Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: December 02, 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)
- Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0: Commenced on December 2, 2025, in Varanasi, focusing on the theme “Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam” with over 1,400 delegates.
- BrahMos Missile Combat Launch: The Indian Army successfully conducted a combat launch of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
- Current Account Deficit (CAD): RBI data shows India’s CAD moderated to $12.3 billion (1.3% of GDP) in Q2 FY26 (July-September).
- Industrial Output (IIP): India’s industrial output growth slowed sharply to a 14-month low of 0.4% in October 2025.
- CII Global M&E Investor Meet: Launched on December 2, 2025, in Mumbai as part of the 12th CII BIG Picture Summit, aiming to catalyze global and domestic investment in the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector.
- Hero MotoCorp Sales: The company registered strong post-festive growth, dispatching 604,490 units in November 2025, marking a 31% year-on-year growth.
- Solar Maximum Peak: Scientists forecast the Sun’s next activity peak (solar maximum) to arrive earlier than the official July 2025 prediction, likely in mid-late 2024.
- India’s Junior Women’s Hockey: The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey team began their World Cup campaign with a massive 13-0 victory over Namibia.
- Gujarat Gyan Sahayak Scheme: Online application process for the appointment of ‘Gyan Sahayaks’ in Gujarat government schools began on December 2, 2025, offering ₹21,000–₹26,000 monthly remuneration.
- DoT Jeevan Praman Camps: The Department of Telecom (DoT) initiated Telecom Pensioners Jeevan Praman Camps in New Delhi on December 2, 2025, to facilitate Digital Life Certificate submission.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Gujarat Launches Online Process for ‘Gyan Sahayak’ Appointments
Summary: The Gujarat Education Department initiated the online application process for temporary teaching positions under the ‘Gyan Sahayak’ scheme.
On December 2, 2025, the Gujarat State Education Department officially began the online application process for the recruitment of Gyan Sahayaks (knowledge assistants) to fill temporary vacancies in government and grant-in-aid primary, secondary, and higher secondary schools across the state. The application window is set to run until December 12, 2025. This scheme was launched following the discontinuation of the ‘migrant teacher’ scheme and is intended to provide academic support until permanent posts are filled. The fixed monthly remuneration for these temporary roles has been set at ₹21,000 for primary level, ₹24,000 for secondary, and ₹26,000 for higher secondary teachers. The age limit for primary applicants is 40 years, while for secondary/higher secondary it is 45 years. The initiative, while addressing the immediate shortfall of teachers, underscores the need for a long-term solution to fill the nearly 15,000 sanctioned teaching vacancies in the state.
Exam Relevance: Important for State PSC and Banking exams; highlights a state-level policy solution for teacher vacancies and contractual employment.
Source: The Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/online-application-process-for-gyan-sahayak-posts-in-gujarat-begins-from-dec-2/articleshow/125644928.cms
Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 Commences in Varanasi
Summary: The Ministry of Education inaugurated the fourth edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, strengthening cultural bonds between Tamil Nadu and Kashi.
The Ministry of Education, Government of India, began the fourth edition of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS) 4.0 on December 2, 2025, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Inspired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, the event celebrates the deep civilizational, cultural, and linguistic ties between Tamil Nadu and Kashi. The central theme for the 2025 edition is “Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam”. Over 1,400 delegates from Tamil Nadu are scheduled to participate across seven categories, including students, teachers, writers, and spiritual scholars. A notable initiative this year is the ‘Sage Agasthya Vehicle Expedition’ starting from Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu, to trace ancient cultural routes and conclude on December 10, 2025, in Kashi. The expedition commemorates the efforts of the Pandiya ruler Shri Adi Veera Parakrama Pandiya in promoting national unity.
Exam Relevance: Crucial for UPSC and SSC exams under ‘Culture & Heritage’ and ‘Government Schemes/Initiatives’ (Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat). The theme and key initiatives are high-priority facts.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2192810
DoT Organises Pensioners Jeevan Praman Camps in Delhi
Summary: The Department of Telecommunications initiated facilitation camps in New Delhi for telecom pensioners to submit their Digital Life Certificates.
On December 2, 2025, the Principal Controller of Communication Accounts (Pr. CCA), Department of Telecommunications (DoT), commenced a series of Jeevan Praman Camps for telecom pensioners in New Delhi. The first camp was held at the C-10 Yamuna Vihar Main Exchange Building, Delhi, with subsequent camps planned throughout December. The primary objective is to facilitate the submission of the Digital Life Certificate via the official Jeevan Pramaan portal (www.jeevanpramaan.gov.in). Pensioners are being provided with training on the usage of the Jeevan Pramaan Face Authentication application, a significant step in leveraging technology for ease of governance. The camps aim to ensure continuous pension payment without interruption by providing convenient, on-the-spot verification. The initiative is part of a larger government push under the Ministry of Communications to improve the ease of living for senior citizens and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
Exam Relevance: Relevant for governance and e-governance sections of UPSC/State PSC. The ‘Jeevan Pramaan’ platform and the DoT’s role in its implementation for pensioners are important factual points.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2196904
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Indian Army Successfully Conducts BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile Combat Launch
Summary: The Indian Army demonstrated its operational readiness by conducting a successful combat launch of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
The Indian Army successfully conducted a combat launch of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile on December 2, 2025, from an undisclosed location as part of a scheduled exercise. The test validated the operational readiness and lethality of the regiment and its ability to precisely hit targets with high accuracy in a real-time combat scenario. The BrahMos missile, a joint venture between India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya, is the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile, with a speed of approximately Mach 2.8. Its successful integration and combat deployment in various regiments of the Indian Army, including the deployment of the advanced Block III version, significantly bolster India’s defensive and deterrent capabilities along the borders. This launch is a key milestone in the nation’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing, aligned with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
Exam Relevance: High priority for Defence Technology and Internal Security segments of competitive exams. Facts like speed (Mach 2.8), joint development (India-Russia), and the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ context are critical.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/morning-digest-on-december-2-2025/article70347873.ece
ECI Dismisses Allegations of Mass Disenfranchisement in Electoral Rolls Revision
Summary: The Election Commission of India (ECI) dismissed Opposition claims regarding mass disenfranchisement during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
On December 2, 2025, the Election Commission of India (ECI) publicly dismissed allegations made by Opposition parties, particularly concerning the process of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal. The Opposition had claimed a voter exclusion rate as high as 30% in the state. The ECI clarified that out of the total forms submitted for correction and enrolment, approximately 70.14% had been processed and completed, with the remainder under scrutiny. The poll panel emphasized that the SIR process is a standard procedure to clean up and update voter lists, ensuring the removal of duplicate, shifted, or deceased voters, and not a politically motivated exercise of mass exclusion. The Commission reassured all stakeholders that the process adheres strictly to the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and aims for a clean and accurate electoral roll ahead of the upcoming elections.
Exam Relevance: Important for Polity and Governance, specifically the functions and constitutional role of the Election Commission of India (Article 324) and electoral reforms.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/morning-digest-on-december-2-2025/article70347873.ece
Centre Seeks Parliament Nod for ₹41,000 Crore Additional Spending
Summary: The Union Government tabled the First Supplementary Demands for Grants in Parliament, seeking approval for an additional expenditure of ₹41,000 crore for the current fiscal year.
The Ministry of Finance, Government of India, tabled the First Supplementary Demands for Grants in Parliament on December 1, 2025, seeking legislative approval for an additional net expenditure of approximately ₹41,000 crore for the financial year 2025-26. The substantial portion of this additional spending is primarily directed towards covering rising subsidy costs, specifically for fertiliser and petroleum products, which have increased due to global price volatility. This move is essential to ensure that the promised subsidies reach the intended beneficiaries, particularly farmers and vulnerable sections of society, thereby maintaining food and energy security. The approval of these supplementary demands will directly impact the fiscal deficit targets for the year, making it a closely watched development by economists and policy analysts.
Exam Relevance: Fundamental for the Economy section, particularly the understanding of government budgeting, fiscal policy, Supplementary Grants (Article 115), and the role of subsidies.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/govt-seeks-parliament-nod-for-41k-crore-additional-spending-in-fy26-125120101736_1.html
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Prime Minister Modi Promises Support for Ailing Ex-Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia
Summary: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Bangladesh to offer assistance for the recovery of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who is in critical condition.
On December 1, 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi reached out to the Government of Bangladesh, promising “all possible support” for the medical treatment and recovery of the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Begum Khaleda Zia. The veteran political leader has been in a critical medical condition for approximately a week. This diplomatic gesture, crossing political lines, underscores India’s consistent ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and its commitment to strong, non-partisan bilateral relations with Bangladesh. While the domestic politics of Bangladesh are complex, this humanitarian outreach is a significant soft power move by India, reinforcing historical and cultural goodwill, which is vital for regional stability and cooperation, particularly on issues like border management and economic integration.
Exam Relevance: Important for International Relations/Bilateral Relations (India-Bangladesh) and the analysis of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ foreign policy approach.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/morning-digest-on-december-2-2025/article70347873.ece
Poland’s Secretary of State Emphasizes PM Modi’s Influence on Russia
Summary: Poland’s Secretary of State highlighted the significance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic channel with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the Ukraine conflict.
Poland’s Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski, stated on December 2, 2025, that Russian President Vladimir Putin pays close attention to the advice and suggestions offered by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly in the context of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. Speaking in New Delhi, the Polish official acknowledged India’s unique position and diplomatic leverage as a non-aligned global power with strong relationships with both Russia and the Western world. This statement highlights the growing recognition of India’s role as a potential mediator and a significant voice on global security issues. Poland, a key NATO member, sees India’s diplomatic channel as crucial for de-escalation and emphasizes the need for a peaceful resolution.
Exam Relevance: Highly relevant for International Relations (India-Europe, India-Russia). It underscores India’s rising strategic autonomy and multipolar foreign policy (Strategic Leverage).
Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/archive/2025/12/02/
US Exempts UK from Tariffs on Pharmaceuticals and Medical Technology
Summary: The US announced a three-year exemption for the UK from tariffs on pharmaceutical and medical technology imports, signaling deeper bilateral trade ties.
The United States government, on December 2, 2025, announced a significant trade policy move by exempting the United Kingdom from previously imposed tariffs on imports of pharmaceuticals and medical technology for a period of three years. This decision, effective immediately, is aimed at streamlining the supply chain for critical medical products and strengthening the US-UK bilateral economic partnership, especially in high-value, research-intensive sectors. US Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, confirmed the move, which is expected to boost bilateral trade in these specific categories by an estimated $5 billion annually. This move is being closely watched globally, as it signals a renewed push for tailored, sectoral trade agreements between major economies, potentially influencing India’s own trade negotiations with both the US and the UK, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector where India is a major player.
Exam Relevance: Important for the Economy and International Relations sections, illustrating trends in global trade policy, sectoral agreements, and their potential impact on India’s pharma industry.
Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/section/world/
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
Current Account Deficit Narrows to 1.3% of GDP in Q2 FY26: RBI Data
Summary: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data revealed a sharp moderation in India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) for the second quarter of the fiscal year 2025-26.
According to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on December 1, 2025, India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) moderated sharply to $12.3 billion in the second quarter (Q2 FY26: July-September), which is 1.3% of the GDP. This is a significant improvement from the preceding quarter (Q1 FY26), where the CAD stood at $2.4 billion (0.2% of GDP), and also much lower than the $35.8 billion (3.8% of GDP) recorded in Q2 of the previous fiscal year. The moderation is primarily attributed to a narrower trade deficit and robust inflows from remittances. However, analysts noted a spike in gold imports in October, which could potentially push the CAD for Q3 (October-December) back up to above 2.5% of GDP.
Exam Relevance: A high-priority topic for Economy, specifically for macro-economic indicators, Balance of Payments (BoP), and the role of the RBI in tracking external sector vulnerabilities.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/india-s-current-account-deficit-narrows-to-12-3-bn-in-july-sept-rbi-data-125120101683_1.html
Industrial Output Growth Slows to 14-Month Low of 0.4% in October
Summary: India’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) growth decelerated sharply in October, registering its weakest performance in 14 months.
India’s industrial output, as measured by the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), slowed sharply to a mere 0.4% in October 2025, according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. This marks a 14-month low for the key economic indicator, down significantly from the strong growth recorded in the preceding months. The substantial slowdown has been primarily attributed to fewer working days in October due to an extended festive season, including Dussehra, Deepawali, and Chhath, which impacted production across sectors. Furthermore, a decline in electricity generation and weak output from the mining sector contributed to the sluggish performance. Analysts are cautiously optimistic, predicting a rebound in November and December as the temporary effects of the festival season wear off.
Exam Relevance: Essential for Economy, focusing on core macro-economic indicators, IIP structure (Mining, Manufacturing, Electricity), and analyzing the impact of external factors on production.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/india-s-industrial-output-slows-to-0-4-in-oct-due-to-fewer-working-days-125120101569_1.html
CII Launches Global M&E Investor Meet to Attract Foreign Capital
Summary: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) launched a dedicated investor meet in Mumbai to attract global capital into India’s Media & Entertainment sector.
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) officially launched the CII Global M&E Investor Meet on December 2, 2025, in Mumbai, as a dedicated segment of the 12th annual CII BIG Picture Summit. The summit, themed “The AI Era: Bridging Creativity & Commerce,” is organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. The new investor meet, chaired by Shibashish Sarkar, Group CEO of Reliance Entertainment, aims to connect international investors with promising Indian ventures across film, streaming, gaming, and VFX through curated one-on-one meetings. The initiative seeks to catalyze both global and domestic investment, aiming to integrate an investment pipeline of over ₹2,000 crore into the sector, which historically has relied on private capital.
Exam Relevance: Relevant for Economy (FDI, Sectoral Growth) and Government Schemes (Ministry of I&B initiatives). The M&E sector’s potential and the role of CII are key facts.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2187367®=6&lang=1
5. SPORTS
India Begins Junior Women’s Hockey World Cup Campaign with 13-0 Win
Summary: The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team dominated their opening match at the World Cup, defeating Namibia with a massive margin.
The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team commenced their FIH Junior Women’s World Cup campaign on December 2, 2025, with a massive and commanding 13-0 victory against Namibia in their Pool match at Santiago, Chile. The Indian team showcased exceptional offensive strength, with players like Deepika and Mumtaz Khan scoring hat-tricks, contributing significantly to the double-digit scoreline. This resounding victory puts India at the top of their group based on a superior goal difference, a crucial factor in tournament progression. The tournament, held every four years, is a critical platform for identifying the next generation of talent for the senior national team. This strong start bodes well for India’s aspirations to improve on their previous best performance, which was a bronze medal finish in the 2013 edition.
Exam Relevance: Important for Sports Current Affairs, specifically India’s performance in international tournaments and the venue (Santiago, Chile) and margin of victory.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/latest-news/
Hardik Pandya Set to Return in T20 Series against South Africa
Summary: All-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to make his return to the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 International series against South Africa after recovering from injury.
Star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to make his return to competitive cricket and is likely to be included in the national squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against South Africa, scheduled for mid-December 2025. Reports on December 2, 2025, confirmed that Pandya is first expected to feature for his domestic team, Baroda, in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) to prove his match fitness. Pandya sustained a significant ankle injury during the ICC World Cup earlier this year, ruling him out of the remainder of the tournament. His return is critical for the team balance, as he provides the crucial combination of a fast-bowling option and a finisher in the batting line-up, making him indispensable for the T20 World Cup 2026 preparations.
Exam Relevance: Key update for Sports Current Affairs, focusing on significant player return, the upcoming India vs South Africa series, and the domestic tournament (SMAT).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/latest-news/
Italian Tennis Icon Nicola Pietrangeli Dies at 92
Summary: Italian tennis legend Nicola Pietrangeli, a two-time French Open champion, passed away at the age of 92.
On December 2, 2025, Italian tennis legend Nicola Pietrangeli passed away at the age of 92. Widely regarded as the greatest Italian male tennis player in history, Pietrangeli was best known for his triumphs at the French Open, where he won the singles title twice, in 1959 and 1960. He was also a prolific Davis Cup player, holding the record for the most matches played in the tournament with 164 appearances. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1986. Born in Tunis, Tunisia, in 1933, Pietrangeli’s death marks the passing of one of the icons of the golden era of tennis. His passing is a significant event for the global sports fraternity.
Exam Relevance: Important for Obituaries and Sports Current Affairs. Key facts include his nationality (Italian), major titles (French Open 1959, 1960), and his age (92).
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/latest-news/
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Sun’s Activity Cycle Reaching Peak Early, Impacting Space Weather
Summary: Scientists indicate that the Sun’s current solar activity cycle, or ‘solar maximum,’ is arriving earlier than initially forecast, necessitating enhanced space weather monitoring.
Analysis published on December 2, 2025, by scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates that the Sun’s current 11-year activity cycle is reaching its peak, or “solar maximum,” significantly earlier than the official July 2025 forecast. Experts now predict the maximum will likely occur in mid-to-late 2024, with sunspot numbers potentially twice the official prediction, indicating higher activity. This earlier and more intense peak means a greater chance of increased space weather events, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which can disrupt technological infrastructure. These events pose a risk to Earth-orbiting satellites, communication networks, and can induce power surges in long electrical grids. The need for improved scientific models and enhanced monitoring by space agencies like ISRO and international partners is now crucial to protect critical infrastructure.
Exam Relevance: High-priority for Science & Tech and Environment sections. Concepts like Solar Maximum, 11-year cycle, Space Weather, and their impact on Earth’s technology are key for competitive exams.
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/science-technology/the-sun-s-activity-cycle-is-reaching-its-peak-early-knowing-why-could-help-us-unlock-the-secrets-of-our-star-92536
Centre Defends Exemptions for Strategic and Atomic Mineral Mining
Summary: The Union Government defended the recent policy decision to allow private sector exemptions for the mining of strategic and atomic minerals.
On December 2, 2025, the Union Government publicly defended its recent legislative changes allowing for greater private sector participation and granting exemptions for the mining of strategic and atomic minerals in specific regions. A representative from the Ministry of Mines, speaking in New Delhi, asserted that the exemptions are critical for securing the nation’s supply chains for high-technology, defense, and clean energy sectors. The policy aims to reduce the country’s high import dependence for critical minerals like Lithium, Titanium, and Rare Earth Elements, which are vital for the ₹10 lakh crore clean energy transition roadmap. The government emphasized that strict environmental safeguards and regulatory oversight by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) will be in place to mitigate any environmental and safety risks associated with the extraction of these sensitive resources.
Exam Relevance: Crucial for Economy and Science & Tech, particularly the intersection of Mining Policy, Strategic Minerals, and India’s energy transition goals.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/latest-news/
CSE Study Highlights Rise in Toxic Pollutants from Vehicular Plumes in Delhi
Summary: A study by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) indicated a sharp rise in toxic vehicular pollutants in the Delhi-NCR region during early winter.
The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), a New Delhi-based think tank, released a study on December 2, 2025, highlighting a significant increase in toxic air pollutants, particularly from vehicular plumes, across the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) during the onset of the winter season. The study, which monitored key traffic corridors, found elevated levels of pollutants like Nitrogen Oxides (NOₓ) and fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) directly attributable to older vehicles and congestion. This rise is compounding the overall air quality crisis, which is already challenged by stubble burning and meteorological factors. The CSE report urged the Delhi and Central governments to enforce the full implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), especially regarding the banning of older diesel vehicles and enhancing public transport infrastructure to reduce the per capita vehicular emission load.
Exam Relevance: Key for Environment and Ecology, focusing on air pollution sources, the role of NOₓ and PM₂.₅, and the importance of GRAP for exam questions.
Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/archive/2025/12/02/
7. OTHERS
Ramakrishnan Chander Takes Charge as New LIC Managing Director
Summary: Ramakrishnan Chander assumed the role of Managing Director of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC).
On December 1, 2025, Ramakrishnan Chander officially took charge as the new Managing Director of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), the nation’s largest insurer. Following his appointment by the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance, Chander ceased to be the Executive Director (Investment – Front Office) and Chief Investment Officer of the Corporation. Chander is a veteran in the insurance sector with over three decades of experience at LIC, bringing extensive expertise in investment management and regulatory compliance. His appointment is expected to provide strategic leadership as LIC navigates the post-IPO era and focuses on digital transformation and market expansion, especially in the rural sector, where LIC holds a vast network of over 1.3 million agents.
Exam Relevance: A high-priority appointment for constitutional/statutory posts, important for Banking and Finance exams. Specifics include his name, designation, and organization (LIC).
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/markets/news/stocks-to-watch-today-ril-hero-motocorp-tech-mahindra-lic-hul-nmdc-125120200063_1.html
India’s ‘Missile Woman’ Dr. Tessy Thomas Honoured with Paulos Mar Gregorios Award
Summary: Dr. Tessy Thomas, a distinguished scientist and former Director General of Aeronautical Systems at DRDO, was conferred the Paulos Mar Gregorios Award in New Delhi.
On December 2, 2025, Dr. Tessy Thomas, renowned as the “Missile Woman of India” for her pivotal role in the Agni missile program, was conferred the eighth edition of the prestigious Paulos Mar Gregorios Award at a ceremony in New Delhi. Dr. Thomas, who previously served as the Director General of Aeronautical Systems at DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation), was honoured for her monumental contribution to the country’s indigenous defense technology, particularly her leadership in the Agni-IV project. The award, instituted in memory of the philosopher and Metropolitan Dr. Paulos Mar Gregorios, recognizes individuals for excellence in various fields, with a focus on national development and social service. Her work has inspired countless young women to pursue careers in science and technology, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense.
Exam Relevance: Significant for Awards & Honours and Science & Tech, especially the personality (Dr. Tessy Thomas) and her key contribution (Agni Missile Project).
Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/archive/2025/12/02/
Hero MotoCorp Records 31% YoY Growth in November Sales
Summary: Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of two-wheelers, reported strong sales figures for November 2025, indicating post-festive momentum.
Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, announced on December 2, 2025, that it dispatched a total of 604,490 units in November 2025. This figure represents a robust 31% year-on-year (YoY) growth compared to the same month last year. The company stated that the strong performance was driven by the continuation of the festive season momentum and a healthy demand from the rural and semi-urban markets across the country. The positive sales data is a key indicator of consumer confidence returning to the two-wheeler segment, which is often seen as a barometer for rural economic health. The company expects this trend to continue, backed by its aggressive launches in the premium segment and sustained demand for its flagship commuter models.
Exam Relevance: Important for Economy and Corporate News (if nationally significant), providing insight into sectoral economic growth and consumer demand trends (Rural Economy Indicator).
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/markets/news/stocks-to-watch-today-ril-hero-motocorp-tech-mahindra-lic-hul-nmdc-125120200063_1.html
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (Core Recall Points)
1. National & State Governance
- Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0: Ministry of Education event commenced December 2, 2025, in Varanasi with 1,400+ delegates; Theme: “Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam”.
- Significance: Culture & Heritage, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative.
- Gujarat Gyan Sahayak Scheme: Online applications from December 2-12, 2025; Remuneration ₹21,000–₹26,000; Age limit 40-45 years.
- Significance: State Government Schemes, Contractual Employment Policy.
- DoT Jeevan Praman Camps: Initiated December 2, 2025, in New Delhi for telecom pensioners to submit Digital Life Certificates.
- Significance: E-governance, Jeevan Pramaan platform implementation.
- ECI Electoral Rolls Revision: Dismissed mass disenfranchisement allegations; 70.14% forms processed in West Bengal.
- Significance: Article 324, Election Commission functions, Representation of the People Act, 1950.
2. Economy & Finance
- Current Account Deficit (CAD): RBI data shows $12.3 billion (1.3% of GDP) in Q2 FY26 (July-September).
- Significance: Macro-economic indicator, Balance of Payments (BoP), external sector health.
- Industrial Output (IIP): Slowed to 0.4% in October 2025 (14-month low) due to fewer working days.
- Significance: Core economic indicator, sectoral performance (Mining, Manufacturing, Electricity).
- Centre’s Supplementary Demands: ₹41,000 crore additional spending for FY26 primarily for subsidies.
- Significance: Article 115, government budgeting, fiscal policy, subsidy management.
- CII Global M&E Investor Meet: Launched December 2, 2025, in Mumbai; targets ₹2,000 crore investment pipeline.
- Significance: FDI, sectoral growth in Media & Entertainment, Ministry of I&B initiatives.
- Hero MotoCorp Sales: 604,490 units dispatched in November 2025 (31% YoY growth).
- Significance: Rural economic indicator, consumer demand trends.
- LIC Managing Director Appointment: Ramakrishnan Chander took charge December 1, 2025.
- Significance: Important appointment, statutory body, insurance sector leadership.
3. International Relations & Defence
- BrahMos Missile Combat Launch: Indian Army successful test December 2, 2025; Speed Mach 2.8; India-Russia joint venture.
- Significance: Defence Technology, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, operational readiness.
- PM Modi and Bangladesh: Offered support for ex-PM Khaleda Zia’s medical treatment December 1, 2025.
- Significance: India-Bangladesh bilateral relations, ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.
- Poland on PM Modi’s Influence: Polish Secretary of State acknowledged PM Modi’s diplomatic leverage with President Putin on Ukraine conflict.
- Significance: India-Europe relations, strategic autonomy, multipolar foreign policy.
- US-UK Pharma Tariffs Exemption: Three-year exemption announced December 2, 2025; $5 billion annual trade boost expected.
- Significance: Global trade policy, sectoral agreements, impact on India’s pharma industry.
4. Science, Technology & Environment
- Solar Maximum Peak: NOAA scientists predict earlier arrival (mid-late 2024 vs July 2025 forecast); sunspot numbers potentially doubled.
- Significance: Space Weather, 11-year solar cycle, impact on technology and satellites.
- Strategic Mineral Mining Exemptions: Government defended policy December 2, 2025; targets Lithium, Titanium, Rare Earth Elements.
- Significance: Mining policy, critical minerals for defense and clean energy, AERB oversight.
- CSE Delhi Air Pollution Study: Released December 2, 2025; highlighted rise in NOₓ and PM₂.₅ from vehicular emissions.
- Significance: Environment & Ecology, air pollution sources, GRAP implementation.
5. Sports
- India Junior Women’s Hockey: 13-0 victory over Namibia in World Cup opener December 2, 2025, in Santiago, Chile.
- Significance: International tournament performance, venue, margin of victory.
- Hardik Pandya Return: Expected to play for Baroda in SMAT before T20I series against South Africa (mid-December 2025).
- Significance: Player comeback, India vs South Africa series, T20 World Cup 2026 preparations.
- Nicola Pietrangeli Obituary: Italian tennis legend died December 2, 2025, at age 92; 2× French Open champion (1959, 1960).
- Significance: Sports obituary, tennis history, Hall of Fame inductee (1986).
6. Awards & Honours
- Dr. Tessy Thomas Award: Conferred Paulos Mar Gregorios Award December 2, 2025, for contributions to Agni missile program.
- Significance: Awards & Honours, “Missile Woman of India”, DRDO leadership, Agni-IV project.
