Daily Briefing Friday, Dec 26

Daily Current Affairs: 26 December 2025

Analysis for 26 December 2025

Anu Garg appointed as Chief Secretary of Odisha

[Odisha]

Key Updates:

  • Anu Garg, a 1991-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, was appointed as the first woman Chief Secretary of Odisha.
  • She will replace Manoj Ahuja following his superannuation on December 31.
  • She is currently serving as the Development Commissioner (DC) and is considered the number two in the state’s bureaucratic hierarchy.
  • Garg served as a joint secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) from October 2012 to April 2015.
  • She previously served as the commissioner-cum-secretary of the Department of Health and Family Welfare in the Government of Odisha during 2008–12.
  • She was a member of the High-Level Expert Group (HLEG) for Universal Health Coverage instituted by the Planning Commission in October 2010.
  • Her previous roles include serving as the collector of Sambalpur and Bargarh districts and as the secretary of the water resources department.

Similar / Past Coverage

Manali Makarand Kshirsagar appointed as first woman Vice-Chancellor of Nagpur University (NU). (Start of December) ▼
  • Manali Makarand Kshirsagar is an NU alumna with a PhD in computer science.
  • She holds an MBA in finance and marketing.
  • She is currently director-technical and adviser at Nagpur’s Yeshwantrao Chavan College of Engineering.
  • Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat made the announcement of her appointment.
  • Her tenure will be for five years.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurates 36th Konark Festival and 15th International Sand Art Festival (Start of December) ▼
  • The twin festivals are organised by the tourism department in association with Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi and Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC).
  • The five-day event celebrates India’s cultural heritage and artistic brilliance.
  • The inaugural evening at Konark showcased an Odissi performance by Sonali Mohapatra and artists of Nrutya Upasana Pitha, Bhubaneswar.
  • The recital opened with Odissi recitals on Hanuman Chalisa, composed by Sant Tulsidas, with music by Guru Abhiram Nanda and choreography by Mohapatra.
  • This was followed by ‘Saranga Pallavi’, a dance sequence exploring the beauty of Rag Saranga through intricate rhythm and melody, choreographed by Mohapatra with music by Nirmal Kumar Mahapatra.
  • The troupe concluded with Chari Yuga Devi, depicting the divine power of Maa Durga.
Shri Sanjay Garg, IAS assumes charge as Director General of BIS (Start of November) ▼
  • Shri Sanjay Garg, a senior civil servant of IAS-1994 batch from the Kerala cadre, has assumed charge as the Director General of the Bureau of Indian Standards, the National Standards Body of India, with effect from 1 November 2025.
  • Prior to joining BIS as DG, he served as Additional Secretary, DARE (Department of Agriculture, Research and Education) and Secretary, Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR).
  • In DARE and ICAR, he spearheaded the digital transformation through application of IT in Research Management and Administration. He also played a pivotal role in scaling up and expansion of Kisan Sarathi portal which connects farmers directly to agricultural scientists.
  • As the Director General of BIS, Shri Garg will also serve as the President of India’s national committee in IEC.
  • Shri Garg brings vast and diverse administrative experience spanning over three decades with expertise in strategic planning, policy formulation and implementation across various sectors including agriculture, food logistics, defence industry sector, industrial promotion, finance and various social sectors at State and National levels.
Government Appoints New Secretary-Rank Officers (End of November) ▼
  • Govt appointed seven new secretary-rank officers, including the new heads for oil, telecom and agriculture ministries.
  • Neeraj Mittal, a 1992-batch IAS officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre, [was appointed] as petroleum secretary, replacing Pankaj Jain.
  • Amit Agrawal moves to the Department of Telecom.
  • Manoj Joshi... will move to pharmaceuticals from the department of land resources.
  • V Vidyarthi will move from tourism to the department of empowerment of persons with disabilities.
  • Srivatsa Krishna [will replace V Vidyarthi] in tourism.
  • Atish Chandra... has been named officer on special duty in the department of agriculture and farmers welfare, and will take over as secretary at the end of Feb, when Devesh Chaturvedi retires.
  • Pankaj Jain, who was named member secretary of the Eighth Pay Commission.
  • Chennai Port Trust chairman Sunil Paliwal has been named chairman of the Inland Waterways Authority of India.

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) approves NHAI-sponsored Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust as Public InvIT

[Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)]

Key Updates:

  • NHAI-sponsored Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT) has received approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) as an Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT).
  • The Public InvIT aims to unlock the monetisation potential of the National Highway assets while creating a high-quality, long-term investment instrument primarily targeting retail and domestic investors.
  • NHAI had incorporated Raajmarg Infra Investment Managers Pvt Ltd (RIIMPL) as the Investment Manager for RIIT.
  • RIIMPL has been established as a collaborative venture with equity participation from State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, NaBFID, Axis Bank, Bajaj Finserv Ventures Ltd., HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, IDBI Bank, IndusInd Bank, and Yes Bank.
  • NRVVMK Rajendra Kumar, Member (Finance), NHAI, will be the Managing Director and CEO (Additional Charge) of the investment manager company.

Similar / Past Coverage

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approves HDFC Bank group entities to acquire up to 9.5% stake in IndusInd Bank. (Mid of December) ▼
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted approval through a letter dated December 15 for HDFC Bank and its group entities to hold up to 9.50% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights of IndusInd Bank.
  • The approval remains valid for one year until December 14, 2026.
  • Aggregate holding covers HDFC Bank and group entities including HDFC Mutual Fund, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Pension Fund Management Limited, and HDFC Securities Limited.
  • HDFC Bank stated it does not intend to invest directly in IndusInd Bank.
  • The application for raising the investment limit was submitted on October 24, 2025, after combined holdings of group entities were expected to exceed the previous 5% threshold.
Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) grants NCDEX in-principle nod for mutual fund platform. (Mid of December) ▼
  • National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange Ltd (NCDEX) has received in-principle approval from Sebi to launch a mutual fund transaction platform.
  • The platform will allow investors to subscribe to and redeem mutual fund units, with clearing and settlement handled by National Commodity Clearing Ltd (NCCL), a wholly owned NCDEX subsidiary.
  • NCDEX aims to expand financial inclusion through low-denomination systematic investment plans (SIPs) targeting rural and semi-urban areas.
  • The mutual fund platform could be rolled out faster than equity trading systems as it operates independently of stock trading infrastructure.
Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) approves IPOs for Yashoda Healthcare and six other companies. (Mid of December) ▼
  • Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) granted IPO approval to seven companies: Yashoda Healthcare Services, Fusion CX, Orient Cables, Turtlemint Fintech Solutions, RSB Retail India, SFC Environmental Technologies, and Lohia Corp.
  • These companies approached Sebi between May and September and obtained its observations during December 8-12.
  • Market sources estimate the combined IPO proceeds to exceed Rs 6,000 crore.
  • Yashoda Healthcare Services filed draft papers in September through a confidential route; its IPO size is expected between Rs 3,000 crore and Rs 4,000 crore.
  • Fusion CX plans to raise Rs 1,000 crore via a fresh issue of Rs 600 crore and an offer for sale of Rs 400 crore.
  • Orient Cables India Ltd aims to mobilise Rs 700 crore through a fresh issue of Rs 320 crore and an offer for sale of Rs 380 crore.
  • SFC Environmental Technologies will raise Rs 150 crore through a fresh issue and an offer for sale of 1.23 crore shares.
  • Lohia Corp’s IPO will be entirely an offer for sale of 4.22 crore equity shares with no fresh issue component.
  • All seven companies will list their shares on BSE and NSE.
Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) clears ICICI Prudential Asset Management and three others for IPO launch (Start of December) ▼
  • ICICI Prudential Asset Management's IPO will be entirely an offer for sale (OFS) worth ₹10,000 crore.
  • Prudential Corporation Holdings will sell 1.76 crore shares in the OFS.
  • ICICI Bank owns 51% of ICICI Prudential AMC; Prudential Corporation Holdings holds the remaining 49%.
  • Annu Projects' IPO comprises a fresh issue of 2.2 crore shares.
  • Technocraft Ventures will raise capital through a fresh issue of 95.05 lakh shares and an OFS of 23.76 lakh shares.
  • Powerica's IPO includes a fresh issue of ₹700 crore and an OFS of ₹700 crore.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Announces ₹2 Lakh Crore OMO and $10 Billion USD/INR Swap

[Reserve Bank of India (RBI)]

Key Updates:

  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will purchase government securities worth ₹2 lakh crore through Open Market Operations (OMO) to inject liquidity into the banking system.
  • The RBI will conduct a USD 10 billion buy/sell dollar-rupee swap auction for a tenor of three years on January 13, 2026.
  • The OMO purchase auctions for an aggregate amount of ₹2,00,000 crore will be held in four tranches of ₹50,000 crore each.
  • The four OMO tranches are scheduled for December 29, 2025, January 5, 2026, January 12, 2026, and January 22, 2026.
  • Under the swap arrangement, a bank will sell US dollars to the RBI and simultaneously agree to buy the same amount back at the end of the three-year period.
  • These measures follow a previous RBI action involving ₹1 lakh crore OMO purchase auctions and a USD 5 billion Buy/Sell Swap auction for a tenor of three years.

Similar / Past Coverage

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) injects Rs 2.90 lakh crore liquidity via bond buys and USD swap (End of December) ▼
  • RBI will buy Rs 2 lakh crore of government bonds through open market operations in four tranches of Rs 50,000 crore each.
  • RBI will conduct a $10-billion buy/sell swap auction on Jan. 13 to ease dollar liquidity.
  • System liquidity turned negative mid-December, driving the weighted average call rate to 5.46%, above the 5.25% repo rate.
  • Between December 11 and 18, RBI had infused Rs 1.45 lakh crore through OMOs and a $5-billion swap.
  • Power Finance Corp scrapped a Rs 6,000-crore bond sale after bids came in at higher-than-expected coupons.
  • The 10-year benchmark yield has risen 20 basis points since Dec. 5 despite a quarter percentage point policy rate cut.
  • State governments collectively raised Rs 33,720 crore through bond sales on Tuesday at cutoff yields higher than expected.
  • Bank of India raised Rs 10,000 crore long term infrastructure bonds at 7.23%.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cuts repo rate and injects durable liquidity through OMO and dollar-rupee sell swap. (Start of December) ▼
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced a 25 basis points repo rate cut.
  • RBI will conduct Open Market Operation (OMO) purchases of government securities worth Rs 1 trillion.
  • RBI announced a three-year dollar-rupee buy/sell swap of $5 billion to inject durable liquidity into the financial system.
  • The dollar-rupee sell swap is a foreign exchange transaction where banks sell US Dollars to RBI in return for Indian Rupee.
  • The combined measures aim to ensure adequate, durable liquidity and facilitate monetary transmission.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cuts repo rate by 25 basis points (Start of December) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) sliced the repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25 per cent on December 5.
  • The cumulative reduction in the repo rate this calendar year is 125-basis-point.
  • The rupee breached the 90-mark against the US dollar, hitting a record low.
  • Domestic inflation remains historically benign, with CPI inflation at 0.25 per cent in October 2025.
  • The policy announced Rs 1 trillion in Open Market Operations (OMO) and a $5 billion FX swap.
  • The 10-year bond yields are expected to move toward the 6.8 to 7 per cent range.
  • Experts believe there is scope for another 25 bps cut in this cycle.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cuts repo rate by 25 bps to 5.25% and projects FY26 inflation at 2%. (Start of December) ▼
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra announces a 25 basis points reduction in the repo rate to 5.25%.
  • The standing deposit facility rate now stands at 5.0%, and the marginal standing facility and bank rate at 5.5%.
  • RBI retains the neutral policy stance with future moves dependent on inflation trajectory, growth, and global risks.
  • RBI projects CPI inflation for FY26 at 2%, with Q3 at 0.6% and Q4 at 2.9%.
  • RBI revises FY26 real GDP growth forecast upward to 7.3%, with Q3 at 7% and Q4 at 6.5%.
  • RBI announces ₹1 lakh crore in OMO purchases and a $5 billion dollar-rupee swap in December to augment liquidity.
  • India’s forex reserves stand at USD 686 billion, providing more than 11 months of import cover.
  • The 10-year bond yield drops nearly 5 basis points to 6.4581% post-policy announcement.
  • RBI launches a two-month nationwide customer grievance redressal campaign starting January 1, 2026, to clear pending Ombudsman grievances.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister (UPCM) Yogi Adityanath Schedules Noida International Airport Inauguration for January 2026

[Uttar Pradesh]

Key Updates:

  • Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister (UPCM) Yogi Adityanath announced that the Noida International Airport at Jewar will be inaugurated in January 2026.
  • The facility will be the fifth international airport in Uttar Pradesh and is expected to be the largest airport in India.
  • Uttar Pradesh currently has 16 functional airports, including four international airports.
  • The Noida International Airport is a greenfield project being developed in the Jewar area of Gautam Buddh Nagar district under the public-private partnership (PPP) model.
  • The first phase of the airport project is spread over approximately 1,300 hectares.

Similar / Past Coverage

Navi Mumbai Airport To Begin Commercial Flights On Christmas (Mid of November) ▼
  • 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.
PM Modi Inaugurates New Terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) with ₹5,000 Crore Investment (End of December) ▼
  • "Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the new terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA), completing a rare, accelerated journey from concept to commissioning in under a year."
  • "The overall airport development represents an investment of Rs 5,000 crore, including Rs 1,000 crore earmarked for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities."
  • "The terminal is designed to handle 13.1 million passengers annually by 2032."
  • "Assam is emerging as India’s eastern gateway under the Act East policy, with the bamboo-rich terminal symbolising strength, sustainability and the state’s growing role in powering Viksit Bharat."
  • "The project has been developed by Guwahati International Airport Limited, with operations led by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL)."
  • "Its inauguration today, with operations expected to commence by the end of February, underscores the pace at which India’s aviation infrastructure is now being conceived, built, tested and readied for live operations."
PM Modi Assam Visit on Dec 20-21 to Inaugurate Projects Worth Rs 15,600 Crore (End of December) ▼
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and lay foundation stone of projects worth around Rs 15,600 crore in Assam on Saturday and Sunday.
  • The New Terminal Building of Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati will be inaugurated, designed to handle up to 1.3 crore passengers annually.
  • PM Modi will perform Bhoomipujan for Ammonia-Urea Fertilizer Project of Assam Valley Fertilizer and Chemical Company Limited at Namrup in Dibrugarh.
  • The Ammonia-Urea Fertilizer Project is stated to be built with an estimated investment of over Rs. 10,600 crore.
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.”

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Postpones Phase 2 of Continuous Cheque Clearing Mechanism

[Reserve Bank of India (RBI)]

Key Updates:

  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) postponed the implementation of the second phase of the 'Continuous Clearing and Settlement on Realisation in Cheque Truncation System' to allow banks to streamline operations.
  • The second phase of the faster cheque clearance mechanism was originally scheduled for implementation on January 3.
  • The first phase of the clearing system implementation commenced on October 4.
  • Under the second phase, banks are required to clear cheques within three hours of realisation in the Cheque Truncation System (CTS).
  • The RBI modified the presentation session timing to 9 am to 3 pm and the confirmation session timing to 9 am to 7 pm.
  • The previous presentation session was scheduled from 10 am to 4 pm, while the confirmation session was from 10 am to 7 pm.
  • In Phase 1, drawee banks must confirm cheques by 7 pm, or they are deemed approved and included for settlement.
  • The new process replaces the previous cheque clearing cycle of up to two working days with a system that clears cheques within a few hours of presentation.
  • The item expiry time for cheques in Phase 2 was set to be changed to T+3 clear hours.

Similar / Past Coverage

RBI Announces Moratorium on Export Credit from Sep 1 to Dec 31, 2025 (Mid of November) ▼
  • 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.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Issues Guidelines for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) Licensing and Classification (Mid of December) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued the Urban Co-operative Banks – Licensing, Scheduling and Regulatory Classification Guidelines, 2025.
  • The RBI stated that no fresh proposals for the organization of new UCBs or the conversion of cooperative credit societies into UCBs are being considered.
  • A four-tiered regulatory framework has been adopted for UCBs based on deposit size as of March 31 of the preceding financial year.
  • Tier 1 UCBs include all unit UCBs, salary earners’ UCBs, and other UCBs with deposits up to ₹100 crore.
  • Tier 2 UCBs are defined as those with deposits of more than ₹100 crore and up to ₹1000 crore.
  • Tier 3 UCBs consist of those with deposits of more than ₹1000 crore and up to ₹10,000 crore.
  • Tier 4 UCBs include those with deposits exceeding ₹10,000 crore.
  • UCBs transitioning to a higher Tier are allowed a glide path of up to two years to comply with higher regulatory requirements.
  • To be included in the Second Schedule to the RBI Act, 1934, a UCB must maintain Tier 3 deposit levels for two consecutive years.
  • UCBs seeking scheduling must maintain a Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of at least three per cent more than the minimum requirement.
  • The eligibility for scheduling also requires the absence of major regulatory and supervisory concerns based on the latest RBI inspection or audited financials.
Government Notifies Amendments to the Capital Gains Accounts Scheme, 1988 to Enable Electronic Payments and Digital Processes (End of November) ▼
  • The CBDT vide Notification No. 161/2025 dated November 19, 2025 has notified the Capital Gains Accounts (Second Amendment) Scheme, 2025.
  • The Scheme now formally incorporates section 54GA, allowing depositors claiming exemption on account of shifting of industrial undertakings from urban areas to Special Economy Zones to use CGAS accounts.
  • A detailed definition of “electronic mode” has been inserted, enabling deposits through Credit/Debit Cards, Net Banking, IMPS, UPI, RTGS, NEFT and BHIM Aadhaar Pay.
  • All earlier references to “cheque or draft” have been expanded to include electronic mode of payment across application and deposit processes.
  • The effective date of deposit for exemption purposes will now be the date on which the electronic payment is received by the deposit office, subject to realization.
  • Depositors may now use electronic statements of account in place of physical passbooks for operations such as withdrawals, transfers, or account closure.
  • Closure of CGAS accounts shall only be executed electronically using digital signature or electronic verification code (EVC) starting 1 April 2027.
  • The Principal Director General of Income-tax (Systems) is assigned responsibility for prescribing procedures for Form G and Form H filing, forwarding digitally filed forms to jurisdictional Assessing Officers, specifying the standards for EVC generation, and ensuring secure storage, archival, and retrieval of electronically submitted forms.
  • Forms A and C have been updated to include section 54GA, provide fields for transactions made via electronic modes, and insert new fields for RTGS/IMPS/NEFT transaction details under the deposit office section.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposes Rs 99.30 lakh penalty on Jammu and Kashmir Bank (Start of December) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a fine of Rs 99.30 lakh on Jammu and Kashmir Bank.
  • The penalty was for failing to comply with directions regarding grievance handling, customer communication, KYC verification, and the transfer of unclaimed deposits.
  • The fines were based on the statutory inspection of the bank's financial position as of March 2024.
  • The inspection found that certain complaints were not escalated to the Internal Ombudsman.
  • The bank did not send final resolution letters to customers after closing complaints.
  • The bank was not using face-verification technology for video-based customer identification.
  • The bank was not verifying customers' financial information furnished at the time of onboarding.
  • There was a delay in the transfer of eligible unclaimed deposits to the Depositor Education and Awareness Fund.

Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) extends Rs 9,821 crore loan to Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd (DFCCIL)

[Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC), Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd (DFCCIL)]

Key Updates:

  • Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) provided a Rs 9,821 crore loan to the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Ltd (DFCCIL).
  • The rupee-denominated term loan is intended to refinance foreign currency debt taken from the World Bank for the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor project.
  • The refinancing fully covers the existing World Bank loans, shifting the debt to local funding solutions to reduce exchange rate volatility.
  • The agreement was signed by Rahul Kapoor, Director (Finance) of DFCCIL, and Deepa Kotnis, Executive Director (Finance) of IRFC.
  • The loan execution took place at the Railway Board in the presence of Satish Kumar, Chairman & CEO of the Railway Board.

Similar / Past Coverage

B P Kanungo appointed as non-executive chairman of IIFL Finance Ltd (End of December) ▼
  • B P Kanungo has been appointed as the non-executive chairman of the board of IIFL Finance Ltd.
  • He served as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India from 2017 to 2021 and was a member of the Monetary Policy Committee.
  • As chairman, Kanungo will lead the board in setting strategic direction, enhancing governance standards, and safeguarding the interests of shareholders, customers, regulators, and other stakeholders.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approves HDFC Bank group entities to acquire up to 9.5% stake in IndusInd Bank. (Mid of December) ▼
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted approval through a letter dated December 15 for HDFC Bank and its group entities to hold up to 9.50% of the paid-up share capital or voting rights of IndusInd Bank.
  • The approval remains valid for one year until December 14, 2026.
  • Aggregate holding covers HDFC Bank and group entities including HDFC Mutual Fund, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Pension Fund Management Limited, and HDFC Securities Limited.
  • HDFC Bank stated it does not intend to invest directly in IndusInd Bank.
  • The application for raising the investment limit was submitted on October 24, 2025, after combined holdings of group entities were expected to exceed the previous 5% threshold.
Government of India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) sign loans worth over $2.2 billion (Mid of December) ▼
  • The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank signed agreements for five loans totaling over $2.2 billion.
  • Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded Industrial Training Institutes Programme receives $846 million.
  • Accelerating Affordable and Inclusive Rooftop Solar Systems Development Programme Subprogramme 1 receives $650 million.
  • Assam State Tertiary Health Care Augmentation Project ASTHA receives $398.8 million.
  • Chennai Metro Rail Investment Project Tranche 2 receives $240 million.
  • Integrated Ecotourism and Sustainable Agri-based Livelihood Development in Meghalaya Project receives $77 million.
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.

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

[Goldman Sachs]

Key Updates:

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

Similar / Past Coverage

Asian Development Bank (ADB) raises India’s FY26 growth forecast to 7.2% (Mid of December) ▼
  • Asian Development Bank (ADB) raised India’s growth forecast for FY26 to 7.2 per cent from 6.5 per cent.
  • The upgrade for India is 0.7 percentage points.
  • ADB forecasts Asia to grow at 5.1 per cent in 2025, higher than its earlier projection of 4.8 per cent.
  • The 2025 growth estimate for India has been revised to 7.2 per cent.
  • India recorded GDP growth of 8.2 per cent in the second quarter ending September.
  • India's GDP growth was 7.8 per cent in the first quarter, taking the growth rate for the first half of the financial year to 8 per cent.
  • ADB kept its FY27 forecast unchanged at 6.5 per cent.
  • ADB revised the inflation forecast for FY2026 down to 2.6 per cent from 3.1 per cent in September.
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) increased its GDP growth estimate for the ongoing financial year to 7.3 per cent from 6.8 per cent.
  • RBI places real GDP growth for the full year at 7.3 per cent.
  • RBI projects Q3 growth at 7 per cent and Q4 at 6.5 per cent.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raises FY26 GDP growth forecast to 7.3% (Start of December) ▼
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revised India’s GDP forecast for FY2025-26 upwards to 7.3% from the earlier 6.8%.
  • RBI raised Q3 FY26 growth estimate to 7.0% from 6.4%.
  • RBI raised Q4 FY26 growth estimate to 6.5% from 6.2%.
  • RBI raised Q1 FY27 growth projection to 6.7% from 6.4%.
  • RBI projected Q2 FY27 growth at 6.8%.
  • RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) cut the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25%.
  • India’s economy grew 8.2% in Q2 FY25, 7.8% in Q1 FY25, and 6.5% for full-year FY25.
  • RBI announced Rs 1 lakh crore OMO purchases and a 3-year USD/INR swap of USD 5 billion.
  • IMF projects India to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by end of 2025.
Moody's Global Macro Outlook: India GDP to grow 6.5% in 2027, among fastest in G-20 (Mid of November) ▼
  • Moody's Ratings projects India's GDP growth at 7% for 2025, 6.4% for 2026 and 6.5% for 2027.
  • India's economy expanded 7.8% in the April-June period and 6.5% in FY25.
  • Inflation in India is expected to average around 3.5% in 2026 and 4% in 2027, after averaging 2.5% between January and October this year.
  • Global economic growth is forecast by Moody's to range between 2.5% and 2.6% in 2026 and 2027, compared with 2.6% in 2025 and 2.9% in 2024.
  • The US is forecast to grow 1.8% in 2026 and 1.9% in 2027, while China's GDP will expand by 4.5% and 4.2% over the same period.
  • Indian merchandise exports rose 6.8% in September, while exports to the US fell 11.9%.
India Ratings and Research revises India's FY26 GDP growth projection to 7% (End of November) ▼
  • India Ratings and Research raised India's FY26 GDP growth projection to 7% YoY, 70 basis points higher than its July 2025 forecast of 6.3%.
  • The RBI has projected India's GDP growth for FY26 at 6.8%.
  • India's real GDP grew 7.8% YoY in Q1 FY26, the fastest pace in five quarters.
  • Ind-Ra expects private final consumption expenditure (PFCE) to grow 7.4% YoY in FY26, up from 7.2% in FY25.
  • Indian exports to the US fell 11.9% YoY in September 2025 and 8.9% YoY in October 2025.
  • Indian exports to the US averaged USD 7.4 billion per month from April to October 2025, but dropped to USD 5.9 billion in September-October 2025.

Shivaji University Raisin Research Centre to boost scientific support for Sangli growers

[Maharashtra]

Key Updates:

  • Shivaji University Senate approved in principle the establishment of a dedicated raisin research centre in Sangli district.
  • The centre will support raisin growers and processors through scientific research and skill development.
  • It aims to help tackle rising export competition and the influx of imported raisins, particularly from China.

Similar / Past Coverage

NSC Seed Processing Units & Online Booking Platform: Key Features (End of October) ▼
  • Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated six NSC vegetable & flower seed processing-cum-packaging units (4-tonnes/hr capacity each) located at Pusa (New Delhi), Bareilly, Dharwad, Hassan, Suratgarh and Raichur.
  • Launched 'Seed Management 2.0' and an online seed booking platform to increase farmers' accessibility and transparency in seed supply.
  • Objective is to ensure supply of quality seeds to farmers, curb counterfeit seeds and boost agricultural productivity of small and marginal farmers.
Union Minister Scindia Launches NEST Cluster at IIT Guwahati and Development Projects in Assam (Start of November) ▼
  • The North Eastern Science and Technology Cluster (NEST Cluster) was inaugurated.
  • The inauguration took place at IIT Guwahati.
  • Union Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia inaugurated the NEST Cluster.
  • Foundation stones were laid for development projects worth Rs 635 crore across Assam.
Banas Dairy and Union Cooperation Ministry Sign Pact for High-Quality Potato Seeds (Mid of November) ▼
  • The Banas Dairy and union cooperation ministry signed an important agreement.
  • The agreement is aimed at encouraging scientific production of potato seeds to develop a complete value chain and increase farmers' income.
  • Under the agreement, Bhartiya Beej Sahkari Samiti Ltd (BBSSL) and Banas Dairy will jointly produce seed potatoes.
  • Banas Dairy will share its advanced tissue culture and aeroponic technology with BBSSL to ensure the supply of disease-free seed potatoes to farmers.
  • Farmers will also be provided with facilities such as scientific farming, training, contract farming, and organised markets.
  • BBSS is a cooperative society established by the central government to produce, procure, and distribute high-quality seeds through a network of cooperatives.
Education Ministry To Conduct Fourth Kashi Tamil Sangamam From December 2 (End of November) ▼
  • The Ministry of Education will host the fourth edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS) 4.0 starting December 2.
  • This event will be celebrating the profound civilisational links between Tamil Nadu and Kashi.
  • This initiative honours the cultural, linguistic, and people-to-people connections between the two regions, embodying the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshta Bharat.
  • The theme for 2025 is “Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam", aiming to promote Tamil learning across India and foster appreciation for India’s classical linguistic and literary heritage.
  • In KTS 4.0, more than 1,400 delegates from Tamil Nadu will participate under seven categories.
  • Delegates will undertake an 8-day experiential tour, including visits to Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya, with interactions, seminars, cultural performances, and exposure to local cuisine, handicrafts, and heritage.
  • They will visit significant Tamil heritage locations in Varanasi, such as the ancestral house of Mahakavi Subramanya Bharatiyar, Kedar Ghat, the Kasi Madam in the “Little Tamil Nadu" area, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and Mata Annapurna Temple.
  • Additionally, they will visit the Tamil Department at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) for academic and literary interactions.
  • The programme is organised by IIT Madras and BHU Varanasi, with support from the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, and the Government of Uttar Pradesh.
  • Major Initiatives under KTS 4.0 include Sage Agasthya vehicle expedition from Tenkasi to Kashi; teaching Tamil in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh schools; and Tamil learning study tours for students of Uttar Pradesh.
  • Interested candidates can apply at kashitamil.iitm.ac.in.
  • The registration window will close at 8 PM on November 21, 2025, and a selection quiz will be conducted on November 23, 2025 from 10 AM to 5 PM.

National Counter Terrorism Policy and Strategy to provide template for States against terror

Key Updates:

  • The Union government is finalising India’s first anti-terror policy which will provide a template for all States to combat and respond to terror-related incidents.
  • The policy is being finalised by the Home Ministry with inputs from the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
  • Key focus areas include digital radicalisation, misuse of open borders, and foreign-funded conversion networks.

Similar / Past Coverage

G20 Johannesburg Summit: India to push terrorism concerns (End of November) ▼
  • Event: G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa
  • India’s participation: PM Modi to speak in all three sessions and attend IBSA Leaders’ Meeting hosted by South Africa
  • India’s stated objective: “Terrorism is a very important subject for India… Every issue of importance to us will be highlighted. We are discussing the Declaration for the Summit.” – MEA Secretary (Economic Relations) Sudhakar Dalela
2900 kg of explosives, 5 kg heavy metal: Major terror module busted in Delhi-NCR; what cops found in Faridabad (Mid of November) ▼
  • Jammu & Kashmir and Haryana Police jointly recovered 360 kg of suspected ammonium nitrate, arms, and bomb-making equipment in Faridabad.
  • Two individuals, Dr Muzammil Ahmad Ganaie and Dr Adil Ahmad Rather, were arrested in connection with the seizure.
  • Officials confirmed the seizure of 360 kg of suspected ammonium nitrate, along with 2,900 kg of IED-making material, including chemicals, detonators, wires, and other bomb-making components.
  • Recovered items included one assault rifle with three magazines and 83 live rounds, one pistol with eight live rounds, 20 timers with batteries, 24 remote controls, walkie-talkie sets, and 5 kg of heavy metal.
  • The operation is being described as one of the biggest terror-related recoveries in the Delhi-NCR region in recent years.
  • The Faridabad raid followed crucial leads developed by Jammu and Kashmir Police during a separate investigation in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh.
  • An AK-47 rifle was earlier recovered from Dr Rather’s locker at the Government Medical College in Srinagar.
  • The Jammu and Kashmir Police dismantled an inter-state and transnational terror module associated with proscribed organisations Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH).
  • Investigations revealed that the arrested individuals were part of a “white-collar terror ecosystem” involving radicalised professionals, including doctors and academics, allegedly operating under instructions from foreign handlers in Pakistan.
  • Funds were raised through professional and academic networks under the guise of social and charitable causes.
  • Seven individuals were arrested by J&K Police, including Dr Muzammil Ahmad Ganaie and Dr Adeel of Kulgam.
  • The J&K Police confirmed the recovery of one Chinese Star pistol, one Beretta pistol, one AK-56 rifle, and a Krinkov rifle, along with a significant quantity of ammunition.
  • A day before the Faridabad recovery, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested three suspects, Dr Ahmed Mohiuddin Syed, Mohd Suhel, and Azad, near the Adalaj Toll Plaza.
  • The Gujarat ATS recovered two Glock pistols, one Beretta pistol, 30 live cartridges, and 4 litres of castor oil from the suspects.
  • Central agencies, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Intelligence Bureau (IB), are coordinating with local forces.
President of India inaugurates third edition of Indian Army seminar Chanakya Defence Dialogue-2025 in New Delhi (End of November) ▼
  • The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, graced the inaugural session of the third edition of the Indian Army’s Seminar, ‘Chanakya Defence Dialogue-2025’, in New Delhi.
  • The recent success of Operation Sindoor stands as a defining moment in our counter-terror and deterrence strategy.
  • Our diplomacy, economy and armed forces together project an India that seeks peace, but is prepared to protect its borders and its citizens with strength and conviction.
  • The Army is transforming itself through quantifiable deliverables under the Decade of Transformation.
  • The President expressed confidence that these defence reforms will help in making India self-reliant.
India hosts 7th CSC NSA meeting, strengthens regional security ties (End of November) ▼
  • India hosted the Seventh National Security Adviser-level meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC).
  • Top security officials attended from Maldives, Mauritius, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, with Seychelles as Observer and Malaysia as first-time Guest.
  • NSA Ajit Doval chaired the Conclave in the National capital.
  • The meeting reviewed regional security cooperation and agreed to deepen collaboration across five core pillars.
  • Seychelles' decision to accede as a full member was welcomed.
  • The CSC formally adopted its founding documents in Sri Lanka in August 2024.
  • India’s appointed first Secretary General presented a detailed review of progress since the 6th NSA-level meeting held in Mauritius in December 2023.
  • Activities were reported under the five pillars: Maritime Safety and Security; Countering Terrorism and Radicalisation; Combating Trafficking and Transnational Organised Crime; Cyber Security and Protection of Critical Infrastructure and Technology; and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief.
  • Countries discussed expanding training, capacity building and joint initiatives under each pillar.
  • Delegations were led by Maldives' NSA Ibrahim Latheef, Mauritius' NSA Rahul Rasgotra, Sri Lanka's Defence Ministry Secretary Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sampath Thuyacontha, and Bangladesh's NSA Dr Khalil-ur-Rehman.
  • Seychelles was represented by Major General Michael Rosette, Chief of Defence Forces.
  • Malaysia was represented by Badrul Shah Mohd Idris, Deputy Director General of its National Security Council.

Delhi Metro Phase V(A) Project: Union Cabinet approves Rs 12,014.9-crore expansion

Key Updates:

  • The Union Cabinet approved Delhi Metro’s Phase V(A) project, which will add three new corridors spanning 16 kilometres and 13 stations to the network.
  • The Rs 12,014.9-crore project, scheduled for completion in three years, will be funded by the Government of India, the Government of Delhi, and international funding agencies.
  • The three corridors comprise the 9.91-km stretch between Ramakrishnan Ashram Marg and Indraprastha, the 2.26-km link between Aerocity and Indira Gandhi Airport Terminal 1, and the 3.9-km route connecting Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj.
  • The expansion will extend the Magenta and Golden lines, taking the total Delhi Metro network to nearly 400 km.
  • The project includes 10 underground and three elevated stations to reduce road congestion and boost the economy.

Similar / Past Coverage

Cabinet Clears ₹9,857 Cr Pune Metro Phase-II Project (End of November) ▼
  • The Union Cabinet approved Line 4 Kharadi–Hadapsar–Swargate–Khadakwasla and Line 4A Nal Stop–Warje–Manik Baug under Phase-2 of the Pune Metro Rail Project.
  • The project has an estimated cost of Rs 9,857.85 crore, to be jointly funded by the Government of India, Government of Maharashtra, and external bilateral/multilateral funding agencies.
  • Line 4 and 4A will connect IT hubs, commercial zones, educational institutions, and residential clusters across East, South, and West Pune.
  • The approval was made on November 26, 2025.
Rail Multitracking Projects: Improved Connectivity and Freight Movement with Rs 2,781 Crore Outlay (End of November) ▼
  • The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved doubling of the 141-km Dwarka-Kanalus rail line in Gujarat and building third and fourth lines between Badlapur and Karjat (32 km) in Mumbai metropolitan region.
  • The two line-expansion projects worth Rs 2,781 crore are part of Indian Railways’ push to improve connectivity on routes with high passenger footfall.
  • The Devbhumi Dwarka (Okha)-Kanalus rail line will improve connectivity to the Dwarkadhish temple, a key pilgrimage site, and transportation of commodities such as coal, salt, container, and cement.
  • The Badlapur-Karjat line... will further help the commuters between Pune to Mumbai.
MMRDA inaugurates Asia’s largest elevated Metro depot at Mandale with India’s longest test track (Mid of November) ▼
  • 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
PM Modi Flags Off Four New Vande Bharat Express Trains: Routes, Travel Time, and Objectives (Start of November) ▼
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off four new Vande Bharat Express trains.
  • The new routes include Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow Junction–Saharanpur, Firozpur Cantt–Delhi, and Bengaluru–Ernakulam.
  • These additions are expected to boost regional mobility, tourism, and trade, supporting economic growth and improving access to cultural and commercial centres.
  • The Banaras–Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express will save nearly 2 hours and 40 minutes compared to existing services.
  • The Lucknow–Saharanpur Vande Bharat Express will cover the journey in about 7 hours and 45 minutes, reducing travel time by nearly an hour.
  • The Firozpur–Delhi Vande Bharat Express will be the fastest train on this route, completing the journey in just 6 hours and 40 minutes.
  • The Bengaluru–Ernakulam Vande Bharat Express will complete the journey in 8 hours and 40 minutes, cutting travel time by over 2 hours.
  • The Banaras–Khajuraho route aims to create direct connectivity between Varanasi and Khajuraho, passing through Prayagraj and Chitrakoot.
  • The Firozpur–Delhi service is expected to enhance trade and employment opportunities, boost tourism, and contribute to the socio-economic growth of border areas.
  • The Bengaluru–Ernakulam route connects major IT, educational, and commercial hubs, promoting economic collaboration and tourism between Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

PESA Mahotsav 2025: Celebrating Community-Led Governance under PESA Act

[Andhra Pradesh]

Key Updates:

  • The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) is celebrating a two-day PESA Mahotsav: Utsav Lok Sanskriti Ka on December 23 and 24 in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
  • The Mahotsav marks the anniversary of the Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act, 1996, which empowers tribal communities by extending Panchayati Raj provisions to their scheduled lands.
  • The objective is to spread awareness on the Act and improve capabilities of local bodies in Scheduled Areas.

Similar / Past Coverage

SabhaSaar AI Tool Provides Multilingual Meeting Summaries for Gram Panchayats (Mid of December) ▼
  • Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) launched SabhaSaar, an AI-powered meeting-summarization tool that generates structured Minutes of Meetings from Gram Sabha and other Panchayat meetings using audio/video recordings.
  • SabhaSaar is integrated with BHASHINI, the National Language Translation Mission of MeitY, supporting 22 Indian languages for text-to-text translation and 13 Indian languages for voice-to-text transcription.
  • As of 28.11.2025, a total of 92,034 Gram Panchayats have used the SabhaSaar tool for automated meeting summarization.
University of Patanjali designated Gyan Bharatam Mission cluster centre (Mid of December) ▼
  • University of Patanjali has been designated a cluster centre under the Gyan Bharatam Mission of the Ministry of Culture.
  • It is the country’s first yoga- and Ayurveda-focused university to receive cluster centre status.
  • As a cluster centre, it will mentor and connect 20 other institutions to the mission.
Bharat-Sri Lanka Sanskrit Mahotsav inaugurated at University of Colombo (Mid of November) ▼
  • The week-long Bharat-Sri Lanka Sanskrit Mahotsav was inaugurated at the University of Colombo.
  • The festival is jointly organised by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education, the Central Sanskrit University, and the India-Sri Lanka Foundation.
  • The event brings together scholars, monks, and students from India and Sri Lanka to celebrate Sanskrit as a shared civilisational legacy.
Bhartiya Bhasha Utsav 2025 celebrated with theme Many Languages, One Emotion (Mid of December) ▼
  • Bhartiya Bhasha Utsav 2025 was celebrated by the Ministry of Education at the National Bal Bhawan, New Delhi, marking the birth anniversary of Mahakavi Subramania Bharati.
  • The theme of the event was 'Many Languages, One Emotion'.
  • Adi Vaani, India's first AI-powered tribal language translator, was demonstrated live at the event.

PPP-Model Medical Colleges in Madhya Pradesh Tribal Districts

[Madhya Pradesh]

Key Updates:

  • Madhya Pradesh to set up India’s first PPP-model medical colleges in Dhar and Betul tribal districts.
  • State government provides up to 25 acres of land on lease; private partners build academic and clinical infrastructure.
  • Associated district hospitals upgraded as per National Medical Commission norms while remaining under State administrative control.
  • Two more PPP colleges planned at Katni and Panna; foundation ceremonies for these to follow.
  • Chief Minister announces similar PPP medical colleges will also come up in Bhind, Morena, Khargone, Ashoknagar, Guna, Balaghat, Tikamgarh, Sidhi, and Shajapur districts.

Similar / Past Coverage

University of Patanjali designated Gyan Bharatam Mission cluster centre (Mid of December) ▼
  • University of Patanjali has been designated a cluster centre under the Gyan Bharatam Mission of the Ministry of Culture.
  • It is the country’s first yoga- and Ayurveda-focused university to receive cluster centre status.
  • As a cluster centre, it will mentor and connect 20 other institutions to the mission.
Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS) Initiative: Key Features and Launch Details (Start of November) ▼
  • Initiative Name: Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS) – jointly by Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
  • Launch: Unveiled in New Delhi; rollout planned across "over one thousand schools nationwide."
  • Objective: "Strengthen Janbhagidari and promote participatory local governance by engaging students in simulated Gram Sabha sessions."
  • Key Features: Includes release of a "Training Module on Model Youth Gram Sabha" and the "MYGS Portal."
  • Ministers Attending: Minister of State for Panchayati Raj SP Singh Baghel and Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates AI innovation and incubation centre at DPS RK Puram (Mid of November) ▼
  • The centre is developed in collaboration with VVDN Technologies and Google Cloud
  • Technologies available include Google Cloud’s Vertex AI and Gemini Enterprise platforms
  • Students will gain hands-on experience with humanoid and companion robotics (AIBO, Unitree G1), AR/VR glasses, IoT kits, and Raspberry Pi systems
  • The facility will serve as a shared innovation resource for neighbouring and government schools
  • The initiative aligns with the Union government’s four-level AI curriculum for students from Class 6 onwards, covering foundational AI to generative AI applications
Government Initiatives for Tribal Welfare and Development (Mid of November) ▼
  • In 2021, the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda was officially commemorated as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
  • The Shri Govind Guru Chair for Tribal Language Promotion Centre has been established at the Birsa Munda Tribal University; this centre will study the dialects of tribal communities such as Bhil, Gamit, Vasava, Garasia, Kokani, Santhal, Rathwa, Nayak, Dabla, Chaudhary, Kokna, Kumbhi, Warli, and Dodia; stories and songs associated with these communities will be preserved.
  • To address the development of the most backward among the tribal communities, the PM-JANMAN scheme was launched from Khunti in Jharkhand, and ₹24,000 crore is being spent on this initiative.
  • The Dharti Aaba Tribal Village Utkarsh Abhiyan is scripting a new chapter of development in backward tribal villages; over 60,000 villages across the country have joined this campaign; under this campaign, Gram Sabhas have been made the pivot of development.
  • In the past five to six years alone, the central government has allocated over ₹18,000 crore for Eklavya Model Residential Schools across the country; 42 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) dedicated to Tribal students worth around ₹1,900 crores were inaugurated.
  • The Ayushman Bharat scheme, launched in 2018 from Ranchi, Jharkhand, provides free medical treatment benefits up to ₹5 lakh to crores of tribal brothers and sisters across the country.
  • A nationwide campaign is currently underway to address and manage sickle cell disease effectively, and under this initiative, six crore tribal brothers and sisters across the country have already been screened.

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

Key Updates:

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

Similar / Past Coverage

MoSJE–DWBDNC and MoRD–DAY NRLM Sign Landmark MoU to Empower De‑Notified, Nomadic and Semi‑Nomadic Tribes (DNTs) (End of November) ▼
  • The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE), through the Development and Welfare Board for De‑Notified, Nomadic and Semi‑Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC), and the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), through the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY‑NRLM), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
  • The MoU aims to advance inclusive development and social justice for historically marginalized communities, specifically De‑Notified, Nomadic and Semi‑Nomadic Tribes (DNTs).
  • Over the next three years, more than 5,000 DNT Self‑Help Groups (SHGs) formed under DWBDNC will be assimilated into the DAY‑NRLM framework.
  • A dedicated cadre, DNT Sakhi, drawn from within the community, will support about 30 families organized into three Self‑Help Groups (SHGs).
  • The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on November 25, 2025.
DoT’s NCA and IIM Calcutta Sign MoU for Telecom Sector Capacity Building (End of October) ▼
  • the National Communications Academy (NCA) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
  • to collaborate on capacity building, policy research, and executive education in advanced areas of telecommunications and emerging technologies.
  • The formal signing was conducted between Prof. Alok Kumar Rai, Director of IIM Calcutta and Shri Atul Sinha, Director General of National Communications Academy - Technology (NCA-T), Ghaziabad.
  • The MoU creates a framework for joint programs and strategic initiatives in Capacity Building, Policy Research and Consulting, Training Programs in Emerging Technologies, Workshops and Seminars, and Academic and Research Collaboration.
  • This initiative will also contribute to: Building a digitally literate and innovation-capable workforce, Creating policy inputs for the National Digital Communications Policy (NDCP), Supporting Make in India and Digital India missions through knowledge empowerment.
Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and Department of Posts (DoP) sign MoU to expand mutual fund access across India. (Mid of December) ▼
  • BSE and Department of Posts sign MoU to enable distribution of mutual fund products through India Post’s network.
  • Selected DoP employees will be trained and onboarded as certified mutual fund distributors via BSE StAR MF platform.
  • MoU valid for three years from December 12, 2025, with provisions for renewal.
Mohammed Lateef Khan conferred Maulana Abul Kalam Azad National Award 2025 (Mid of November) ▼
  • Mohammed Lateef Khan, Founder-Chairman of MS Education Academy, received the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad National Award 2025.
  • The award was presented by Mohammed Azharuddin, Minister for Minority Welfare, at Ravindra Bharathi, Hyderabad.
  • The honour comprises a cash prize of Rs. 2,25,000, a citation, and a memento.

Economic Empowerment of Bharat in the Modi Era highlights GST, Digital India, and Direct Benefit Transfer reforms

Key Updates:

  • GST transformed India into a unified national market by simplifying the tax structure, enhancing compliance and strengthening cooperative federalism.
  • Digital India, Make in India, Startup India and the rapid expansion of UPI have empowered citizens, entrepreneurs and small businesses.
  • Over ₹47 lakh crore has been directly transferred into beneficiaries’ bank accounts through the JAM trinity (Jan Dhan–Aadhaar–Mobile).

Similar / Past Coverage

C.P. Radhakrishnan releases book 'Sanatan Sanskriti Ki Atal Drishti' authored by Vasudev Devnani (End of December) ▼
  • C.P. Radhakrishnan, Vice-President of India, released the book 'Sanatan Sanskriti Ki Atal Drishti' authored by Vasudev Devnani, Speaker of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly.
  • The release event took place at the Vice-President’s Enclave in New Delhi.
  • The book release coincides with the centenary birth anniversary celebrations of former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
  • Vasudev Devnani holds the position of Speaker of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly.
Vice-President releases commemorative stamp honouring Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II in New Delhi (Mid of December) ▼
  • Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II, also called Suvaran Maran, was a 7th-8th century feudatory of the Pallavas who ruled central Tamil Nadu from Tiruchirappalli.
  • The Mutharaiyar dynasty built cave and structural temples, expanded irrigation and patronised Shaivite scholars, leaving inscriptions across Thanjavur, Pudukkottai and Perambalur districts.
  • The stamp release fulfils a long-standing demand of Tamil Nadu’s Mutharaiyar community and is part of the Centre’s drive to honour pre-Islamic Indian rulers from SC/ST/OBC backgrounds.
Radhakrishnan Opens 30th CII Summit, Highlights Andhra’s Growth and India’s Rise (Mid of November) ▼
  • 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.

Atal Canteens Scheme offers Rs 5 nutritious meals

[Delhi]

Key Updates:

  • The Delhi government has allocated Rs 104.24 crore for the operation and management of Atal Canteens.
  • Each Atal Canteen will serve approximately 1,000 meals per day, benefiting over 1,00,000 people daily across Delhi.
  • 100 Atal Canteens are being established across Delhi; 45 were virtually inaugurated and the remaining 55 will become operational within the next 15 to 20 days.
  • Each beneficiary is provided freshly cooked meals at a nominal cost of Rs 5 per plate, while the Delhi government bears Rs 25 per meal.
  • Approximately 700 people will gain employment under this scheme.

Similar / Past Coverage

Atal Pension Yojana (APY) enrolments cross 8.34 crore (Start of December) ▼
  • Atal Pension Yojana (APY) has crossed 8.34 crore enrolments.
  • Women constitute 48% of the total subscribers.
  • Launched in May 2015, APY aims to build a universal social security system for citizens, particularly workers in the unorganised sector.
  • The scheme is open to individuals aged 18 to 40 years who have a savings bank or post-office account.
  • Subscribers receive pension benefits after turning 60, and benefits are expected to begin disbursal from 2035 onward.

Kuwait and China sign $4.1 billion deal for Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port construction

[Kuwait, China]

Key Updates:

  • The Kuwaiti Ministry of Public Works and China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC) signed a construction contract for the first phase of the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port project on December 22, 2025.
  • The engineering, procurement, and construction contract to complete the project is valued at $4.164 billion.
  • The State Audit Bureau is the government oversight body responsible for monitoring public funds that confirmed the project cost.
  • The project is intended to help Kuwait diversify its economy and play a larger role in global trade.

Similar / Past Coverage

India and Oman sign Joint Vision Document and four MoUs during PM Modi visit (Mid of December) ▼
  • A Joint Vision Document and Executive Programme were signed, outlining strategic cooperation, including innovation in agriculture and food industries.
  • Four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were inked, covering cooperation in maritime heritage and museums, scientific research and innovation, skills development, agriculture, and trade cooperation between Oman’s Chamber of Commerce and India’s Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
  • Both countries are on track to finalize a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), a trade pact expected to boost bilateral commerce, investment and strategic economic alignment across sectors such as energy, logistics, and manufacturing.
Israel approves $35 billion natural gas export deal to Egypt, largest in Israeli history (Mid of December) ▼
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he has approved a $35 billion natural gas export deal to Egypt, the biggest gas deal in Israeli history.
  • The gas will be delivered to Egypt over the next 15 years by U.S. energy giant Chevron, a key owner of the gas field off Israel’s coast in the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Half of the proceeds are expected to go to Israel’s state coffers.
  • German lawmakers approved an expansion of a defense agreement for Israel’s Arrow 3 missile defense system, bringing the deal value from $3.5 billion to $6.5 billion, making it the largest Israeli defense export deal ever.
EIL and NMDC Energy sign MoU for onshore oil & gas projects in Saudi Arabia (Mid of November) ▼
  • MoU signed between Engineers India (EIL) and NMDC Energy to cooperate on onshore projects in Saudi Arabia covering Oil and Gas Processing, Refineries, Petrochemicals, Pipelines, Storage Terminals, and Energy Transition
  • MoU signed on the sidelines of ADIPEC 2025 in Abu Dhabi
  • Collaboration aims at joint tendering and executing EPC projects leveraging NMDC’s Ras Al Khair fabrication facilities and EIL’s Al Khobar design center
Saudi Arabia and China sign mutual visa exemption for diplomats and officials (Mid of December) ▼
  • Saudi Arabia and China signed a mutual visa exemption agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders.
  • The agreement was signed during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Riyadh, hosted by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan.
  • The visit marked the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and China.
  • High-level talks during the visit covered economic cooperation, regional security, Vision 2030 developments, and support for a two-state solution for Palestine.
  • Prince Faisal and Wang Yi attended the fifth session of the Political Committee of the Saudi-Chinese High-Level Joint Committee.
  • Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to the One China policy, recognizing that Taiwan is part of China.
  • China expressed support for Saudi efforts to strengthen relations with Iran and acknowledged the Kingdom’s role in fostering regional and international security and stability.
  • The Chinese delegation praised Saudi Arabia’s economic progress under Vision 2030.
  • Both sides welcomed the results of the Riyadh Arab-Chinese Summit for Cooperation and Development held in December 2022.
  • Saudi Arabia expressed support for China hosting the Second China-Arab Summit and the Second Gulf-Chinese Summit in 2026.
  • China confirmed its readiness to participate in Expo 2030, which will be hosted by Saudi Arabia.
  • Both countries reiterated support for a comprehensive and just solution to the Palestinian question, advocating an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

India External Affairs Minister Jaishankar visits Sri Lanka to follow up on Cyclone Ditwah reconstruction efforts

[Sri Lanka]

Key Updates:

  • External affairs minister S Jaishankar travelled to Sri Lanka as a special envoy of the Prime Minister for meetings with the leadership in Colombo to follow up on relief and reconstruction efforts in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah.
  • India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu on November 28 and delivered hundreds of tonnes of relief supplies and critical early-recovery capabilities across Sri Lanka.
  • Within the first three days of Cyclone Ditwah, 53 tonnes of emergency relief materials were delivered by Indian Navy warships and heavy-lift aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
  • An IAF C-17 Globemaster airlifted a modular Indian Army field hospital, including ambulances, trauma care units, operating theatres, and 73 personnel, on December 2.
  • On December 6, another 997 tonnes of dry rations and other relief materials were transported by warships from Tamil Nadu to Sri Lanka.
  • India was the first country to deploy trained disaster responders in Sri Lanka, and more than 450 people were rescued and assisted by these teams.
  • The Indian Army’s field hospital, located in the Badulla district, has treated nearly 3,400 people.

Similar / Past Coverage

India Proposes $450 Million Relief Package to Rebuild Cyclone-Hit Sri Lanka on December 24, 2025 (End of December) ▼
  • India has proposed an assistance package worth $450 million for rebuilding Sri Lanka, consisting of $350 million in concessional lines of credit and $100 million in grants.
  • External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar visited Sri Lanka as a special envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah with President Anura Kumara Disanayake.
  • India launched a relief and assistance mission named 'Operation Sagar Bandhu', which commenced on the day Cyclone Ditwah made landfall.
  • Operation Sagar Bandhu delivered over 1,100 tonnes of relief material, including dry rations, tents, water purification kits, and 14.5 tonnes of medicines and medical equipment.
  • The proposed assistance targets the restoration of road, railway, and bridge connectivity, as well as support for housing, health, education systems, and agriculture.
India dispatches 12 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu (End of November) ▼
  • Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft landed in Colombo with nearly 12 tonnes of relief material including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat food items.
  • Indian Naval Ship Vikrant and Indian Naval Ship Udaygiri delivered 4.5 tonnes of dry rations and 2 tonnes of fresh rations to cyclone-affected families.
  • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated on X: 'Operation Sagar Bandhu unfolds. Indian Air Force C-130 J plane carrying approx 12 tons of humanitarian aid... lands in Colombo.'
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X: 'India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu.'
India-Sri Lanka Partnership Inaugurates Multi-Ethnic Trilingual School (Start of November) ▼
  • The occasion was marked by the inauguration of a Multi-Ethnic Trilingual School.
  • The school is located in Polonnaruwa.
  • The project was realized through an Indian grant surpassing SLR 320 million.
  • The school stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit fostered by the 2017 Memorandum of Understanding between the two nations for promoting quality education.
  • Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and the Indian High Commissioner, Santosh Jha, were among the distinguished guests at the ceremony.
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.

Tata Advanced Systems Limited hands over first lot of WhAP 8x8 armoured vehicles to Royal Moroccan Army

[Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Morocco]

Key Updates:

  • Tata Advanced Systems Limited announced the handover of the first lot of WhAP 8x8 armoured vehicles to the Royal Moroccan Army.
  • The WhAP 8x8 platform has been jointly developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL).
  • TASL will manufacture 150 Wheeled Armoured Platform combat vehicles for the Moroccan defence forces under the contract.
  • Deliveries are to be completed within three years.
  • The deal is described as the largest contract for Indian-made armoured vehicles, both within India and overseas.
  • The Berrechid facility, spread over 20,000 square metres, was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Moroccan Minister Abdelatif Loudyi.
  • The facility became operational three months ahead of schedule and is the first defence manufacturing plant established by an Indian private company in Africa.
  • Approximately one-third of the components and sub-systems will be sourced and assembled locally from the outset, with the share of local value addition rising to 50 percent in the coming years.
  • The WhAP 8x8 is a modular combat vehicle configurable for roles including infantry fighting vehicle, armoured personnel carrier, reconnaissance vehicle, command post, mortar carrier, and ambulance.
  • The platform features a survivable monocoque hull, scalable ballistic and mine protection, independent suspension, central tyre inflation system, and amphibious capability.

Similar / Past Coverage

Indian Army inducts tanks, artillery guns and engineering equipment into Kashmir Valley by Military Special Train (Mid of December) ▼
  • The Indian Army successfully inducted tanks, artillery guns, and engineering equipment into the Kashmir Valley using a Military Special Train.
  • The operation involved seamless transportation of heavy assets from the Jammu region to Anantnag in southern Kashmir.
  • The move was conducted as part of a validation exercise demonstrating enhanced mobility and logistical capability.
  • The milestone was achieved in close coordination with the Ministry of Railways, leveraging the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
  • The USBRL project features iconic structures like the Chenab Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, and provides all-weather connectivity.
Indian Army inks MoU via 515 Army Base Workshop to fast-track indigenous land-system drones (Mid of December) ▼
  • The MoU was signed between the 515 Army Base Workshop, acting on behalf of the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army) and the Directorate General of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers, and Raghu Vamsi Par East Automation Pvt Ltd.
  • The partnership establishes a pathway from evaluation to field induction and scaling up of drone technologies, aligned with operational requirements and indigenous manufacturing goals.
  • The MoU focuses on technology infusion in drone manufacturing, with emphasis on IC engine-based drones and systems capable of operating in GPS-denied environments.
  • Raghu Vamsi Par East will provide technical consultancy to the Army Base Workshop for comprehensive evaluation of drone technologies including subsystem reviews, integration readiness assessments and compliance with Army standards.
Pravaig VEER: India’s Indigenous All-Terrain Electric Defence Vehicle (Start of November) ▼
  • Vehicle Name & Developer: Pravaig VEER all-terrain tactical electric vehicle developed by Bengaluru-based Pravaig Dynamics
  • Key Capabilities: Stealth features, high mobility on deserts/mountains/forests, reduced acoustic & thermal signatures, full field-repairability
  • Recognition & Trials: Secured iDEX Innovation for Defence Excellence award and completed military trials, moving toward production-ready status
India to procure additional Israeli Heron Mk II UAVs under emergency provisions (Start of December) ▼
  • India is procuring additional advanced satellite-linked Heron Mark II unmanned aerial vehicles from Israel under emergency provisions invoked after Operation Sindoor.
  • Emergency procurement allows the armed forces to directly procure complete weapon systems up to ₹300 crore.
  • Following Operation Sindoor, all three services have opted for the Heron Mk II under emergency procurement.
  • The Heron Mark II has an endurance of 45 hours and a service ceiling of 35,000 feet.
  • It is equipped with satellite communication, automatic take-off and landing systems, and advanced electro-optical/infrared sensors.
  • India’s armed forces have initiated a tri-service programme to acquire 87 Medium Altitude Long Endurance UAVs under the Make in India initiative.
  • The estimated value of the Make in India MALE UAV project is over ₹20,000 crore.
  • The order will be split between two Indian vendors in a 64:36 ratio, enabling at least 60 per cent indigenous content.

Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) leads 40th Asian Waterbird Census in Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary

[Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS)]

Key Updates:

  • The 40th Asian Waterbird Census and the 60th International Waterbird Census will take place in Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary and its nearby wetlands.
  • The Andhra Pradesh Forest Department is working with the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), Wildlife Institute of India (WII), and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) to count the bird species.
  • The main focus will be on four special bird species: the endangered Indian Skimmer (Rynchops albicollis), endangered Great Knot (Calidris tenuirostris), Near Threatened Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata), and Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus).

Similar / Past Coverage

Birders Spot Rare Rustic Bunting in NCR for First Time (Start of December) ▼
  • Rustic bunting (Emberiza rustica) spotted at Najafgarh Jheel on Delhi-Gurugram border.
  • First time the passerine bird recorded in national capital region (NCR).
  • Rustic bunting breeds across northern Palearctic regions in wet coniferous woodlands.
  • Migrates to southeast Asia and parts of East Asia including Japan, Korea, and eastern China during winter.
  • Handful of records across India predominantly in northeast and Himalayan belt.
  • 2025 IUCN Red List reclassifies rustic bunting from vulnerable to near threatened.
Tamil Nadu Forest Department launches smooth-coated otter conservation drive in Cauvery delta (End of December) ▼
  • The Tamil Nadu Department of Forests unveiled a conservation initiative titled ‘Conservation initiative to study the population dynamics, behavioural pattern, and habitat improvement of smooth-coated otters in Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, and Cuddalore districts, within the Cauvery River delta’.
  • The project received administrative approval for Rs. 20 lakh, with Rs. 10 lakh disbursed for the 2025-26 financial year as per a July government order.
  • Led by the Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC) in Vandalur, Chennai, the study will be conducted through the department of wildlife biology at AVC Autonomous College in Mayiladuthurai.
  • Smooth-coated otters are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and safeguarded under Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
  • Otters are monitored through direct observations, faecal sample analysis, photographic records, and environmental DNA sampling.
  • The Endangered Wildlife and Environmental Trust (EWET) has performed field surveys and habitat mapping throughout the delta to safeguard and track otter populations.
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary Welcomes Thousands of Migratory Birds (Start of November) ▼
  • Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is buzzing with life as thousands of migratory birds arrive, heralding the start of the season.
  • Over 20 species, including open-billed storks and white ibis, have begun nesting.
  • Open-billed storks have not only built their nests but also completed breeding, with chicks already visible on the treetops.
  • The tank surrounding the sanctuary is in excellent condition, holding water up to 16ft, replenished by recent rains and surplus inflow from the Valayaputhur lake nearby.
  • A previous disruption in the flow from Valayaputhur lake caused by blocked channels has since been resolved, ensuring sufficient water levels for the birds’ breeding season.
  • Most of the birds prefer the barringtonia trees to build their nests.
  • Forest officials plan desilting work and fresh plantation of barringtonia trees once the summer sets in and the tank dries.
  • The sanctuary, home to more than 15,000 birds, has begun attracting more visitors on weekends and holidays.
  • Manish Meena is identified as the Chennai wildlife warden.
Six New Odonate Species Discovered in Silent Valley National Park (End of October) ▼
  • Six new species of dragonflies and damselflies (odonates) were found in Silent Valley National Park.
  • The discovery occurred during an odonate survey held from October 10 to 12.
  • The survey was jointly held by Silent Valley National Park and the Society for Odonate Studies (SOS).
  • The newly recorded species include Long Legged Clubtail (Merogomphus longistigma), Fraser’s Torrent Hawk (Macromia irata), Dark Daggerhead (Macromidia donaldi), Blue-necked Reedtail (Protosticta mortoni), Wayanad Torrent Dart (Euphaea wayanadensis), and Black and Yellow Bambootail (Elattoneura tetrica).
  • With these new records, the total number of known odonate species in Silent Valley National Park has increased from 103 to 109.
  • Three Euphaea species (Euphaea dispar, E. fraseri, and E. wayanadensis) recorded during the survey are known indicators of freshwater quality.
  • Odonates are considered indicators of ecosystem health.

Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovers Neelus sikkimensis, first Neelus genus Collembola in India

[Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Sikkim]

Key Updates:

  • Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have identified a new species of Collembola named Neelus sikkimensis in Sikkim's high-altitude regions.
  • Neelus sikkimensis is the first of its genus to be recorded in India, expanding the global genus count to eight.
  • The ZSI's Apterygota Section, led by Gurupada Mandal and Kusumendra Kumar Suman, conducted the research and published findings in the Journal of the Entomological Research Society.
  • The species possesses unique biological traits suited for life in deep soil and moss, and Collembola play a crucial role in maintaining terrestrial ecosystem health.

Similar / Past Coverage

Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) scientists discover two new species of jumping spiders in Meghalaya (Mid of December) ▼
  • Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered two new species of jumping spiders in Meghalaya.
  • The species are named Asemonea dentis and Colyttus nongwar.
  • Jumping spiders (family Salticidae) are known for their exceptional vision, agile movement, and web-free predatory behaviour.
  • Asemonea dentis is only the third species from its little-known genus to be reported in India, with its name deriving from dentis, Latin for 'tooth', referring to a distinctive tooth-like projection on the male's palpal femur.
  • Colyttus nongwar represents just the second Indian species of the Oriental genus Colyttus, named after Nongwar village in Meghalaya.
  • Meghalaya is one of the world's richest ecological frontiers, and the northeast is a vital component of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.
Citizen science unveils new shieldtail snake Rhinophis siruvaniensis in Western Ghats plantations (Mid of December) ▼
  • Rhinophis siruvaniensis, a new burrowing shieldtail snake, was discovered in a coffee plantation at Jellipara village, Palakkad district, Kerala.
  • The species was formally described in the journal Evolutionary Systematics by scientists from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Wayanad Wild and the Kalinga Foundation.
  • Shieldtails belong to the Uropeltidae family; India and Sri Lanka together host 73 known species, with the genus Rhinophis containing 26 species.
  • Genetic analysis using mitochondrial DNA shows R. siruvaniensis is a 2–4% sequence divergent sister taxon to R. melanoleucus from Wayanad.
  • The study relied on three specimens collected outside protected areas, highlighting that unknown biodiversity can persist in plantation landscapes.
  • Researchers preserved specimens in ethanol, examined scale counts and colour patterns under a stereo microscope and amplified mitochondrial DNA via PCR for species delimitation.
  • Herpetologists caution that exclusive use of mitochondrial DNA can mislead taxonomy; nuclear DNA or low-coverage genome sequencing is needed for firmer species status confirmation.
  • Burrowing snakes possess highly specialised skulls and narrow diets, making them vulnerable to climate change and soil perturbations.
  • The Shieldtail Mapping Project (SMP), a citizen-science platform founded in 2021, has already geo-referenced over 1,200 shieldtail records, six-fold the data gathered by a single researcher in a decade.
  • Future work will micro-CT scan shieldtail skulls to test whether environmental conditions drive morphological change, continuing collaboration between Indian and London Natural History Museum researchers.
Discovery of Albino Checkered Kneelback Snake in Assam (Mid of November) ▼
  • A juvenile albino checkered kneelback snake, a rare hypopigmentation anomaly, has been documented for the first time in Guwahati at the Assam State Zoo.
  • This discovery adds the state to an exclusive list of regions that reported hypopigmentation anomalies in this species.
  • The snake displayed the character of albinism, a genetic anomaly causing absence of melanin, resulting in pale yellow skin and distinctive red eyes.
  • The finding was published in the international journal ‘Reptiles and Amphibians’ by a team of researchers including Rupankar Bhattacharjee, Ashwini Kumar, Jayaditya Purkayastha, Pranjal Mahananda, and Debabrata Phukon.
  • The identity of the snake was confirmed through detailed inspection of its appearance and scalation, which matched published descriptions for the Fowlea piscator.
  • Albino snakes face significant difficulty to survive in the wild, making discoveries of such species rare and scientifically valuable, as they rarely get the chance to grow to adulthood.
  • After careful observation and study by the state zoo researchers, the snake was released safely into a protected forest habitat within three days of its finding.
  • The albino snake found was a juvenile measuring 290 mm.
Six New Butterfly Species Discovered in Arunachal's Siang Valley, Brahmaputra's Biogeographic Role Noted (Start of November) ▼
  • Six new butterfly species were found in Arunachal's Siang Valley.
  • This is for the first time, the species have been documented in India.
  • The new species include Litin Onyx Horaga takanamii, Narrow-banded Royal Dacalana vui, Tibetan Duke Euthalia zhaxidunzhui, Tibetan Sergeant Athyma yui, Tibetan Junglequeen Stichophthalma neumogeni renqingduojiei, and Mountain Columbine Stiboges elodinia.
  • These species were earlier documented in Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, and southeastern Tibet.
  • A team of conservationists believe that the river Brahmaputra played a critical biogeographic role in facilitating their faunal continuity.
  • The documentation was carried out by Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment ATREE and the Litin Community Conservation Society.
  • A paper on these findings was published in the latest issue of Entomon journal.

IIT Delhi-led team creates AILA, an AI agent that autonomously operates Atomic Force Microscope

Key Updates:

  • The AI system can operate scientific instruments, make decisions during experiments, and analyse data without human involvement.
  • AILA was trained to operate an Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), a highly sensitive instrument used to study materials at the nanoscale.
  • With AILA, optimising microscope parameters for high-resolution, noise-free images that earlier took an entire day is now completed in just seven to ten minutes.
  • AI systems that perform well in theoretical or quiz-based assessments often struggle in dynamic laboratory environments that require rapid adaptation.
  • The AI agent occasionally deviated from instructions, underscoring the need for robust safeguards to prevent equipment damage or accidents.

Similar / Past Coverage

Microsoft Boosts AI Deployment and Renewable Energy Infrastructure in India (Mid of December) ▼
  • Tata Consultancy Services, Cognizant, Infosys and Wipro have emerged as “frontier firms”, with each deploying more than 50,000 Microsoft Copilot licences and building “AI factories” that create industry-specific digital agents and experiences.
  • Companies are already integrating Fabric, Foundry and Copilot Studio to reimagine software development, data intelligence and customer operations.
  • Microsoft views GitHub as the “agent HQ” where developers issue daily tasks to AI agents as part of their coding workflow.
  • The company will open a new Azure data centre region in South Central India in 2026, its most sustainable facility in Asia, powered entirely by renewable energy.
  • Microsoft’s new Agent 365 runtime enables organisations to choose between public, sovereign and private cloud configurations while maintaining cybersecurity and compliance, ensuring observability and governance in a world of autonomous agents.
  • Microsoft’s AI stack now extends from Copilot to Copilot Studio, which lets enterprise developers create their own AI agents using natural language prompts, down to Microsoft Foundry, a toolchain for building multi-agent, multi-model solutions using over 11,000 available AI models.
  • This investment of $17.5 billion is part of what Nadella described as Microsoft’s largest in Asia, following its previous $3 billion commitment to India.
  • Microsoft will train 20 million people across India in AI and digital technologies.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates AI innovation and incubation centre at DPS RK Puram (Mid of November) ▼
  • The centre is developed in collaboration with VVDN Technologies and Google Cloud
  • Technologies available include Google Cloud’s Vertex AI and Gemini Enterprise platforms
  • Students will gain hands-on experience with humanoid and companion robotics (AIBO, Unitree G1), AR/VR glasses, IoT kits, and Raspberry Pi systems
  • The facility will serve as a shared innovation resource for neighbouring and government schools
  • The initiative aligns with the Union government’s four-level AI curriculum for students from Class 6 onwards, covering foundational AI to generative AI applications
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and Hitachi MGRM Net Ltd sign pact to build AI-enabled national innovation platform (Start of December) ▼
  • The platform, MStarTM Global AI Connect, will form a national digital backbone linking schools with mentors, incubators, research institutions, accelerators and industry.
  • It will support virtual Atal Tinkering Labs and virtual incubation centres linked to physical facilities.
  • The collaboration will provide workflows for ideation-to-pilot projects, readiness-level tracking and challenge grants.
  • Analytics generated by the platform will aid policy decisions at the Centre and State levels.
Intellipaat partners with IndiaAI Mission to roll out nationwide AI literacy programme (Mid of November) ▼
  • Intellipaat has partnered with the IndiaAI Mission under MeitY to launch the 'YUVAi for ALL' programme aimed at making India AI-literate
  • The initiative will provide free training on Artificial Intelligence and Generative AI to students, teachers, and professionals
  • Participants will receive Government-recognized certification upon completion of the programme
  • The programme includes AI awareness workshops, GenAI tool demonstrations, community learning drives, and foundation AI literacy e-learning videos
  • The collaboration aligns with the Government's vision to empower 10 million citizens with essential AI skills by January 2026

Maharashtra grassland labyrinth hints at Indo-Roman trade links

Key Updates:

  • Archaeologists have discovered a remarkable circular stone labyrinth in the Boramani grasslands of Solapur, Maharashtra, identified as the largest of its kind ever recorded in India.
  • The labyrinth consists of 15 concentric stone circuits, each carved with meticulous precision.
  • The structure's patterns are reminiscent of those found on ancient Roman coins, suggesting possible connections to trade routes.
  • The site’s location along historic Indo-Roman trade routes points to potential cultural exchanges between ancient India and distant empires.
  • The discovery emerged when a wildlife NGO, monitoring Great Indian Bustards and local wolf populations, noticed the stone arrangement in the tall grass.

Similar / Past Coverage

Archaeologist Ravi Korisettar selected for Rajyotsava Award (Start of November) ▼
  • Veteran archaeologist from Dharwad Ravindra Korisettar has been selected for the Rajyotsava Award.
  • Prof. Korisettar is a UGC Emeritus Fellow in the Department of History and Archaeology in Karnatak University of Dharwad.
  • His papers have been published in journals like Science (2007) and Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of America.
India Hosts 20th Session of UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee on Intangible Cultural Heritage at Red Fort, New Delhi (Mid of December) ▼
  • India is hosting the 20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) at the historical Red Fort complex in New Delhi.
  • The session is being held from 8 to 13 December 2025.
  • The inaugural session of ICH was held on 7th December and was graced by Hon'ble Minister of External Affairs, Dr S. Jaishankar; Hon'ble Minister of Culture & Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat; Director General UNESCO, Khaled El-Enany; Hon'ble Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Rekha Gupta; Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Shri Vivek Aggarwal; Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India to UNESCO, Shri Vishal V. Sharma; and Chairperson, Sangeet Natak Akademi, Ms Sandhya Purecha.
  • Delegations from over 180 countries are attending the event.
  • The Ministry of Culture, along with its autonomous body, Sangeet Natak Akademi, is the nodal agency for hosting the ICH Session in India.
India to Host UNESCO Global Heritage Committee Session at Red Fort (Start of December) ▼
  • India will host the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) from 8 to 13 December 2025 at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi.
  • The announcement was made by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.
  • The session will examine new nominations for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists and review safeguarding status of inscribed elements.

Coforge launches EvolveOps.AI for autonomous IT operations

[Coforge]

Key Updates:

  • Coforge has introduced EvolveOps.AI, an agentic AI platform built to push enterprises into AI-first operations across hybrid cloud.
  • The platform uses a mix of fine-tuned Small Language Models (SLMs) and deterministic models for reliability and cost control.
  • Coforge has built 28 agent personas-covering SRE, Infrastructure, Cloud, Network, Kubernetes, Command Center, Service Management, and FinOps-so the system can analyze, reason, decide, and act across real IT scenarios.
  • Reported outcomes from early adopters include a 25% reduction in system downtime and a 40% reduction in IT operational expenses.
  • Mission Zero-Zero Disruption, Zero Touch, Zero Friction-anchors Coforge's approach.

Similar / Past Coverage

OpenAI Secures $38 Billion Cloud Computing Deal with Amazon Web Services for AI Infrastructure (Start of November) ▼
  • OpenAI has come to terms on a massive 7-year, $38 billion deal with Amazon Web Services.
  • The deal is to secure cloud computing capabilities needed to power its suite of advanced AI tools such as ChatGPT and Sora.
  • OpenAI will gain access to hundreds of thousands of Nvidia chips housed in Amazon’s global data centers.
  • Full capacity from the agreement is slated to come online by the end of 2026, with expansion continuing through 2027 and beyond.
  • OpenAI will use Amazon’s UltraServer clusters — racks of Nvidia GB200 and GB300 processors — to train and run its models, process ChatGPT queries, and expand its “agentic AI” systems.
  • The partnership marks the first time OpenAI has turned to Amazon for infrastructure, breaking years of exclusive reliance on Microsoft’s Azure cloud.
  • OpenAI restructured its ownership to gain more freedom in financing and operations, which removed Microsoft’s right of first refusal to supply cloud services.
  • OpenAI has now committed nearly $600 billion in new cloud contracts across Amazon, Microsoft, Oracle, and Google to solve “severe computing shortages”.
Google launches Gemini 3 with new coding app and record benchmark scores (Mid of November) ▼
  • Google released Gemini 3, its latest and most advanced foundation model, immediately available through the Gemini app and AI search interface.
  • Gemini 3 comes seven months after the Gemini 2.5 release and less than a week after OpenAI released GPT 5.1 and two months after Anthropic released Sonnet 4.5.
  • A research-intensive version, Gemini 3 Deepthink, will be released to Google AI Ultra subscribers after further safety testing.
  • Tulsee Doshi stated, 'With Gemini 3, we’re seeing this massive jump in reasoning.'
  • Gemini 3 scored 37.4 on the Humanity’s Last Exam benchmark, the highest score on record, surpassing GPT-5 Pro’s previous high of 31.64.
  • Gemini 3 topped the LMArena leaderboard, a human-led benchmark measuring user satisfaction.
  • The Gemini app has more than 650 million monthly active users, and 13 million software developers have used the model in their workflow.
  • Google also released Google Antigravity, a Gemini-powered coding interface that combines a prompt window, command-line interface, and browser window for agentic coding.
  • DeepMind CTO Koray Kavukcuoglu said, 'The agent can work with your editor, across your terminal, across your browser to make sure that it helps you build that application in the best way possible.'
Microsoft Boosts AI Deployment and Renewable Energy Infrastructure in India (Mid of December) ▼
  • Tata Consultancy Services, Cognizant, Infosys and Wipro have emerged as “frontier firms”, with each deploying more than 50,000 Microsoft Copilot licences and building “AI factories” that create industry-specific digital agents and experiences.
  • Companies are already integrating Fabric, Foundry and Copilot Studio to reimagine software development, data intelligence and customer operations.
  • Microsoft views GitHub as the “agent HQ” where developers issue daily tasks to AI agents as part of their coding workflow.
  • The company will open a new Azure data centre region in South Central India in 2026, its most sustainable facility in Asia, powered entirely by renewable energy.
  • Microsoft’s new Agent 365 runtime enables organisations to choose between public, sovereign and private cloud configurations while maintaining cybersecurity and compliance, ensuring observability and governance in a world of autonomous agents.
  • Microsoft’s AI stack now extends from Copilot to Copilot Studio, which lets enterprise developers create their own AI agents using natural language prompts, down to Microsoft Foundry, a toolchain for building multi-agent, multi-model solutions using over 11,000 available AI models.
  • This investment of $17.5 billion is part of what Nadella described as Microsoft’s largest in Asia, following its previous $3 billion commitment to India.
  • Microsoft will train 20 million people across India in AI and digital technologies.
India's Atomesus AI, a Hybrid System, Set to Launch Soon (Start of November) ▼
  • Atomesus AI, developed under the leadership of Indus Valley Group, is gearing up for its official launch.
  • The initiative is led by a group of passionate college innovators with research exposure to ISRO-linked projects.
  • The team has created a hybrid AI system that merges the precision of machine learning with the adaptability of contextual reasoning.
  • Atomesus AI has built a proprietary integration layer combining in-house development with select global AI systems.
  • Its mission is to become the world’s most affordable AI platform for everyone.
  • The founders envision launching a fully indigenous AI model, trained and deployed entirely in India using localized data.
  • Atomesus AI is part of Indus Valley Group, a conglomerate engaged in AI, space technology, Web3, and citizen-security.
  • All systems are compliant with global data-protection and ethical-AI standards.
  • The headquarters of Atomesus AI PVT LTD are in New Delhi, India.

State Space Corporation Roscosmos (Roscosmos) plans nuclear power plant on the moon by 2036

[Roscosmos]

Key Updates:

  • State Space Corporation Roscosmos (Roscosmos) planned to build a lunar power plant by 2036 and signed a contract with the Lavochkin Association aerospace company to do it.
  • The purpose of the plant is to power the infrastructure of the joint Russian-Chinese International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), including rovers and an observatory.
  • Project participants include the Russian State Nuclear Corporation Rosatom (Rosatom) and the Kurchatov Institute, Russia's leading nuclear research institute.
  • The moon, which is 384,400 km (238,855 miles) from our planet, moderates the earth's wobble on its axis, which ensures a more stable climate.
  • The moon also causes tides in the world's oceans.
  • Russia's ambitions suffered a massive blow in August 2023 when its unmanned Luna-25 mission smashed into the surface of the moon while attempting to land.

Similar / Past Coverage

NASA Considers Nuclear Disruption for Asteroid 2024 YR4 to Prevent Lunar Impact (End of October) ▼
  • Asteroid 2024 YR4 has prompted renewed attention to the role of nuclear disruption as a viable last-resort option against potential celestial collisions.
  • Ongoing analyses reveal a small but measurable probability of a lunar impact in 2032.
  • NASA’s 2025 assessment revised 2024 YR4’s impact probability with the Moon to approximately 3.8 percent.
  • Asteroid 2024 YR4 measures approximately 60 ± 7 metres across according to James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) observations.
  • Nuclear intervention provides a scalable mechanism suited to asteroids of this size and composition, as kinetic methods would exceed the practical capabilities of existing spacecraft.
  • Viable nuclear mission windows are outlined between late 2029 and late 2031.
  • In the nuclear standoff model, an explosive charge is detonated at a controlled height above the asteroid’s surface, vaporizing a thin layer of material to propel the remaining mass.
  • A lunar impact could cause a transient but severe increase in micrometeoroid flux in low Earth orbit, potentially elevating debris levels by up to a thousandfold for several days, threatening satellites and human spaceflight.
  • The implementation of nuclear mitigation missions requires compliance with existing space treaties that restrict the use of nuclear devices beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
Niigata Local Government Approves Restart of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Plant (End of December) ▼
  • The partial restart of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant, the world’s largest nuclear power facility, received approval in a vote by the Niigata local government.
  • Kashiwazaki-Kariwa is the first plant to be operated by Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) since the 2011 Fukushima disaster.
  • The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) estimates that reactivating the first of seven reactors could boost the electricity supply to the Tokyo area by 2 percent.
  • Japan spent 10.7 trillion yen ($68bn) last year on imported liquefied natural gas and coal, representing one-tenth of its total import costs.
  • Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has backed the reopening of nuclear facilities to strengthen energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels that contribute to climate change.
Russia tests nuclear-powered underwater drone ‘Poseidon’ defying Trump (End of October) ▼
  • "Russia has successfully tested a nuclear-capable, nuclear-powered underwater drone, President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday, defying US President Donald Trump’s warnings..."
  • "President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday announced that Russia has successfully conducted a test of its nuclear-powered submersible drone, Poseidon, which he described as having unlimited range."
  • "The Russian leader said there was “no way to intercept” the drone torpedo, which, according to Putin, can travel at a speed higher than conventional submarines and reach any continent in the world."
  • "The device can operate at a depth of more than one kilometre (0.6 mile) and travel at speeds of up to 70 knots while remaining undetectable, according to a source in the Russian military-industrial complex quoted by state news agency TASS."
  • "First tested in 2018, it is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead of up to two megatons, the source told TASS."
  • "Putin on Sunday oversaw a test of another advanced nuclear-capable weapon – the Burevestnik cruise missile, which he said had an “unlimited range”."
  • "The US president last week scrapped a planned summit with Putin in Budapest over what he cast as the Russian leader’s unwillingness to compromise to end the conflict."
China Achieves First Thorium-Uranium Fuel Conversion in Operational Molten-Salt Reactor (Start of November) ▼
  • China has successfully achieved the first-ever thorium to uranium nuclear fuel conversion in a Thorium Molten Salt Reactor (TMSR), confirming the technical feasibility of thorium utilization in a molten-salt reactor nuclear energy system.
  • The experimental TMSR was built by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics (SINAP) in collaboration with other Chinese institutions and is currently the only operational molten-salt reactor in the world loaded with thorium fuel.
  • Molten-salt reactors are fourth-generation advanced nuclear energy systems that use high-temperature molten salt as a coolant, boasting inherent safety features, cooling without water, running at atmospheric pressure, and delivering a high-temperature output.
  • The TMSR program was launched in 2011, achieving major progress from laboratory research to the engineering verification of core materials, equipment and technologies, with domestically developed core equipment and an independent supply chain.
  • SINAP aims to construct a 100-megawatt demonstration project and realize its demonstration application by 2035, working with leading energy companies to consolidate the TMSR industrial and supply chains and accelerate technology iteration and engineering application.

Shaheedi Week 2025 observed from 21 to 29 December

Key Updates:

  • Shaheedi Week is observed every year in December to remember the great sacrifices (Shaheedi) made by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, Mata Gujri Ji, and the four Sahibzade.
  • Shaheedi Week 2025 is observed from 21 to 29 December.
  • The week teaches lessons of bravery, faith, truth, and standing against injustice.

Similar / Past Coverage

World Heritage Week observed from November 19-25, 2025 (End of November) ▼
  • World Heritage Week will be observed from November 19 to 25.
  • The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) will observe World Heritage Week in association with Art Kanara Trust.
  • Ganesh Amin Sankamar, an author and Tulu scholar, will deliver a talk titled ‘Tulu Bhashe Bokka Baduku’.
  • Numismatic collector M. Prashanth Shet will present on ‘Marked by History: The Western Ganga Dynasty Coins’.
  • Yakshagana artist and PhD scholar Shruti Bangera will speak on ‘Streevesha in Yakshagana: Female Impersonation Tradition in Indian Performing Arts’.
  • The art exhibition ‘Namma Ooru Namma Nela’ will be inaugurated in the presence of Tharanath Gatti Kapikad, Chairman of the Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy.
  • A 2023 documentary titled ‘The Word and The Teacher: Journey of Ferdinand Kittel as a Lexicographer’ will be screened, presented by filmmaker Prashant Pandit.
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
Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada 2025: Nationwide Celebration in EMRSs (Start of November) ▼
  • Event Name: Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada; Organiser: Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) under National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India.
  • Duration: 1st to 15th November 2025; culminates in Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas on 15th November 2025 marking the 150th Birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
  • Objective: "to inspire students by highlighting the legacy of India’s tribal freedom fighters and by celebrating the vibrant expressions of tribal art, culture, and heritage."
  • Key Activities: creative, cultural, and educational activities; Padyatras and thematic events across all EMRSs.
  • Recognition: "Two best-performing schools will be felicitated for their outstanding participation and innovative activities during the Pakhwada."
  • Participation: "more than 1.5 lakh students from 497 EMRSs across India are expected to participate."
Bilateral Haj Agreement between India and Saudi Arabia for Haj-2026 (Mid of November) ▼
  • Agreement Name: Bilateral Haj Agreement.
  • Parties: India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
  • Key Provision: India's Haj quota for 2026 has been confirmed at 175,025.
  • Objective: To ensure a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage experience by improving facilities, transportation, accommodation, and health services for Indian pilgrims.
  • Signatories: Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju (India) and Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah (Saudi Arabia).

Bargarh Dhanu Yatra Inaugurated at Bargarh in Odisha

[Odisha]

Key Updates:

  • Recognised as the largest open-air theatre in the world, the festival recreates episodes from the Dwapar Yuga, centring on the reign of King Kansa.
  • Over an 8 km radius, the spectacle unfolds across three royal courts—Raj Darbar, Rang Mahal, and Nanda Raja’s Darbar—and 18 open-air stages, where artists bring mythology to life.
  • The festivities will feature cultural processions, temple rituals, and dramatic performances, including a grand procession from Gandhi Chowk to Samaleswari Temple.
  • The inaugural ceremony will be graced by MP Pradeep Purohit and MLA Ashwini Sarangi.

Similar / Past Coverage

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurates 36th Konark Festival and 15th International Sand Art Festival (Start of December) ▼
  • The twin festivals are organised by the tourism department in association with Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi and Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC).
  • The five-day event celebrates India’s cultural heritage and artistic brilliance.
  • The inaugural evening at Konark showcased an Odissi performance by Sonali Mohapatra and artists of Nrutya Upasana Pitha, Bhubaneswar.
  • The recital opened with Odissi recitals on Hanuman Chalisa, composed by Sant Tulsidas, with music by Guru Abhiram Nanda and choreography by Mohapatra.
  • This was followed by ‘Saranga Pallavi’, a dance sequence exploring the beauty of Rag Saranga through intricate rhythm and melody, choreographed by Mohapatra with music by Nirmal Kumar Mahapatra.
  • The troupe concluded with Chari Yuga Devi, depicting the divine power of Maa Durga.
Shramik Kalyan Divas: Cheques Presented for Excellence (End of November) ▼
  • Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal participated in the Shramik Kalyan Divas (Workers’ Welfare Day) at Chabua in Dibrugarh on November 22.
  • The event commemorated the birth anniversary of Santosh Kumar Topno, a prominent leader from the tea garden community from Assam.
  • During the event, Sonowal presented cheques to individuals and institutions that have demonstrated excellence across various sectors, including education, healthcare, welfare of tea garden workers, and infrastructure development in tea garden areas.
Uttarakhand CM Dhami inaugurates 47th All India Public Relations Conference (Mid of December) ▼
  • Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated the 47th All India Public Relations Conference-2025 held at Hotel Emerald Grand on Sahastradhara Road in Dehradun.
  • The conference is organized by the Public Relations Society of India (PRSI) with the theme 'Viksit Bharat @2047: Development as well as Heritage.'
  • The three-day event includes expert sessions on Uttarakhand's 25-year development journey, media and public relations, technology, GST, artificial intelligence, cybercrime, misinformation, and international public relations.
Mukhyamantri Bharat Darshan Yojana: Secondary School Students to Explore India (Start of December) ▼
  • The 'Mukhyamantri Bharat Darshan Yojana' is an initiative for students studying in state government-run secondary schools in Bihar.
  • The scheme aims to take these students on tours of India's important sites and research institutions.
  • State’s education minister Sunil Kumar directed officials to implement this scheme, which is expected to come into effect in the next few months.
  • Potential destinations include historical monuments like the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Charminar of Hyderabad, and Agra Fort.
  • This new scheme for secondary school students expands upon the existing ‘Mukhyamantri Bihar Darshan Yojana’ for primary and middle school children touring within the state.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee birth anniversary commemorated as National Good Governance Day

Key Updates:

  • December 25 is celebrated every year as National Good Governance Day to honour former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
  • Vajpayee was born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.
  • He served three terms as Prime Minister and delivered landmark speeches during the Pokhran nuclear tests, 1996 resignation, 2000 US Congress address, 1977 UN speech, and 2002 Independence Day.

Similar / Past Coverage

World Quality Week 2025 observed from November 10–14 with the theme “Quality: Think Differently.” (Mid of November) ▼
  • The University of the West Indies UWI Five Islands Campus will join the global celebration of World Quality Week from November 10–14, 2025, under the theme “Quality: Think Differently.”
  • The World Quality Week initiative is led by the Chartered Quality Institute.
  • The initiative aims to promote continual improvement and raise awareness of quality management across education and other sectors.
International Anti-Corruption Day observed globally on December 9 (Start of December) ▼
  • International Anti-Corruption Day is observed globally on December 9 every year.
  • The theme for International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 is “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.”
  • The origins of International Anti-Corruption Day trace back to October 31, 2003, when the United Nations General Assembly approved the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC).
  • The United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) became the first globally recognized legal instrument dedicated to combating corruption.
  • The United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) officially came into force in December 2005.
International Human Solidarity Day observed on 20 December 2025 with theme 'Solidarity for Sustainable Development: Uniting Communities for a Shared Future' (End of December) ▼
  • International Human Solidarity Day is celebrated annually on 20 December to mark the core value of solidarity in international relations and a driving force to achieve sustainable development and social justice.
  • The theme for 2025 is 'Solidarity for Sustainable Development: Uniting Communities for a Shared Future.'
  • On 22 December 2005, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed 20 December as International Human Solidarity Day, recognizing solidarity as a universal value for the 21st century.
UNICEF Foundation Day 2025: December 11, Theme 'My Day, My Rights' (Mid of December) ▼
  • UNICEF Foundation Day is observed on December 11 every year.
  • The official theme for UNICEF Foundation Day 2025 is 'My Day, My Rights'.
  • UNICEF was established on December 11, 1946 to supply food, clothing, and medical care to children in post-World War II Europe.
  • UNICEF stands for the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund, a name used until 1953.
  • UNICEF was founded in 1946 by Ludwik Rajchman.