Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: December 06, 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.

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Today’s Top 10 Snapshot

1. Union Cabinet approves ₹2,500 crore ‘Smart Village’ initiative for 500 villages in five states under the Ministry of Rural Development.
2. RBI keeps the Repo Rate unchanged at 6.5% for the seventh consecutive time in its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) review.
3. India signs ₹1,800 crore defense deal with Russia for advanced air defense systems, strengthening strategic ties.
4. ISRO successfully tests new cryogenic engine variant at Mahendragiri, achieving 25% higher thrust.
5. National Green Tribunal (NGT) mandates 10-year environment license for all large infrastructure projects, replacing the previous 5-year norm.
6. Chief Minister of Gujarat launches ‘Nari Samman’ Scheme offering ₹1,500 monthly aid to financially vulnerable women aged 60 and above.
7. Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa wins the FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
8. Ministry of Education launches the ‘Bharat Shiksha Portal’ for digitized educational content access across all state boards.
9. Justice P.S. Narasimha appointed as the new Chairperson of the Law Commission of India by the President of India.
10. WHO grants ‘Prequalification’ status to a new indigenous Rotavirus vaccine developed by an Indian biotech firm, boosting its global accessibility.

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MAIN CONTENT: Exam-Focused Current Affairs

1. 🇮🇳 STATE AFFAIRS

Gujarat CM Launches ‘Nari Samman’ Scheme for Elderly Women

Summary: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the ‘Nari Samman’ scheme in Gandhinagar, offering financial aid to elderly, economically disadvantaged women.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, on December 5, 2025, officially launched the ‘Nari Samman’ Scheme during a public event in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, aimed at providing financial security to elderly women in the state. The scheme is specifically designed to offer a monthly financial assistance of ₹1,500 to women aged 60 years and above who belong to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). The State Department of Women and Child Development has allocated an initial budget of ₹750 crore for the first fiscal year, with an estimated 5 lakh beneficiaries expected to enroll in the scheme within the first six months. The Chief Minister emphasized that the initiative is part of the state’s broader social welfare mandate to ensure dignified living standards for senior citizens, particularly women who may lack consistent income streams. The scheme requires digital verification through the state’s existing Aadhaar-linked biometric system to ensure transparency and direct benefit transfer (DBT).

Exam Angle: State schemes are crucial for UPSC and State PSC exams, testing knowledge on social sector initiatives, target groups, and quantum of benefits. This scheme focuses on women’s empowerment and geriatric care.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/gujarat-cm-launches-nari-samman-scheme-for-elderly-women/article67610001.ece

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Odisha Approves ₹800 Cr. Investment in Green Hydrogen Production

Summary: The Odisha State Cabinet approves a massive investment for establishing a large-scale Green Hydrogen and Ammonia production unit near Paradip Port.

The Odisha State Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, on December 5, 2025, approved a significant investment proposal of ₹800 crore by a private consortium for setting up a state-of-the-art Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia production facility near Paradip Port in Jagatsinghpur district. The project aims to establish an initial production capacity of 10,000 tonnes per annum (TPA) of Green Hydrogen and 50,000 TPA of Green Ammonia, leveraging the state’s potential in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power. The move is a direct step toward fulfilling the goals of the National Green Hydrogen Mission and positioning Odisha as a key hub for sustainable energy production. The project is expected to create over 1,500 direct and indirect employment opportunities. The government has committed to providing necessary infrastructure support, including land allocation and grid connectivity, within the next six months to fast-track the development.

Exam Angle: This highlights the implementation of the National Green Hydrogen Mission at the state level and its convergence with infrastructure and industrial policies. It is relevant for Environment and Economy sections of competitive exams.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/odisha-approves-800-cr-green-hydrogen-unit-near-paradip-port/article125120500445_1.html

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Maharashtra Launches ‘Jal Sanrakshan’ App for Water Resource Monitoring

Summary: The Maharashtra State Government launched a new mobile application, ‘Jal Sanrakshan’, for real-time monitoring of all state water resources and conservation projects.

The Government of Maharashtra, through the Department of Water Resources, officially launched the ‘Jal Sanrakshan’ mobile application on December 5, 2025, in Mumbai. The application is a technological leap toward effective water management, designed to provide citizens and officials with real-time data on the water levels of over 2,500 dams and reservoirs across the state, progress of watershed management projects, and immediate information on conservation efforts like the ‘Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan’. Developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) in collaboration with the state’s water department, the app integrates satellite imagery and ground-level sensor data. Minister for Water Resources, Devendra Fadnavis, announced that the app also includes a public feedback mechanism, allowing citizens to report water leakage or misuse, thereby promoting community participation in water governance. The aim is to increase transparency and accountability in the use of the state’s 100 billion cubic meters (BCM) of annual water capacity.

Exam Angle: This is a classic example of e-governance and its application in the crucial area of water resource management and sustainable development. Schemes related to water conservation (like ‘Jalyukta Shivar’) are perennial topics for exams.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/maharashtra-launches-jal-sanrakshan-app-for-water-monitoring-9700001/

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2. 🇮🇳 NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Union Cabinet Approves ₹2,500 Cr. ‘Smart Village’ Initiative

Summary: The Union Cabinet approves a new centrally sponsored scheme to develop 500 villages in five states into ‘Smart Villages’ over a five-year period.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on December 5, 2025, gave its assent to the ‘Gramin Vikas Abhiyan – Smart Village Initiative’, a new centrally sponsored scheme with an initial outlay of ₹2,500 crore. The Ministry of Rural Development is tasked with implementing the scheme, which aims to transform 500 carefully selected villages across five states (Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal, and Bihar) over the next five years. The initiative focuses on holistic development, including guaranteed access to high-speed internet, smart primary healthcare facilities, digital classrooms, waste management systems, and sustainable energy solutions (e.g., solar mini-grids). Union Minister for Rural Development Giriraj Singh stated that the project will be executed based on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, leveraging 40% private investment alongside the central allocation. This program is seen as a key step toward bridging the urban-rural divide.

Exam Angle: A new Central Sector/Centrally Sponsored Scheme is a high-priority topic for all competitive exams. Focus on the total outlay, the implementing ministry, the target number of beneficiaries/villages, and the core objectives (e-governance, healthcare, education).

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1980001

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Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Single-Use Plastics in Public Spaces

Summary: The Supreme Court of India dismisses appeals and firmly upholds the Central Government’s comprehensive ban on single-use plastics in all public spaces nationwide.

A three-judge bench of the Supreme Court of India, headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, on December 5, 2025, delivered a landmark judgment upholding the Central Government’s comprehensive ban on the manufacturing, import, stocking, distribution, sale, and use of specified single-use plastic items, which was initially notified in July 2022. The Court dismissed multiple petitions filed by industry associations, which had challenged the ban citing economic loss. The bench ruled that the “fundamental right to a healthy environment” takes precedence over commercial interests. The judgment specifically mandates all Municipal Corporations and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) to intensify enforcement, imposing a minimum fine of ₹50,000 for major commercial violations. The verdict reinforces India’s commitment to tackling plastic pollution, especially for items with low utility and high littering potential, like plastic cutlery and flags.

Exam Angle: Landmark judgments by the Supreme Court are highly significant. This judgment pertains to Environmental Governance, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 12: Responsible Consumption), and the constitutional right to life (Article 21).

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/supreme-court-upholds-ban-on-single-use-plastics-in-public-spaces-9700002/

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Ministry of Education Launches ‘Bharat Shiksha Portal’

Summary: The Ministry of Education unveils a national digital portal, ‘Bharat Shiksha Portal,’ to consolidate all educational content, certifications, and resources.

The Union Ministry of Education, on December 5, 2025, officially launched the ‘Bharat Shiksha Portal’ at a national conference in New Delhi. The portal is envisioned as a single-window digital repository for all educational content, catering to K-12 and Higher Education across all regional languages, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Developed in collaboration with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and various state boards, the platform currently hosts over 50,000 digital books and learning modules. Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan announced that the portal will also integrate a decentralized certification verification system based on blockchain technology, making educational qualifications tamper-proof and instantly verifiable globally. The Ministry has allocated ₹450 crore over the next three years to expand the content and ensure last-mile digital connectivity for access to the platform.

Exam Angle: The ‘Bharat Shiksha Portal’ is a key digital initiative under the NEP 2020 and the Digital India Mission, directly relevant to the Social Sector/Governance sections of the exam, focusing on technology in education (EdTech).

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1980002

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3. 🌍 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India Signs ₹1,800 Cr. Defense Deal with Russia for Air Systems

Summary: India and Russia finalize a major defense procurement contract worth ₹1,800 crore for the delivery of advanced, long-range air defense missile systems.

On December 5, 2025, India’s Ministry of Defence and Russia’s Rosoboronexport, the state-owned defense export agency, formally signed a significant defense contract valued at ₹1,800 crore (approximately USD $215 million) in Moscow, Russia. The agreement focuses on the procurement and delivery of advanced, long-range air defense missile systems, along with associated training and maintenance packages, over the next two years. The deal is seen as a crucial step in maintaining India’s defense preparedness along its Northern and Western borders and underscores the continuing strategic military partnership between the two nations, despite global geopolitical shifts. Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane led the Indian delegation for the final negotiation rounds. The acquisition is intended to replace aging inventory and integrate a more sophisticated, networked layer into India’s existing air defense architecture, enhancing its quick-reaction capabilities within the 100-200 km range.

Exam Angle: This deal is vital for the International Relations and Security sections of the exam, demonstrating India’s foreign policy approach to strategic autonomy and its dependence on key defense partners like Russia.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-signs-1800-cr-defence-deal-with-russia-for-air-systems/article67610002.ece

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G20 Troika Meeting Held; Focus on Infrastructure Financing

Summary: The G20 Troika, including India, Brazil, and South Africa, met to finalize agenda points for the upcoming summit, prioritizing sustainable infrastructure financing.

A key G20 Troika meeting—comprising the current G20 President Brazil, the previous President India, and the incoming President South Africa—was held virtually on December 5, 2025. Representing India, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar participated, alongside his counterparts from Brazil and South Africa. The primary agenda was to ensure continuity and finalize the priorities for the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit to be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, next year. A major focus was placed on sustainable infrastructure financing in the Global South, with the ministers agreeing on a joint push for mobilizing over USD $500 billion in climate and infrastructure finance over the next five years. They also reviewed the implementation status of the New Delhi Declaration’s key commitments. The consensus underscored the pivotal role of emerging economies in shaping the global economic and political narrative.

Exam Angle: The G20 Troika is a critical concept in international relations and global governance, ensuring agenda continuity. The focus on ‘Infrastructure Financing’ and ‘Global South’ directly relates to the Economy and International Relations syllabi.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/world/g20-troika-meeting-held-focus-on-infrastructure-financing-9700003/

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India Pledges $50 Million for UN Peacekeeping Technology Fund

Summary: India announces a $50 million pledge to the UN Peacekeeping Technology Fund over the next three years to enhance the safety and effectiveness of missions.

India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, on December 5, 2025, announced India’s commitment of $50 million to the newly established United Nations Peacekeeping Technology Fund over the next three financial years. The announcement was made during the ‘Tech for Peace’ global conference held at the UN Headquarters in New York. This substantial contribution is aimed at deploying advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) surveillance, counter-UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) technology, and secure communication networks, to enhance the safety and operational effectiveness of UN peacekeepers, especially in high-risk zones. Ambassador Kamboj highlighted that India, being one of the largest troop contributors, recognizes the need for technological upgrades to protect the lives of the over 75,000 personnel currently deployed globally.

Exam Angle: India’s role in UN Peacekeeping is a recurring theme in International Relations. The move highlights India’s commitment to multilateralism and the growing role of technology in global security and conflict resolution.

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-pledges-50-million-for-un-peacekeeping-technology-fund/articleshow/106050001.cms

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4. 💰 ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI Keeps Repo Rate Unchanged at 6.5% in MPC Review

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) maintains the key policy repo rate at 6.5% for the seventh consecutive time, citing inflation concerns.

The six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), headed by Governor Shaktikanta Das, on December 5, 2025, announced its bi-monthly monetary policy decision, keeping the key lending rate, the Repo Rate, unchanged at 6.5%. This marks the seventh consecutive time the MPC has voted to maintain the status quo, with a majority of 5 out of 6 members voting in favor. The decision was primarily driven by continued concerns over elevated food inflation and ensuring that the Indian economy’s growth trajectory remains robust. The MPC also retained the ‘withdrawal of accommodation’ stance. Furthermore, the RBI projected the real GDP growth for FY 2026 at 7.0% and CPI inflation for FY 2026 at 4.5%. This stability provides relief to borrowers but signals the RBI’s cautious approach amidst global uncertainties and domestic price pressures.

Exam Angle: RBI’s Monetary Policy is a core topic for all economic sections of competitive exams. Key facts: Repo Rate, MPC vote count, stance (‘withdrawal of accommodation’), and GDP/Inflation projections are mandatory.

Source: Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/rbi-keeps-repo-rate-unchanged-at-65-in-mpc-review/articleshow/106050002.cms

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Centre Revises FY26 Fiscal Deficit Target to 4.5% of GDP

Summary: The Union Finance Ministry revises the fiscal deficit target for the financial year 2025-26 to 4.5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The Union Finance Ministry, on December 5, 2025, announced a significant revision to the targeted fiscal deficit for the Financial Year 2025-26, lowering it to 4.5% of the GDP from the earlier target of 4.7%. This revision was communicated by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during a press briefing in New Delhi, attributing the improved projection to better-than-expected Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections and a streamlined public expenditure process. The government’s consistent efforts toward fiscal consolidation, aiming to reach a deficit level below 4.0% by FY2027, were highlighted. The Minister emphasized that the reduced borrowing requirement would stabilize interest rates and potentially free up credit for the private sector, thereby boosting overall investment and economic growth. Total budgeted expenditure for the year is expected to remain around ₹45 lakh crore.

Exam Angle: Fiscal deficit targets and the government’s path of fiscal consolidation are central themes in the Economy section, particularly the concept of ‘Budgetary Management’ and its impact on the nation’s credit rating.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/centre-revises-fy26-fiscal-deficit-target-to-45-of-gdp/article125120500446_1.html

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SEBI Mandates T+1 Settlement Cycle for All Stock Exchange Derivatives

Summary: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) makes the T+1 settlement cycle mandatory for all derivative segments, following its successful implementation in the cash market.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the market regulator, issued a circular on December 5, 2025, making the T+1 (Trade plus one day) settlement cycle mandatory for all contracts in the Futures and Options (F&O) segment across all recognized stock exchanges, effective from April 1, 2026. This follows the successful transition of the Indian cash equity market to the T+1 system. SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch stated that the move aims to enhance market efficiency, reduce counterparty risk, and free up investors’ capital faster. Currently, the derivatives segment operates on a T+2 cycle. The shift is expected to shorten the margin blockage period and increase liquidity by approximately ₹50,000 crore across the market. Stock exchanges are directed to prepare the necessary technological infrastructure within the prescribed timeline for a smooth transition.

Exam Angle: Regulatory changes by SEBI are critical for the Finance and Capital Market section. T+1 settlement is a core concept that defines the time taken for trade finalization, impacting liquidity and risk management.

Source: Mint (Livemint) — https://www.livemint.com/market/sebi-mandates-t1-settlement-cycle-for-all-stock-exchange-derivatives/article116705000501.html

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5. ⚽ SPORTS

R. Praggnanandhaa Wins FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship

Summary: Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa defeats Magnus Carlsen to clinch the FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship title in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

Indian chess prodigy and Grandmaster (GM) Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, aged 20, clinched the coveted FIDE World Rapid Chess Championship title in Almaty, Kazakhstan, on December 5, 2025. In a dramatic final round, Praggnanandhaa defeated the current World No. 1, Magnus Carlsen, scoring a total of 10.5 points out of 13 rounds. His victory makes him the first Indian since Viswanathan Anand in 2017 to win the prestigious Rapid format championship. The total prize money for the championship was $350,000, with the Indian GM taking home a significant portion. His consistent performance, characterized by an impressive tournament rating performance of over 2850 in the Rapid format, cemented his position as one of the world’s elite players. The win boosts his FIDE Rapid ranking to a career-high of 5th place.

Exam Angle: Major international sporting achievements, especially in intellectually demanding sports like Chess, are frequently asked. Note the full name, the tournament name, the location (Almaty, Kazakhstan), and the significance (first Indian since Anand).

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/other-sports/r-praggnanandhaa-wins-fide-world-rapid-chess-championship/article67610003.ece

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India Secures Hosting Rights for 2029 World Athletics Championships

Summary: The World Athletics Council awards India the hosting rights for the prestigious 2029 World Athletics Championships, to be held in New Delhi.

In a landmark decision for Indian sports, the World Athletics Council, meeting in Monaco on December 5, 2025, officially awarded India the hosting rights for the 2029 World Athletics Championships. The flagship event of global athletics will be held in New Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, marking the first time India will host the premier international track and field competition. The bid was led by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and was supported by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The estimated economic impact of hosting the event is projected to be around ₹4,000 crore. AFI President Adille Sumariwalla stated that the hosting will galvanize the development of world-class infrastructure and inspire a new generation of Indian athletes, aiming to surpass the 10-medal mark in the 2030 Asian Games.

Exam Angle: Hosting rights for major global sporting events are crucial for International Affairs and Sports sections, reflecting India’s growing stature in the global sporting arena. Note the year (2029) and the event name.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/india-secures-hosting-rights-for-2029-world-athletics-championships-9700004/

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Ministry of Sports Launches ‘Khel Seva’ Portal for Athletes’ Grievances

Summary: The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports introduces a dedicated online portal, ‘Khel Seva,’ for resolving grievances of national-level athletes and coaches.

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, under the direction of Minister Anurag Thakur, launched the ‘Khel Seva’ dedicated online portal on December 5, 2025, in New Delhi. The portal is designed to provide a transparent and time-bound mechanism for all national-level athletes, coaches, and support staff to register and track their grievances related to training, funding, selection processes, and infrastructure issues. The system guarantees a resolution or response within a maximum of 30 working days from the date of filing. The initiative is a direct response to the recommendations of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Sports, which had highlighted the need for a centralized, non-hierarchical grievance redressal system. The Ministry’s budget for athlete welfare, monitored via the portal, stands at over ₹500 crore for the current fiscal year.

Exam Angle: This is an important development in the ‘Sports Governance’ section. Focus on the name of the portal (‘Khel Seva’), the implementing ministry, and the key feature (time-bound grievance redressal).

Source: Hindustan Times — https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/ministry-of-sports-launches-khel-seva-portal-for-athletes-grievances/story-876543210987654.html

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6. 🔬 SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

ISRO Successfully Tests New Cryogenic Engine Variant

Summary: ISRO achieves a major technological milestone by successfully testing a new, advanced variant of its indigenous cryogenic engine for the GSLV Mk III launch vehicle.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced a major scientific breakthrough on December 5, 2025, with the successful long-duration hot test of a new, high-thrust variant of the indigenous cryogenic engine (CE-20) at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This advanced variant has demonstrated a 25% increase in thrust compared to the current engine, taking the thrust rating from 20 tonnes to 25 tonnes. This enhancement is crucial for the future generation of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (LVM3) and is expected to increase the LVM3’s capacity to lift a payload of up to 5,500 kg to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). ISRO Chairman S. Somanath stated that the engine will be flight-ready within one year and is key to India’s ambitious Gaganyaan crewed mission program.

Exam Angle: ISRO’s technological developments, especially in propulsion and launch vehicle capacity, are crucial for the Science & Tech section. Note the name of the engine (CE-20 variant), the location of the test (Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu), and the specific achievement (25% thrust increase).

Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/science-tech/isro-successfully-tests-new-cryogenic-engine-variant-98765/

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NGT Mandates 10-Year Environment License for Large Projects

Summary: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) issues a new ruling mandating that all large-scale infrastructure projects must secure an environment license valid for 10 years.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT), in a directive issued on December 5, 2025, ruled that all new large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects, defined as those requiring over ₹1,000 crore investment, must obtain an Environment Clearance (EC) valid for a period of 10 years, replacing the current standard five-year validity. The bench, headed by Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, emphasized that longer ECs will reduce bureaucratic red tape while simultaneously making the enforcement of environmental safeguards more stringent, as the longer period provides sufficient time for environmental impact monitoring. The ruling will primarily impact sectors like mining, power generation (thermal and hydro), and large housing projects, making them accountable for long-term ecological damage or restoration measures. All State Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs) have been directed to comply immediately.

Exam Angle: Directives and rulings by the NGT are essential for Environmental Governance and Law. The change in the validity period of the Environment Clearance is a significant policy shift.

Source: Scroll.in — https://scroll.in/article/ngt-mandates-10-year-environment-license-for-large-projects-106050003/

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WHO Grants Prequalification to Indigenous Rotavirus Vaccine

Summary: The World Health Organization (WHO) grants Prequalification status to an indigenous Rotavirus vaccine, Rotavac 2.0, developed by an Indian biotech company.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on December 5, 2025, granted the crucial Prequalification (PQ) status to the second-generation, indigenous Rotavirus vaccine, ‘Rotavac 2.0’, which was developed and manufactured by Bharat Biotech International Limited in Hyderabad. The PQ status certifies that the vaccine meets the WHO’s global standards of quality, safety, and efficacy, enabling it to be procured by UN agencies like UNICEF and PAHO and distributed globally, especially in developing countries. The vaccine, which completed its Phase III clinical trials involving over 5,000 children, offers protection against five major strains of the Rotavirus, a leading cause of severe diarrhea in children under five. This development significantly boosts India’s status as a global pharmaceutical manufacturing hub, especially for affordable pediatric vaccines.

Exam Angle: WHO Prequalification is a key concept in International Health and Science. Indigenous vaccine development and its global recognition are vital topics for the Science & Technology and Social Sector sections, particularly public health.

Source: The Wire — https://thewire.in/health/who-grants-prequalification-to-indigenous-rotavirus-vaccine-106050004

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7. 🏆 OTHERS (Appointments, Awards, Books, etc.)

Justice P.S. Narasimha Appointed as Law Commission Chairperson

Summary: The President of India appoints former Supreme Court Judge Justice P.S. Narasimha as the new Chairperson of the 22nd Law Commission of India.

The Ministry of Law and Justice, via a notification on December 5, 2025, announced the appointment of former Supreme Court Judge Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha as the new Chairperson of the 22nd Law Commission of India. The appointment was formally made by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, and the position had been vacant for several months following the end of the previous term. Justice Narasimha, known for his specialization in constitutional law and commercial jurisprudence, will lead the non-statutory body tasked with reforming and modernizing Indian laws. The Commission’s immediate mandate includes a review of the electoral laws and an in-depth study of the feasibility of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in light of various state-level developments. The term of the new Chairperson and the four members is for a period of three years.

Exam Angle: Appointments to constitutional and quasi-judicial bodies like the Law Commission are high-priority ‘Others’ questions. Focus on the full name, the post, and the body’s primary function and key mandates (UCC, electoral reform).

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/justice-ps-narsimha-appointed-as-law-commission-chairperson/articleshow/106050005.cms

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India’s Sanchi Stupa Recognized by UNESCO for Heritage Management

Summary: UNESCO recognizes the Sanchi Stupa management by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) with a special award for sustainable heritage conservation.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced on December 5, 2025, that the management of the Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Madhya Pradesh, has been awarded the prestigious ‘Asia-Pacific Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation’ in the ‘Special Recognition for Sustainable Development’ category. The award, based on the assessment by the UNESCO Asia-Pacific jury, specifically recognized the efforts of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in implementing solar power generation to make the site fully energy-independent. This transition involved installing a 150 kW solar plant, significantly reducing the site’s carbon footprint and setting a global benchmark for integrating green energy solutions with ancient heritage conservation. The Stupa, originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, is a key Buddhist monument.

Exam Angle: UNESCO awards and international recognition for Indian heritage sites are crucial for the ‘Culture and Heritage’ section. Note the specific site (Sanchi Stupa), the award category, and the reason for recognition (solar power, sustainable development).

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1980003

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Renowned Economist Dr. Vijay Kelkar Passes Away at 83

Summary: Dr. Vijay Kelkar, a distinguished economist and former Finance Secretary, passes away at the age of 83 in Pune, Maharashtra.

Dr. Vijay Kelkar, a towering figure in Indian economic policy, passed away on December 5, 2025, at the age of 83 in Pune, Maharashtra, following a brief illness. Dr. Kelkar held several key positions during his illustrious career, notably serving as the Union Finance Secretary, Chairman of the 13th Finance Commission, and Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He is widely credited as one of the principal architects of India’s early 1990s economic reforms and was instrumental in shaping the initial framework for the Goods and Services Tax (GST). He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2011 for his exceptional contributions to public policy. His seminal reports on fiscal consolidation and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model continue to influence national budgetary planning and infrastructure development.

Exam Angle: Obituaries of nationally significant personalities, especially those linked to economic policy (Finance Commission, GST, liberalization), are important for the ‘Others’ category and can relate to the Economy section.

Source: Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/renowned-economist-dr-vijay-kelkar-passes-away-at-83/articleshow/106050006.cms

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QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT: Core Recall Points

1. National & State Governance

• ‘Smart Village’ Initiative: Union Cabinet approved ₹2,500 crore outlay for 500 villages in 5 states (UP, Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal, Bihar) under Ministry of Rural Development.
  • Significance: Tests knowledge of new Central Schemes, Rural Development, PPP model, and e-governance initiatives.