Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: November 25, 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 Recall Points (Snapshot)
- 53rd CJI: Justice Surya Kant was sworn in as the 53rd Chief Justice of India on November 24, 2025.
- Labour Code Rule: Union Government is set to implement new Labour Codes, including a mandatory clause of Basic Pay constituting 50% of the Cost-to-Company (CTC).
- IBSA Summit: PM Modi, at the IBSA meeting, called for UN Security Council reform and proposed an IBSA fund for climate-resilient agriculture.
- INS Mahe: The Indian Navy commissioned INS Mahe, the lead ship of the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) project, built by Cochin Shipyard Limited.
- RBI Report: The RBI’s State of the Economy report cautioned against the widening of the merchandise trade deficit in October 2025, driven by higher gold and silver imports.
- MSME Credit Guarantee: The maximum credit guarantee cover for Micro and Small Enterprises under the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) was doubled to ₹10 crore in the Union Budget 2025-26.
- Karnataka Quota: The Karnataka government introduced a draft bill proposing a mandatory 5% job reservation in all private establishments for Persons with Disabilities (PwD).
- NGT Probe: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered a joint committee probe into river pollution allegations against UltraTech Cement’s Bichhapuri coal mine in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh.
- Olympics 2036: Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya formally stated at the Khelo India University Games that India is actively preparing to bid for and host the 2036 Olympic Games.
- Obituary: Legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 90.
MAIN CONTENT: EXAM-FOCUSED CURRENT AFFAIRS
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Andhra Pradesh to Issue Smart Family Cards to 1.4 Crore Families
Summary: AP CM directs officials to issue Smart Family Cards by June next year to streamline welfare distribution using RTGS data.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu directed officials on November 24, 2025, to ensure the issuance of Smart Family Cards to all 1.4 crore families across the state by June 2026. Speaking at a review meeting in Amaravati, the Chief Minister emphasized that the card will be a single integrated document, leveraging the Real-Time Governance System (RTGS) Data Lake to consolidate all welfare benefits and entitlements. The initiative is aimed at improving delivery efficiency, eliminating duplication, and providing a comprehensive profile of each family’s socio-economic status, which is crucial for targeted policy formulation. The project, overseen by the Andhra Pradesh government’s Planning Department, is a significant governance reform. This move is part of the state’s broader vision for digital governance and directly aligns with the Swarna Andhra Vision 2047 goals.
Exam angle: Important for questions on e-governance, social sector schemes, and technological interventions in public service delivery (GS-II: Governance).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/ap-cm-chandrababu-naidu-directs-officials-to-issue-smart-family-cards/article70318461.ece
Karnataka Proposes 5% Private Job Quota for Persons with Disabilities (PwD)
Summary: Karnataka Government drafts a bill for mandatory 5% job quota for PwD in all private firms with 20 or more employees.
The Karnataka Government, on November 24, 2025, released a draft bill proposing a significant increase in reservation for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) in both employment and education across the state. The key provision is a mandatory 5% job quota in all private sector establishments employing 20 or more individuals. Furthermore, the draft bill includes a 10% course-specific seat reservation in all government and private educational institutions. The bill, spearheaded by the Department for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and Senior Citizens, aims to bring the state in line with the spirit of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The move is expected to boost the employment rate of PwD, estimated to be around 3.5 lakh in the state, and foster inclusive workplaces in Bengaluru and other major urban centers.
Exam angle: Relevant for social justice, government policies, and statutory bodies/acts (GS-II: Vulnerable Sections, GS-III: Inclusive Growth).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/karnataka-proposes-5-job-quota-for-pwd-in-private-sector/article70318559.ece
AP Government Forms Expert Panel to Steer ‘Healthy Andhra Pradesh’ Vision
Summary: AP Government constitutes a high-level, ten-member global expert panel, including Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, to guide health policy.
On November 24, 2025, the Government of Andhra Pradesh constituted a high-level 10-member Global Expert Panel to formulate and steer the ‘Healthy Andhra Pradesh’ vision, aligning it with the long-term Swarna Andhra Vision 2047. The panel, announced in a release from Amaravati, includes globally recognized health leaders such as former Chief Scientist of WHO, Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, and other experts in public health and epidemiology. The objective is to leverage international best practices to transform the state’s healthcare system, focusing on primary healthcare, disease prevention, and digital health infrastructure. The panel has been tasked with submitting a comprehensive five-year action plan within a deadline of 90 days. This move underscores the state’s commitment to achieving a per capita income of $10,000 by 2047, which requires a healthy and productive workforce.
Exam angle: Highlights best practices in state-level health policy, international collaboration in governance, and relevance of public health experts (GS-II: Health Sector, GS-III: Economic Development).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/ap-govt-forms-expert-panel-to-steer-healthy-andhra-pradesh-vision/article70319114.ece
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Justice Surya Kant Sworn in as 53rd Chief Justice of India
Summary: Justice Surya Kant takes oath as the 53rd CJI, succeeding Justice B.R. Gavai.
Justice Surya Kant was sworn in as the 53rd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on November 24, 2025, in a ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office. Justice Kant succeeded Justice B.R. Gavai, who retired on November 23, 2025. Justice Kant, who was elevated to the Supreme Court on May 24, 2019, will have a tenure until February 9, 2028. Known for his tenure as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, he has been part of several landmark benches, including those dealing with the abrogation of Article 370 and the Pegasus spyware case. In his initial address, he emphasized streamlining the judicial process and tackling the growing number of pending cases, which currently stand at over 80,000 in the apex court.
Exam angle: Crucial for polity and constitutional appointments (GS-II: Judiciary, Appointments to Constitutional Posts).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/justice-surya-kant-sworn-in-as-53rd-cji/article70316520.ece
Supreme Court Panel Recommends Ending Archaic Job Titles in Judiciary
Summary: SC’s Centre for Research and Planning recommends abolishing dignity-violating job titles like ‘Halalkhor’ and ‘Coolie’ in court administration.
The Supreme Court’s think tank, the Centre for Research and Planning (CRP), issued a comprehensive report on November 24, 2025, recommending the immediate abandonment of several archaic and dignity-violating job titles within the judicial administration. The report, officially released in New Delhi, specifically flagged terms like ‘Halalkhor’ (scavenger) and ‘Coolie’ (porter) used for certain administrative and menial roles in various High Courts and District Courts across the country. The CRP, headed by a senior Supreme Court judge, argued that these terms perpetuate social stigma and violate the fundamental rights to equality and dignity. The recommendation follows the Court’s increasing focus on legal and administrative reform. This move is aimed at modernizing judicial nomenclature and promoting social equality and respect for labour within the judicial system, aligning with constitutional principles.
Exam angle: Important for social justice, constitutional law (Article 14, 21), and institutional reforms in the judiciary (GS-II: Governance and Social Justice).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/sc-panel-recommends-ending-archaic-job-titles-in-judiciary/article70317769.ece
New Labour Codes Mandate 50% Basic Salary Component in CTC
Summary: Centre prepares to notify new labour codes, mandating that the basic pay component must be at least 50% of the total Cost-to-Company (CTC).
The Union Government, on November 24, 2025, announced that it is set to notify the four new Labour Codes, including a crucial rule under the Code on Wages, 2019, which mandates that the Basic Pay component must constitute at least 50% of the total Cost-to-Company (CTC). The rules, which will be effective across all industries and states, will significantly impact the salary structure of employees, especially in the private sector where non-basic components (like allowances and HRA) often exceed 50%. This policy, discussed extensively in New Delhi, aims to increase the mandatory contribution to social security, particularly the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and gratuity, as these are calculated based on the basic salary. The change will increase the retirement benefits for millions of workers, but may simultaneously increase the cost of hiring for companies by an estimated 10-15%.
Exam angle: Highly relevant for economic policy, social security, labour reforms, and the unorganized sector (GS-II: Government Policies, GS-III: Indian Economy).
Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/business/economy/new-labour-codes-basic-pay-50-percent-ctc/
INS Mahe Commissioned: Indigenous ASW-SWC Boosts Naval Capability
Summary: Indian Navy commissions INS Mahe, the first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) with 80% indigenous content.
The Indian Navy commissioned the first of the eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW-SWC), INS Mahe, on November 24, 2025, at a ceremony in Mumbai. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), the vessel boasts an indigenous content of over 80%, marking a major achievement for the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative in defence manufacturing. INS Mahe is designed for shallow water operations, specifically anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and coastal surveillance. The 77-meter-long craft has a displacement of 900 tonnes and is equipped with advanced sonar and anti-submarine weapons. The commissioning of this vessel strengthens the Navy’s capabilities in the littoral zones, particularly against underwater threats along the vast Indian coastline.
Exam angle: Critical for national security, defence technology, indigenization efforts, and the role of DPSUs (GS-III: Defence Technology, Security).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navy-commissions-indigenous-anti-submarine-warfare-vessel-ins-mahe/article70316590.ece
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
IBSA Leaders’ Meeting: PM Modi Calls for UNSC Reform and Climate Fund
Summary: PM Modi attends IBSA meeting, pushing for UN reform and proposing an IBSA fund for climate-resilient agriculture.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders’ meeting on November 24, 2025, held on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. Addressing the trilateral forum, PM Modi strongly asserted that the reform of the UN Security Council (UNSC) is “no longer an option, but a necessity” to ensure the greater representation of the Global South. He proposed the establishment of a dedicated IBSA fund for collaborative research and development in climate-resilient agriculture, committing an initial amount of $20 million from India. The leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation on counter-terrorism and digital public infrastructure. The joint statement emphasized the need for a non-discriminatory global trade system under the WTO.
Exam angle: Highly relevant for international relations, multilateral forums (IBSA), India’s foreign policy, and global institutional reforms (GS-II: International Groupings).
Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/ibsa-leaders-meeting-modi-unsc-reform-climate-fund/
Mitra Shakti 2025 Concludes: India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise
Summary: The 11th edition of the India-Sri Lanka joint military exercise, Mitra Shakti, concluded in Belagavi, focusing on UN peacekeeping operations.
The 11th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Mitra Shakti’ between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army concluded on November 24, 2025, at the Foreign Training Node in Belagavi, Karnataka. The two-week-long exercise, which saw the participation of approximately 120 personnel from each side, focused primarily on refining interoperability in conducting counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations under the mandate of the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping forces. A key training component involved the integrated deployment of helicopters and specialized surveillance equipment in a simulated semi-urban environment. The exercise is a vital component of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, aimed at enhancing defence cooperation with Sri Lanka and improving the readiness of both nations’ contingents for future UN missions.
Exam angle: Important for India’s bilateral military exercises, defence cooperation with neighbours, and the role of the Indian Army in UN peacekeeping (GS-II: International Relations, GS-III: Security).
Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/mitra-shakti-2025-concludes-india-sri-lanka-joint-military-exercise/
China-Japan Tensions Escalate Over Taiwan: ‘Red Line’ Warning
Summary: Chinese Foreign Minister warns Japan about ‘crossing a red line’ following comments on potential military intervention over Taiwan.
Diplomatic tensions between China and Japan escalated on November 24, 2025, after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in an official statement released from Beijing, warned that Japan’s recent comments about potential military involvement in a Taiwan contingency had “crossed a red line.” This came after Japan’s Defence Minister stated the country would not remain passive if China were to attack Taiwan. Wang Yi emphasized that the Taiwan issue is an internal affair of China and warned Japan against interference based on its security treaty with the US. Simultaneously, the Chinese government is reported to have sent a formal protest letter to the UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The development highlights the increasing security complexity in the Indo-Pacific region, directly impacting India’s strategic neighbourhood, especially given India’s growing ties with Japan through the Quad.
Exam angle: Relevant for India’s strategic environment, security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, and the role of international diplomacy in de-escalation (GS-II: International Relations, GS-III: Security).
Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/world/china-japan-tensions-escalate-over-taiwan-red-line-warning/
Global Discord at COP30: Climate Summit Concludes with ‘Weak’ Final Draft
Summary: The COP30 climate summit concludes in Belem, Brazil, highlighting major discord between the Global North and South over climate finance.
The 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), held in Belem, Brazil, concluded on November 22, 2025 (reported widely on November 24, 2025), with a final draft that was widely criticized as “weak and compromised.” Climate experts noted the profound discord between the Global North and the Global South, particularly concerning the financing of adaptation and loss & damage. Despite the UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell claiming success on gender and “just transition,” several developing nations, including India, expressed dissatisfaction over the failure to secure a concrete commitment from developed countries on the $100 billion per year climate finance goal. The final text, however, did reaffirm the goal of keeping the 1.5°C limit alive.
Exam angle: Critical for environmental policy, international conventions, climate finance, and India’s stance on Global South leadership (GS-III: Environment and Climate Change).
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/climate-change/cop-of-truths-ending-highlights-bitter-reality-of-discord-between-global-north-and-south-793267
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI’s ‘State of the Economy’ Report Cautions on Merchandise Trade Deficit
Summary: RBI’s November Bulletin highlights robust domestic growth but flags the risk from widening merchandise trade deficit.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its State of the Economy report published in the November 2025 Bulletin, maintained a cautious stance despite noting a robust momentum in domestic economic activity, driven by private consumption and investment. The report, issued from Mumbai, specifically flagged the widening of the merchandise trade deficit in October 2025. This widening was primarily attributed to a sharp surge in the import of gold and silver, alongside continued elevated global commodity prices. The RBI noted that while exports showed a moderate recovery, the trade gap still poses a potential risk to the Current Account Deficit (CAD), necessitating sustained monitoring of global commodity price movements. The report affirmed that the domestic growth trajectory for FY26 is likely to remain steady, supported by fiscal and monetary stability measures.
Exam angle: Key for understanding macro-economic indicators, trade dynamics, and the RBI’s role in economic forecasting (GS-III: Indian Economy, Trade).
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/rbi-s-state-of-the-economy-report-cautions-on-trade-deficit-november-24-2025/
MSME Credit Guarantee Limit Doubled to ₹10 Crore
Summary: Union Government hikes the maximum guarantee cover under the CGTMSE scheme for MSMEs to ₹10 crore.
In a major boost for the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, the Union Government announced the effective doubling of the maximum credit guarantee cover under the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme. The new limit, notified on November 24, 2025, has been increased from the previous ₹5 crore to ₹10 crore for credit facilities extended to Micro and Small Enterprises. This enhancement, initially proposed in the Union Budget 2025-26, aims to encourage financial institutions, including commercial banks and NBFCs, to provide collateral-free working capital and term loans to the sector. The move is expected to unlock an additional ₹50,000 crore in institutional credit, thereby boosting investment, job creation, and overall economic growth, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Exam angle: Highly relevant for government schemes (CGTMSE), financial inclusion, and the role of MSMEs in the Indian economy (GS-III: Indian Economy, Government Schemes).
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB) — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2192860
PLI Scheme for White Goods Reopens Application Window
Summary: Ministry of Commerce reopens the application window for the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for White Goods for 30 days.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, announced on November 24, 2025, the reopening of the application window for the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for White Goods (Air Conditioners and LED Lights). The fresh window will remain open for 30 days, providing an additional opportunity for manufacturers, especially Micro and Small Enterprises, to participate in the scheme. This is the third such window since the scheme’s launch in 2021, and it is a strategic effort to fully utilize the allocated corpus of ₹6,238 crore and achieve the targeted annual production capacity. The scheme aims to attract large investments, promote domestic value addition, and make India a global manufacturing hub for these specified goods, thereby boosting exports by an estimated $1.5 billion over five years.
Exam angle: Essential for industrial policy, government initiatives for manufacturing, and the concept of Production Linked Incentive (GS-III: Industrial Policy).
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB) — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2192875
RBI Governor Urges Banks to Prioritize Risk Management
Summary: RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das stresses the need for robust risk management systems among banks and NBFCs in a dynamic financial landscape.
Reserve Bank of India Governor Shaktikanta Das, speaking at a banking conclave in Mumbai on November 24, 2025, strongly urged commercial banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) to prioritize and strengthen their risk management frameworks amidst evolving global and domestic financial challenges. The Governor emphasized that while the Indian financial system remains resilient, with the Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio declining to a five-year low of 3.2%, vigilance is paramount. He specifically highlighted the need for improved due diligence in retail and unsecured lending segments. Governor Das reminded the financial sector leaders that a sustainable growth trajectory depends on adopting a prudent approach, ensuring effective capital allocation, and maintaining a high level of governance and compliance.
Exam angle: Important for banking sector reforms, financial stability, and the role of the RBI as the principal regulator (GS-III: Indian Economy, Banking).
Source: The Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/banking/finance/banking/rbi-governor-urges-banks-to-prioritize-risk-management/articleshow/105556770.cms
5. SPORTS
Sports Minister Affirms India’s Bid to Host 2036 Olympic Games
Summary: Union Sports Minister confirms India is actively preparing its bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya officially stated on November 24, 2025, that India is “progressing with the vision of becoming a developed nation and preparing to host the Olympic Games in 2036.” Addressing the opening ceremony of the 5th Khelo India University Games at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur, Rajasthan, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to building a strong sports ecosystem under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted that the Khelo India programs, which have an allocation of over ₹3,000 crore in the current budget cycle, are a direct investment towards producing world-class athletes and developing the necessary infrastructure, which is a pre-requisite for a successful Olympic bid.
Exam angle: Relevant for government policies on sports, India’s soft power projection, and the Khelo India scheme (GS-II: Social Sector Schemes, GS-I: Sports and Culture).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/india-preparing-to-host-olympic-games-in-2036-sports-minister/article70319201.ece
Marco Jansen’s Six-Wicket Haul Decimates Indian Batting in Guwahati Test
Summary: South Africa’s Marco Jansen took 6/48 to help his team gain a massive 314-run lead over India in the 2nd Test.
South African all-rounder Marco Jansen produced a fiery spell of fast bowling on November 24, 2025, taking a brilliant six-wicket haul for just 48 runs (6/48 in 19.5 overs) to decimate the Indian batting line-up on Day 3 of the Second Test in Guwahati, Assam. Resuming at 9 for no loss, India imploded, losing six wickets for only 27 runs at one point, before being bowled out for 201. Jansen, who also scored a blistering 93 in the first innings, leveraged his height and pace to trouble the Indian batters, including the crucial wicket of captain Rishabh Pant. South Africa, having amassed 489 in the first innings, finished the day at 26 for no loss, consolidating their massive overall lead to 314 runs, tightening their grip on the match.
Exam angle: Important for general sports awareness, major international tournament results, and athlete achievements (GS-I: Current Events).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/india-vs-south-africa-2nd-test-november-24-2025/article70316471.ece
PM Hails Blind Women’s Cricket Team’s T20 World Cup Triumph
Summary: Prime Minister Modi congratulated the Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team for winning the inaugural T20 World Cup.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 24, 2025, congratulated the Indian Blind Women’s Cricket Team for winning the inaugural T20 World Cup held in Sri Lanka. The team achieved a historic victory by defeating Nepal by seven wickets in the final played at the P Sara Oval in Colombo on November 23, 2025. PM Modi, in a statement released from New Delhi, hailed the triumph as a “shining example of hard work, team work, and determination,” noting that the team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, showcased the talent of these differently-abled athletes. The win significantly promotes inclusive sports and highlights the importance of providing resources for adaptive sports in India.
Exam angle: Relevant for social sector achievements, promoting inclusivity (Divyangjan), and general sports recognition (GS-II: Social Justice, GS-I: Sports).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/shining-example-of-determination-pm-hails-india-blind-womens-teams-t20wc-triumph/article70316584.ece
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
NGT Orders Probe into River Pollution by UltraTech Cement in Madhya Pradesh
Summary: NGT directs a joint committee to probe allegations of UltraTech Cement’s Bichhapuri coal mine polluting the Sone and Murna rivers.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT), on November 24, 2025 (in a hearing for orders dated November 19, 2025), directed the constitution of a joint committee to investigate serious allegations of pollution against UltraTech Cement Ltd’s Bichhapuri coal mine in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh. The NGT bench, sitting in New Delhi, acted upon an application alleging that the mine was contaminating the Sone and Murna rivers, severely affecting the drinking water and health of over 1,200 Baiga tribal residents in the region. Scientific studies cited in the application confirmed dangerously high levels of Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD). The joint committee, comprising representatives from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the District Magistrate, has been instructed to submit its detailed action-taken report within two months.
Exam angle: Critical for environmental law, the role of the NGT, pollution control mechanisms, and tribal rights (GS-III: Environment, GS-II: Governance).
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/environment/daily-court-digest-major-environment-orders-november-20-2025-793264
NGT Reprimands West Bengal Over ‘Deficient’ Report on Saraswati River Pollution
Summary: NGT expresses dissatisfaction with West Bengal’s report on the pollution and encroachment of the Saraswati river.
In a strong observation on November 24, 2025, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) expressed its deep dissatisfaction with the report filed by the Chief Secretary of West Bengal regarding the pollution and encroachment of the Saraswati river. The Tribunal, sitting in New Delhi, noted that the report was “materially deficient” and lacked crucial information on the state’s compliance with previous court orders. The matter relates to the failure of state authorities to prevent the pollution of the river, which flows through the Hooghly and Howrah districts, due to the continuous discharge of untreated sewage along a 50-kilometre stretch. The NGT granted the state counsel a period of two months to file a comprehensive, updated action-taken report, including particulars on nodal officers nominated for monitoring and measures taken to fix accountability.
Exam angle: Relevant for environmental governance, inter-departmental coordination, river conservation efforts, and the power of the NGT (GS-III: Environment, GS-II: Governance).
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/environment/daily-court-digest-major-environment-orders-november-20-2025-793264
INS Mahe Commissioned: Showcasing 80% Indigenous Defence Technology
Summary: The Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) INS Mahe is a milestone for indigenous technology in naval defence.
The commissioning of INS Mahe on November 24, 2025, by the Indian Navy in Mumbai serves as a major milestone for indigenous defence technology, with the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) boasting an indigenous content exceeding 80%. Designed and built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), the vessel integrates sophisticated Made-in-India sensor packages, including advanced indigenously developed sonar systems and state-of-the-art communication equipment. The vessel’s primary role of anti-submarine warfare in littoral waters requires cutting-edge hydrographic and electronic support measures, all of which are integrated using Indian technology. This 77-meter craft, the first of eight in its class, reinforces the government’s commitment to self-reliance under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission for critical defence technology.
Exam angle: Dual importance for Science & Technology (indigenous development) and Defence (GS-III: Indigenization of Technology and Defence).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/navy-commissions-indigenous-anti-submarine-warfare-vessel-ins-mahe/article70316590.ece
7. OTHERS (Appointments, Awards, Obituaries)
Legendary Actor Dharmendra Passes Away at 90
Summary: Legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, known as the ‘He-Man’ of Hindi cinema, passed away on November 24, 2025.
Legendary Hindi cinema actor Dharmendra, affectionately known as the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 90. The veteran actor, who began his career in the early 1960s, starred in over 300 films across a career spanning more than six decades, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Notable films include classics like Sholay, Satyakam, and Chupke Chupke. He was a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2012. Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore, his co-star in several films, remembered him as a generous and humble human being. His passing in Mumbai marks the end of an era in Hindi cinema.
Exam angle: Relevant for art, culture, and personalities of national significance (GS-I: Indian Culture, GS-IV: Ethics/Role Models).
Source: The Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/dharmendra-never-forgot-his-roots-despite-stardom-sharmila-tagore-feels-he-deserved-national-award-for-chupke-chupke/articleshow/125543806.cms
Justice B.R. Gavai Clarifies Opinion on Presidential Reference Timelines
Summary: Outgoing CJI B.R. Gavai explains the rationale behind the Supreme Court’s opinion on Governor’s timelines for Bills under Presidential Reference.
Outgoing Chief Justice of India, Justice B.R. Gavai, on November 24, 2025, clarified the rationale behind the Supreme Court’s recent opinion on the Presidential Reference regarding a Governor’s timeline for giving assent to or returning Bills. Speaking at a farewell event in New Delhi, Justice Gavai, who had just demitted office, explained that the Court’s opinion, which urged the Governor to act “as soon as possible” but did not fix a specific time-limit like 6 months or 1 year, was aimed at respecting the federal structure and the constitutional balance of power. He stressed that fixing an arbitrary deadline could infringe upon the discretion inherent in the constitutional post of the Governor (Article 200).
