← Back
Sunday, Nov 16

Daily Current Affairs: 16 November 2025

Your consolidated report for 16 November 2025

Headline: Doug McMillon to retire as Walmart CEO; John Furner named successor

Bullet Points:

  • Doug McMillon will step down as Walmart CEO on Jan. 31 and remain on the board until the annual shareholders' meeting.
  • John Furner, president and CEO of Walmart U.S. since 2019, will become CEO on Feb. 1.
  • McMillon started at Walmart in 1984 as an hourly warehouse associate and has been CEO since 2014.

Similar Headlines

Dell Technologies CFO Transition: Yvonne McGill Steps Down, David Kennedy Named Interim CFO (Start of September) ▼
  • Dell Technologies reaffirms its previously provided guidance for fiscal 2026 Q3 and full year.
  • Yvonne McGill will step down as CFO effective Sept. 9, 2025, after nearly 30 years at Dell.
  • David Kennedy, senior vice president of Dell Global Business Operations, Finance, will serve as interim CFO effective Sept. 9, 2025.
Intel announces leadership overhaul: Holthaus exits, Iyengar, Kechichian, Chandrasekaran, Johnson elevated (Start of September) ▼
  • Michelle Johnston Holthaus exits role as Intel products chief.
  • Srinivasan Iyengar appointed to lead newly created central engineering group and build a custom silicon business.
  • Kevork Kechichian named executive vice president and general manager of Intel’s data center group; joins from Arm where he led the shift from IP licensing to full-stack solutions.
  • Naga Chandrasekaran expands role to include oversight of Intel Foundry Services in addition to Intel Foundry.
  • Jim Johnson appointed senior vice president and general manager of Intel’s client computing group.
Abhishek Maheshwari appointed as MD & CEO of International Asset Reconstruction Company (Mid of September) ▼
  • Abhishek Maheshwari appointed as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of International Asset Reconstruction Company (IARC).
  • IARC, founded in 2002 under India’s SARFAESI Act, is a leading asset reconstruction company with offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.
  • Maheshwari brings over two decades of expertise in distressed debt management, debt collections, and recovery practices across global markets.
Rakshit Hargave appointed MD & CEO of Britannia Industries as Varun Berry resigns (Mid of November) ▼
  • Varun Berry resigned as vice-chairman, managing director and chief executive officer of Britannia Industries; the board accepted his resignation on November 10, 2025.
  • Rakshit Hargave will take over as managing director and chief executive officer from December 15, 2025.
  • N. Venkataraman, executive director and chief financial officer, will serve as interim CEO until Hargave’s appointment.
  • Hargave previously served as CEO of Birla Opus, the paints business of Grasim Industries (Aditya Birla Group).

Headline: RBI Announces Moratorium on Export Credit from Sep 1 to Dec 31, 2025

Bullet Points:

  • Borrowers with export credit facility classified as standard as on August 31, 2025 are eligible for a moratorium on all repayments from September 1, 2025 till December 31, 2025.
  • Interest accrued during the moratorium will be converted into a funded interest term loan repayable after March 31, 2026 but not later than September 30, 2026.
  • Pre-shipment or post-shipment credit disbursed till March 31, 2026 can be repaid within an extended credit period of 450 days.
  • Banks extending these reliefs must provision 5% of the total outstanding amount of such loans.

Similar Headlines

Committee Formed to Review RoDTEP and RoSCTL Export Tax Refund Schemes (End of October) ▼
  • The government has constituted a committee to review the rates of tax refund under the export schemes – Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) and Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL).
  • Both these schemes are set to expire by the end of this financial year, and the committee has been given time till March 31, 2026 to submit its main report.
  • The panel is headed by former secretary Neeraj Kumar Gupta, with SR Baruah and Vivek Ranjan as the other two members.
  • RoDTEP scheme was introduced in January 2021 as a replacement of Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), covering exports of 10,642 products and providing refunds of taxes ranging from 0.3% to 4.3%.
  • RoSCTL was also introduced in 2021 for textiles and garment exporters, with a maximum rate of refund for apparel at 6.05% and for made-ups up to 8.2%.
  • The committee will work out the modalities for calculation of duties, taxes, levies and recommend the ceiling rates under RoSCTL and RoDTEP schemes for exports from domestic tariff areas, special economic zones, and advance authorisation holders.
Export Promotion Mission (EPM) and Credit Guarantee Scheme for Exporters (CGSE): Key Features and Objectives (Mid of November) ▼
  • Scheme Name: Export Promotion Mission (EPM) with two sub-schemes—Niryat Protsahan (finance) and Niryat Disha (non-finance enablers); implementing agency: Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
  • Objective: Strengthen India’s export competitiveness, sustain export orders, protect jobs, and support diversification into new geographies, especially for MSMEs, first-time exporters, and labour-intensive sectors like textiles, leather, gems & jewellery, engineering goods, and marine products.
  • Financial Outlay: Total approval of Rs 45,060 crore—Rs 25,060 crore for EPM (FY 2025-26 to FY 2030-31) and Rs 20,000 crore for expanding the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Exporters (CGSE).
  • CGSE Feature: 100% credit guarantee coverage by NCGTC to Member Lending Institutions for extending additional collateral-free credit up to Rs 20,000 crore to eligible exporters including MSMEs.
RBI rolls out 10-point support package to shield Indian economy from US tariff shock (End of August) ▼
  • Nearly 55% of India’s $86 billion exports to the US are expected to be impacted by the new tariffs.
  • The RBI has already reduced the repo rate by 100 basis points this year.
  • Priority assistance will be given to the most exposed sectors—gems and jewellery, textiles, auto components, shrimps and MSMEs—in terms of credit access and liquidity relief.
  • The RBI is holding direct consultations with exporters this week to assess ground-level challenges.
  • Existing local-currency trade settlement agreements cover the Maldives, Mauritius, Indonesia and the UAE, with more partnerships planned to reduce dollar dependence.
  • The central bank is prepared to deploy Open Market Operations or Operation Twist if bond yields rise sharply.
Updates on Indian Financial Regulations and Policies (Mid of November) ▼
  • RBI’s seventh amendment to FEMA Regulations on Foreign Currency Accounts: Strengthening IFSC integration and export flexibility
  • Evolving jurisprudence in IBC: Analysis of Supreme Court’s review judgment in Bhushan Power and Steel resolution process
  • SEBI’s Adani order: Due process and the boundaries of retrospective law
  • Subsidized rate of GST for plant-based milk beverages: A dispute in the brewing
  • The clean slate doctrine under IBC: Extinguishing claims and ensuring certainty in insolvency resolution

Headline: RBI Data: Bank Credit Growth Slows to 11.3%, Deposit Growth Rises to 9.7% in October

Bullet Points:

  • Banks' annual credit growth at the end of October 31 stood at 11.3% while deposits grew 9.7%, Reserve Bank of India data showed.
  • The gap between credit and deposit growth prints narrowed to 160 basis points at the end of October 31 as compared with the 200 basis points seen on October 17.
  • Exactly a year back, the gap in credit and deposit growth was merely 10 basis points with credit expanded 11.8% while deposit grew at 11.7% year-on-year.
  • Demand deposits rose 21% year-on-year to Rs 31 lakh crore against 17% rise seen a fortnight back.
  • The time deposits, which are known as fixed deposits, grew 8.3% to Rs 211 lakh crore.

Similar Headlines

India’s IIP Growth at 4% in September 2025; Manufacturing Up 4.8%, Mining Slips 0.4% (End of October) ▼
  • India’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grew 4 percent in September 2025, unchanged from the revised August 2025 figure of 4.1 percent.
  • Manufacturing output rose 4.8 percent in September 2025, up from 4 percent in September 2024.
  • Mining activity contracted 0.4 percent in September 2025 versus a 0.2 percent rise in September 2024.
  • Electricity generation increased 3.1 percent in September 2025, compared with 0.5 percent in September 2024.
  • For April–September FY26, overall industrial production grew 3 percent, lower than the 4.1 percent recorded in the same period of FY25.
  • Growth across India’s eight core industries slowed to 3 percent in September 2025 from 6.5 percent in August 2025.
  • Steel production surged 14.1 percent and cement output rose 5.3 percent in September 2025.
  • Refinery output declined 3.7 percent, natural gas production fell 3.8 percent, and crude oil dropped 1.3 percent in September 2025.
RBI Penalizes Three Cooperative Banks for Regulatory Non-Compliance (Mid of November) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed monetary penalties on three cooperative banks for non-compliance with various regulatory norms.
  • By orders dated November 6, 2025, the RBI imposed a penalty of Rs 2 lakh on The Mumbai District Central Co-operative Bank Ltd., Maharashtra, for contravention of Section 20 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
  • The Karaikudi Co-operative Town Bank Ltd., Tamil Nadu, faced a penalty of Rs 1.5 lakh for non-compliance with RBI directions on ‘Prudential Norms on Capital Adequacy – Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks (UCBs)’ and ‘Know Your Customer (KYC)’ guidelines.
  • The District Co-operative Central Bank Ltd., Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, was fined Rs 50,000 for violations related to KYC norms.
  • The penalty on the District Co-operative Central Bank Ltd., Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, was imposed under Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
India Plans World-Class Banks: FM & RBI Outline Merger & Regulatory Easing Steps (Start of November) ▼
  • The government reduced the number of public sector banks from 27 in 2017 to 12 by 2020 through mergers.
  • RBI has removed restrictions on bank financing of acquisitions to stimulate private investment.
  • RBI has raised the caps on loans against IPO subscriptions to promote market participation.

Headline: Radhakrishnan Opens 30th CII Summit, Highlights Andhra’s Growth and India’s Rise

Bullet Points:

  • Vice-President of India Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the 30th Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Partnership Summit in Visakhapatnam.
  • The summit is co-hosted by CII, DPIIT under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Government of Andhra Pradesh.
  • Shri Radhakrishnan declared that uplifting millions from poverty through sustained economic activity remains Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s most historic achievement.
  • India is now the world’s fourth-largest economy and the fastest-growing major economy.
  • Andhra Pradesh is fast becoming India’s industrial engine, supported by progressive infrastructure development, logistics efficiency, and investor confidence.
  • The summit theme is “Technology, Trust and Trade: Navigating the New Geoeconomic Order.”
  • The event features 45 dedicated business and policy sessions, 72 international speakers, delegates from 45 countries, and over 300 overseas participants.
  • India is the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world and aims to lead in clean technology exports, especially in green hydrogen, electric mobility, and renewable energy.
  • Visakhapatnam is predicted to emerge as a paradise for investment and innovation in the coming years.
  • India’s foreign policy approach is guided by Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family.

Similar Headlines

C.P. Radhakrishnan elected as 15th Vice President of India (Start of September) ▼
  • C.P. Radhakrishnan elected as 15th Vice President of India with 452 votes.
  • Defeated INDIA bloc nominee Justice B Sudershan Reddy by 152-vote margin.
  • Previously served as Governor of Maharashtra and two-time Lok Sabha MP from Coimbatore.
Payments Council of India Elects Office Bearers for 2025-27 Term (End of August) ▼
  • Vishwas Patel, Joint MD, Infibeam Avenues Ltd, was re-appointed as the chairperson of the Payments Council of India (PCI).
  • M N Srinivasu, Director, BillDesk, was appointed as a co-chairperson of the PCI.
  • Nalin Bansal, Chief of Corporate Fintech Relationships & Key Initiatives, NPCI, was appointed as a co-chairperson of the PCI.
  • Their term in office will be 2025-27.
India to host International Fleet Review 2026, Exercise MILAN 2026, and IONS Conclave of Chiefs in Visakhapatnam (Start of November) ▼
  • India will host three major international maritime events in Visakhapatnam from 15 to 25 February 2026: International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, Exercise MILAN 2026, and Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs.
  • The events realize Prime Minister Narendra Modi's MAHASAGAR vision (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), extending India's SAGAR philosophy.
  • Invitations have been extended to navies from across the globe to participate in the historic gathering at Visakhapatnam, India's eastern maritime gateway and home to the Eastern Naval Command.
  • The Presidential Fleet Review at Sea will showcase indigenous platforms including INS Vikrant (India's first domestically built aircraft carrier), Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, Nilgiri-class stealth frigates, and Arnala-class anti-submarine warfare corvettes.
  • Exercise MILAN's Sea and Harbour Phases will focus on interoperability, maritime domain awareness, anti-submarine warfare, air defence, and search-and-rescue operations.
  • The Indian Navy will assume the Chairmanship of IONS for the second time during 2025-2027, bringing together naval chiefs from 25 member nations, nine observers, and specially invited nations.
C-DOT and IIT-Gandhinagar sign MoU to establish Centre of Excellence for next-gen telecom innovation (Mid of November) ▼
  • Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar (IIT-GN) signed an MoU to set up a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for telecom and cybersecurity research
  • The CoE will focus on Mobile Communications, Cyber Security, Quantum Communication, Advanced AI, and Advanced Telecom Applications
  • The centre will enable collaboration between IIT Gandhinagar students, faculty, researchers and C-DOT researchers in Telecom and ICT domain
  • It will support incubation, mentoring, and collaboration with startups, industries, and academia to foster innovation and entrepreneurship
  • The initiative aligns with national missions for telecom, semiconductor, and digital transformation to create an industry-ready workforce

Headline: India rises to 6th largest global patent filer with over 64,000 patents

Bullet Points:

  • India filed over 64,000 patents, with more than 55% filed by resident Indian innovators
  • Country climbed from 81st to 38th rank in the Global Innovation Index
  • Key national milestones cited: Chandrayaan-3, world’s first DNA vaccine, and indigenous antibiotics
  • Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh emphasized entrepreneurship, start-ups, skilling, and applied sciences as new opportunity drivers
  • Government provides accessible funding, mentorship, and skill development pathways even for those without advanced degrees

Similar Headlines

India Leads Global Patent Filings in 2023 Amid Innovation Boom (Mid of August) ▼
  • Indian-origin patent filings surpassing those from any foreign country in 2023.
  • Indian applicants accounted for 57% of total patents, a sharp rise from less than 20% in the early 2000s.
  • Policies like the National IPR Policy and Atal Innovation Mission, along with reforms such as faster patent examinations, reduced fees for startups and educational institutions, and full digitalisation, have made patenting simpler and more accessible.
  • Computer science patents grew from 1.27% in 2000 to 26.5% in 2023, while biomedical and electrical engineering patents also saw sharp rises, reflecting India’s growing strength in cutting-edge research.
  • Patent approvals, once taking 8–10 years, are now processed in 2–3 years, with some granted in the same year.
  • Unlike the past when companies dominated filings, today individuals and educational institutions lead with over 70% of total patents.
  • Programmes like KAPILA have boosted awareness and entrepreneurship in academia, cementing India’s place in the global IP ecosystem.
India’s AI investment crosses ₹1.67 lakh crore ($20 billion), overtaking France, Japan and South Korea (End of October) ▼
  • Total AI-related investments in India have crossed ₹1.67 lakh crore ($20 billion) according to MeitY data
  • Private-sector AI investment in India between 2013-2024 reached ₹92,000 crore; total funding including public sector exceeded ₹1.02 lakh crore
  • Google announced a ₹1.25 lakh crore AI data hub in Visakhapatnam — its largest outside the United States
  • AWS committed ₹1.06 lakh crore in India by 2030 to expand cloud and AI computing infrastructure
  • Indian AI startups have attracted ₹44,000 crore in funding as of October 2025, with ₹19,600 crore going to generative AI ventures
India's Ranking in Global Innovation Index 2025 (Mid of September) ▼
  • India rose to the 38th position among 139 economies in the World Intellectual Property Organization's Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025.
  • This marks a substantial advancement from India's 81st position in 2015.
  • Switzerland tops the GII 2025 ranking.
  • The GII 2025 evaluates the innovation performance of nearly 140 economies.
  • The evaluation uses approximately 80 indicators, including R&D spending, venture capital deals, high-tech exports, and intellectual property filings.
IIT-Madras and Guidance Tamil Nadu launch 'INNOVATION-TN' start-up and innovation dashboard (Mid of September) ▼
  • IIT Madras and Guidance Tamil Nadu partnered to develop a state-level dashboard for start-ups and innovation, called ‘INNOVATION-TN’.
  • The platform seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the start-up ecosystem of Tamil Nadu and showcases its innovation prowess to stakeholders including investors, industries, financial institutions, and start-up founders.
  • This initiative is highlighted as the first of its kind in India.
  • INNOVATION-TN was conceptualized by the Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing (CREST) at IIT Madras, along with IIT Madras-incubated start-up YNOS Venture Engine.
  • IIT Madras would provide the academic oversight and research inputs to ensure the robustness, reliability and relevance of the Innovation Dashboard.
  • Guidance Tamil Nadu would promote long-term strategic engagement between academic and industry and provide institutional support, visibility, and alignment with the state’s innovation priorities.
  • As of August 2025, Tamil Nadu has close to 19,000 start-ups, which have created more than 2.2 lakh jobs and attracted investment exceeding Rs 1,20,000 crores.
  • The state also has 228 active incubators and start-up enabling organizations, which is the largest number for any state in the country.

Headline: WPI and CPI Inflation Fall to Historic Lows in October; RBI Holds Policy Rate

Bullet Points:

  • Wholesale inflation turned negative in October, dropping to minus 1.21 percent.
  • The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) had inched up 0.13% in September and stood at 2.75% a year earlier.
  • Food inflation saw the steepest fall, with overall deflation widening to 8.31% from 5.22% in September.
  • Vegetable prices fell 34.97% in October compared with 24.41% in September, while pulses saw deflation of 16.50%.
  • Manufactured product inflation eased to 1.54% from 2.33% in the previous month.
  • Fuel and power remained in deflation for the seventh consecutive month at (-)2.55%, marginally lower than September’s (-)2.58%.
  • Retail inflation data released last week showed consumer price index (CPI) inflation dropping to a historic low of 0.25% in October, compared with 1.44% in September.
  • The Reserve Bank of India held its policy rate steady at 5.5% in its last review.
  • The slide in wholesale inflation comes soon after the September 22 reduction in Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates, which brought the four-tier tax structure down to two slabs — 5% and 18% — for several mass-consumption goods.

Similar Headlines

WPI Inflation in Negative Zone for Second Straight Month in July (Mid of August) ▼
  • India’s wholesale price index (WPI)-based inflation stood in the negative zone at 0.58 per cent in July on an annual basis.
  • This marks the second straight month of wholesale deflation.
  • The annual rate of inflation based on the WPI food index stood in negative territory at 2.15 per cent.
  • Deflation deepened in primary articles at 4.95 per cent.
  • The fuel and power segment registered deflation of 2.43 per cent.
  • Inflation in manufactured products increased to 2.05 per cent.
  • Retail inflation slipped to an eight-year low of 1.55 percent in July.
Retail Inflation Rises to 2.07% in August on Firmer Food Prices: NSO Data (Mid of September) ▼
  • Retail inflation, based on the Consumer Price Index (Combined), rose to 2.07 per cent in August from an upward-revised 1.61 per cent in July, according to data released by the National Statistics Office.
  • Food inflation, measured by the Consumer Food Price Index, was (-)0.69 per cent in August compared with (-)1.76 per cent in July.
  • Tomato price inflation turned positive at 16.9 per cent year-on-year in August after seven months of negative prints.
  • Inflation for edible oils such as mustard oil increased to 24.18 per cent in August from 19.92 per cent in July.
  • Core inflation (excluding food and fuel) remained steady at 4.11 per cent in August, while core-core inflation (excluding gold, silver and fuel) moderated to 3.1 per cent.
  • Gold inflation stood at 40.27 per cent in August versus 36 per cent in July, adding upward pressure to core inflation.
India's Services and Composite PMI Reach Multi-Year Highs in August Amid Rising Inflation (Start of September) ▼
  • The HSBC India Services Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose from 60.5 in July to 62.9 in August.
  • This marks the strongest level for the Services PMI since mid-2010.
  • India’s services sector recorded its sharpest expansion in more than 15 years in August.
  • The Composite PMI, which includes both manufacturing and services, jumped to a 17-year high of 63.2 in August.
  • Inflation in selling charges reached its steepest level in over 13 years, taking the overall rate of inflation to a nine-month high.

Headline: India-France conduct 8th Garuda 25 air exercise at Mont-de-Marsan

Bullet Points:

  • Exercise: Garuda 25 (8th edition) with Indian Air Force and French Air and Space Force
  • Location: Mont-de-Marsan, France
  • IAF assets: Su-30MKI fighters, C-17 Globemaster III, IL-78 refuellers
  • Focus: air-to-air engagements, air-defence missions, coordinated strike operations

Similar Headlines

India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise 'MITRA SHAKTI-2025' Begins in Belagavi (Mid of November) ▼
  • Eleventh edition of Joint Military exercise “Exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2025”
  • between India and Sri Lanka
  • commenced on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Foreign Training Node, Belagavi, Karnataka.
  • The exercise will be held till November 23.
  • The Indian contingent of 170 personnel is represented mainly by troops from the Rajput Regiment, while the Sri Lankan contingent of 135 personnel comprises troops primarily from the Gajaba Regiment.
  • The aim of the exercise is to jointly rehearse the conduct of sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations mandate, with a focus on enhancing interoperability in counter-terrorist operations.
  • The exercise integrates the employment of drones, counter-unmanned aerial systems and helicopters.
India-Sri Lanka conduct 11th 'Mitra Shakti' joint military exercise in Belagavi, Karnataka (Mid of November) ▼
  • Exercise Name: Mitra Shakti (11th edition)
  • Location: Belagavi, Karnataka
  • Participating Forces: Indian Army (170 personnel, mainly Rajput Regiment), Indian Air Force (20 personnel); Sri Lankan Army (135 personnel, Gajaba Regiment), Sri Lankan Air Force (10 personnel)
  • Key Focus: Enhancing interoperability and joint responses during counter-terrorist operations
  • Activities: Raid, search and destroy missions, heliborne operations, employment of drones, counter unmanned aerial systems, and helicopters
India to participate in 'Exercise Bright Star 2025' in Egypt (End of August) ▼
  • India will send over 700 soldiers to participate in 'Exercise Bright Star 2025'.
  • Egypt is holding its biennial multilateral exercise 'Exercise Bright Star'.
  • The exercise will be held August 28 to September 10, 2025.
  • The exercise has been held with the United States since 1980 and is one of the largest Tri-Service multilateral exercises in the region.
  • The 2025 edition will feature Live Firing by the three Services, Command Post Exercise, Short Training Exercises, and Subject Matter Expert Interactions.
  • The Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force will participate.
Indian Armed Forces depart for Zapad 2025 exercise in Russia (Mid of September) ▼
  • Exercise name: Zapad 2025; location: Mulino Training Ground, Nizhniy, Russia
  • Indian contingent: 57 Army (led by Kumaon Regiment battalion), 7 IAF, 1 Navy personnel
  • Focus areas: joint company-level operations, joint planning, tactical drills, special arms skills, conventional warfare and counter-terrorism

Headline: Birsa Munda's Birth Anniversary observed on November 15

Bullet Points:

  • November 15 marks the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, one of India's most revered tribal leaders, freedom fighters, and social reformers.
  • Birsa Munda was born on November 15, 1875.
  • He is best remembered for leading the Ulgulan (The Great Rebellion, 1899–1900) against the oppressive British colonial authorities and exploitative landlords.
  • In Jharkhand, Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary is celebrated with statewide ceremonies, cultural programs, and educational initiatives.
  • He is revered as a symbol of resistance against oppression and the protector of tribal communities.

Similar Headlines

Nationwide celebration of Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika's birth centenary led by Prime Minister Modi (Start of September) ▼
  • Bhupen Hazarika, Bharat Ratna awardee and music maestro, is being commemorated on his birth centenary.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nationwide tribute, stating on X that Hazarika 'brought global recognition to Assam’s folk culture and Indian music.'
  • Union Home Minister Amit Shah noted on X that 'by conferring upon him the Bharat Ratna, PM Modi ensured that his legacy remains immortal.'
  • Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge honoured Hazarika as 'a visionary musician, poet, lyricist, and filmmaker deeply rooted in the culture of Assam.'
President Droupadi Murmu makes history with Sabarimala visit (End of October) ▼
  • President Droupadi Murmu made a historic visit to the Lord Ayyappa temple in Sabarimala on Wednesday, becoming the first woman head of state to offer prayers at the renowned hilltop shrine.
  • She is only the second President of India to visit the temple; former President VV Giri had previously visited in the 1970s.
  • The President's visit is symbolically significant, coming years after a landmark 2018 Supreme Court ruling that overturned a traditional ban on women of menstruating age (10-50) entering the temple.
  • She is 67.
  • In doing so, she became the first President ever to carry the Irumudi and bow before Lord Ayyappa.
Three High-Level Committees Constituted to Commemorate Birth Anniversaries of Sardar Patel, Birsa Munda, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee (End of August) ▼
  • Initiative: Three high-level committees constituted by the Ministry of Culture on 23 August 2025 to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Birsa Munda, and the centennial birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
  • Chairperson: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair all three committees.
  • Committee Composition: Each committee has more than 100 members, including Union ministers, state governors, chief ministers, former Presidents, Lok Sabha Speaker, MPs, government secretaries, sportspersons, authors, and academicians.
  • Objective: To approve policies/plans, programmes, supervise and guide the commemorations, and decide on broad dates for the detailed programme of celebration across the country.
  • Celebration Plan: The government intends to honour the three icons through events, seminars, speeches, and dialogue across India, not limited to Delhi or their home states.

Headline: Qatar to host 'Doha Tattoo' international military music festival

Bullet Points:

  • Qatar will host the inaugural Doha Tattoo, an international military music and marching festival.
  • The festival will be held from December 16–20, 2025, at Katara Cultural Village.
  • The festival will feature bands from seven countries.
  • It will be held under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Qatar’s Minister of Interior and Commander of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya).

Similar Headlines

Qatar National Day Celebrated Annually on December 18 (Mid of November) ▼
  • Qatar celebrates its National Day annually on December 18.
  • The day marks the founding of the state in 1878 by Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani.
  • The official slogan for Qatar National Day 2025 is “Bekum Ta'lu W' Minkum Tantazer” (translated as “The nation rises with you, waits for you”).
  • The 2025 slogan is taken from a speech delivered by HH the Amir during his 2016 visit to Qatar University.
  • HE Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al Thani is the Minister of Culture.
Saudi Arabia launches 2nd ‘Global Harmony’ initiative with India Week at Riyadh Season (Start of November) ▼
  • Event: Second edition of Saudi Arabia’s ‘Global Harmony’ initiative inaugurated under Riyadh Season
  • Participants: Ministry of Media, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and General Entertainment Authority (GEA)
  • Key Theme: Celebrates 14 resident cultures including India, Philippines, Indonesia, Egypt, Yemen, Jordan, Uganda, Ethiopia
  • Special Focus: ‘India Week’ opens the initiative, showcasing Indian music, dance, cuisine, art and traditional crafts
UAE to host 2026 Asian Youth Archery Championship in Khorfakkan (Mid of November) ▼
  • The United Arab Emirates, represented by the UAE Archery Federation, has won the bid to host the 2026 Asian Youth Archery Championship in the city of Khorfakkan.
  • The announcement was made during the Asian Archery Federation Congress, held yesterday evening in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
  • The UAE's bid secured the majority of votes thanks to the country's advanced sports infrastructure, world-class facilities, and organisational and logistical capabilities.
Bahrain Interior Minister Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa receives INTERPOL Medal of the Highest Order (Start of November) ▼
  • Bahrain's Interior Minister Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa awarded the INTERPOL Medal of the Highest Order
  • Award presented by INTERPOL President during the Middle East International Border Management and Technology Conference
  • Recognition cites 'enhancing global security' and Bahrain's 'commitment to international peace and cooperation'

Headline: South India Natural Farming Summit: Key Details and Features

Bullet Points:

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Coimbatore on Nov 19 to inaugurate the South India Natural Farming Summit at the Codissia Trade Fair Complex here.
  • Modi will speak during the summit, organized by the farmers' associations in Tamil Nadu.
  • The Prime Minister will interact with 50 scientists specializing in organic agriculture.
  • The three-day summit will feature an exhibition with 300 stalls, interactive sessions by eminent scientists and policymakers, live demonstrations and a focus on youth and women engagement.

Similar Headlines

India-Sri Lanka Hold First Joint Working Group Meet on Agriculture (Start of November) ▼
  • The first Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting on Agriculture between India and Sri Lanka was held.
  • The deliberations between the two sides focused on deepening collaboration across a wide spectrum of themes critical to sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods.
  • The meeting marked a milestone in India-Sri Lanka relations by setting a framework for structured dialogue and collaboration in the agriculture and allied sectors.
  • The session was co-chaired by Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi , Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) , Government of India, and Mr. D. P. Wickramasinghe , Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation , Government of Sri Lanka.
  • Key themes for collaboration included: Farm mechanization and technology transfer, Seed sector development and genetic resource exchange, Promotion of organic and natural farming systems, Agri-entrepreneurship development, Soil health management and precision agriculture, Climate-resilient agriculture and drought-mitigation practices, Market access and trade facilitation for agri-products, and Agricultural education and skill development.
  • The JWG also explored frontier areas of cooperation such as: Digital agriculture platforms, Crop insurance schemes, Support for agri-startups and innovation hubs, and Development of rural value chains and supply chain infrastructure.
  • Both nations underscored the importance of joint research programs , scientific exchange , and capacity-building initiatives to promote innovation-led growth.
  • It was agreed that the JWG mechanism would convene regularly to monitor progress, share updates, and identify new areas of cooperation.
PM Modi to Inaugurate Rs 9,700-crore Tribal Welfare Projects in Gujarat on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Mid of November) ▼
  • Projects include Grih Pravesh for one lakh houses under PM-JANMAN and DA-JAGUA
  • 42 new Eklavya Model Residential Schools to be inaugurated
  • 250 buses for 14 tribal districts and 748 km of roads to be launched for improved connectivity
  • 14 Tribal Multi-Marketing Centres to be established for tribal produce marketing
Live Updates: PM Narendra Modi arrives in Indore; to launch 'Ek Bagiya Maa Ke Naam' (Mid of September) ▼
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Indore and is scheduled to proceed by helicopter to Dhar district in Madhya Pradesh for his 75th birthday celebration.
  • He will launch the ‘Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar’ and the 8th Rashtriya Poshan Maah campaigns, aimed at improving women’s health services and promoting nutrition.
  • An instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) will be released, directly crediting accounts of over one million women beneficiaries.
  • The ‘Ek Bagiya Maa Ke Naam’ campaign will be launched, promoting environmental stewardship and honouring motherhood.
  • As a symbolic gesture for the campaign, the Prime Minister will gift a sapling to a woman from a self-help group, encouraging more than 10,000 women to cultivate gardens named ‘Maa Ki Bagiya’.
  • Awareness sessions on yoga, Ayurveda, and healthy living will be organised, and nutrition camps will be held across the state.
  • Modi will lay the foundation stone for India’s first PM Mitra Textile Park in Bhainsola village, spread over 2,158 acres.
  • The textile park is intended to develop Madhya Pradesh into a textile hub, integrate the cotton processing chain, reduce costs, improve prices for farmers, attract investment, and generate thousands of jobs.
  • The Prime Minister’s birthday initiatives will focus on empowerment, progress, and inclusive development, reflecting a vision that combines welfare, environmental care, and industrial growth.
  • Over 1.5 lakh people have gathered at the domes to catch a glimpse of Prime Minister Modi.
  • Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav also reached the venue.
National Agricultural Conference-Rabi Abhiyan 2025: Objectives and Context (Mid of September) ▼
  • The two-day National Agricultural Conference-Rabi Abhiyan 2025 will be organized from Monday.
  • The conference will be chaired by Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan in New Delhi.
  • This event will bring together agricultural experts, scientists and policy makers across the country, to discuss the challenges on Rabi crops.
  • The Agricultural conference is a part of the second phase of Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan to guide the action plan and production strategies for the Rabi season of 2025-26.
  • This conference is expected to be an important step towards increasing the income of farmers, ensuring sustainable agriculture systems, and national food security.

Headline: Navi Mumbai Airport To Begin Commercial Flights On Christmas

Bullet Points:

  • Budget airline Akasa Air has announced its first flights from the Navi Mumbai International Airport from December 25, 2025.
  • The first Akasa flight to Navi Mumbai Airport will commence from the national capital New Delhi.
  • Akasa Air will operate the maiden flight between Delhi and Navi Mumbai International Airport on 25th December 2025.
  • Scheduled flights connecting Navi Mumbai with Goa will commence effective 25th December 2025, Delhi and Kochi effective 26th December 2025, and Ahmedabad effective 31st December 2025.
  • Indigo will also start operations from Navi Mumbai International Airport on December 25 and will connect NMIA to ten cities across India.

Similar Headlines

Maldives President Muizzu Inaugurates India-Funded Hanimaadhoo Airport (Mid of November) ▼
  • Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu inaugurated the Hanimaadhoo International Airport.
  • The airport project was built with Indian financial assistance.
  • It was financed through a line of credit extended by India’s EXIM Bank under a 2019 agreement with the Maldivian government.
  • Construction was carried out by India’s JMC Projects.
  • India’s Civil Aviation Minister, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, attended the inauguration ceremony.
  • President Muizzu described the airport as a “gateway to prosperity” and a “catalyst for unlocking the potential of the northern Maldives and enhancing global connectivity.”
  • The Indian High Commission described the project as a “true vehicle for progress and prosperity, and a symbol of India’s commitment under Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR vision.”
Kota-Bundi Greenfield Airport Project: Cabinet Approves ₹1,507-crore Development (End of August) ▼
  • Name: Greenfield airport at Kota-Bundi, Rajasthan
  • Approved by: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
  • Implementing Agency: Airports Authority of India (AAI)
  • Financial Outlay: ₹1,507 crore
  • Land Allocation: 440.06 hectares transferred by the Rajasthan government to AAI
  • Key Features: 3.2 km runway, 20,000 sq. m terminal building, capacity for two million passengers annually and 1,000 peak-hour passengers, seven A-321 aircraft parking bays
  • Objective: Boost connectivity for Kota’s education and industrial hubs
Bihar Development Projects: Purnea Airport, National Makhana Board, and Rail Connectivity (Mid of September) ▼
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Bihar on Monday to inaugurate the long-awaited Purnea Airport and launch development projects worth ₹36,000 crore.
  • The Purnia Civil Enclave Airport is seen as a major milestone for northeastern Bihar.
  • The Purnia Civil Enclave Airport is equipped with a 2,800-meter runway suitable for large aircraft like Airbus and Boeing, and a 4,000-square-meter terminal building featuring modern passenger amenities.
  • The airport is expected to handle the region's growing air traffic for the next 40 years.
  • PM Modi will also launch the National Makhana Board.
  • The National Makhana Board is a significant step to boost Bihar's Makhana industry, which accounts for about 90 per cent of the national production.
  • The Board will support farmers with improved technology, post-harvest management, market access, and export promotion.
  • PM Modi will also lay the foundation stone for new railway lines and inaugurate train services to further strengthen rail connectivity in the region.
ISRO targets December 2026 completion for Kulasekarapattinam second launch complex (Start of September) ▼
  • ISRO Chairman V Narayanan states "All the work will be over by December 2026--that is our target" for the Kulasekarapattinam launch complex
  • The facility, spread over "2300 acres of land", will be India's second launch complex after Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh
  • Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) missions carrying "a payload of 500 kg up to an altitude of 400 km" will be launched from Kulasekarapattinam
  • ISRO anticipates "20-25 satellite launches" annually from the new spaceport once operational
  • Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle Complex (SLC) at Kulasekarapattinam in February 2024

Headline: Andhra Pradesh and WEF to establish Centre for Energy and Cyber Resilience

Bullet Points:

  • Andhra Pradesh government and World Economic Forum signed agreement to set up a centre for energy and cyber resilience
  • Centre aims to protect electricity infrastructure in the state
  • CM Chandrababu Naidu stated target to generate 160 GW of green energy in Andhra Pradesh
  • AI-driven technologies to be used to reduce power transmission losses and supply costs
  • State quickly implemented solar rooftop power generation under PM Surya Ghar scheme

Similar Headlines

National Cybersecurity Exercise “Cyber Bharat Setu” Inaugurated in Tripura; State Launches New Cyber Security Policy and Awareness Campaign (Mid of November) ▼
  • **Cyber Bharat Setu:** A National Cybersecurity Exercise organized by the Directorate of Information Technology (DIT), Government of Tripura, in collaboration with the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
  • **Objective of Cyber Bharat Setu:** Aims to strengthen cyber awareness, readiness, and response capabilities of the State, envisioning a Cyber Resilient Bharat by bridging regional cybersecurity capabilities, fostering innovation, and promoting proactive defence and response strategies.
  • **Key Features of Cyber Bharat Setu:** The two-day workshop focuses on strengthening cyber resilience through expert-led training, hands-on drills, and simulated scenario-based exercises, incorporating advanced sessions and simulation-based components.
  • **Tripura Cyber Security Policy, 2025 (TCSP 2.0):** A forward-looking and transformative policy launched by Shri. S. Krishnan, Secretary, MeitY, Government of India, during the event.
  • **Objective of TCSP 2.0:** Formulated to build a resilient, adaptive, and citizen-centric cyber ecosystem, serving as a guiding framework for securing the State’s IT and ICT systems, strengthening institutional mechanisms, and promoting collaborative actions.
  • **Tripura Cyber Security Awareness Month 2025 (TCSAM, 2025):** A month-long campaign launched with the theme “Cyber Jagrit Tripura” and an unveiled mascot named “Raksha Mitra”.
  • **Objective of TCSAM 2025:** Aims to strengthen cyber hygiene and awareness among citizens, students, and the government workforce, observed across the State by the Directorate of IT, Govt. of Tripura.
Andhra Pradesh to Launch India's First AI Center of Excellence for Public Good in Visakhapatnam (Start of September) ▼
  • The Government of Andhra Pradesh, through its Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (ITE&C), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tech Bharat Foundation.
  • The MoU is to establish a groundbreaking AI Center of Excellence (CoE) in Visakhapatnam, aimed at advancing AI for Public Good.
  • The AI CoE will act as a platform to co-create deployable AI tools for G2C (Government-to-Citizen) services and solve real-time governance challenges through focused proof of concepts.
  • The CoE will anchor a 120-day AI Fellowship Program to attract and mentor high-potential AI talent, where selected fellows will work closely with government departments to build practical AI prototypes.
  • Selected fellows for the AI Fellowship Program will receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 25,000, along with fully supported residential facilities in Visakhapatnam.
  • Students, professionals, and researchers with foundational skills in Python and machine learning are eligible to apply for the Fellowship.
  • The initiative is supported by globally respected cloud and AI infrastructure providers, along with premier academic institutions and engineering innovation partners, who will contribute research expertise, compute infrastructure, network security, and mentorship.
  • The flagship AI Center of Excellence, featuring a state-of-the-art applied research lab in Visakhapatnam, is slated to open later this year as a national hub for real-world innovation in public sector AI.
India, US Sign 10-Year Framework Pact for Defence Partnership (Start of November) ▼
  • India and the US signed a framework agreement for a major defence partnership.
  • The agreement gives a roadmap for cooperation over the next 10 years.
  • It includes jointly pursuing capacity building for like-minded partners in Asia, Africa and island countries in the Indian Ocean Region.
  • The framework will enable collaboration on global challenges like space and missile defence, preventing proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
  • It will prioritise export licence approvals for weapons and support India's development as a logistics, maintenance, repair and overhaul hub.
  • Defence minister Rajnath Singh and US secretary of war Pete Hegseth met on the sidelines of the 12th Asean Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus in Kuala Lumpur.
  • The new framework will reflect common defence priorities like safeguarding a free and open Indo-Pacific region, strengthening interoperability across all domains, expanding collaboration with like-minded nations through forums like the Quad and defeating terrorism in all forms.
  • The last 10-year agreement was signed in June 2015.
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.

Headline: MMRDA inaugurates Asia’s largest elevated Metro depot at Mandale with India’s longest test track

Bullet Points:

  • Facility: Mandale Depot for Mumbai Metro Line 2B, Asia’s largest elevated Metro depot spread over 30.45 hectares
  • Capacity: 72 eight-coach trains can be stabled simultaneously on two levels (36 per level)
  • Test infrastructure: India’s longest 965-m test track for advanced rolling-stock testing and performance
  • Technology: G+3 Depot Control Centre monitors train movement, maintenance, and safety in real time
  • Environmental features: 175 KLD Effluent + Sewage Treatment Plants to recycle water for cleaning & landscaping

Similar Headlines

Namo Bharat Becomes India’s Fastest Train, Achieves 160 Kmph On Delhi–Meerut Route (Mid of September) ▼
  • Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) has achieved the top speed of 160 kmph on the Delhi–Meerut section, making it the fastest train service in the country.
  • The operational stretch covers 55 km between New Ashok Nagar in Delhi and Meerut South in Uttar Pradesh.
  • The service surpasses previous semi-high-speed trains such as Gatimaan Express and Vande Bharat, which generally run at 130 kmph.
  • The planned corridor is 82.15 km long, running from Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi to Modipuram in Uttar Pradesh, featuring 16 stations.
  • Once fully functional, Namo Bharat is expected to allow commuters to travel between Delhi and Meerut in under an hour, even with intermediate stops.
  • Namo Bharat trainsets are manufactured at Alstom’s Savli factory in Gujarat and feature aerodynamic designs and advanced safety and automation systems.
  • Stations along the route are spaced roughly five to eight kilometres apart, enabling trains to reach top speeds on longer stretches.
  • Services currently run every 15 minutes, catering to daily commuters.
  • Plans are underway to integrate the 23 km Meerut Metro corridor, which has 13 stations, with the RRTS.
  • The National Capital Region Transport Corporation, a joint venture of the Government of India and the states of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan, operates Namo Bharat.
  • Since the launch of the initial 17-km Priority Section in October 2023, more than 1.5 crore passengers have used the service.
Green Nod Granted for India's Largest Greenfield Steel Plant in Andhra Pradesh (Start of November) ▼
  • The project is for India’s largest greenfield steel plant.
  • The plant will be located in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh, at the site in Rajayyapeta.
  • The project proposal by AM/ NS India received environment nod.
  • The initial phase will set up an 8.2 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) capacity blast furnace facility, with plans to expand up to 24 MTPA.
  • AM/NS is a joint venture between ArcelorMittal and Nippon Steel.
  • Iron ore supply will be from the Bailadila mines in Chhattisgarh through a slurry pipeline, which will help in curbing pollution as there will be no movement of trucks and no dust in loading and unloading.
  • The land allotted by the state government is free from all general challenges — there is no wildlife, forest, river or tribal population.
  • The entire process for identification of land, final allotment, public hearings and final environmental clearance has taken 14 months.
Union Minister Khattar on Urban Development Initiatives and Metro Expansion (Mid of November) ▼
  • The Centre has begun holding regional meetings to address a wide range of urban development concerns, discussing subjects like road, drains, mobility, metro rail, and including demands and suggestions from participating states.
  • The Centre plans to hold an Urban Conclave in New Delhi soon, where ministers, secretaries, and the mayors of some important corporations will be invited.
  • India's metro network has expanded rapidly, with 1,100 km operational and another 900 km in progress, with metro rail work underway in five cities and eventually expanding to 29 across the country.
  • Metro and other urban projects are funded through a mix of central-state partnerships, public-private ventures, and international agencies like those in Japan and the World Bank.
IRFC sanctions Rs 199.7 crore loan for India’s first Multi-Modal Transport Hub at Surat (End of August) ▼
  • Scheme/Initiative Name: India’s first international-standard Multi-Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) at Surat
  • Implementing Agency: Surat Integrated Transportation Development Corporation Limited (SITCO) – a joint venture of the Ministry of Railways and the Government of Gujarat
  • Financial Outlay: IRFC has sanctioned a fresh term loan facility of Rs 199.70 crore to SITCO for the project
  • Key Features: Integration of railways, metro, Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), city and regional bus services, autos, taxis, and other intermediate transport modes; upgraded station infrastructure and enhanced passenger amenities
  • Objective: Strengthen urban mobility, power India’s logistics, and contribute to nation-building through railway-linked infrastructure

Headline: GI Tag Granted to Traditional Lepcha Musical Instruments: Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit

Bullet Points:

  • The Government of India granted Geographical Indication (GI) registration to two traditional Lepcha musical instruments – Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit – under the Musical Instrument category of the Geographical Indication Registry.
  • The GI registration certificates were presented during the 1st Tribal Business Conclave in New Delhi, organised by the Ministries of Culture, Tribal Affairs, and Commerce & Industry.
  • The Tungbuk is a three-string instrument and the Pumtong Pulit is a bamboo flute, both integral to Lepcha folk music and culturally significant to the Lepcha community of Sikkim.
  • NABARD, Gangtok supported the GI filing process, which took around two years to complete.

Similar Headlines

India's First GI-Tagged Indi & Puliyankudi Limes Export to UK (End of October) ▼
  • The initiative involves the first-ever air shipment of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Indi Lime and Puliyankudi Lime to the United Kingdom.
  • It was successfully facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
  • The primary objective is to promote India’s unique regional agri-produce on the global stage and empower local farmers through better market access and income opportunities.
  • The export comprised Indi Lime sourced from Vijayapura, Karnataka, and Puliyankudi Lime from Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu.
  • Geographical Indication (GI) tagging serves as a quality and origin assurance mechanism, protecting indigenous varieties and adding market value.
  • The shipment was made possible through coordinated efforts involving Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Exporters registered with APEDA, State horticulture departments, and Quality and safety compliance agencies.
  • APEDA provides technical, logistical, and promotional support to exporters and farmer groups, including education on packaging, branding, and logistical efficiency.
PM VIKAS Scheme: Lok Samvardhan Parv 2025 Highlights Economic & Cultural Empowerment of Minority Artisans (Start of September) ▼
  • Scheme Name: Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) — implemented by Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India.
  • Objective: "empowering minority communities through skill development, livelihood generation, and cultural preservation."
  • Key Feature: 10-day Lok Samvardhan Parv (Kochi, Marine Drive Exhibition Area) provided "artisans, weavers, craftspersons, and culinary specialists from minority communities a vibrant platform to showcase their skills, connect with markets, and enhance their economic prospects."
Meghalaya's Autumn Calendar 2025: Tourism and Cultural Initiatives (Start of September) ▼
  • The Department of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, has officially launched the Autumn Calendar 2025, unveiling a stellar line-up of festivals.
  • The calendar captures the spirit of Meghalaya as a global hub for culture, music, and tourism.
  • Paul Lyngdoh, Minister of Tourism Meghalaya, announced, “These festivals should not be seen as expenses but as investments that attract visitors, empower our local talents, boost the local economy, and create resources to support other essential sectors.”
  • A defining highlight of 2025 will be the Chief Minister’s Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (CM-MGMP), which will host daily music sessions across the state throughout the season.
  • The CM-MGMP programme has already created a remarkable impact; over 7,750 artists have performed in more than 13,000 shows, generating 175 salaried jobs for crew and coordinators alone.
  • Local artists from CM-MGMP will participate in the North-East India Festival – Singapore, and another group of artists will travel to Osaka, Japan, for the World Expo.
  • The Government of Meghalaya views these festivals as strategic investments, with an overall expenditure of Rs 23.50 crore in 2024 generating a return of Rs 133.42 crore.

Headline: India Withdraws Quality Control Orders (QCOs) on Key Raw Materials

Bullet Points:

  • India has removed mandatory quality checks (Quality Control Orders - QCOs) on numerous raw materials, including textiles, plastics, and metals.
  • This move aims to reduce delays and costs for businesses, especially MSMEs.
  • The withdrawal, notified on November 13, eliminates mandatory BIS certification for 14 products under the Chemicals & Petrochemicals Ministry and six under the Mines Ministry.
  • The list of affected inputs includes PTA, MEG, polyester fibres, polypropylene, polyethylene, PVC resin, ABS, polycarbonate, and metals such as aluminium, lead, nickel, tin and zinc.
  • The reforms flow from the Gauba Committee’s findings, which noted that QCOs grew significantly, many covering raw materials without direct safety implications.
  • The rollback is expected to immediately ease sourcing pressures in textile hubs like Surat, Ludhiana, Tiruppur and Bhilwara, and among plastics processors, nearly 90% of whom are MSMEs.
  • The withdrawal of QCOs for metals restores supply flexibility for downstream sectors including auto components, electronics, batteries, construction and defence.

Similar Headlines

Japanese Agency Jica Commits $40 Million to Aavishkaar Capital's Global Supply Chain Support Fund (End of August) ▼
  • Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) has committed $40 million to Aavishkaar Capital’s Global Supply Chain Support Fund (GSC Fund).
  • The Global Supply Chain Support Fund (GSC Fund) is Aavishkaar Capital’s eighth fund and is a credit vehicle backed by various investors, including German development bank KfW.
  • The GSC Fund is aiming to raise a total corpus of $220 million.
  • The fund has already made eight investments across Asia and Africa, totalling around $30 million.
  • Aavishkaar Capital has about $550 million in assets under management across eight funds.
  • The Aavishkaar Group manages $1.3 billion in impact assets.
  • The GSC Fund is aimed at emerging companies in global supply chains in sectors such as agriculture, food processing, and manufacturing, supporting small and medium enterprises with a climate and social impact.
Indian Army and Bisleri International Collaborate on Eco Zone for Plastic Waste Management in Sikkim (End of August) ▼
  • Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. has signed a Letter of Association (LoA) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Army, Sikkim.
  • The agreement is to develop an eco zone for plastic waste management.
  • This initiative is taking place at the Gangtok Military Station.
  • The eco zone development is through Bisleri's flagship program, Bottles for Change (BFC).
  • Through this association, BFC will contribute to develop plastic waste management and send all post-consumer plastic from the station for recycling.
  • The partnership aims to create awareness, drive behavioural change, and promote sustainable practices for a cleaner and greener future.
  • The Bottles for Change program expands into the state of Sikkim through this milestone.
Ajay Kumar Srivastava’s tenure as IOB MD & CEO extended till October 2027 (Start of September) ▼
  • Ajay Kumar Srivastava’s tenure as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Indian Overseas Bank extended from January 01, 2026 up to October 08, 2027.
  • He has been leading IOB as MD & CEO since January 01, 2023.
  • Previously served as Executive Director of the bank from 2017.
OPEC+ Pauses Q1 2026 Output Hikes; Oil Prices Climb, US Output Hits Record (Start of November) ▼
  • OPEC+ decided to maintain current production levels for the first quarter of 2026.
  • Brent crude futures rose 47 cents, or 0.73 per cent, to $65.24 a barrel.
  • US West Texas Intermediate crude was at $61.43 a barrel, up 45 cents, or 0.74 per cent.
  • The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and their allies, known as OPEC+, agreed to raise output by 137,000 barrels per day in December.
  • OPEC+ decided to pause the production increments in January, February, and March 2026.
  • The US imposed sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil.
  • Brent and WTI fell more than 2 per cent for a third straight month in October, hitting a five-month low on October 20.
  • Estimates of oil market surplus ranged anywhere from 0.19 to 3 million bpd.
  • The Energy Information Administration reported that US crude oil output rose 86,000 bpd to a record 13.8 million bpd in August.

Headline: GSH India and IIIT Manipur sign MoA for joint research and skill development in sustainable facility management

Bullet Points:

  • 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.

Similar Headlines

Maharashtra's Foreign Investment Initiatives and Economic Outlook Report (End of August) ▼
  • The Mahayuti govt has enlisted the services of Global India Business Corridor (GIBC) to collaborate in attracting UK and European investments to Maharashtra.
  • The objective is to attract foreign investments and facilitate trade partnerships with investors from the UK, European Union, and USA in sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and education.
  • A recent Morgan and Stanley research report says the state's GDP could reach US $1 trillion by 2030.
  • The state is also the top recipient of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country, with a share of 39.2% of the total FDI inflow in FY 2025.
  • The state received a total of US $19.6 billion in FDI last fiscal year.
Indian Institutes of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025: Establishment of IIM Guwahati (End of August) ▼
  • The Lok Sabha passed the Indian Institutes of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
  • The Bill paves the way to set up one of the country’s premier educational institutions in Guwahati, Assam.
  • It would facilitate the creation of the second IIM in northeastern India, after IIM Shillong.
  • A financial grant of ₹550 crore has been allocated for IIM Guwahati.
  • The establishment of an IIM in Guwahati is part of the Special Development Package (SDP) provided to Assam.
  • The Union and Assam governments had signed a Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) with representatives of the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA), promising the comprehensive development of the State.
Indian Institutes of Management and Technology establish first international campuses (Mid of September) ▼
  • The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad has launched its first-ever international campus at Dubai International Academic City.
  • The IIM Ahmedabad Dubai campus has introduced a one-year full-time MBA programme for global professionals and entrepreneurs.
  • The first cohort of the IIM Ahmedabad Dubai campus comprises 35 students.
  • The IIM Ahmedabad Dubai campus will set up two centres of excellence in its first year: one focusing on case writing and development, and the other on start-up incubation.
  • The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi inaugurated its first international campus in Abu Dhabi on September 3.
  • The IIT Delhi Abu Dhabi campus offers programs in energy engineering and computer science.
  • The inaugural batch of IIT Delhi's Abu Dhabi campus included 52 students enrolled in BTech programs in Computer Science and Engineering and Energy Engineering.
Oil India and Hindustan Copper Sign MoU for Critical Mineral Exploration (End of September) ▼
  • State-run Oil India Limited (OIL) and Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
  • The MoU aims to cooperate in the exploration and development of critical and strategic minerals, including copper, and associated resources.
  • The collaboration is expected to support the objectives of the government’s National Critical Mineral Mission.
  • The National Critical Mineral Mission focuses on securing resources essential for energy security, clean energy transition, and advanced technologies.
  • Copper is considered one of the critical minerals identified by India, with applications in power infrastructure, electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and defence manufacturing.
  • The collaboration between OIL and HCL is expected to strengthen domestic exploration, reduce import dependence, and secure long-term supply of strategic minerals.
  • OIL, a Maharatna PSU, has diversified into the critical minerals segment.
  • HCL, a Miniratna PSU, is the country’s only integrated copper producer and undertakes mining, beneficiation of copper ore, and production of copper concentrate.

Headline: C-DOT and NAM InfoCom Partner for Indigenous Mission Critical Communication System (MCX) Solution Development

Bullet Points:

  • The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) signed an Agreement with M/s NAM InfoCom Private Limited for Joint Development of Mission Critical Communication System (MCX) Solution.
  • The partnership aims to strengthen India’s indigenous communication infrastructure for public safety and emergency response and enhance India’s self-reliance in mission-critical communications.
  • The MCX system has been developed in line with 3GPP standards to support Mission Critical Push-to-Talk (MCPTT), Mission Critical Data (MCData), and Mission Critical Video (MCVideo) services.
  • This solution will provide secure, reliable, high-quality, low latency, real-time audio/video communication tailored to work around existing 4G and 5G mobile networks.
  • The MCX solution will be useful for Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR) communications and help disaster management agencies, Law and Order enforcement agencies for efficient operations.
  • M/s NAM InfoCom is developing the MC Video solution and will bring experience in system integration, deployment, and customization, while C-DOT will provide its expertise in telecom R&D and system design.
  • The project is fully funded under C-DOT Collaborative Research Programme (CCRP).
  • The proposed MC Video solution offers multi-stream capabilities, a recording feature, and scalability to support multiple simultaneous group/one-to-one video calls, designed for low latency, low bandwidth, and minimal storage requirements.

Similar Headlines

BEL and Centum Electronics sign MoU to co-develop advanced defence technologies (End of August) ▼
  • Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Centum Electronics Limited to jointly design, develop and manufacture advanced electronic modules, subsystems and systems for defence applications.
  • The collaboration will focus on critical technology domains such as Electronic Warfare (EW), radar systems, and secure military communications.
  • The MoU was exchanged by BEL's Director (Marketing) Suresh Kumar KV and Centum Electronics Limited CMD Apparao V Mallavarapu at BEL’s Corporate Office in Bengaluru.
iDEX-DIO and EdCIL Join Hands to Drive Dual-Use Tech Under ASPIRE Program (Mid of September) ▼
  • Innovations for Defence Excellence – Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EdCIL (India) Limited.
  • The agreement marks a strategic partnership to develop dual-use cutting-edge technologies through the newly launched ASPIRE (Accelerating Strategic Progress in Research and Education) program.
  • iDEX-DIO is the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Defence, launched in 2018 to promote start-ups and MSMEs in defence innovation.
  • EdCIL (India) Limited is a Mini Ratna Category-I Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Education, bringing expertise in project management, consultancy, and ed-tech solutions.
  • The ASPIRE program is envisioned as a strategic accelerator to link defence innovations with the civilian sector, fostering start-up-led solutions.
  • ASPIRE will foster solutions in areas such as Advanced Ed-Tech Tools, Cybersecurity and Data Security, Simulation and Training Modules, and Digital Infrastructure Development.
  • The initiative reflects the government’s larger vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) by fostering indigenous capabilities and reducing reliance on imported technologies.
India and Philippines space industry bodies sign MoU for joint research and co-development (End of August) ▼
  • MoU signed between Satcom Industry Association-India (SIA-India) and Electronic Industry Association of the Philippines Inc (EIAPI)
  • Focus areas: satellite communications hardware, embedded systems, IoT devices, space electronics, next-generation technologies
  • Objective: joint research, innovation, product development, and collaborative manufacturing ecosystems
TCS and C-DAC partner to build India’s sovereign cloud ecosystem using indigenous OpenStack technologies (Mid of September) ▼
  • Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) have signed an MoU to accelerate India’s sovereign cloud ecosystem.
  • The collaboration will integrate indigenous innovations into TCS’ sovereign cloud stack to host critical government applications such as e-Sanjeevani and Dial 112.
  • The sovereign cloud platform is built on OpenStack and indigenous technologies to reduce reliance on global hyperscalers.
  • The platform aligns with India’s data localisation mandates and supports digital transformation of public sector services.
  • Key sectors targeted include healthcare, defense, smart cities, and banking and financial services (BFSI).

Headline: Global Energy Leaders' Summit 2025 to be held in Puri with experts from 7 countries

Bullet Points:

  • Summit Name: Global Energy Leaders' Summit 2025, organised by Department of Energy, Government of Odisha in partnership with Tony Blair Institute for Global Change and IIT Kanpur
  • Location: Puri, Odisha
  • Participating Countries: Experts and stakeholders from over seven countries including Canada, Brazil, Indonesia, Bhutan, Singapore and Malaysia
  • Theme: 'Powering India: Sufficiency, Balance, Innovation'
  • Key Objective: Sharing best practices in energy sector to help states learn from one another and turn innovation into progress

Similar Headlines

Eighth International Solar Alliance Assembly held in New Delhi (End of October) ▼
  • The Eighth Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly was held in New Delhi.
  • President of India Droupadi Murmu delivered the first-ever address by the President of India to the International Solar Alliance Assembly.
  • The Assembly hosted ministers, policymakers, and international partners from 125 Member and Signatory Countries.
  • Key launches during the Assembly included SUNRISE (Solar Upcycling Network for Recycling, Innovation & Stakeholder Engagement), a dedicated One Sun One World One Grid (OSOWOG) programme, the Global Capability Centre, and the ISA Academy.
  • Ministers and heads of delegations from 16 Small Island Developing States (SIDS) signed an in-Memorandum of Understanding for Procurement under the SIDS Platform.
  • Five ISA knowledge products were launched: Ease of Doing Solar 2025, Solar PV Skills and Jobs in Africa, Solar Compass: Special Issue on Integrated Photovoltaics, Global Floating Solar Framework, and Global Solar Trends & Outlook 2025.
  • The International Solar Alliance was launched in 2015 by India and France at COP21 in Paris and is headquartered in India.
  • India is the world’s 4th-largest in RE capacity and the world’s third-largest solar power producer.
Eighth International Solar Alliance Assembly Curtain Raiser Held in New Delhi (Start of November) ▼
  • Event: Eighth Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Assembly scheduled from 27–30 October 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
  • Participants: ISA brings together 124 Member and Signatory Countries; launched by India and France at COP21 in Paris.
  • Key Outcomes: Assembly to focus on four strategic pillars—Catalytic Finance Hub, Global Capability Centre & Digitisation, Regional & Country-Level Engagement, and Technology Roadmap & Policy.
International Conference on Green Hydrogen 2025 to convene in New Delhi (Mid of November) ▼
  • Event: Third edition of the International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH-2025) organised by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
  • Duration & Format: Two-day conference on 11–12 November featuring "plenary sessions, expert panels and technical discussions focused on building a resilient green hydrogen ecosystem."
  • Context: The 2025–26 financial year is "heading for a record in renewable energy installations," with 3,089 MW of wind and 21,686 MW of solar capacity added in the first six months.
  • National RE share: Non-fossil fuel capacity reached 2,56,089 MW, constituting 51.12% of India’s total power capacity of 5,00,889 MW.
  • State rankings: Maharashtra (27,674 MW) has overtaken Tamil Nadu (26,589 MW) in total installed renewable energy capacity, while Rajasthan leads at 40,407 MW.
India crosses 250 GW non-fossil fuel electricity capacity on road to 500 GW by 2030 (Mid of September) ▼
  • India’s total non-fossil fuel installed electricity capacity reached 250 GW in 2025, up from 81 GW before 2014 (“jumped over three-fold to touch 250 GW-mark from 81 GW in 2014”).
  • Break-up of 250 GW: 123.13 GW solar, 52.68 GW wind, 55.22 GW hydro, 11.60 GW bio-energy and 8.78 GW nuclear (“includes 123.13 GW solar, 52.68 GW wind energy, 55.22 GW hydro, 11.60 bio-energy and 8.78 GW nuclear energy”).
  • National target is 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 (“The country aims to have 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030”).
  • Achievement spans solar, wind, hydro, bio-energy and nuclear power sectors (“this achievement across solar, wind, hydro, bio-energy and nuclear power”).
  • Statement issued by Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy (“New & Renewable Energy Minister Pralhad Joshi said”).

Headline: Union Bank of India Celebrates 107th Foundation Day, Launches Digital Initiatives and Expands Branch Network

Bullet Points:

  • Union Bank of India (UBI) celebrated its 107th Foundation Day.
  • A central function was organised by the bank’s headquarters in Mumbai at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC.
  • Department of Financial Services (DFS) Secretary M Nagaraju (IAS), Ministry of Finance, Government of India, attended as the chief guest.
  • UBI launched two new digital initiatives — the Union E-Biz mobile app for MSMEs and the Union Ease mobile app.
  • The bank announced the opening of 51 new branches across key regions.

Similar Headlines

IPPB Celebrates 8th Foundation Day: 12+ Crore Customers, 1.64 Lakh Post Offices, Billions of Digital Transactions (Start of September) ▼
  • IPPB has on-boarded over 12 crore customers since inception.
  • The bank leverages more than 1.64 lakh Post Offices and over 1.90 lakh Postmen and Gramin Dak Sevaks for last-mile reach.
  • IPPB has processed billions of digital transactions and enabled doorstep banking services across rural, semi-urban, and remote regions.
City Union Bank Secures $50 Million from IFC for Green Financing (Start of November) ▼
  • City Union Bank Ltd. secured a $50 million commitment from International Finance Corporation (IFC).
  • International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group.
  • The financing is aimed at supporting MSMEs in transitioning to energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions.
  • City Union Bank Ltd. is a private bank established in 1904.
  • This partnership will support India’s efforts to accelerate its transition to net-zero by 2070.
  • Kamakodi N is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CUB.
  • Imad N. Fakhoury is the IFC Regional Division Director for South Asia.
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.
Amit Shah Launches Digital Apps for Urban Co-op Banks and Sets Expansion Targets (Mid of November) ▼
  • Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah launched two mobile applications — Sahakar Digi Pay and Sahakar Digi Loan — for urban cooperative banks.
  • The objective of these apps is to promote digital payment adoption, which is described as "essential for their survival in an increasingly cashless economy."
  • The government's efforts include professionalising urban cooperative banks (UCBs) and cooperative credit societies.
  • A target was set to onboard 1,500 urban cooperative banks to the digital platform within two years.
  • The minister set an ambitious target for NAFCUB — to establish at least one additional UCB in every town with a population exceeding two lakh within five years.
  • The federation (NAFCUB) was directed to convert successful cooperative credit societies into UCBs.
  • Since the formation of a separate cooperation ministry in 2021-22, the central government has undertaken several policy reforms to modernise the sector.
  • Model bylaws for Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) were framed, which all states adopted, enabling PACS to computerise and expand services.

Headline: SAMCO Mutual Fund Launches India's First Momentum-Based Small Cap Fund

Bullet Points:

  • SAMCO Mutual Fund launched India’s first momentum-based small cap fund, named the SAMCO Small Cap Fund.
  • The New Fund Offer (NFO) for the SAMCO Small Cap Fund will open for subscription from November 14, 2025, and will close on November 28.
  • The SAMCO Small Cap Fund is an open-ended equity scheme that will predominantly invest in small-cap stocks—companies ranked 251st to 750th by market capitalisation.
  • The fund is powered by SAMCO’s proprietary C.A.R.E. Momentum Strategy, which stands for Cross-sectional, Absolute, Revenue, and Earnings Momentum.
  • India’s small-cap segment has a combined market capitalisation of over Rs 62 lakh crore.
  • The Nifty Smallcap 250 TRI has delivered a 16.05% CAGR since inception.
  • The momentum-based index Nifty Small Cap 250 Momentum Quality 100 TRI has delivered 22.03% CAGR since inception.
  • The fund is benchmarked against the Nifty Smallcap 250 Total Returns Index (TRI).
  • The fund will be managed by a team headed by Umeshkumar Mehta, CIO.
  • Viraj Gandhi is the CEO of SAMCO Asset Management.
  • Mutual funds increased cash allocation by Rs 10,000 crore to over Rs 2 lakh crore in October.

Similar Headlines

Bandhan AMC Receives SEBI Approval to Launch Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs) (Start of September) ▼
  • Bandhan AMC Limited (Bandhan AMC) has secured approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to launch Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs).
  • The approval allows Bandhan AMC to design and roll out innovative equity, debt, and hybrid strategies — including unhedged short derivative positions.
  • The new suite of products from Bandhan AMC will be introduced under the “Arudha SIF” platform.
  • Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs) offer greater flexibility for fund managers and allow for interval schemes, where investors can subscribe daily but redeem only on specific days.
  • SIFs are launched under the mutual fund trust structure, overseen by trustees and audited with the same rigour as mutual funds, but with more flexible redemption structures and strategy options.
  • Vishal Kapoor is the CEO of Bandhan AMC.
  • Quant Mutual Fund became the first asset management company in India to secure SEBI approval for an SIF just last month.
  • Quant Mutual Fund's SIF, named QSIF Equity Long-Short Fund, allows long-short strategies across equity, debt, and hybrid categories.
Sebi Approves 60% Stake Transfer of Invesco Mutual Fund to IIHL (Start of September) ▼
  • Invesco Mutual Fund has received market regulator Sebi approval to transfer a controlling 60 per cent stake to IndusInd International Holdings Ltd (IIHL).
  • The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) provided all approvals to the pending applications by Invesco India for a change in control of Invesco AMC, Invesco Trustee Company, and to the PMS business.
  • The Competition Commission of India (CCI) had approved the acquisition of shareholding in each of Invesco Asset Management (India) Private Ltd and Invesco Trustee Private Ltd by Hinduja Group's firm IIHL in August 2024.
  • The proposed combination pertains to the acquisition of 60 per cent shareholding in each of Invesco Asset Management (India) Private Ltd (Invesco AMC) and Invesco Trustee Private Ltd (Invesco Trustee) by IIHL.
  • Invesco AMC is registered as a portfolio manager under the SEBI (Portfolio Managers) Regulations, 2020.
  • Invesco has combined onshore and offshore advisory and assets under management of Rs 85,393 crore as of March 31, 2024.
South Indian Bank launches Digital Loan Against Mutual Funds with Ark Neo’s DhanLAP (Mid of September) ▼
  • South Indian Bank has partnered with Ark Neo Financial Services’ DhanLAP platform to offer a fully paperless ‘Loan Against Mutual Funds’ facility.
  • Investors can borrow up to 50 percent of the value of equity mutual funds and up to 70 percent of the value of debt mutual funds.
  • The facility is available to individuals aged between 18 and 75 years, including non-customers of the bank, after digital KYC using PAN and Aadhaar.
PM Modi launches Rs 1 lakh crore RDI Fund to spur private R&D without direct industry investment (Start of November) ▼
  • Name: Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund with corpus of Rs 1 lakh crore
  • Implementing structure: Two-tier model—special purpose fund under Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) managed by Department of Science and Technology
  • Fund deployment: Capital routed through second-level fund managers (AIFs, DFIs, NBFCs) guided by independent investment committees

Headline: RBI approves S Krishnan's appointment as J&K Bank Chairman

Bullet Points:

  • The Reserve Bank of India has approved the appointment of S Krishnan as part-time chairman of J&K Bank.
  • His appointment is effective from November 13, 2025, till March 26, 2028.
  • Krishnan previously served as MD & CEO of Punjab & Sind Bank.
  • He also held the top position as MD & CEO of Tamilnad Mercantile Bank in September 2022.
  • Krishnan is currently an independent director on the board of Srinagar-headquartered bank.

Similar Headlines

S Krishnan Approved as J&K Bank's Non-Executive Chairman (End of August) ▼
  • J&K Bank has approved the appointment of S Krishnan as the non-executive chairman.
  • The appointment is effective following RBI's nod.
  • The board reached this decision during a meeting on August 25.
  • His appointment is with the term set until March 26, 2028.
  • Krishnan's extensive career spans over 40 years in the industry.
  • He previously served as Managing Director and CEO of Punjab & Sind Bank.
  • He recently held the position of MD & CEO at Tamilnad Mercantile Bank starting in September 2022, post-superannuation.
  • Krishnan is currently an independent director.
  • He boasts academic credentials as a postgraduate in Commerce and is a qualified Cost Accountant.
Rajiv Ranjan appointed as Vice-President and CRO of New Development Bank (End of August) ▼
  • Rajiv Ranjan, former RBI MPC member, named VP of NDB and the New Development Bank (NDB) has announced Rajiv Ranjan as Vice-President, introducing him as its VP & CRO.
  • The bank stated that its Board of Governors have made the appointment for a tenure of five years.
  • In this role, he is responsible for the NDB’s risk management, general strategy, policies, partnerships and ESG functions.
  • He last served as an Executive Director and a Member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) from May 2022 for nearly three years at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
  • Ranjan is a central banker with a career spanning over three decades, including his stint with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) from 1989.
  • The VP holds a master’s degree in economics from the Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi, and a PhD in Economics from the University of Mumbai.
  • He is set to retire from the central bank in September.
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) appointed Indranil Bhattacharyya as an ex-officio member of the Monetary Policy Committee, replacing Rajiv Ranjan.
Amit Khare appointed Secretary to Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan (Mid of September) ▼
  • Retired IAS officer Amit Khare, who currently serves as advisor to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was appointed secretary to Vice-President (V-P) CP Radhakrishnan.
  • He is a retired 1985-batch officer of Jharkhand cadre.
  • His appointment is on a contract basis for three years.
  • Khare had previously served as Union Higher Education Secretary and Union Information and Broadcasting Secretary.
  • As Higher Education Secretary, he worked on the National Education Policy.
  • He played a role in exposing the fodder scam as district collector of West Singhbhum from 1995 to 1997.

Headline: Noted computer science education pioneer Prof Vaidyeswaran Rajaraman passes away

Bullet Points:

  • Prof Vaidyeswaran Rajaraman, an engineer and academic, passed away.
  • He was one of the pioneers of computer science education in India.
  • He was credited with establishing the first professional course in computer science in India at IIT Kanpur in 1965.
  • He was a Bhatnagar Prize winner and was honoured with a Padma Bhushan in 1998.
  • He wrote more than 20 textbooks on computer science which are still being taught in colleges and universities across the country.
  • He later shifted to the Indian Institute of Science where he oversaw the development of low-cost parallel computers and a supercomputing facility.

Similar Headlines

C.V. Raman Jayanti celebrated on November 7: Birth anniversary of Nobel laureate who discovered the Raman Effect (Start of November) ▼
  • C.V. Raman Jayanti is celebrated every year on November 7, his birth anniversary, to inspire young minds to explore the wonders of science and innovation.
  • He was the first Asian and first non-white scientist to win the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930 for the discovery of the Raman Effect.
  • Raman founded the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru in 1948, which continues to promote scientific research today.

Headline: World Diabetes Day 2025 observed on November 14 with theme 'Diabetes Across Life Stages'

Bullet Points:

  • World Diabetes Day is observed every year on November 14.
  • The theme for World Diabetes Day 2025 is 'Diabetes Across Life Stages'.
  • World Diabetes Day was established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO).
  • It became an official United Nations Day in 2006.
  • The date was chosen to honour Sir Frederick Banting, who, along with Charles Best, co-discovered insulin in 1922.
  • It is recognised as the world’s largest campaign to raise awareness about diabetes, reaching over one billion people across more than 160 countries.

Similar Headlines

National Nutrition Week 2025: “Nutritious Food For All – From Children to the Elderly” (Start of September) ▼
  • Scheme/Initiative Name: National Nutrition Week, observed annually from September 1st to 7th and led by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in collaboration with NGOs, healthcare bodies, and other government departments.
  • Main Objective: “to educate people on proper dietary practices and highlight the role of nutrition in preventing malnutrition and lifestyle-related health issues.”
  • Key Connection: National Nutrition Week “strengthens the vision of Poshan Abhiyan (National Nutrition Mission), a flagship program by the Government of India that works to improve nutritional outcomes among children, adolescents, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.”
  • Theme 2025: “Nutritious Food For All – From Children to the Elderly,” emphasizing that “nutrition is a lifelong requirement.”
Key Organizations and Leaders in Menopause Advocacy and Care (End of October) ▼
  • Professor Pauline M. Maki is an Expert Member of the World Economic Forum’s Global Alliance for Women’s Health.
  • Professor Pauline M. Maki is an expert medical advisor at Halle Berry’s menopause care platform, Respin Health.
  • The World Economic Forum’s Global Alliance for Women’s Health is a one-of-its-kind multistakeholder platform.
  • Halle Berry recently joined the Global Alliance for Women’s Health as Public Ambassador.
  • The International Menopause Society brings real value to the conversation by bringing together experts and leaders to make the shift from intention to implementation.
World Duchenne Awareness Day 2025: Theme 'Make Cures Affordable for Duchenne' (Start of September) ▼
  • World Duchenne Awareness Day is a global event dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for those affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy, highlighting the urgent need for continued research and support.
  • World Duchenne Awareness Day will be observed globally on September 7, 2025.
  • The theme for World Duchenne Awareness Day 2025 is “Make Cures Affordable for Duchenne.”
  • This important day raises awareness about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a rare genetic condition that causes progressive muscle weakness and affects thousands of individuals and families worldwide.
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.