing defence systems.

Indian Army Social Media Policy 2025: Limited Usage Permitted (End of December) ▼

Indian Army has come out with a new policy that allows limited usage of social media apps for its over 11.5 lakh soldiers.
Soldiers can now access Instagram but only for 'purposes of viewing and monitoring' and will not be allowed to post views or comments.
Exchange of unclassified information of a general nature or content has been permitted on Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal, but only with known persons.
Only 'passive participation' has been permitted to 'obtain knowledge or information' on YouTube, X, Quora and Instagram, and uploading of user-generated content or messages is not permitted.
LinkedIn can be used only for uploading a resume and obtaining information on potential employees/employers.

Indian Army and Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT) sign MoU for AI and software development (End of December) ▼

The Indian Army signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT) to collaborate in the development of software and AI-based solutions for the army.
Under the MoU, the students and the faculty of NSUT will participate in live problem-solving projects of Indian Army and get hands on experience.
NSUT will also facilitate capacity building through Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) and tailor-made programmes for Indian Army, strengthening indigenous innovation-driven defence preparedness.
The Army will get around 850 loitering munitions along with launchers from indigenous sources under fast-track procedures to equip all three defence forces and special forces.
The Army infantry battalions will now have one Ashni platoon each, which will be responsible for operating drones to be used against enemy locations and also in counterinsurgency roles.

Indian Army Procures Indigenously Designed Software Defined Radios (End of October) ▼

The Indian Army has signed a contract for the procurement of its first indigenously designed and manufactured Software Defined Radios (SDR).
These SDRs were developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
The advanced SDRs are equipped with high data rates and Mobile Ad hoc Network (MANET) capabilities.
These SDRs will significantly enhance secure, real-time communication and strengthen the Army's operational readiness in information-intensive, network-centric battlefields.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) and the Tri-Services, had earlier released Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) standard 1.0 to enable interoperability in Military Communication.
IRSA is a comprehensive software specification for Software Defined Radios (SDRs), defining standardised interfaces, APIs, execution environments, and mechanisms for waveform portability.
IRSA Version 1.0 was approved by the High-Level Advisory Committee (HLAC) in 2025, becoming India's first national specification defining a standardised software architecture for Software Defined Radios.

Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Successfully Conducts Flight Tests of Indigenously Developed Taimoor Missile on January 04, 2026

[Pakistan]

Key Updates:

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) successfully tested the Taimoor Weapon System, which was developed in Pakistan and can hit targets up to 600 kilometres away.
The Taimoor Air-Launched Cruise Missile can accurately strike enemy targets on land and at sea within a 600 kilometer range and carries a conventional warhead.
Equipped with a state-of-the-art navigation and guidance system, Taimoor is designed to fly at very low altitudes to help it avoid enemy air and missile defenses.
The successful test demonstrates the technical skill, innovation, and independence of Pakistan’s defense industry.
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu congratulated the scientists, engineers, and the entire PAF team for their achievement.

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India conducts salvo launch of two Pralay quasi-ballistic missiles off Odisha coast (Start of January) ▼

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a salvo launch of two quasi-ballistic missiles, Pralay, off the coast of Odisha as part of user evaluation trials.
Both missiles followed the intended trajectory and met all flight objectives, as confirmed by tracking sensors deployed by the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.
Pralay is an indigenously developed, solid-propellant quasi-ballistic missile employing state-of-the-art guidance and navigation systems to ensure high precision.
The missile is capable of carrying multiple types of warheads against a variety of targets and is slated for induction into the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force with a conventional warhead.
The system has been developed by Hyderabad-based DRDO facility Research Centre Imarat in collaboration with three Pune-based units — Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), and Research and Development Establishment (Engineers) [R&DE].

India considers S-500 air defence system during Russian President Putin's visit on December 3, 2025 (Start of December) ▼

The Russian-made S-400 air defence system brought Pakistan to its knees during India's Operation Sindoor earlier this year, shooting down at least six enemy aircraft.
The IAF called the S-400, a surface-to-air missile system, the 'game-changer' during the three-day hostilities.
India is eyeing the S-500 Prometheus air shield, described as the S-400's 'bigger, stronger, and smarter brother'.
Discussions on procuring the advanced S-500 missile defence shield during Russian President Vladimir Putin's two-day visit are very much on the table.
India is considering the S-500 due to newer threats emerging from both China and Pakistan, which has been on a warmongering spree under army chief Asim Munir.
The S-500 is manufactured by Russia's Almaz-Antey.
It is engineered to specifically neutralise advanced ballistic missiles, hypersonic glide vehicles, as well as hypersonic cruise missiles.
The S-500's ability to engage certain low-orbit satellites or space-launched threats sets it completely apart.
While the S-400 can shoot down targets up to 400 km away, the S-500 can reach up to 600 km.
The S-500 can simultaneously counter up to 10 ballistic supersonic terminal ICBM warheads flying at jet speed.
The S-500 can engage targets at an altitude of 200 km, almost at the edge of space, compared to the S-400's 30 km.
The system relies on upgraded 40N6M missiles, which are capable of exo-atmospheric interception, shooting down targets more than 100 km above the Earth.
The S-500 also uses 77N6-N and 77N6-N1 missiles, which have a 'hit-to-kill' approach, destroying incoming threats by ramming straight into them.
A new generation of radars built on Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology backs these missiles, offering longer range, quicker tracking, and far better jamming resistance than those in the S-400.
One S-500 air shield unit can include up to a dozen launchers, along with command posts and three high-performance radars.

DRDO successfully tests maiden Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120) in Odisha (End of December) ▼

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Monday successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR 120) at the Integrated Test Range in Odisha's Chandipur.
The rocket was tested for its maximum range of 120 km, demonstrating all in-flight manoeuvres as planned.
The LRGR impacted the target with textbook precision.
The LRGR 120 is an extended-range, precision-guided rocket developed for the Indian Army’s Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).
Unlike earlier unguided Pinaka rockets, the LRGR is equipped with a guidance system that significantly improves accuracy.
The rocket is fired from the existing Pinaka launcher, allowing the Army to enhance capability without inducting a new launch platform.

India test fires 3,500-km K-4 missile from nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat on December 25, 2025 (End of December) ▼

India tested an intermediate-range ballistic missile called K-4, which is designed to hit targets 3,500-km away, from the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat in the Bay of Bengal on Tuesday.
The solid-fuelled K-4 can carry a two-tonne nuclear payload and is critical for India to strengthen the sea leg of its nuclear weapons triad.
INS Arighaat, the country's second nuclear-powered submarine with nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles (called SSBN in naval parlance), was commissioned on Aug 29 last year.
India will commission its third SSBN as INS Aridhaman in the first quarter of 2026 and the fourth in 2027-28 under the secretive over Rs 90,000 crore ATV (advanced technology vessel) programme launched decades ago.
The operational deployment of K-4 missiles, which will be followed by the K-5 and K-6 missiles in the 5,000 to 6,000-km range class, will somewhat help India narrow the huge gap with countries like the US, Russia and China.
Her forerunner INS Arihant, which became fully operational in 2018, can carry only the 750-km range K-15 missiles.
The SSBNs impart India's deterrence posture with much more credibility because they are considered the most secure, survivable and potent platforms for retaliatory strikes in line with the country's 'no first-use' policy.

Indian Army raises Bhairav Special Force with over one lakh drone operatives for modern warfare

[Indian Army]

Key Updates:

Indian Army has created a pool of over one lakh drone operatives across the force.
Bhairav, the latest Special Force raised by the Indian Army, is being readied to tackle the challenges of modern warfare.
All Bhairav operatives are capable of handling drones and using them in real operations for targeting bases and formations inside enemy territory.
The Indian Army has raised around 15 Bhairav battalions already, with plans to raise around 25 in total.
The Bhairav battalions bridge the gap between the Para Special Forces and the regular Infantry battalions.
The Bhairav battalions will carry out Special Operations at tactical to operational depth.
The desert Bhairav Battalion, also known as the Desert Falcons, is based on the concept of 'Sons of the Soil' with majority troops from Rajasthan.
The Bhairav battalions underwent operational validation during Exercise Akhand Prahar.
The Bhairav battalions will participate in the Army Day Parade at Jaipur on January 15 this year.
Indian Army has also created Rudra Brigades, all-arms formations combining infantry, mechanised units, tanks, artillery, special forces, and unmanned aerial systems.

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Breaking Barriers: BSF Initiates All-Women Drone Squadron (Mid of November) ▼

The Border Security Force BSF is taking a significant step towards empowering women in its ranks with the creation of the Durga Drone Squadron, an all-women unit specializing in drone operations.
Under the guidance of ADG Shamsher Singh, the squadron will bolster border security by engaging female personnel in advanced drone training at the BSF Academy's School of Drone Warfare in Gwalior.
This initiative is part of a wider effort to harness the unique strengths of women, such as patience and precision, while providing them with modern technological skills crucial for effective border management.

Indian Army conducts Vayu Samanvay-II drone & counter-drone exercise in desert sector (Start of November) ▼

Exercise Name: Vayu Samanvay-II, conducted by Indian Army Southern Command
Location: Forward areas of desert sector under Pune-headquartered Southern Command
Key Outcome: Validated Army’s preparedness for next-generation warfare by integrating aerial and ground assets and multi-domain command & control centres in an electronic-warfare-contested environment

DRDO to supply Indian Army & IAF 16 indigenous laser-based drone detection-cum-interception systems (Mid of November) ▼

System name: Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (Mark 2) developed by DRDO
Engagement specification: 10-kilowatt laser beam disables enemy UAVs at 2 km range, doubling the 1 km reach of the earlier version
Procurement scale: Indian Army and Indian Air Force jointly placing order for 16 units
Technology progression: DRDO has also test-fired a 30-kilowatt directed-energy weapon that can engage targets out to 5 km
Demonstration milestone: April showcase used 30-kW laser to shoot down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles and swarm drones, placing India among US, China and Russia with proven capability

Indian Air Force Western Air Command Commanders' Conference Concludes on November 28 (End of November) ▼

Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan has told a gathering of IAF commanders the need for continuous adaptation, tactical innovation and strategic foresight in the evolving security environment.
He said this in his address at the two-day Commanders' Conference of the Western Air Command (WAC) of the Indian Air Force which ended on November 28.
The theme of the event was ' Vikashil Saksham Bharatiya Vayu Sena '.
IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh in his address called upon all air warriors to uphold the core value of mission, integrity and excellence, as he also reaffirmed the force's commitment to national security.
Prof Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the government of India, also spoke at the Western Air Command Commanders' Conference 2025.
He emphasised that a self-reliant and technologically advanced Indian Air Force remains essential for protecting India's sovereign interests.
K Rajalakshmi Menon, Director General (Aero), Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), gave a talk on Future Technologies in Airborne surveillance System, and underscored the rising importance of autonomous aerial systems, long endurance platforms and space-enabled ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance).
Discussions and brainstorming were also undertaken towards embracing 'Atmanirbharta' in all aspects of operational thought and furthering the nation's and the IAF's commitment towards becoming a true 'Made in India' and 'Made for India' force.

NIBE secures Rs 292.69 crore Indian Army order for Universal Rocket Launcher System

[Indian Army]

Key Updates:

NIBE has secured a domestic defence contract worth Rs 292.69 crore from the Indian Army under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
The order involves the manufacturing and supply of ground equipment, accessories, ESP and ammunition for a Universal Rocket Launcher System capable of integrating multiple rocket types, including long-range rockets with strike capabilities of 150 km and 300 km.
The company is required to furnish a performance-cum-warranty bank guarantee equivalent to 10% of the total contract value within 30 days of signing the agreement.
The contract will be executed in tranches over a period of 12 months.
The total consideration of Rs 292.69 crore is inclusive of all taxes and duties.

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Zen Technologies secures ₹120 crore order from India's Ministry of Defence (Start of December) ▼

Zen Technologies Ltd on Thursday said it has secured defence orders worth ₹120 crore from India’s Ministry of Defence for supplying a suite of training simulators and equipment, strengthening its position in the military training systems segment.
The contract includes the delivery of the company’s Comprehensive Training Node CTN, a fully integrated system that brings together multiple simulators used for operational and combat training.
The order will be executed within a year, the company said in a stock exchange filing.
Zen Technologies, headquartered in Hyderabad, builds live and virtual combat training solutions for the armed forces, paramilitary units, and police forces.

Bharat Dynamics Limited secures Rs 2,461.62 crore Indian Army order for ATGMs and SAMs (Start of December) ▼

Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) has secured additional orders worth Rs 2,461.62 crore from the Indian Army since the last disclosure on November 13, 2025.
Major orders include supply of Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs) and Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs) under emergency procurement.
ATGM contracts are scheduled to be fulfilled over a period of 42 months, while the SAM orders are expected to be completed within 12 months.
Shares of Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) jumped 2.12% to their day’s high of Rs 1,561.95 on the BSE following the order announcement.

India signs ₹1.82 trillion defence contracts in first nine months of FY26 (Start of January) ▼

Contracts worth ₹1.82 trillion have been signed in nine months through December to acquire weapons and equipment for the armed forces.
Approximately ₹1.2 trillion of the ₹1.49 trillion capital-acquisition budget for FY26 had been utilised by the third quarter ending December.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) total budgetary allocation for FY26 is ₹6.81 trillion, of which ₹1.8 trillion—over 26%—is earmarked for capital outlay on defence services.
The MoD aims to double the usual 10% increase and seek a 20% rise in the modernisation component for the FY27 defence budget.

Ministry of Defence signs Rs 4,666 crore contracts for CQB Carbines and Heavy Weight Torpedoes (Start of January) ▼

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed contracts worth Rs 4,666 crore for procurement of Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbine and Heavy Weight Torpedoes.
Over 4.25 lakh CQB carbines, along with accessories worth Rs 2,770 crore, were contracted with Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd for the Indian Army and Indian Navy.
The CQB Carbine provides rapid, decisive lethality in confined spaces and replaces legacy systems under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision.
The contract for 48 Heavy Weight Torpedoes for Kalvari Class Submarines (P-75) of the Indian Navy, worth Rs 1,896 crore, was signed with WASS Submarine Systems S.R.L., Italy.
Delivery of torpedoes will commence in April 2028 and be completed by early 2030.

Indian Air Force marks 25th anniversary of Tejas LCA maiden flight

[Indian Air Force]

Key Updates:

The Indian Air Force commemorated the 25th anniversary of home grown Tejas Light Combat Aircraft’s (LCA) historic first flight.
The historic first flight of Tejas occurred on January 4, 2001, with Wing Commander Rajiv Kothiyal piloting the Technology Demonstrator (TD-1) from Bengaluru’s HAL Airport.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) recently secured a major order for 97 additional LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighters in a deal worth over Rs 62,370 crore, finalised in late 2025.
Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) successfully conducted test-launch of homegrown ASTRA, Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) from LCA AF MK1 prototype fighter aircraft on March 12, 2025.
Defence Bio-Engineering & Electro Medical Laboratory (DEBEL), a Bengaluru-based lab under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), successfully conducted high-altitude trials of the Indigenous On-Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS)-based Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) for the LCA Tejas aircraft.

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Key Features and Specifications of the HAL Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (End of November) ▼

The Tejas is primarily a single-seat fighter aircraft, though the Indian Air Force uses a twin-seat trainer version as well.
The Technology Demonstrator-1 (TD-1) completed its first test flight in 2001, while the Second Series Production (SP2) aircraft under the Initial Operational Clearance ( IOC ) category carried out its maiden flight on 22 March 2016.
Reports state that the Tejas can handle a maximum payload of 4,000 kg.
It is a single-engine, single-pilot aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of around 13,300 kg.
According to available details, the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas is classified as a 4.5-generation fighter capable of carrying out multiple roles.
As per reports, Tejas is considered one of the smallest and lightest aircraft in its category, made possible by its compact design and extensive use of composite materials.
The government recently approved the purchase of 97 LCA Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets for the IAF, as reported in August.

Australia, India, Japan, and United States conduct 1st Field Training Exercise (FTX) at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam (End of December) ▼

Quad partners, Australia, India, Japan and the United States (US), successfully conducted their first Field Training Exercise (FTX) on the sidelines of Operation Christmas Drop at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam as part of the Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN).
The exercise was conducted from 8th to 12th December to strengthen the Quad partners’ disaster response capacity.
The IPLN is an initiative that enables Quad partners to "leverage shared logistics capabilities to support civilian response to large-scale natural disasters more rapidly and efficiently across the Indo-Pacific."
Training activities included boarding a Japan Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) C-130H transport aircraft to enhance interoperability and coordination.
The FTX reflected the Quad’s commitment to "strengthening practical cooperation to address regional challenges and to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific."

Indian Air Force celebrates 1971 victory legacy with aerial power display (Mid of December) ▼

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Wednesday staged a breathtaking aerial display at Air Force Station Mohanbari to commemorate Vijay Diwas, marking the anniversary of India’s decisive victory in the 1971 war leading Pakistan’s surrender and subsequent birth of Bangladesh.
The event was attended by Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, who warmly recalled the IAF’s pivotal role in the conflict and underscored the enduring lesson of jointmanship.
Organised by Shillong-based Eastern Air Command headquarters, the celebration showcased frontline assets including Sukhoi Su-30 fighters, Dornier Do-228 surveillance aircraft, Antonov An-32 transport planes, and heavy-lift platforms such as the Chinook and Mi-17 helicopters.
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh highlighted the indispensable coordination between the services, noting that river crossings, air drops, and operations in the Western Sector were possible only through close cooperation between the Army, Air Force, and Navy.

Indian Air Force hosts Exercise AviaIndra-2025 with Russian Federation Aerospace Force (Mid of December) ▼

Exercise AviaIndra-2025 is being hosted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) with the Russian Federation Aerospace Force (RFASF) from 15 to 22 December.
The exercise is part of the AviaIndra series which began in 2014.
Personnel from both forces will conduct joint flying operations on Su-30 MKI, Tejas, IL-78 aircraft, and Mi-17 helicopters.
The exercise aims to enhance bilateral cooperation, mutual understanding, and aerospace synergy between India and Russia.

IIT Madras launches IITM Global Research Foundation to become world’s first multinational university

Key Updates:

IIT Madras launched the IITM Global Research Foundation aimed at positioning the institute as the world’s first multinational university.
The initiative will operate through four pillars: technology transfer to global markets, joint international research projects, overseas business opportunities for IIT Madras startups, and attracting foreign investment into the institute’s innovation ecosystem.
Initial centres will be set up in the US, Dubai, Malaysia and Germany, with plans for expansion.

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S Jaishankar inaugurates IITM Global Research Foundation (Start of January) ▼

S Jaishankar launched the IITM Global Research Foundation, positioning Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) as the world’s first multinational university.
He inaugurated the IITM Festival Fortnight, including the Open House, Shaastra technical festival, and Saarang cultural festival.
IIT Madras signed memoranda of understanding with partners in the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Germany, Dubai, Asia-Pacific, and under the India-for-Global initiative.

DST Secretary Inaugurates National Quantum Communication Hub at Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) (Mid of December) ▼

Department of Science & Technology (DST) secretary Prof Abhay Karandikar virtually inaugurated India’s National Hub for Quantum Communication at Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras).
The hub has been established at IIT Madras Research Park, the IITM C-DOT Samgnya Technologies Foundation, under DST's National Quantum Mission.
This hub is one of the most well-funded among the four hubs set up under the National Quantum Mission.
The hub aims to lead India’s initiatives in quantum secure communication technologies and national-scale testbeds and pilot deployments through collaboration with academia, industry and global partners.
The Foundation's focus areas include Quantum Cryptography and Post-Quantum Security, Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Networks, Quantum Memory and Repeaters besides Satellite-based Quantum Communication.
Live demonstrations showcased India’s emerging strengths in quantum key distribution (QKD) systems, integrated testbeds and startup-led innovations.

NITI Aayog Internationalisation Roadmap: Campus-within-Campus & Vishwa Bandhu Scholarship (End of December) ▼

NITI Aayog proposes allowing foreign higher education institutions to set up campuses in Indian institutions under the ‘campus within a campus’ model with a sunset clause of 10 years.
It calls for easing regulations for mobility of inbound and outbound students by simplifying visa processes, reducing documentation burdens, and addressing regulatory bottlenecks.
The report recommends establishing a National Research Sovereign Wealth Impact Fund named Bharat Vidya Kosh with a suggested $10 billion corpus—50% from diaspora or philanthropy and 50% matched by the Government of India.
It proposes a scholarship programme ‘Vishwa Bandhu Scholarship’ for international students for 2-year master’s programmes offering study-based internships, competitive stipends, tuition support, research grants, accommodation, travel allowance, and health insurance.

FITT, IIT Delhi and IDFC FIRST Bank launch IGNITE cohort to back high-impact climate, AI and social-good startups (End of December) ▼

FITT, IIT Delhi in collaboration with IDFC FIRST Bank announced the launch of a new cohort under the IGNITE Program to support high-potential startups working across climate tech, clean energy, healthcare, agri-tech, mobility, education, and AI-driven solutions for social good.
The program offers non-dilutive financial support of up to ₹30 lakhs per startup along with structured capacity-building workshops covering technology development, business strategy, and investor readiness.
Startups gain mentorship from IIT Delhi faculty, industry experts, and IDFC FIRST Bank CSR leaders, plus access to investor connect sessions, demo day exposure, and SIDBI-FITT investment pitching opportunities.

CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) opens National Environmental Standard Laboratory to certify air-pollution gear

[CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL)]

Key Updates:

Union Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated the National Environmental Standard Laboratory at the CSIR-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) premises.
The facility will test and calibrate equipment that monitors air pollution, including Online Continuous Emission Monitoring Equipment (OCEMS) and Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System (CAAQMS).
The Environment Ministry has designated CSIR-NPL as the verification and certification agency for emission and ambient air pollution monitoring equipment in India.

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India unveils first-of-its-kind R&D roadmap to deploy Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) for 2070 net-zero target (Start of December) ▼

India has launched the first of its kind R&D roadmap to enable the country's net-zero emission targets of 2070 through Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS).
The roadmap will leverage the government's Rs 1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) funding pathways to accelerate CCUS development and deployment.
It will guide coordinated action, foster collaboration, and enable investments that accelerate technology deployment for reducing carbon footprints across hard-to-abate sectors such as cement, power and steel.
India early this year unveiled a pioneering national initiative of creating five Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) testbeds in the cement sector, forming a first of its kind research and innovation cluster to combat industrial carbon emissions.

World Bank Clears $600 Million for Uttar Pradesh and Haryana Clean Air Programs (Mid of December) ▼

The World Bank has approved $599.66 million in financing for two major clean air programs in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.
These initiatives aim to improve air quality, reduce health impacts, and strengthen both states as attractive business destinations.
The programs will invest in clean cooking, electric mobility, and cleaner industrial practices.
Paul Procee, Acting Country Director, World Bank India, stated that 'Air pollution is causing severe health impacts, loss of productivity and reduced quality of life across South Asia.'
The operations mark the first airshed-based, multi-sectoral programs taken up by Indian state governments to address air pollution.
The Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Management Program (UPCAMP), backed by $299.66 million, will expand the state’s Clean Air Plan with investments across transport, agriculture and industry.
UPCAMP aims to provide clean cooking access to 3.9 million households and promote clean mobility by deploying 15,000 electric three-wheelers and 500 electric buses in Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi and Gorakhpur.
Haryana’s Clean Air Project for Sustainable Development Operation, supported by $300 million, will invest in air quality and emissions monitoring and expand clean transport options such as electric buses and electric three-wheelers in Gurugram, Sonipat and Faridabad.
In November, Haryana slipped into the red zone of India’s air quality map, with no district meeting the national annual PM2.5 standard.
The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) has identified Haryana as a significant pollution hotspot in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
Gurugram is among seven districts in Haryana that rank within India’s 50 most polluted, with PM2.5 levels at least twice—and in some cases nearly three times—above the annual national safety limit.
Both state programs form part of the World Bank's Regional Air Quality Management Program in the Indo-Gangetic Plains and Himalayan Foothills.

India ranks third globally with 65 commercial-scale clean industrial projects worth over USD 150 billion (Start of November) ▼

India has 65 commercial-scale clean industrial projects worth over USD 150 billion, making it the world’s third-largest pipeline behind China and the United States.
Only six of these projects have reached the Final Investment Decision (FID) stage, according to the Industrial Transition Accelerator (ITA) report.
The projects are concentrated in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
The chemicals sector accounts for nearly 80% of the pipeline, with 50 clean ammonia and methanol projects totaling 30–35 million tonnes per annum capacity.
The report estimates these projects could abate 160–175 million tonnes of CO₂ annually and create more than two lakh direct and indirect jobs.

National Aviation Safety Centre: India to Establish First-of-its-Kind Regional Training Hub (End of October) ▼

Scheme Name: National Aviation Safety Centre – "the first of its kind institution in the region to train investigators and aviation professionals modelled on global best practices"
Objective: "to train aircraft accident investigators and aviation professionals" and "build world-class safety infrastructure and human capital"
Implementing Authority: Civil Aviation Ministry (announced by Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha)
Key Provision: Government is "doubling" the number of professionals in regulatory and investigation roles
Institutional Support: Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will continue to classify occurrences and conduct detailed accident investigations

Abu Dhabi administers UAE’s first CRISPR gene therapy CASGEVY for inherited blood disorders

[Abu Dhabi, UAE]

Key Updates:

Abu Dhabi marked the first administration of a gene-therapy injection for inherited blood disorders in the UAE using CASGEVY.
CASGEVY employs CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to correct faulty DNA causing sickle cell disease and beta thalassemia.
The therapy was given at Yas Clinic – Khalifa City in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC) and Vertex Pharmaceuticals under the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH).
The process involves extracting the patient’s stem cells, editing them with CRISPR-Cas9, and reinfusing the corrected cells to produce healthy blood cells.
The initial phase restricts treatment to Centers of Excellence like Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) before wider hospital rollout.

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Abu Dhabi first globally to deliver ITVISMA gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy (End of December) ▼

ITVISMA (onasemnogene abeparvovec) is a one-time gene therapy targeting the underlying genetic cause of spinal muscular atrophy in patients aged 2 years and older with a confirmed SMN1 gene mutation.
The therapy replaces the missing SMN1 gene to improve motor function and reduce the need for continuous treatments required by other therapies.
Administered at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), part of SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth, under the supervision of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH).
Developed by Novartis and received accelerated UAE approval on 25th November 2025, positioning the UAE among the first countries globally after the USA to endorse this treatment.

J P Nadda released 10th edition of Indian Pharmacopoeia (Start of January) ▼

J P Nadda, Union Health Minister, released the 10th edition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia at Dr Ambedkar International Centre.
The Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026 incorporates 121 new monographs, raising the total to 3,340 monographs.
The compendium is recognised in 19 countries of the Global South.
India improved its rank from 123rd during 2009-2014 to 8th in 2025 in contributions to WHO's pharmacovigilance database.
The 10th edition includes, for the first time, 20 blood component monographs for transfusion medicine.

UAE 2025 Foster Law opens fostering to expatriate families (Mid of December) ▼

Federal Decree-Law No. 12 of 2025 fundamentally reshaping who can foster and how fostering works across the country.
Fostering in the UAE is open not only to Muslim nationals but also to expatriate families of any nationality and religion, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Any married couple, Muslim or non-Muslim, Emirati or expatriate, aged 25 years or older, may apply.
Single women aged 30+ from any nationality or religion may also foster.
The law applies specifically to children of unknown parentage.
Foster parents are strictly prohibited from imposing their cultural or religious beliefs on foster children.
Fostered children retain their legal identity and personal status as registered under the UAE state.
Foster families do not gain inheritance rights, as fostering remains a custodial, not adoptive, arrangement.

UAE Ranks Third Globally in Humanitarian Aid for 2025 (End of November) ▼

The UAE has been recognized as the world's third-largest humanitarian donor for 2025.
The UAE contributed $1.46 billion in aid for 2025.
This significant contribution was confirmed by UN OCHA (UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs) through its Financial Tracking Service (FTS).
Only two entities, the United States and the European Union, contributed more globally than the UAE.
The UAE’s contribution of $1.46 billion represents 7.2% of the total aid recorded by the United Nations for 2025.
The total global contributions tracked by the UN for 2025 reached $20.28 billion.

FDA Approves Aqvesme as First Oral Therapy for Anemia in Alpha- and Beta-Thalassemia

[FDA]

Key Updates:

Aqvesme (mitapivat) tablets are the first oral treatment approved for anemia in adults with alpha- or beta-thalassemia.
In the ENERGIZE-T study of transfusion-dependent thalassemia, 30% of Aqvesme-treated patients achieved >50% transfusion reduction versus 13% on placebo.
In the ENERGIZE study of non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia, 42% of Aqvesme recipients achieved ≥1 g/dL hemoglobin rise at Week 24 versus 2% on placebo.
Aqvesme-treated patients reported a mean 4.9-point improvement in FACIT-Fatigue score versus 1.5 points with placebo.
Aqvesme is available only through a REMS program due to observed liver toxicity risk.

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FDA Expands Accrufer Approval to Pediatric Iron Deficiency (End of December) ▼

The Food and Drug Administration has expanded the approval of Accrufer® (ferric maltol) to include treatment of pediatric patients aged 10 years and older with iron deficiency.
Findings from the FORTIS trial showed the mean change in hemoglobin at week 12 was 1.10 g/dL.
Among the patients who received the recommended dosage of 30 mg twice daily (n=21), the mean change in Hb at week 12 was 1.23 g/dL (SD: 1.00).
At baseline, the mean ferritin level of study participants was 11.4 mcg/L; following treatment with Accrufer, the mean ferritin level at week 12 was 20 mcg/L (mean overall improvement of 8.6 mcg/L).
The most common adverse reactions reported with Accrufer include flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, discolored feces, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort/distention.

J P Nadda released 10th edition of Indian Pharmacopoeia (Start of January) ▼

J P Nadda, Union Health Minister, released the 10th edition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia at Dr Ambedkar International Centre.
The Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026 incorporates 121 new monographs, raising the total to 3,340 monographs.
The compendium is recognised in 19 countries of the Global South.
India improved its rank from 123rd during 2009-2014 to 8th in 2025 in contributions to WHO's pharmacovigilance database.
The 10th edition includes, for the first time, 20 blood component monographs for transfusion medicine.

Union Minister J P Nadda announces India ranks 8th globally in World Health Organization (WHO) Pharmacovigilance Contributions (Start of January) ▼

India now stands at the 8th position globally in World Health Organization (WHO) Pharmacovigilance Contributions, rising from the 123rd position held ten years ago.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare released the 10th edition of the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) 2026, which serves as the official book of drug standards for India.
The Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) 2026 has incorporated 121 new monographs, increasing the total count to 3,340 monographs.
India has become the first country to include 20 blood component monographs to expand research in blood transfusion, thalassemia, hemophilia, and anaemia.
The new monographs are designed to benefit the National TB Elimination Programme, Anaemia Mukt Bharat, and the Universal Immunisation Programme.
The Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) is currently recognized as a standard in 19 Global South countries.

Alembic Pharmaceuticals secures USFDA approval for generic Dasatinib tablets to treat blood cancers (Start of November) ▼

Alembic Pharmaceuticals received USFDA final approval for generic Dasatinib tablets in strengths 20 mg, 50 mg, 70 mg, 80 mg, 100 mg, and 140 mg
The approved ANDA is therapeutically equivalent to Bristol-Myers Squibb Company’s reference listed drug Sprycel tablets
Dasatinib tablets are indicated for adult patients with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome positive (Ph+) chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in chronic phase
The drug is also indicated for pediatric patients one year of age and older with Ph+ CML in chronic phase
According to IQVIA data, the estimated market size for Dasatinib tablets is USD 1,017 million for the 12 months ended September 2025

CSIR-National Physical Laboratory inaugurates world-class environmental and solar calibration facilities

[CSIR-National Physical Laboratory]

Key Updates:

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurated the world’s second National Environmental Standard Laboratory and the world’s fifth National Primary Standard Facility for Solar Cell Calibration at CSIR-NPL.
The National Environmental Standard Laboratory will provide India-specific calibration and certification of air pollution monitoring systems under Indian climatic conditions.
The National Primary Standard Facility for Solar Cell Calibration, developed with PTB Germany, achieves the lowest global uncertainty of 0.35% (k=2) for reference solar cell calibration.
CSIR-NPL houses atomic clocks that established Indian Standard Time (IST), with the Minister noting “half the nation synchronised its watches with the atomic clock housed at NPL.”
NPL’s new solar facility reduces India’s dependence on foreign certification, saves foreign exchange, and boosts investor confidence in the domestic solar sector.

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S Jaishankar inaugurates IITM Global Research Foundation (Start of January) ▼

S Jaishankar launched the IITM Global Research Foundation, positioning Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) as the world’s first multinational university.
He inaugurated the IITM Festival Fortnight, including the Open House, Shaastra technical festival, and Saarang cultural festival.
IIT Madras signed memoranda of understanding with partners in the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Germany, Dubai, Asia-Pacific, and under the India-for-Global initiative.

Ashwini Vaishnaw announces ₹4,500 crore allocation for Semi-Conductor Laboratory (SCL) Mohali upgrade (Start of December) ▼

Prime Minister Narendra Modi decides to upgrade SCL Mohali and establish a high-quality semiconductor training centre, strong commercial production unit, and world-class R&D facility under India Semiconductor Mission.
SCL Mohali upgrade includes process modernisation, new tools, and production level increased 100 times.
Modernisation of SCL addresses strategic requirements, student needs, researcher requirements, chips, and fabrication.
Large-scale training facility to be built at SCL Mohali.
SCL to remain a government organisation and major R&D organisation.
India Semiconductor Mission launched in 2021.

1 Bio: First Bioprocess Design Hub to Boost Biologics Innovation (End of November) ▼

1 Bio has been established by the Telangana government through Telangana Lifesciences and Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC) in partnership with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Thermo Fisher Scientific.
The public-private partnership project saw the Telangana government facilitate an investment of Rs 150 crore in infrastructure, while Thermo Fisher Scientific contributed Rs 90 crore for the bioprocess design centre and its co-located customer experience centre.
The 1 Bio hub is expected to attract another Rs 500 crore in private investment from its tenant companies and generate over 500 highly skilled jobs.
These facilities will provide end-to-end process development and pilot scale validation, enabling startups and established companies to cut down on capital investment and accelerate development.

National Quantum Mission: Four Quantum Fabrication Facilities Worth Rs 720 Crore Approved (End of November) ▼

Ministry of Science and Technology announced four Quantum Fabrication and Central Facilities under the National Quantum Mission (NQM).
Total outlay for the facilities is Rs 720 crore.
Facilities to be set up at IIT-Bombay, IISc-Bengaluru, IIT-Kanpur, and IIT-Delhi.
Facilities will support quantum sensing, quantum computing, and quantum materials development.
Access open to NQM investigators, academia, industry, start-ups, and strategic sectors.

Scientists Identify New Reed Snake Species Calamaria mizoramensis in Mizoram

[Mizoram]

Key Updates:

Scientists have identified a new species of reed snake, Calamaria mizoramensis, in Mizoram, India.
The breakthrough came with a fresh round of research published in Zootaxa.
The snake showed more than a 15 per cent genetic difference from its closest known relatives.
This newly identified snake is non-venomous and mostly active at night.
It prefers moist, forested hills and has been found at elevations between 670 and 1,295 metres.

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Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) researchers discover 47-million-year-old snake fossil in Gujarat (End of December) ▼

Along the Kutch coast, researchers unearthed fossils hinting at an ancient serpent, now estimated to be a mind-blowing 49 feet long and weighing nearly 1,000 kilograms.
For almost two decades, dedicated researchers from IIT Roorkee have meticulously studied these remains.
At a breathtaking 49 feet, it potentially takes the crown as the largest snake ever unearthed on Earth.
Early snakes, dating back over 160 million years, first emerged in the oceans.
Given the striking references to Vasuki Naag in Hindu scriptures, the scientific community has aptly named this newly identified serpent 'Vasuki'.

Fossil discovery in Gujarat identifies giant snake from Eocene era (End of December) ▼

Fossil evidence discovered in Gujarat has attracted scientific notice due to evidence of a snake of extraordinary size that existed during what is loosely defined as the Eocene era, some 47 million years ago.
The species was identified as a related member of the extinct madtsoiid species, the clade of species recognised for having evolved the largest species of snake throughout history.
The fossils of the collected Gujarat species are dominated by well-preserved vertebrae in sedimentary deposits from the early Eocene period.
Described in the study published in Scientific Reports, the species has outstanding vertebral features compared with similar species of the madtsoiid genus.
The Eocene was a time when the planet saw hot conditions year-round, and the polar regions were mostly devoid of ice.
Analysis of the geological and palaeobotanical data available for Gujarat has revealed a landscape dominated by rivers, deltas, and dense forests.
Madtsoiids have been found on various southern continents: Africa, South America, and Australia; these continents all comprised the supercontinent Gondwana.

New Coelacanth Species, Whiteia anniae, Discovered in Early Triassic of China (End of October) ▼

A new species of coelacanth, *Whiteia anniae* sp. nov., has been discovered.
The discovery is based on two specimens (Holotype CHU 2016 and Paratype CHU 2017) from the late Smithian (~249 Ma) marine deposits in Maoshankou, He County, Anhui Province, China.
The new coelacanth is the oldest species of the genus *Whiteia* documented in Asia, predating the previously oldest record of whiteiids on this continent by nine million years.
With an estimated total length of at least 420 mm, *Whiteia anniae* represents the largest whiteiid named so far from the Early Triassic.
The new coelacanth is the best-preserved from the Early Triassic of China, featuring a discernible calcified lung.
Diagnostic features of *Whiteia anniae* include the presence of coronoid fangs and scale ornamentation consisting of about 20 elongate ridges converging midline posteriorly.
Phylogenetic analysis recovers *Whiteia anniae* as sister to *Whiteia woodwardi* within the Whiteiidae among the Coelacanthiformes.

Scientists unveil Lycodon irwini, new wolf snake species on Great Nicobar Island (Start of December) ▼

Scientists have unveiled Lycodon irwini, a new species of wolf snake discovered in Great Nicobar Island's dense forests.
The species is named in honor of Steve Irwin.
Lycodon irwini has an exceptionally slender body, dark-sheened serpent reaching around 1.2 metres in length.
It features a slim, elongated body, narrowing tail, smooth upper body with bluish black sheen, and underside ranging from black to brownish black.
The species is extremely rare with only four confirmed records, primarily from moist evergreen forest.
Lycodon irwini is restricted entirely to Great Nicobar Island.
Researchers recommend classifying the species as Endangered under IUCN guidelines due to its limited range and threats from habitat disturbance.

Delcy Rodríguez sworn in as Venezuela’s interim President

[Venezuela]

Key Updates:

Delcy Rodríguez has been sworn in as interim president of Venezuela.
The swearing-in took place amid pro-Maduro national protests.
Nicolás Maduro and his wife were captured by the United States.

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United States launches military strikes on Caracas and captures Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro (Start of January) ▼

United States launched large-scale military strikes on Caracas early Saturday and claimed to have captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
US President Donald Trump announced the operation on Truth Social, describing it as aimed at ending a 'narco-terrorist regime'.
US Special Forces seized Maduro and Flores, transported them via helicopter to a US Navy ship offshore, and then flew them to the United States.
Maduro is currently being held at a federal detention facility in New York and is expected to appear in court on charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy.
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez appeared on state television to condemn the attack, while a Venezuelan court named her interim president.
Russia, China, Iran, and Cuba strongly condemned the US move as a violation of sovereignty.
UN Secretary-General called the action a 'dangerous precedent' and an emergency Security Council meeting was scheduled.

Nitin Nabin assumes charge as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National Working President (Mid of December) ▼

Nitin Nabin succeeded Union Minister JP Nadda as the BJP National Working President.
He is the youngest BJP president ever and the first BJP president from Bihar and Eastern India.
Nabin is a five-time MLA and Minister of Road Construction in the Bihar Government.
He is the son of veteran BJP leader Navin Kishore Prasad Sinha.

United States orders total blockade on sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers (Mid of December) ▼

Trump ordered 'a total and complete' blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela.
Venezuela's government denounced the move as 'warmongering threats'.
The US has seized an oil tanker off Venezuela's coast and conducted deadly strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats.
More than 30 of the 80 ships in Venezuelan waters or approaching the country were under US sanctions.
Trump wrote that Venezuela was 'completely surrounded by the largest Armada ever assembled in the History of South America'.

Rodrigo Paz elected President of Bolivia (End of October) ▼

Rodrigo Paz of the centre-right Christian Democratic Party (PDC) was elected President of Bolivia.
Paz won 54.5 percent of the vote in Sunday’s run-off race, defeating Jorge 'Tuto' Quiroga who received 45.4 percent.
Paz previously served as mayor of Tarija and as senator for the region since 2020.

Malaysian PM announces 10-year term limit for Prime Minister

[Malaysia]

Key Updates:

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he would introduce legislation to limit the term of Prime Minister to 10 years or two full terms.
Anwar stated, 'We will table a bill to limit the term of the prime minister, not exceeding 10 years or two full terms.'
There is currently no term limit in Malaysia for Prime Ministers.

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Thailand dissolves House of Representatives for early-year election amid Cambodia border conflict (Mid of December) ▼

Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dissolved the House of Representatives after obtaining approval from King Maha Vajiralakorn, with the Royal Gazette publishing the endorsement on Friday.
The election must be held 45–60 days after the royal endorsement, during which Anutin remains caretaker premier with limited powers.
The dissolution follows a threatened no-confidence vote by the People’s Party after Bhumjaithai lawmakers backed a constitutional-amendment bill, contrary to the September agreement to hold a referendum on drafting a new constitution.
Thailand is engaged in large-scale combat with Cambodia over disputed border claims, with more than two dozen reported killed and hundreds of thousands displaced this week.
US President Donald Trump previously secured a July ceasefire by threatening trade-privilege withdrawal and has renewed peace efforts after the latest flare-up.

One Nation One Election Bills: Parliament Can Alter 5-Year Term Through Amendment (End of November) ▼

The 23rd Law Commission told the Joint Parliamentary Committee that Parliament can constitutionally amend the five-year term of legislatures to enable simultaneous elections.
The Commission stated, 'Parliament can certainly do so by way of a constitutional amendment. This is what is proposed by the bill in question.'
It clarified that the proposed amendment does not require state ratification as it is not covered under the proviso to Article 368(2) of the Constitution.

Mallika Srinivasan's Tenure as PESB Chairperson Extended Until 2026 (Mid of November) ▼

Mallika Srinivasan’s tenure as PESB Chairperson has been extended.
Her extension will take effect from November 19, 2025, allowing her to continue leading the PSU head-hunter until November 18, 2026.
This marks her second consecutive extension in this role.
Mallika Srinivasan continues to serve as Chairperson and Managing Director of Tractors and Farm Equipment Ltd TAFE.

47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur: New Member, Border Deal, and Discussions on Tariffs and Regional Conflicts (End of October) ▼

The 47th summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is taking place.
The summit is being held in the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur for a three-day period from Sunday to Tuesday.
This year, ASEAN will induct its 11th member, East Timor.
The ASEAN summit is accompanied annually by the East Asia Summit, a gathering of leaders of the ASEAN nations, the US, China, India, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.
A peace deal is to be signed on Sunday between Cambodia and Thailand to end a deadly border dispute, with the ceremony presided over by US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
The ASEAN summit will discuss pressing issues like US tariffs, access to rare earth minerals, Myanmar’s civil war, and the proliferation of scam centres in Southeast Asia.
Myanmar’s acting president will not attend the ASEAN summit, and the Philippines will take the helm as next year’s ASEAN chair instead of Myanmar.

Critics Choice Awards 2026 held on January 5

Key Updates:

The Critics Choice Awards 2026 were held on January 5, inaugurating this year’s awards season in Hollywood.
Paul Thomas Anderson’s film 'One Battle After Another' won Best Picture and Best Director.
Timothée Chalamet won Best Actor for 'Marty Supreme' and Jessie Buckley won Best Actress for 'Hamnet'.

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The Oscars to stream on YouTube starting in 2029 (Mid of December) ▼

The Academy Awards will begin streaming exclusively on YouTube in 2029, the latest big change in Hollywood.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences made the announcement, saying that it signed a multi-year deal that will give YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars until 2033.
The Oscars, which is planned for 15 March, has aired for a half a century on ABC.
ABC, which has streamed the awards since 1976, said that it was looking forward 'to the next three telecasts' it will still host.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor said in a statement that the partnership will expand access to the work of the Academy to a worldwide audience.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan called the Oscars 'one of our essential cultural institutions' and stated the partnership would inspire a new generation of film lovers.
Over decades, viewership of the awards show has declined, though there was a slight uptick in 2025, with a significant number of younger viewers tuning in from cell phones and computers.
Warner Bros Discovery on Wednesday recommended its shareholders reject a hostile takeover bid from Paramount Skydance for a rival bid from streaming giant Netflix.

Casting Directors Recognized with New Oscar Category (Mid of December) ▼

A new Oscar category for achievement in casting was added to the Academy Awards.
The 98th Academy Awards will air live on ABC on March 15, 2026.
Bernard Telsey is a prominent casting director who, with Tiffany Little Canfield, populated both "Wicked" movies.
Destiny Lilly is the president of the Casting Society.
The Emmys have three categories for casting.
The Critics Choice Awards recently added a casting trophy.
The Artios Awards, the casting industry's own prize, were first held in 1985.

Homebound shortlisted for Best International Feature at Oscars 2026 (Mid of December) ▼

Homebound became only the fifth Indian film to make it to the shortlist of the Best International Feature category at the Academy Awards.
It competed with 86 films from around the globe to make it to the top 15 in the shortlist.
Only three Indian films — Mother India (1957), Salaam Bombay! (1988), and Lagaan (2001) — previously reached the final five nominations in the same category.
Pan Nalin’s 2021 Gujarati film Last Film Show is the only Indian entry that made the shortlist but did not advance to the final nominations.

Leonardo DiCaprio named TIME Entertainer of the Year (Mid of December) ▼

Leonardo DiCaprio has been named TIME’s Entertainer of the Year.
The honour recognises a career spanning more than 35 years.
His latest film, One Battle After Another, earned nine Golden Globe nominations.
One Battle After Another is DiCaprio’s first collaboration with filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson.
Critics regard One Battle After Another as his best work to date.