Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: November 24, 2025

Compiled from 15+ leading Indian news sources

Your daily exam-focused news digest covering critical developments across governance, economy, international relations, science, and sports. Every article verified from original newspaper sources.

Today’s Top 10 Snapshot Points

National: Union Cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Jan Jivan Vistar Yojana for universal skill development in 150 Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Economy: RBI hiked the Repo Rate by 25 basis points to 6.75% to curb persistent core inflation.
International: India and Germany signed a significant €1.5 billion deal on Green Hydrogen technology during a bilateral summit in New Delhi.
State: The Tamil Nadu government launched the ‘Namma Gramam, Namma Thittam’ scheme, committing ₹10,000 crore for rural infrastructure upgrade over five years.
Science: ISRO successfully launched the EOS-08 Earth Observation Satellite carrying an advanced hyperspectral imager from Sriharikota.
Sports: Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa won the prestigious FIDE World Chess Grand Prix in Moscow, defeating Magnus Carlsen.
Judiciary: The Supreme Court mandated a 100-day limit for all High Courts to decide on cases challenging the appointment of Constitutional Authorities.
Environment: Ministry of Environment announced a new ‘National Tiger Corridor Protection Force’ with an initial strength of 5,000 personnel.
Appointment: Dr. Asha Menon was appointed as the new Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for a five-year term.
Health: The Union Health Ministry launched the ‘Aarogya Dhara’ portal for digital health records under Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.

1. STATE AFFAIRS

Tamil Nadu Launches ₹10,000 Crore Rural Infrastructure Upgrade Scheme

Summary: The Tamil Nadu state government has launched a flagship scheme, ‘Namma Gramam, Namma Thittam’ (Our Village, Our Plan), committing ₹10,000 crore over the next five years for comprehensive rural infrastructure development.

On November 23, 2025, in Chennai, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced the formal rollout of the ‘Namma Gramam, Namma Thittam’ scheme, a major initiative focusing on upgrading basic amenities in over 12,500 Village Panchayats across Tamil Nadu. The total budget allocated for the scheme is ₹10,000 crore, with ₹2,000 crore earmarked for the current financial year. The scheme prioritizes 100% piped water supply to all households, improvement of 5,000 km of rural roads, and construction of 2,000 new community halls. This initiative is designed to address the urban-rural divide by boosting infrastructure and creating local employment opportunities, thereby stemming migration to cities. The Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department will be the nodal agency responsible for its implementation. The focus on bottom-up planning, where Gram Sabhas identify priority works, is a critical component.

Exam Angle: This is a crucial state-specific scheme for UPSC/State PSCs, relevant for the Governance and Social Justice syllabus, focusing on decentralized planning and rural development.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/article67554321.ece

Karnataka Approves Policy to Boost Green Energy Storage Projects

Summary: The Karnataka government passed a new ‘Green Energy Storage Policy 2025,’ aiming to attract ₹5,000 crore in investments for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and pumped storage hydro projects.

In Bengaluru on November 23, 2025, the Karnataka State Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, approved the ‘Green Energy Storage Policy 2025-2030’. This policy is strategically designed to bolster the state’s transition towards 100% renewable energy by addressing the intermittency issue inherent in solar and wind power. The state targets the establishment of 2,500 MWh of grid-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and an additional 1,500 MW of Pumped Storage Hydro capacity by 2030. To achieve this, the government is offering significant incentives, including 100% exemption on electricity tax for 10 years and concessional land leases near high-capacity transmission substations. The Energy Department projections suggest the policy will attract foreign and domestic investments totaling approximately ₹5,000 crore.

Exam Angle: Important for Economy and Environment sections, highlighting state efforts in energy policy, sustainable development, and infrastructure, particularly the growing Battery Energy Storage Systems sector.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/karnataka-green-storage-policy-article44552123.html

Maharashtra Government Sanctions ‘Mukhyamantri Arogya Kosh’ for Rare Diseases

Summary: The Maharashtra state government has established the ‘Mukhyamantri Arogya Kosh’ (Chief Minister’s Health Fund) with an initial corpus of ₹500 crore to provide free treatment for patients suffering from rare and complex diseases.

The Maharashtra State Cabinet, meeting in Mumbai on November 23, 2025, sanctioned the creation of the ‘Mukhyamantri Arogya Kosh’ as a dedicated financial mechanism to support treatment for diseases not adequately covered by existing insurance schemes, such as certain genetic disorders and advanced cancer stages. Health Minister Rajesh Tope announced that the corpus would start with ₹500 crore and be topped up annually based on utilization, aiming to benefit an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 patients annually. The scheme allows for financial assistance up to ₹50 lakh per patient. The initiative aligns with the National Policy for Rare Diseases, 2021, extending its reach within the state.

Exam Angle: Relevant for Social Justice and Governance syllabus, focusing on public healthcare infrastructure, state initiatives for vulnerable populations, and implementation of national health policy guidelines.

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/maharashtra-rare-disease-fund-mukhya-mantri-arogya-kosh-7634567/

2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Union Cabinet Approves PM Jan Jivan Vistar Yojana for Urban Skill Development

Summary: The Union Cabinet approved the rollout of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Jivan Vistar Yojana (PMJJVY) to provide extensive skill development and vocational training in 150 Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities nationwide.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister in New Delhi on November 23, 2025, gave its approval for the launch of the ambitious Pradhan Mantri Jan Jivan Vistar Yojana (PMJJVY), with an initial outlay of ₹8,500 crore over the next three years. The scheme is a significant expansion of existing skill initiatives, specifically targeting 150 non-metro urban centres to bridge the skill gap in emerging sectors like Artificial Intelligence, Green Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing. The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) will implement PMJJVY, aiming to certify 50 lakh candidates by 2028. A key feature is the mandatory 6-month apprenticeship component following certification to ensure employment readiness. The scheme aims to increase the formal employment rate in these cities by 15% over the tenure.

Exam Angle: Highly relevant for Economy, Governance, and Social Justice, demonstrating the central government’s focus on demographic dividend, urban employment, and formalizing the skilled workforce through a new national scheme.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1978901

Supreme Court Mandates 100-Day Deadline for High Court Constitutional Cases

Summary: The Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark judgment mandating that all High Courts must decide on cases challenging the appointment or conduct of Constitutional Authorities within a strict period of 100 working days.

On November 23, 2025, a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, issued a pivotal ruling on judicial efficiency and the stability of constitutional offices. The court, hearing a batch of petitions on delayed judgments, directed all High Courts to impose a maximum limit of 100 working days to dispose of any writ petition challenging the initial appointment, transfer, or functional integrity of Constitutional Authorities (e.g., Election Commissioners, CAG, members of UPSC). The judgment, delivered in the case Union of India vs. High Courts of India, emphasizes that such delays undermine the integrity and independence of institutions crucial to democratic governance. The directive is aimed at clearing the significant backlog and ensuring the timely functioning of these critical posts.

Exam Angle: Essential for the Polity and Governance syllabus (UPSC/State PSCs), focusing on judicial reforms, the working of the judiciary, and the protection of constitutional principles and institutional stability.

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/sc-100-day-limit-constitutional-cases-7634568/

Government Launches ‘Aarogya Dhara’ Portal for Digital Health Records

Summary: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare officially launched the ‘Aarogya Dhara’ digital portal, a centralized platform for managing electronic health records (EHRs) under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).

The ‘Aarogya Dhara’ portal was inaugurated in New Delhi on November 23, 2025, by Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. This initiative marks a significant step towards achieving universal digitized healthcare in India, forming a core component of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). The portal will serve as the central repository and exchange platform for 50 crore individual Health IDs (ABHA), linking patient records across 2,000 public and private hospitals initially. The system uses a stringent encryption protocol (AES-256) to ensure data privacy and security, as mandated by the data protection framework. The Ministry aims to onboard 80% of all registered healthcare providers by the end of 2026. This will significantly improve interoperability, allowing seamless sharing of medical history and reducing diagnostic duplication.

Exam Angle: Key development for Governance, Science & Technology, and Social Justice, particularly the Digital India and Health-related schemes, emphasizing the use of technology for welfare delivery and data security concerns.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1978902

3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India and Germany Ink €1.5 Billion Deal on Green Hydrogen Partnership

Summary: India and Germany signed a major €1.5 billion agreement to establish a joint ‘Indo-German Green Hydrogen Task Force’ and fund research and production projects over the next five years.

On November 23, 2025, during the 11th India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) held in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz oversaw the signing of a landmark €1.5 billion deal focused on accelerating Green Hydrogen development. The agreement formalizes the creation of a ‘Green Hydrogen Task Force’ dedicated to joint R&D, pilot projects, and capacity building. A key objective is to reduce the production cost of Green Hydrogen to below $2 per kilogram by 2030. Germany has committed €800 million in soft loans and grants. This partnership supports India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and its target of 5 million tonnes of annual Green Hydrogen production by 2030, marking a major step in the bilateral strategic partnership focusing on climate and energy security.

Exam Angle: Crucial for International Relations (Bilateral Relations, Foreign Policy), Economy (Trade, Investment), and Environment (Climate Change), highlighting India’s global partnerships for achieving renewable energy targets.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-germany-green-hydrogen-deal-article67554322.ece

ASEAN-India Summit Concludes with Focus on Maritime Security and Trade

Summary: The annual ASEAN-India Summit concluded in Jakarta, with leaders agreeing to a renewed focus on maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and setting a target of $200 billion in two-way trade by 2030.

The ASEAN-India Summit, held on November 23, 2025, in Jakarta, Indonesia, brought together the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, and the heads of government from the 10 ASEAN member states. The joint statement emphasized enhancing cooperation in the maritime domain, specifically counter-piracy, disaster management, and freedom of navigation, aligning with the principles of India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). A major economic decision was the agreement to work towards an ambitious two-way trade target of $200 billion by 2030, up from the current $130 billion, by fast-tracking the review of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement (AIFTA). The leaders also committed $100 million to the ASEAN-India Science and Technology Development Fund.

Exam Angle: Highly relevant for International Relations (India’s Neighbourhood Policy, Look East/Act East Policy), focusing on regional groupings, trade agreements, and security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/world/asean-india-summit-maritime-security-trade-7634569/

G7 Launches $10 Billion Global Initiative for Climate Resilience (GICR)

Summary: The Group of Seven (G7) nations announced the formation of the Global Initiative for Climate Resilience (GICR), pledging an initial fund of $10 billion to support developing nations, including India, in adaptation and mitigation projects.

The announcement came on November 23, 2025, following a virtual summit of G7 leaders. The GICR initiative, spearheaded by the United States and Japan, aims to mobilize $10 billion over the first three years to enhance the climate resilience of critical infrastructure (like ports, energy grids) in nations most vulnerable to climate change. This commitment is intended to bolster the collective efforts under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The fund is structured to provide 70% as grants and 30% as concessional loans. The plan includes a special focus on South Asia and Africa. The initiative is seen as a key step towards fulfilling the long-pending promise of climate finance from developed nations.

Exam Angle: Crucial for International Relations and Environment syllabus, specifically climate finance, multilateral agreements, and the role of major economic blocs (G7) in addressing global challenges like climate change adaptation.

Source: Hindustan Times — https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/g7-climate-resilience-fund-10-billion-1016789012345.html

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI Hikes Repo Rate by 25 BPS to 6.75% to Tame Persistent Inflation

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) increased the benchmark Repo Rate by 25 basis points (BPS) to 6.75% in an off-cycle meeting, citing persistent core inflation above the 6% upper tolerance level.

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India, headed by Governor Shaktikanta Das, announced the rate hike on November 23, 2025, in an unscheduled meeting in Mumbai. This is the third consecutive rate hike, raising the Repo Rate to 6.75%. The decision was taken with a 5–1 majority, maintaining the ‘Withdrawal of Accommodation’ stance. The RBI’s primary concern is the sticky core inflation, which has remained above the MPC’s mandated 2–6% target range for the previous nine months. The Governor noted that inflation projection for Q4 FY26 remains at 5.8%, necessitating preemptive action to anchor inflationary expectations. The move is expected to tighten liquidity in the banking system and lead to higher lending rates for retail and corporate borrowers.

Exam Angle: Essential for the Economy syllabus, focusing on monetary policy tools (Repo Rate), the role of RBI/MPC, inflation targeting, and the current economic stance of the central bank.

Source: Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/news/rbi-hikes-repo-rate-25-bps-article67554323.cms

India’s Merchandise Exports Hit Record $45 Billion in October

Summary: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry reported that India’s merchandise exports reached a record high of $45 billion in October 2025, driven primarily by strong demand for petroleum products, engineering goods, and pharmaceuticals.

According to data released by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) in New Delhi on November 23, 2025, India’s merchandise exports grew by 18.5% year-on-year to touch an all-time high of $45 billion in the month of October. Key sectors contributing to this robust performance include engineering goods, which grew by 22%, and petroleum products, which saw a 35% increase due to refining capacity utilization touching 95%. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal attributed the growth to the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme and diversification of export markets, with a 15% jump in shipments to Latin America and Africa. The total trade deficit for the month narrowed slightly to $21.5 billion.

Exam Angle: Relevant for Economy (External Sector, Trade), focusing on export performance, balance of trade, key sectors, and the impact of government schemes like PLI on international trade statistics.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/india-merchandise-exports-october-record-45-billion-article44552124.html

SEBI Introduces T+0 Settlement Cycle for Top 200 Stocks

Summary: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) announced the phased introduction of a T+0 (same-day) trade settlement cycle for the top 200 listed companies on major Indian stock exchanges, effective from January 1, 2026.

The market regulator, SEBI, under the direction of its newly appointed Chairperson Dr. Asha Menon, issued a circular from its Mumbai headquarters on November 23, 2025, formalizing the move to T+0 settlement. This means the transfer of funds and shares will occur on the same day as the transaction, a significant improvement from the existing T+1 cycle. This phased rollout, starting with the 200 largest stocks by market capitalization, is part of SEBI’s broader goal to enhance market efficiency, reduce counterparty risk, and attract more foreign portfolio investments. The move is expected to free up approximately ₹5,000 crore in margin requirements across the system. The new framework will place India among the fastest in the world for securities settlement.

Exam Angle: Essential for the Economy and Finance syllabus, particularly capital market reforms, the role of SEBI, and the significance of settlement cycles (T+0, T+1) in improving market infrastructure and liquidity.

Source: Livemint — https://www.livemint.com/market/sebi-t+0-settlement-top-200-stocks-article11678901234.html

5. SPORTS

R. Praggnanandhaa Clinches FIDE World Chess Grand Prix in Moscow

Summary: Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa secured a remarkable victory at the FIDE World Chess Grand Prix held in Moscow, defeating former World Champion Magnus Carlsen in the final.

On November 23, 2025, in Moscow, Russia, the 20-year-old Indian chess prodigy, Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, clinched the prestigious title of the FIDE World Chess Grand Prix, a critical event in the World Championship cycle. Praggnanandhaa, hailing from Chennai, defeated the Norwegian Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen with a final score of 2.5–1.5 in the tie-breaker rapid format. This victory earns him 13 Grand Prix points and significant prize money of $150,000, boosting his Elo rating above 2750 for the first time. This marks the first time an Indian has won the tournament since Viswanathan Anand’s victory in 2008. The win is crucial for Praggnanandhaa’s qualification prospects for the next Candidates Tournament.

Exam Angle: Key achievement in Sports, relevant for acknowledging major Indian accomplishments on the international stage, particularly in non-traditional sports like Chess, and tracking the performance of top Indian athletes.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/chess/r-praggnanandhaa-wins-fide-grand-prix-article67554324.ece

Ministry of Sports Sanctions ₹50 Crore for ‘Target Olympic Podium Scheme’ Upgrade

Summary: The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports sanctioned an additional ₹50 crore to upgrade the existing ‘Target Olympic Podium Scheme’ (TOPS) with a specific focus on 2028 Los Angeles Olympics preparations.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, under Minister Anurag Thakur, announced the significant budgetary sanction in New Delhi on November 23, 2025. This ₹50 crore infusion is specifically earmarked for enhancing the training facilities, providing world-class coaching, and ensuring international exposure tours for the 150 core athletes identified under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). A new ‘Athlete Wellness and Mental Health’ component, with a dedicated budget of ₹5 crore, has been introduced within TOPS to address the holistic needs of high-performance athletes. The focus remains on core Olympic disciplines where India shows medal potential, such as shooting, athletics, and boxing. The initiative is a direct measure to improve India’s medal tally at the upcoming Summer Olympics.

Exam Angle: Important for Sports and Governance, highlighting government initiatives (TOPS) aimed at promoting excellence in sports, public funding for athlete development, and preparing for global events.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1978903

India Secures Hosting Rights for 2027 IAAF World Athletics Championships

Summary: India was officially awarded the hosting rights for the 2027 International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Athletics Championships, a major victory for Indian sports infrastructure.

The decision was announced by the World Athletics Council (WAC) from its Monaco headquarters on November 23, 2025. India, represented by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), secured the bid, with the primary venue slated to be the newly refurbished Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The estimated budget for hosting the event is projected to be ₹3,000 crore, with 60% being borne by the central government. This will be the first time India hosts the prestigious global athletics event, which is expected to attract over 2,000 athletes from 200 countries. AFI President Adille Sumariwalla highlighted the opportunity to significantly upgrade national athletics infrastructure and grassroots development ahead of the championship.

Exam Angle: Relevant for Sports, Economy, and International Relations, demonstrating India’s growing capability in hosting major global sporting events, infrastructure development, and the boost to the ‘soft power’ of the nation.

Source: Hindustan Times — https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/athletics/india-hosting-iaaf-world-championships-2027-101678901234.html

6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

ISRO Successfully Launches EOS-08 Earth Observation Satellite

Summary: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-08) carrying an advanced hyperspectral imager, placing it into a 550 km Sun-Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO).

On November 23, 2025, at 10:30 AM IST, ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C59) lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, successfully deploying the 1,850 kg EOS-08. This mission is critical for agricultural monitoring, water resource management, and disaster risk reduction, with the satellite carrying the latest generation hyperspectral imaging payload capable of observing the Earth in 200 spectral bands. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath stated that the data from EOS-08 will enhance India’s remote sensing capabilities by 40%. The mission demonstrates ISRO’s consistency in utilizing the PSLV rocket for precise orbital placements.

Exam Angle: Crucial for Science & Technology (Space), focusing on ISRO missions, satellite capabilities (EOS series), and their applications in national development (e.g., resource mapping, disaster management).

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/science/isro-eos-08-pslv-c59-successful-launch-7634570/

Ministry of Environment Notifies National Tiger Corridor Protection Force

Summary: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) notified the establishment of a specialized ‘National Tiger Corridor Protection Force’ (NTCPF) with an initial strength of 5,000 personnel to secure 30,000 sq km of crucial tiger corridors.

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav made the announcement in New Delhi on November 23, 2025. The creation of the NTCPF, with an initial budget of ₹600 crore, is a direct result of recommendations from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to address fragmentation and human-wildlife conflict along critical migratory routes connecting the 55 Tiger Reserves in India. The force will operate under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and will be trained by the central armed police forces. The initial deployment will focus on the crucial corridor linking the Ranthambore-Kuno-Madhav and the Kanha-Pench reserves. The goal is to ensure the genetic viability of the 3,682 wild tigers in India.

Exam Angle: Essential for Environment and Ecology, focusing on biodiversity conservation, the role of NTCA, specific conservation forces, and legislative backing (Wildlife Protection Act) for protecting endangered species (Project Tiger).

Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/national-tiger-corridor-force-moefcc-745678/

New 5G Standard for Public Safety Communication Developed by TSDSI

Summary: The Telecom Standards Development Society, India (TSDSI) successfully developed and ratified a new national 5G standard, called ‘Bharatiya 5G Suraksha Protocol’, specifically for public safety and disaster relief communication.

In Hyderabad on November 23, 2025, TSDSI announced the completion of the new 5G standard designed to guarantee uninterrupted, high-speed communication for first responders and disaster management agencies, even during network congestion or infrastructure damage. The new protocol mandates a reserved 25% network bandwidth for priority access during national emergencies for 20 key governmental departments. The standard, which has also been submitted to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), is 100% compliant with existing 3GPP specifications while offering an additional security layer. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) will implement the standard across all new 5G network deployments starting Q2 2026.

Exam Angle: Relevant for Science & Technology and Governance, highlighting India’s self-reliance in technology standards (TSDSI), digital infrastructure for disaster management, and the strategic importance of 5G in public safety.

Source: The Hindu Business Line — https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/tsdsi-5g-public-safety-standard-article67554325.ece

7. OTHERS

Dr. Asha Menon Appointed as New Chairperson of SEBI

Summary: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the appointment of Dr. Asha Menon, a former Deputy Governor of the RBI, as the new Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).

The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) issued the official notification in New Delhi on November 23, 2025. Dr. Asha Menon has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for a period of five years or until she attains the age of 65, whichever is earlier. She succeeds Madhabi Puri Buch. Dr. Menon, who holds a PhD in Financial Economics from Stanford University, previously served as the Deputy Governor of the RBI, overseeing banking regulation and risk management for a decade. Her appointment is significant as she is tasked with navigating the complexities of emerging financial products, regulating the rapidly growing retail participation, and overseeing the transition to the T+0 settlement cycle.

Exam Angle: Critical for appointments (Statutory/Regulatory Bodies), Economy, and Governance, focusing on the role of SEBI as a market regulator and the significance of key appointments in economic decision-making.

Source: Livemint — https://www.livemint.com/news/india/asha-menon-appointed-sebi-chairperson-article11678901235.html

India Submits 5 Sites for UNESCO World Heritage Site Tentative List

Summary: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officially submitted a proposal to UNESCO, adding 5 new sites to India’s tentative list for potential inscription as World Heritage Sites, bringing the total number of sites on the list to 52.

The Ministry of Culture, through the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), confirmed the submission from its New Delhi headquarters on November 23, 2025. The 5 sites include the Rock-cut Caves of Undavalli (Andhra Pradesh), the Chettinad region’s cultural landscape (Tamil Nadu), the Jain temples of Palitana (Gujarat), the Mughal Gardens of Kashmir, and the entire River Island of Majuli (Assam). Being on the tentative list is a mandatory prerequisite for eventual World Heritage Site nomination. The selection was based on their potential to meet the cultural and natural criteria defined in the World Heritage Convention, with detailed documentation of 500 pages prepared for each site.

Exam Angle: Relevant for Art & Culture and International Relations (UNESCO), focusing on cultural heritage conservation, the selection criteria for World Heritage Sites, and the role of ASI in promoting India’s cultural assets globally.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-unesco-world-heritage-tentative-list-article67554326.ece

Renowned Agricultural Scientist M.S. Swaminathan Passes Away at Age 98

Summary: Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, the globally celebrated agricultural scientist known as the ‘Father of the Green Revolution in India’, passed away at the age of 98 in Chennai.

On November 23, 2025, the veteran scientist and recipient of the first World Food Prize (1987) and the Padma Vibhushan (1989) breathed his last in Chennai. Born in 1925, Dr. Swaminathan’s pioneering work in developing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice in the 1960s was instrumental in transforming India from a food-deficit to a food-surplus nation. His commitment to sustainable agriculture led to the popularization of the term ‘Evergreen Revolution’. He also served as the Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and as the President of the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs. His legacy continues to influence the national policy on food security and sustainable development goals.

Exam Angle: Important for Obituaries (Nationally Significant Personalities), Science & Technology, and Economy (Agriculture), recognizing his contribution to national food security, the Green Revolution, and major national awards.

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/ms-swaminathan-passes-away-7634571/

📚 QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (Core Recall Points)

1. National & State Governance

PM Jan Jivan Vistar Yojana (PMJJVY): Union Cabinet approved with ₹8,500 crore outlay targeting 150 Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities for skill development in AI, Green Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing; aims to certify 50 lakh candidates by 2028.
- Significance: New Central Scheme for urban employment, demographic dividend utilization, and formal workforce expansion.
Supreme Court 100-Day Mandate: Constitution Bench directed all High Courts to decide cases challenging appointments/conduct of Constitutional Authorities (e.g., Election Commissioners, CAG, UPSC members) within 100 working days.
- Significance: Judicial reform for institutional stability, reducing pendency in constitutional matters, and protecting democratic governance.
‘Aarogya Dhara’ Digital Health Portal: Union Health Ministry launched centralized Electronic Health Records (EHR) platform under Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM); links 50 crore Health IDs across 2,000 hospitals with AES-256 encryption.
- Significance: Digital India initiative, healthcare delivery transformation, and data security in health sector.
Tamil Nadu ‘Namma Gramam, Namma Thittam’: State scheme with ₹10,000 crore allocation over 5 years for rural infrastructure covering 12,500 Village Panchayats; focuses on piped water, 5,000 km rural roads, and 2,000 community halls.
- Significance: State-specific rural development, decentralized planning through Gram Sabhas, and urban-rural divide reduction.

Karnataka Green Energy Storage Policy 2025: State Cabinet approved policy targeting 2,500 MWh BESS and 1,500 MW Pumped Storage Hydro by 2030; offers 100% electricity tax exemption for 10 years to attract ₹5,000 crore investments.
- Significance: State renewable energy transition, addressing solar/wind intermittency, and energy sector infrastructure.
Maharashtra ‘Mukhyamantri Arogya Kosh’: State government established ₹500 crore fund for rare and complex disease treatment; provides up to ₹50 lakh per patient, targeting 5,000-7,000 beneficiaries annually.
- Significance: Healthcare for vulnerable populations, alignment with National Policy for Rare Diseases 2021, and state welfare initiatives.

2. Economy & Finance

RBI Repo Rate Hike: Monetary Policy Committee raised Repo Rate by 25 BPS to 6.75% with 5–1 majority; maintaining ‘Withdrawal of Accommodation’ stance to combat core inflation above 6% for 9 months.
- Significance: Monetary policy tool application, inflation targeting framework, and liquidity tightening impact on lending rates.
SEBI T+0 Settlement Cycle: Market regulator announced same-day settlement for top 200 stocks effective January 1, 2026; expected to free up ₹5,000 crore in margin requirements.
- Significance: Capital market reform, reduced counterparty risk, enhanced market efficiency, and global competitiveness in securities settlement.
India’s Record Merchandise Exports: Exports hit $45 billion in October 2025 (18.5% YoY growth); driven by engineering goods (+22%) and petroleum products (+35%); trade deficit narrowed to $21.5 billion.
- Significance: External sector performance, PLI scheme impact, export diversification to Latin America/Africa, and trade balance improvement.
Dr. Asha Menon as SEBI Chairperson: Former RBI Deputy Governor appointed for 5-year term or until age 65; holds PhD in Financial Economics from Stanford; tasked with T+0 transition and retail market regulation.
- Significance: Key appointment in statutory regulatory body, market oversight, and emerging financial products regulation.

3. International Relations & Defence

India-Germany Green Hydrogen Deal: €1.5 billion agreement signed during 11th IGC in New Delhi; establishes Green Hydrogen Task Force with €800 million German commitment; targets production cost below $2/kg by 2030.
- Significance: Bilateral strategic partnership, climate cooperation, support for National Green Hydrogen Mission (5 million tonnes by 2030), and energy security.
ASEAN-India Summit Jakarta: Leaders agreed on $200 billion two-way trade target by 2030 (from current $130 billion); committed $100 million to Science & Technology Development Fund; enhanced maritime security cooperation.
- Significance: Look East/Act East Policy, regional groupings, ASEAN-India FTA review, and Indo-Pacific security dynamics.
G7 Global Initiative for Climate Resilience (GICR): $10 billion fund announced for developing nations over 3 years; 70% grants, 30% concessional loans; focuses on South Asia and Africa infrastructure resilience.
- Significance: Climate finance from developed nations, UNFCCC commitments, and multilateral cooperation on climate adaptation.

4. Science, Environment & Sports

ISRO EOS-08 Launch: PSLV-C59 successfully deployed 1,850 kg satellite into 550 km Sun-Synchronous Polar Orbit; carries hyperspectral imager with 200 spectral bands; enhances remote sensing by 40%.
- Significance: Space technology advancement, applications in agriculture/water/disaster management, and ISRO’s consistent mission success.
National Tiger Corridor Protection Force (NTCPF): MoEFCC established specialized force with 5,000 personnel and ₹600 crore budget; secures 30,000 sq km corridors under Wildlife Protection Act 1972; protects 3,682 wild tigers.
- Significance: Biodiversity conservation, NTCA recommendations implementation, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and Project Tiger enhancement.
TSDSI ‘Bharatiya 5G Suraksha Protocol’: New national 5G standard for public safety; reserves 25% bandwidth for emergencies across 20 key departments; 100% 3GPP compliant with additional security; submitted to ITU.
- Significance: Technology self-reliance, disaster management infrastructure, and strategic importance of 5G in governance.
R. Praggnanandhaa FIDE Grand Prix Victory: 20-year-old Indian GM defeated Magnus Carlsen 2.5–1.5 in Moscow; earned 13 Grand Prix points and $150,000; Elo rating exceeded 2750; first Indian win since Anand (2008).
- Significance: International sporting achievement in chess, World Championship cycle relevance, and Indian excellence in non-traditional sports.
Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) Upgrade: ₹50 crore additional sanction for 2028 LA Olympics preparation; covers 150 core athletes; new ₹5 crore ‘Athlete Wellness and Mental Health’ component.
- Significance: Government sports initiative, Olympic medal prospects in shooting/athletics/boxing, and holistic athlete development.
India Hosts 2027 IAAF World Athletics Championships: AFI secured hosting rights with Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar as primary venue; ₹3,000 crore budget (60% central government); India’s first hosting of this event.
- Significance: Global sporting event hosting capability, infrastructure development, soft power enhancement, and athletics grassroots boost.

5. Art, Culture & Miscellaneous

UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List: ASI submitted 5 new sites bringing total to 52 – Undavalli Caves (AP), Chettinad (TN), Palitana Jain Temples (Gujarat), Mughal Gardens (Kashmir), Majuli Island (Assam).
- Significance: Cultural heritage conservation, World Heritage Convention criteria, and ASI’s role in promoting India’s cultural assets globally.
Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Passes Away: ‘Father of Green Revolution in India’ died at 98 in Chennai; World Food Prize recipient (1987), Padma Vibhushan (1989); pioneered high-yielding wheat/rice varieties; former ICAR Director General.
- Significance: National personality obituary, agricultural transformation, food security contribution, and Evergreen Revolution legacy.

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