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Monday, Nov 10

Daily Current Affairs: 10 November 2025

Your consolidated report for 10 November 2025

Headline: National Legal Services Day and NALSA: Objectives and Observance

Bullet Points:

  • National Legal Services Day is observed on November 9 to celebrate the establishment of the Legal Services Authorities Act of 1987.
  • The act, however, came into force eight years later, on November 9, 1995, which is why this date is celebrated every year.
  • It is on this date that the statutory body, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) was set up.
  • The Constitution of India, as per Article 39A, provides equality access to justice for all. The NALSA was established on the very basis of this constitutional right.
  • On this day, State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs) set up camps to raise awareness among the masses about free legal aid available to them, across the nation.
  • National Legal Services Day 2025 marks 30 years of NALSA.
  • This year’s theme, Justice for All: Through the Lens of Legal Aid, highlights free legal aid and equal access to justice.
  • NALSA has organised a National Photography and Art Showcase titled “Justice for All: Through the Lens of Legal Aid," which serves as the theme for National Legal Services Day, 2025.
  • The nation-wide initiative is intended to shine the spotlight on the vital importance and need of free legal aid to ensure justice reaches to all, irrespective of their social or economic standing.

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e-Jagriti Portal: Unified Digital Consumer Grievance Redressal Platform Launched by Department of Consumer Affairs (Mid of August) ▼
  • Portal Name: e-Jagriti; Launched on 1 January 2025 by the Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Government of India.
  • Objective: Transform consumer grievance redressal across India by integrating legacy systems (OCMS, e-Daakhil, NCDRC CMS, CONFONET) into a single seamless interface to enhance accessibility, transparency, and efficiency.
  • Key Features: OTP-based registration, online/offline fee payment, real-time case tracking, multilingual support, chatbot assistance, voice-to-text for visually challenged/elderly, virtual hearings, digital document exchange, Bar Council integration for advocates, analytics dashboards for judges, Bharat Kosh & PayGov gateways, end-to-end encryption, and paperless workflow.
  • Coverage: Operational at NCDRC and all 36 States/UTs; over 2 lakh users (including NRIs) registered and 85,531 cases filed through the portal in 2025 alone.
  • Performance Highlight: In July 2025, NCDRC and 10 States recorded disposal rates above 100%, with Tamil Nadu leading at 277%.
e-Jagriti Platform: Digital Grievance Redressal Initiative (End of August) ▼
  • The government also highlighted the growing use of the e-Jagriti platform, launched in January 2025 to streamline digital grievance redressal.
  • The platform consolidates earlier systems such as OCMS, e-Daakhil, NCDRC CMS, and the CONFONET portal into a unified interface.
  • It allows consumers to file complaints from anywhere, pay fees online or offline, and track case status in real time.
  • Features include multilingual support, chatbot assistance, virtual hearings, voice-to-text options for visually challenged users, and dedicated modules for advocates and judges.
  • The Department of Consumer Affairs said these developments reflect a move toward faster, more transparent, and inclusive consumer justice, with e-Jagriti expected to play a central role in the coming years.
International Day for People of African Descent and Decades of Action (Start of September) ▼
  • The International Day for People of African Descent is celebrated each year on 31 August.
  • This year's International Day is the first to take place during the second International Decade for People of African Descent.
  • The second International Decade for People of African Descent runs from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2034.
  • The theme for the second International Decade for People of African Descent is “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development.”
  • The first International Decade for People of African Descent saw progress made between 2015 and 2024.
  • During the first Decade, the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent was created.
Breaking Barriers Fellowship: MoU between DEPwD, Nipman Foundation & YLAC (End of August) ▼
  • MoU signed between Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Nipman Foundation and Young Leaders for Active Citizenship (YLAC to launch the Breaking Barriers Fellowship.
  • Objective: "a program designed to place young professionals across DEPwD offices to strengthen policy support and advance the implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016."
  • Duration: "The collaboration will remain in force for one year, with provision for extension by mutual agreement."
  • Key provisions: "emphasizes transparency, merit-based fellow selection, quarterly reporting, and confidentiality under the Official Secrets Act, 1923."

Headline: Uttarakhand Foundation Day celebrated on November 9

Bullet Points:

  • Uttarakhand was carved out of Uttar Pradesh and became India’s 27th state on November 9, 2000.
  • The day is celebrated every year as the state’s foundation day.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Uttarakhand as a 'sacred land today accelerating progress in every field, including tourism'.

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PM Modi Unveils Over Rs 8,000 Crore Development Projects and Initiatives in Uttarakhand (Mid of November) ▼
  • Prime Minister Modi inaugurated development projects worth over Rs 8,140 crore.
  • These initiatives target core areas such as drinking water, irrigation, technical education, energy, urban development, sports, and skill development.
  • The Prime Minister also released a support amount of Rs 62 crore under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, transferred directly into the bank accounts of more than 28,000 farmers.
  • Projects inaugurated include the Dehradun water supply coverage for 23 zones under the AMRUT scheme, an electrical substation in Pithoragarh district, solar power plants on government buildings, and the AstroTurf Hockey Ground at Haldwani Stadium in Nainital.
  • Foundation stones were laid for projects such as the Song Dam Drinking Water Project, which will supply 150 million litres per day (MLD) of drinking water to Dehradun, and the Jamarani Dam Multipurpose Project in Nainital, designed to provide drinking water, support irrigation activities and generate electricity.
PM Modi marks Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary with ₹150 coin, stamp and unity run (Start of November) ▼
  • India today observed Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the country’s first Home Minister and a key figure in integrating over 560 princely states into the Indian Union.
  • The day, celebrated annually on October 31 since 2014, highlights Patel’s role in strengthening national unity and reaffirms citizens’ commitment to the values of sovereignty and integrity.
  • On the eve of the anniversary, the Prime Minister released a commemorative ₹ 150 coin and a postage stamp in honour of Sardar Patel.
  • As part of the national observance, the “Run for Unity” was organised across the country.
Sadbhavana Diwas observed on August 20 (End of August) ▼
  • Sadbhavana Diwas, or the 'Day of Harmony,' is observed every year on August 20 to mark the birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, who became India's youngest Prime Minister.
  • The day reflects his vision of promoting peace, harmony, national integration, and goodwill among all people, regardless of caste, creed, or religion.
  • Rajiv Gandhi became India’s sixth Prime Prime Minister in 1984 at the age of 40, following the assassination of Indira Gandhi.
  • His tenure is remembered for efforts to modernise India through technology, strengthen international relations, and empower youth.
  • Sadbhavana Diwas was instituted to honour his legacy and his dream of an India bound together by harmony and progress.
PM Modi to chair three national committees for 150th birth anniversaries of Sardar Patel & Birsa Munda and centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee (End of August) ▼
  • Scheme/Initiative Name: High-level commemoration committees for Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (150th), Birsa Munda (150th) and Atal Bihari Vajpayee (100th) birth anniversaries; notified by Ministry of Culture on 23 August 2024.
  • Objective: “approve policies/plans, programmes and supervise and guide the commemorations” and “decide on the broad dates for the detailed programme of celebration” across the country.
  • Implementing Structure: Each committee chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with 100+ members including Union Ministers (Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, S. Jaishankar, Nirmala Sitharaman, J.P. Nadda, Shivraj Singh Chouhan), 19 Chief Ministers (Nitish Kumar, Mamata Banerjee, M.K. Stalin, Bhupendra Patel, Hemant Soren, etc.), Governors/L-Gs, former Presidents, Lok Sabha Speaker and other dignitaries.
  • Celebration Plan: Nationwide events, seminars, speeches and dialogues, not limited to Delhi or the icons’ home states.

Headline: DoSJE–PW Foundation MoU: Free Coaching for 15,000 Marginalized Youth

Bullet Points:

  • MoU signed on November 7, 2025 between Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (DoSJE) and PW Foundation (Physics Wallah Foundation).
  • Objective: provide free structured online coaching to 15,000 students from SC, OBC and PM CARES Children Scheme beneficiaries for UPSC, SSC and Banking exams.
  • Key features: live/recorded lectures, test series with analytics, mentorship, doubt-clearing sessions, bilingual study material; no government funds involved.
  • Selection: transparent online application on DoSJE website, vetted through merit and need-based parameters.

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NCERT Unveils New Initiatives Including Bal Vatika DTH Channel and DIKSHA 2.0 (Start of September) ▼
  • The NCERT launched Bal Vatika - PM eVidya, a DTH Channel Available on No. 35, which will provide engaging audio-visual content for teachers, Anganwadi workers, parents, and children aged 3-6 years to boost foundational literacy and numeracy skills.
  • The upgraded DIKSHA 2.0 platform was unveiled, featuring structured lessons, adaptive assessments, performance feedback, and AI-enabled tools such as Read Aloud, Closed Captioning, and automatic translation of text files into 12 languages.
  • The PM eVidya mobile app was released as a centralised gateway for digital learning.
  • Virtual Reality (VR) labs were introduced at four demonstration schools.
  • NCERT rolled out PRASHAST 2.0, an enhanced pre-assessment screening tool for the early identification of children with disabilities, integrated with UDISE+, APAAR, and Swavlamban Card portals.
  • Kitab Ek Padhe Anek, a universal design for learning-based initiative, was launched to create accessible textbooks for inclusive classrooms.
  • NCERT launched Utkal Jananinkara Sujogya Santana, a book featuring 100 eminent personalities from Odisha who contributed to the state's development and India's freedom movement.
  • The Handbook for Key Functionaries on Vocational Education was released by PSSCIVE, underlining the renewed emphasis on vocational education in schools under NEP 2020.
NCERT Launches Bal Vatika DTH Channel and DIKSHA 2.0 Platform to Strengthen Foundational Learning (Start of September) ▼
  • Bal Vatika - PM eVidya DTH Channel (No. 35) launched by NCERT to provide audio-visual content for children aged 3-6, teachers, Anganwadi workers, and parents to boost foundational literacy and numeracy
  • DIKSHA 2.0 platform unveiled with structured lessons, adaptive assessments, performance feedback, and AI tools like Read Aloud, Closed Captioning, and translation into 12 languages
  • PRASHAST 2.0 screening tool launched for early identification of children with disabilities, integrated with UDISE+, APAAR, and Swavlamban Card portals
  • PM eVidya mobile app released as centralized gateway for digital learning
  • Virtual Reality (VR) labs introduced at four NCERT demonstration schools
Centre releases framework to link Anganwadi centres with primary schools (Start of September) ▼
  • Scheme Name: Guidelines for co-location of Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) with schools, jointly prepared by Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) and Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL)
  • Objective: "to ease children’s transition from Anganwadi to Grade 1, build stronger ties between AWCs and schools, encourage joyful learning, and improve retention and performance in the early years of primary education"
  • Key Features: Two co-location models—AWCs operate within schools where facilities allow, or are linked to the nearest school where infrastructure is limited; priority given to centres without permanent buildings, rented/inadequate spaces, and those serving disadvantaged communities; relocation distance within 500 metres (urban) and one kilometre (rural), adaptable by states
  • Current Status: India has 14.02 lakh functioning AWCs, of which 2.90 lakh are already attached to 9.16 lakh government and government-aided schools
  • Additional Initiative: Union education minister proposed a dedicated training module for anganwadi workers without Class 12 qualification to pursue further studies
Integrative Rehabilitation Initiative for Persons with Disabilities: Key Features (End of September) ▼
  • Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) partners with Ministry of Ayush to integrate traditional Indian healing systems with modern rehabilitation techniques.
  • Rs 5.26 crore sanctioned for implementation of integrative rehabilitation initiatives.
  • Focus areas include neurodiversity, blood disorders, sensory impairments, and age-related disabilities.

Headline: ICAI signs MoU with Indian Army for real-time UDIN verification

Bullet Points:

  • ICAI has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Army Purchase Organisation (APO), Directorate General of Supply and Transport (DGST), Indian Army to enable real-time verification of Unique Document Identification Numbers (UDINs).
  • The verification will be carried out through an application programming interface integrated within the vendor registration process of the Army Purchase Organisation.
  • The API integration aims to automate verification of Chartered Accountant-certified documents submitted by vendors, ensuring document authenticity, minimising manual errors, and mitigating fraud risk.

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Defence Ministry signs MoU with QCI to enhance Veteran Welfare Services (End of August) ▼
  • MoU signed between Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), Ministry of Defence, and Quality Council of India (QCI) on August 26.
  • Aims to strengthen delivery of pension, healthcare, resettlement, and welfare services for over 63 lakh veterans and their dependents.
  • QCI will support DESW in digital evaluations, impact assessments, and evidence-based policy recommendations.
  • DESW will facilitate data access and stakeholder coordination with State Governments, zila sainik boards, Armed Forces Headquarters, and empanelled hospitals.
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.
India-Israel sign MoU on defence cooperation during 17th JWG meeting in Tel Aviv (Start of November) ▼
  • MoU signed during 17th Joint Working Group (JWG) on defence cooperation co-chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Director General of Israeli Ministry of Defense Maj Gen (Res) Amir Baram in Tel Aviv
  • MoU covers strategic dialogues, training, defence industrial cooperation, R&D, AI, cyber security, and promotes co-development and co-production
  • JWG reviewed ongoing initiatives and discussed future tech collaboration and shared challenges like terrorism
Assam Rifles and IIIT Manipur sign MoU to advance drone technology for defence (Mid of August) ▼
  • MoU signed between Assam Rifles and IIIT Manipur at Mantripukhri to promote drone technology for defence and security.
  • Advanced Drone Training and Refresher Course launched for Assam Rifles personnel, covering drone flight operations, maintenance, and DGCA-certified training.
  • Programme objective is to strengthen surveillance, reconnaissance, and logistics support capabilities.
  • Event attended by Maj Gen Ravroop Singh, IG Assam Rifles South, and the Director of IIIT Manipur.
  • Approximately 80 participants, including defence personnel and IIIT faculty, took part in the event.

Headline: TEC and IIT Bombay sign MoU to advance 6G, AI-driven telecom networks and satellite communications

Bullet Points:

  • MoU signed between Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) and IIT Bombay for joint studies and technical contributions in telecom technologies and global standardisation.
  • Focus areas include 6G architecture research, AI-driven telecom applications, core network studies, satellite communication systems, and signalling protocols.
  • Partnership aims to develop India-specific standards and test frameworks and enhance India’s participation in ITU-T and 3GPP forums.
  • Collaboration targets indigenous design of low-cost satellite communication terminals for remote sensing and rural connectivity.
  • MoU signed on 7 November 2025 by Shri Amit Kumar Srivastava, DDG (Mobile Technologies), TEC and Prof. Sachin Patwardhan, Dean (R&D), IIT Bombay.

Similar Headlines

India, Israel ink pact on defence cooperation during 17th JWG meeting (Start of November) ▼
  • India and Israel Tuesday signed a pact on defence cooperation.
  • The MoU was signed during the 17th meeting of Joint Working Group (JWG) on defence cooperation.
  • The meeting was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Director General of Israeli Ministry of Defense Maj Gen (Res) Amir Baram in Tel Aviv.
  • The MoU will enable the sharing of advanced technology and would promote co-development and co-production.
  • A wide range of areas for cooperation have been identified in the MoU, which include strategic dialogues of mutual interest, training, defence industrial cooperation, and capabilities including science and technology, research & development, and technological innovation, artificial intelligence and cyber security cooperation.
CSIR and NICDC sign MoU to embed R&D hubs and innovation centres in India’s industrial corridors (Mid of November) ▼
  • CSIR–NICDC MoU signed by Dr. Vibha Malhotra Sawhney, Head, Technology Management Directorate, CSIR, and Mr. Vikas Goel, General Manager (CS & Marketing), NICDC, in New Delhi.
  • Joint plan to develop R&D hubs, industrial incubators, and innovation centres across NICDC’s smart industrial cities and corridors.
  • Priority technology domains: industrial automation and robotics, renewable energy and clean technologies, advanced materials, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, digital manufacturing, agro-processing and green chemicals.
  • Framework aligns with national initiatives Make in India, Startup India, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat to commercialise indigenous technologies and foster tech-driven startups.
India Gets First 8 Official Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies Under TRAI’s New System (Start of September) ▼
  • TRAI approved 8 companies as Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies under the 'Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024'.
  • The registration was granted on August 27, 2025, and is valid for five years, starting from 27 August 2025.
  • All agencies must follow the guidelines mentioned in TRAI’s 'Manual for Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity' released on August 13, 2025.
  • The approved Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies include M/s Ardom Towergen Private Limited, M/s Crest Digitel Private Limited, M/s CTL Infocom Private Limited, M/s ESTEX Telecom Private Limited, M/s Frog Cellsat Limited, M/s Phistream Consulting Private Limited, M/s Shaurrya Teleservices Private Limited, and M/s TUV SUD South Asia Private Limited.
Army, Bharti Airtel ink pact to strengthen telecom infra in Arunachal districts (End of August) ▼
  • The Indian Army's Dao Division and Bharti Airtel signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
  • The MoU aims to enhance mobile communication infrastructure in the forward areas of Arunachal Pradesh's Dibang Valley and Anjaw districts.
  • The initiative will improve cellular network coverage and ensure reliable communication facilities.
  • The partnership will benefit both the locals and deployed troops.
  • The agreement marks a major step in bridging the digital divide in these strategically important yet geographically remote regions.
  • The partnership will also support various facets of development like education, healthcare, e-governance and entrepreneurship in the frontier district.
  • Officials from Bharti Airtel highlighted their commitment to expanding tele-connectivity to the remotest corners of the country, aligning with the vision of Digital India.

Headline: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya to Lead Indian Delegation to Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha

Bullet Points:

  • The Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD-2) will be held in Doha, Qatar.
  • The summit is scheduled from 4–6 November 2025.
  • Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, will lead the Indian delegation.
  • World leaders will adopt the Doha Political Declaration during the summit.
  • A side event hosted by NITI Aayog on “Pathways Out of Poverty: India’s Experience in Empowering the Last Mile” is scheduled for 5 November 2025.
  • The NITI Aayog side event will feature interventions from international partners, including Brazil, Maldives, and the ILO.
  • The Union Minister will participate in the ILO-sponsored Ministerial Event on the Global Coalition for Social Justice.
  • Bilateral meetings are planned with Ministers from Qatar, Romania, Mauritius, and the European Union, as well as with the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and senior UN officials.
  • The Minister will attend an event on the National Career Service (NCS) Portal, jointly organised by the Ministry of Labour & Employment and the Indian Business and Professionals Council (IBPC).

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India-UAE Knowledge Diplomacy: IIM-A Dubai Campus & IIT-D Abu Dhabi AIC Inaugurated (Mid of September) ▼
  • IIM Ahmedabad Dubai campus inaugurated by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, described as "another big leap towards globalisation of India’s education"
  • First-ever overseas Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) inaugurated at IIT Delhi Abu Dhabi campus to nurture Indo-UAE start-ups in deep tech, AI, clean energy, healthcare
  • Bilateral meeting between Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and UAE Acting Minister of Higher Education Dr Abdulrahman Abdulmannan Al Awar agreed to deepen cooperation in knowledge, innovation and scientific research
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan visits UAE to strengthen India-UAE educational collaboration (Mid of September) ▼
  • Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister for Education, is on an official two-day visit to the UAE to bolster bilateral cooperation in education.
  • He will inaugurate the Atal Incubation Centre at the IIT Delhi-Abu Dhabi Campus, the first foreign centre of its kind.
  • Pradhan is scheduled to launch PhD and B.Tech programmes and interact with students and faculty during the visit.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh Felicitates Indian Team at 18th IESO (Start of September) ▼
  • Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has felicitated the student winners in New Delhi, comprising the Indian team at the 18th International Earth Science Olympiad IESO-2025.
  • Team India put up a stellar performance by securing a total of seven medals including one Gold, 4 Silver and 2 Bronze, along with a 3rd Prize in the International Geoscience Youth Movement Reporter category.
  • The 18th International Earth Science Olympiad IESO-2025 was held at Jining in China last month.

Headline: FAO flags human-driven land degradation imperilling crop yields for 1.7 billion people

Bullet Points:

  • 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.

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Eucalyptus monoculture promoted by paper mills threatens traditional ‘dongar’ mixed-cropping system in Rayagada, Odisha (Start of September) ▼
  • Traditional farming system: The Kondh tribal community in Rayagada district practises ‘dongar’ cultivation—an upland mixed-cropping system on hill slopes that grows millets, pulses and oilseeds together.
  • Threatening monoculture: Outsiders linked to paper mills, especially from southern states, are encouraging eucalyptus monoculture by leasing land; eucalyptus now covers lowlands, midlands and uplands.
  • Environmental impact: Eucalyptus plantations reduce uncultivated foods like tubers, drive birds away, cause soil infertility and water shortage, and compromise food sovereignty.
  • Economic terms: Farmers receive only Rs 3,000 per acre (sometimes Rs 1,500–Rs 2,000) when they lease land for eucalyptus, while buy-back agreements provide seedlings and fertilisers.
  • Conservation effort: Non-profit Living Farms is working in about 200 villages with Talia and Kutia Kondhs to revive dongar cultivation, promote seed conservation, and raise awareness of its climate resilience.
Agriculture Contributes 15–20% to India’s Economy: Scientific Advisor Ajay Kumar Sood (Start of September) ▼
  • Agriculture contributes 15 to 20 per cent to India’s economic output.
  • Agriculture supports almost 60 per cent of the workforce and sustains millions of livelihoods.
  • ICAR will introduce a National Plant Health Mission in the coming months to address crop losses.
Government to Conduct All-India Debt and Investment Survey & Situation Assessment Survey of Agricultural Households from July 2026 (Mid of September) ▼
  • Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI)
  • Survey Period: July 2026 to June 2027
  • All-India Debt and Investment Survey (AIDIS) Objective: Provides “critical” data on household indebtedness and asset ownership across rural and urban areas; findings shape national accounts, assess asset inequality, inform RBI and other policies
  • Situation Assessment Survey (SAS) of Agricultural Households Objective: Assesses economic conditions of farming communities; covers farm income/expenditure, indebtedness/credit access, land/livestock ownership, crop/livestock production, technology use, and access to government schemes/insurance
  • Stakeholder Use: MoSPI, RBI, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, NITI Aayog, researchers, and financial institutions utilise both survey findings for policy formulation
India rises to 9th spot globally in forest area, retains 3rd position in forest gain: FAO report (End of October) ▼
  • India moved from 10th to 9th rank in total forest area globally and kept 3rd rank in annual forest area gain, according to FAO’s Global Forest Resource Assessment (GFRA) 2025.
  • FAO lists world’s total forest area at 4.14 billion hectares—32 % of land—and notes 54 % of this is in Russia, Brazil, Canada, the United States and China.
  • Between 2015 and 2025, China recorded the highest annual net gain (1.69 million hectares/year), followed by the Russian Federation (9,42,000 ha) and India (1,91,000 ha).
  • Asia is the only region to show a net increase in forest area from 1990 to 2025, led by gains in China and India.
  • Global annual net forest loss fell from 10.7 million hectares in the 1990s to 4.12 million hectares during 2015-2025, with Asia’s expansion helping slow worldwide deforestation.

Headline: ReNew Energy Global Secures $331 Million from ADB for Andhra Pradesh Clean Energy Project

Bullet Points:

  • ReNew Energy Global Plc secured $331 million in debt from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
  • The funding is to support a clean energy project in Andhra Pradesh.
  • The $331 million is part of a $477 million financial package for the Andhra project.
  • The remaining $146 million of the financial package is to be arranged by ADB through other lenders.
  • The project integrates 837 MWp of wind and solar capacity with a 415 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery energy storage system (BESS).
  • The project is designed to deliver 300 MW of peak power and is expected to generate 1,641 GWh of clean energy annually.
  • The $331 million ADB debt package includes up to $291 million in local-currency financing from ADB's ordinary capital resources and up to $40 million from the ADB-administered Leading Asia's Private Infrastructure Fund 2 (LEAP 2).
  • ReNew has a clean energy portfolio of about 18.2 GW.

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PFC signs EUR 150 million loan agreement with German lender KfW for RDSS projects (End of August) ▼
  • PFC signed a loan agreement worth EUR 150 million with German lender KfW.
  • The loan proceeds will be utilised to finance projects under the Government of India's Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
  • The Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme has an outlay of Rs 3,03,758 crore and was launched in 2021.
ADB Approves $125 Million Loan for Assam Urban Sector Development Project (Start of September) ▼
  • The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $125 million loan for the Assam Urban Sector Development Project.
  • The project is expected to benefit an estimated 360,000 residents across six district headquarters and Guwahati.
  • Six new water treatment plants with a combined capacity of 72 million liters per day will be constructed.
  • 800 kilometers of water distribution pipelines will be installed across district headquarters in Barpeta, Bongaigaon, Dhubri, Goalpara, Golaghat, and Nalbari.
  • A real-time monitoring system will be implemented to reduce nonrevenue water losses to below 20%.
SBI secures EUR 100 million Line of Credit from AFD to advance green financing in India (Start of September) ▼
  • State Bank of India (SBI) has signed a Line of Credit agreement of €100 million with Agence Francaise de Developpement (AFD) at its GIFT City branch at Gandhinagar.
  • The funds will be utilised in climate mitigation actions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and climate adaptation measures designed to adjust systems, practices, and infrastructure to minimise damage caused by climate change.
  • The partnership is a strategic step towards SBI's goal of achieving a green portfolio constituting 7.5-10 per cent of its domestic gross advances by 2030.
PFC and JBIC sign Rs 3,500 crore loan pact for clean energy projects in India (End of August) ▼
  • Power Finance Corporation and Japan Bank for International Cooperation have signed a loan agreement worth 60 billion Japanese Yen (around Rs 3,500 crore) to finance clean energy projects in India.
  • The financing is under JBIC's Global Action for Reconciling Economic Growth and Environmental Preservation (GREEN) initiative and is supported through co-financing from Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation and other Japanese banks.
  • A part of the loan will primarily support the establishment of Assam Bio Ethanol Pvt Ltd's second-generation bio-ethanol and chemicals plant in Assam, which utilises bamboo as feedstock.

Headline: CIL and DVC Partner for Rs 21,000 Crore Thermal Power Project Expansion in Jharkhand

Bullet Points:

  • State-owned CIL has entered into a partnership with Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) to expand a thermal power project in Jharkhand at an estimated cost of Rs 21,000 crore.
  • Under the joint venture agreement, the two companies will also explore possibilities of jointly undertaking other thermal power and renewable energy projects.
  • The upcoming coal-fired project at the existing site of DVC's Chandrapura TPS, Jharkhand, will comprise two ultra supercritical units of 800 MW each aggregating to a total installed capacity of 1,600 MW.
  • The estimated project cost is pegged at nearly Rs 21,000 crore and would be on a 50:50 equity sharing basis.
  • The plants are targeted to commence commercial operations by 2031-32, aligning with India's expanding energy demand.
  • Coal for these plants would be sourced from CIL's Jharkhand-based subsidiary, Central Coalfields Ltd.
  • CIL accounts for over 80 per cent of domestic coal production.

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Chhattisgarh's Power Generation Capacity Soars with Significant Investment and Policy Support (Start of September) ▼
  • Chhattisgarh's power generation capacity has grown from 1,400 megawatts in 2000 to 30,000 megawatts now.
  • A new 1,320 MW plant was recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the state.
  • Investment commitments of nearly Rs 3 lakh crore have been secured in the power sector through recently inked memoranda of understanding (MoUs) under the new industrial policy.
  • This investment is expected to enable an additional power generation capacity of 30,000 megawatts in the coming years.
  • The Centre's PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (solar energy scheme) is helping the state rapidly move towards a future of free electricity.
  • A new multi-storey joint headquarters building for Chhattisgarh state power companies will be constructed on an area of 10,017 square meters and will have a capacity to accommodate 1,300 employees.
Oil India and RVUNL form JV for 1.2 GW solar-wind park in Rajasthan (End of September) ▼
  • Joint venture between Oil India Limited (OIL) and Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (RVUNL) to develop 1.2 GW renewable projects—1000 MW solar and 200 MW wind—within RVUNL’s Renewable Energy Park in Rajasthan.
  • OIL’s wholly-owned subsidiary OIL Green Energy Limited (OGEL) will drive the clean-energy portfolio covering renewables, compressed biogas, energy storage and green hydrogen.
  • The JV will supply clean power to Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) and commercial customers, expanding beyond oil & gas into sustainable energy solutions.
  • Agreement signed by Devendra Shringi, Chairman & Managing Director of RVUNL, and Ranjan Goswami, Executive Director (Business Development) of OIL, with senior officials of Rajasthan’s Energy Department and OIL present.
IFC announces $137 million financing to JBM ECOLIFE and GreenCell Mobility for e-bus rollout in India (Mid of September) ▼
  • IFC will provide $100 million to JBM ECOLIFE and $37 million in mezzanine capital to GreenCell Mobility.
  • The investments will deploy 4,000 e-buses and charging stations across 39 municipalities in Maharashtra, Assam, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, and New Delhi.
  • These projects will create 12,000 jobs, including opportunities for women.
  • The projects pioneer the use of a formal Payment Security Mechanism (PSM) to mitigate payment risks associated with municipal and state transport undertakings.
Ujjwala Yojana: Electricity Provision in Fulwariya Hamlet (End of September) ▼
  • Scheme Name: Ujjwala Yojana.
  • Objective/Provision: Over 100 homes will receive power under the Ujjwala Yojana.
  • Target Beneficiaries: Around 550 residents, mostly from the Birhor tribe, of Fulwariya hamlet in Koderma district.
  • Implementing Agency (for electricity supply): The electricity department and JBVNL.

Headline: Digit Insurance Wins Two Major Awards at 29th Asia Insurance Industry Awards 2025

Bullet Points:

  • Go Digit General Insurance Limited (“Digit Insurance”) won two awards at the prestigious 29th Asia Insurance Industry Awards (AIIA) 2025 by Asia Insurance Review, held in Singapore.
  • The company was awarded "Digital Insurer of the Year," and its Managing Director & CEO, Jasleen Kohli, was honored with the "Woman Leader of the Year" award, making her the first Indian woman leader to receive this distinguished recognition.
  • Digit Insurance was the only private Indian insurance company to win an award this year, a testament to its comprehensive excellence across the board.
  • CEO Jasleen Kohli won Woman Leader of the Year for her transformative leadership in steering Digit to its successful public listing.

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Insurance Surety Bonds for NHAI contracts cross ₹10,000 crore (Mid of September) ▼
  • Insurance Surety Bonds (ISB) issued for NHAI contracts have crossed the ₹10,000 crore-mark, reaching about ₹10,369 crore.
  • Twelve insurance companies have issued around 1,600 ISBs as bid security and 207 ISBs as performance security for NHAI contracts.
  • The Ministry of Finance has placed e-BG and Insurance Surety Bonds on par with Bank Guarantees for all government procurements.
IEPFA 9th Foundation Day Round Table on "Claiming the Unclaimed: Unlocking the Potential of Idle Financial Assets in India" (Mid of September) ▼
  • Implementing Authority: Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India.
  • Key Initiatives Highlighted: Integrated Portal for Claims and Refunds, simplification of low-value claims, financial literacy drives Niveshak Didi and Niveshak Shivirs, and upcoming Niveshak Samadhan – Dial Your CEO programme.
  • Panchtattva Vision: Faster refunds, AI-driven solutions, positioning IEPFA as a trust anchor of India’s financial system.
Finance Ministry Issues Notification for 100% FDI in Insurance Sector (Start of September) ▼
  • The finance ministry issued a notification on August 29 paving the way for quick implementation of 100% foreign investment in the insurance sector.
  • The notification pertains to the Indian Insurance Companies (Foreign Investment) Amendment Rules, 2025.
  • These rules seek to replace the existing limit of 74% foreign investment with 'as stipulated by the Insurance Act, 1938'.
  • Foreign investment proposals of the Indian insurance company shall be allowed on the automatic route, subject to verification by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India.
  • In the February budget, the Centre announced that the FDI limit for the insurance sector will be raised from 74% to 100%.
  • The enhanced limit will be only allowed for companies who invest their entire premiums in India.
  • The proposed Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill also has provisions for composite licences and allowing foreigners as key managerial personnel in Indian insurance firms.
  • The Indian insurance sector is projected to grow at 7.1% annually over the next five years.
Global Fintech Awards 2025 announced at Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai (End of October) ▼
  • The sixth edition of Global Fintech Fest 2025 (GFF 2025) was held in Mumbai from October 7-9.
  • The Global Fintech Awards (GFA) 2025 were instituted under GFF 2025 and announced at a gala on October 8 at Jio World Centre, Mumbai.
  • IDFC FIRST Bank won accolades under the Excellence in Banking Tech category for its Green Banking Initiative and Digital Transformation Program of the Year.
  • Yubi was named the Fintech Startup of the Year.
  • Ms. Upasana Taku, Co-founder & CFO, MobiKwik, received the Fintech Person of the Year – Female award.
  • Mr. Yashish Dahiya, Chairman, PB Fintech, received the Fintech Person of the Year – Male award.

Headline: Justice Ashok Bhushan Reappointed as NCLAT Chairperson

Bullet Points:

  • Justice Ashok Bhushan has been reappointed as the Chairperson of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT).
  • The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved his re-appointment.
  • He will hold the office until July 4, 2026.
  • He is a former Judge of the Supreme Court.
  • He assumed charge as the NCLAT Chairperson for his first term in November 2021.

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CEC and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023: Key Provisions (End of August) ▼
  • The CEC and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023 lays down provisions regarding the appointment, tenure, and removal of the CEC.
  • The CEC and election commissioners are appointed by the President of India upon the recommendation from a three-member selection committee comprising the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP), and one member of the Union Cabinet.
  • Those appointed should have previously held secretary-level positions in the Government and be 'persons of integrity, who have knowledge of and experience in management and conduct of elections,' according to the 2023 Act.
  • The appointments are made for a tenure of six years or until the age of 65 years, whichever comes first.
  • The CEC enjoys the same services and monetary benefits that are extended to justices of the Supreme Court.
  • The CEC can be removed from office only 'in like manner and on the like grounds as a Judge of the Supreme Court,' a framing also found in Section 11(2) of the 2023 Act.
  • Removal can only be 'on the ground of proved misbehavior or incapacity.'
  • To initiate the removal of the CEC, members of both houses must bring a notice of motion explicitly alleging misbehaviour or incapacity.
  • The motion for removal then needs to be passed by a two-thirds majority 'present and voting' in both the houses of Parliament.
  • Upon successful passage in the House, the President orders the removal of the CEC.
Indranil Bhattacharya approved as ex-officio member of RBI Monetary Policy Committee (End of August) ▼
  • Indranil Bhattacharya has been approved by the RBI Central Board as an ex-officio member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).
  • He was appointed Executive Director of RBI's Monetary Policy Department on March 19, 2025.
  • He replaces Rajiv Ranjan, who has been shifted to lead the Department of Economic & Policy Research.
Justices Alok Aradhe and Vipul Pancholi appointed as Supreme Court judges (End of August) ▼
  • Justice Alok Aradhe, Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, appointed as a Supreme Court judge.
  • Justice Vipul Pancholi, Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, appointed as a Supreme Court judge.
  • Appointments made two days after the Supreme Court Collegium recommended their names.
  • Justice Pancholi originally belongs to the Gujarat High Court.
  • Justice Nagarathna dissented over Justice Pancholi’s elevation, citing his 2023 transfer from Gujarat HC to Patna HC.
  • Two consultee Supreme Court judges—Justices K Vinod Chandran and Ahsanuddin Amanullah—gave “positive remarks” on Justice Pancholi’s elevation.
  • Justice Pancholi will likely become the CJI on October 3, 2031, for an 18-month term ending May 27, 2033.
R Gandhi re-appointed as part-time Chairman of Yes Bank till May 2027 (Start of September) ▼
  • Person's Full Name and Position: "Rama Subramaniam Gandhi as part-time Chairman of the bank"
  • Organization: "Yes Bank"
  • Tenure Details: "for a further period from September 20, 2025, to May 13, 2027"
  • Previous Role: "served as the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India for three years from 2014 to 2017"
  • Additional Experience: "had a three-year secondment to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)"
  • Approval Authority: "The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), through its letter dated September 1, 2025, has approved the re-appointment"

Headline: International Day of Radiology observed on November 8: #IDoR2025 highlights radiology’s role in safe patient care

Bullet Points:

  • The 14th International Day of Radiology (IDoR 2025) is celebrated worldwide on November 8.
  • The day aims to enhance awareness of the value radiology contributes to safe patient care and to improve public understanding of the vital role radiologists and radiographers play in the healthcare continuum.
  • Participants are encouraged to share IDoR 2025 activities by emailing photos to IDoR@myesr.org or posting on social media using the hashtag #IDoR2025.

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World Radiography Day 2025: History, Advancements, and Health Impact of Medical Imaging (Start of November) ▼
  • Professor Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered X-rays on November 8, 1895, at the University of Wuerzburg in Germany.
  • Roentgen noticed a mysterious glow that could pass through solid objects and illuminate photographic plates, an observation that would revolutionise science and medicine.
  • Radiographers operate complex imaging equipment, using advanced technologies such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds to visualise internal body structures.
  • The development of hybrid imaging technologies, including PET/CT, PET/MRI, and SPECT/CT, merges anatomical and functional imaging for simultaneous visualisation of structure and biological activity.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) has introduced algorithms that analyse images, enhancing image quality, detecting early disease patterns, and assisting doctors in making faster, more accurate diagnoses.
  • Explainable AI (XAI) models in medical imaging provide transparency by showing clinicians how decisions are made, making AI use safer and more trustworthy.
  • Diagnostic tools such as X-rays and CT scans use ionising radiation, which in high doses or over prolonged exposure, can potentially increase the risk of developing cancer, genetic mutations, and thyroid-related disorders.
  • Modern imaging systems use significantly lower doses of radiation while maintaining high-quality imaging standards, with radiographers and radiologists following strict safety guidelines for patient protection.
International Days and Abbreviation from African Scientists Directory (Mid of September) ▼
  • The International Day for Interventional Cardiology is scheduled for 16 September 2025.
  • The UNESCO Management of Social Transformations Forum is scheduled for 22 September 2025.
  • ASSAf is the abbreviation for the Academy of Science of South Africa.
World Photography Day: Theme, Date, and Photography Milestones (Mid of August) ▼
  • World Photography Day 2025 will have the theme “My Favorite Photo” and the Stories Behind Every Frame.
  • World Photography Day is celebrated on August 19.
  • The French government announced Louis Daguerre’s patent as a “gift to the world” on August 19, 1839.
  • Professional photographer Korske Ara formed World Photography Day in 2010.
  • Joseph Nicéphore Niépce is famous for taking the first non-perishable photograph in the world in 1825.
  • Louis Daguerre made the first picture of the world by his revolutionary method, the daguerreotype process, in 1839.
  • Sir John Herschel, a British scientist, coined the expression “photography” in 1839.
  • World Photography Week is observed from August 12-26.
Global Scientific Community Celebrates World Science Day 2025 Focusing on Peace, Development, and Future Science (Mid of November) ▼
  • World Science Day for Peace and Development is celebrated each year on 10 November.
  • The idea for the Day was born at the 1999 World Conference on Science in Budapest, co-organized by UNESCO and the International Science Council’s predecessor, the International Council for Science (ICSU).
  • UNESCO officially proclaimed the Day in 2001.
  • This year’s theme for the celebrations was “Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for 2050”.
  • Over 70 events led by ISC Members and partners celebrated World Science Day for Peace and Development 2025 across the world, from Argentina to Tanzania, and from Slovakia to India.
  • In Uganda, the Society for the Advancement of Science in Africa engaged students and early-career researchers through “Empowering Youth for Climate Action,” promoting dialogue on sustainability and local innovation.
  • The International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development led the online event “Science in Action: Grassroots Development with the Stars,” highlighting how astronomy contributes to education and community development.

Headline: World Urbanism Day observed annually on November 8th

Bullet Points:

  • World Urbanism Day is celebrated annually on November 8th.
  • It is also known as “World Town Planning Day”.
  • The day was instigated by The international organisation for World Urbanism.
  • The International Organisation for World Urbanism was founded in 1949.
  • The International Organisation for World Urbanism was founded by the late Professor Carlos Maria della Paolera of the University of Buenos Aires.
  • The day is a special day to recognise and promote the role of planning in creating livable communities.
  • It appeals to the conscience of citizens and public authorities in order to draw attention to the environmental impact resulting from the development of cities and territories.
  • World Urbanism Day is celebrated in more than 30 countries on four continents.

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Swachhotsav 2025: Key Features of the Swachhata Hi Seva Campaign (Mid of September) ▼
  • Campaign Name: 'Swachhata Hi Seva' 2025, themed 'Swachhotsav', running from September 17 to October 2.
  • Objective: Achieve 100 percent waste clearance across villages, cities, and peri-urban areas with focus on legacy waste dumpsites.
  • Implementing Ministries: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Global Leaders to Gather for 17th GRIHA Summit on Climate Resilience in New Delhi (Start of November) ▼
  • Global leaders are set to gather in New Delhi for the 17th GRIHA Summit, themed 'Innovate to Act for a Climate Resilient World'.
  • The summit aims to drive scalable climate solutions for India's built environment.
  • Organised by the GRIHA Council, the event will feature over 50 eminent speakers across four plenary and four technical sessions, along with three innovation-driven exhibition pavilions.
  • Discussions will focus on policy frameworks, technology advancements, market mechanisms, and partnerships to strengthen the resilience of cities, infrastructure, and communities.
  • The Nirmaan Exhibition will showcase cutting-edge sustainable technologies and products, including a Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) facade demonstration.
  • A new publication, 'GRIHA Infrastructure Rating for Metro Stations,' developed in collaboration with BMRCL, will be launched to assess the environmental performance of metro stations nationwide.
  • GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) is India's indigenous green building rating system, jointly developed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).
  • GRIHA is recognized by the Government of India under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the UNFCCC and provides a comprehensive framework to evaluate and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from habitats.
World Cities Day 2025 observed on 31 October: Theme "People-Centered Smart Cities" (Start of November) ▼
  • World Cities Day is observed annually on 31 October and was established through UN General Assembly Resolution 68/239.
  • The 2025 theme is "People-Centered Smart Cities," emphasizing human needs and wellbeing at the core of urban innovation.
  • The day aims to promote global awareness of urbanization and foster international cooperation in advancing sustainable urban development.
Urban Challenge Fund: Objectives, Structure, and Financial Details (End of August) ▼
  • The Urban Challenge Fund was announced in the Union Budget 2025.
  • It is designed as a transformative policy tool to incentivise performance-driven urban development.
  • The fund is structured around a challenge-based model, encouraging cities to meet specific reform benchmarks and qualify for financial support through co-financing mechanisms.
  • The total fund size is Rs 1 lakh crore.
  • It will support three critical areas: Transforming Cities into Growth Hubs, Creative Redevelopment and Urban Regeneration, and Water Supply and Sanitation Infrastructure.
  • The fund will finance up to 25% of the project cost, with the remainder to be mobilized—at least 50%—through bonds, bank loans, or PPP models.
  • For FY 2025–26, an initial allocation of Rs 10,000 crore has been proposed.
  • The fund is to be implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
  • Crucially, participation should be limited to cities with a positive operating surplus, calculated as own revenue minus revenue expenditure (excluding grants), to ensure only creditworthy and investment-ready cities are selected.
  • Eligibility criteria may prioritize cities with proven reform track records, such as successful implementation of 15th Finance Commission recommendations, high performance in MoHUA missions, and strong municipal financial rankings.
  • The guidelines should promote a level playing field through a phased milestone-based structure, encompassing thematic areas, and categorising states into general, northeastern, and union territory groupings to ensure equitable access.