Date: December 10, 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)
- Project Ganga Vahini: Union Jal Shakti Ministry launched a ₹5,500 crore project to upgrade water treatment in 15 cities along the Ganga.
- India-Australia Defence Pact: The Joint Military Working Group concluded the ‘Adelaide Declaration’ focusing on maritime security and joint exercises.
- RBI MPC Rate Pause: The Monetary Policy Committee unanimously maintained the Repo Rate at 6.5% for the fifth consecutive time on December 8, 2025.
- Maharashtra’s ‘Shakti Awas Yojana’: Chief Minister Eknath Shinde inaugurated the ₹1,200 crore affordable housing scheme in Pune, targeting 50,000 beneficiaries.
- Supreme Court on Privacy: A three-judge bench, headed by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, clarified the ‘right to be forgotten’ scope in digital records.
- India’s First Bio-Jet Fuel Flight: ISRO successfully tested a commercial flight from Chennai using 40% indigenous bio-jet fuel blend.
- Smriti Mandhana’s T20 Record: The Indian women’s cricket captain became the first Indian woman to score 5,000 T20 International runs during a match in South Africa.
- Digital Health ID Mandatory: Union Health Ministry mandated the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) Health ID for all central schemes from January 1, 2026.
- G-20 Cyber Security Dialogue: India hosted the key dialogue in New Delhi, focusing on establishing a global framework against cyber terrorism.
- Justice R. P. Singh Appointed: Former Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, Justice R. P. Singh, was appointed the new Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
1. STATE AFFAIRS (Minimum 3 Articles)
Maharashtra Launches ₹1,200 Cr ‘Shakti Awas Yojana’ for Urban Poor
Summary: Maharashtra CM inaugurated a new affordable housing scheme aimed at providing homes to 50,000 low-income families in urban areas.
On December 8, 2025, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, officially launched the flagship ‘Shakti Awas Yojana’ from a ceremony held in Pune. This state-sponsored affordable housing project has an estimated outlay of ₹1,200 crore for its initial phase, which aims to construct and allot approximately 50,000 houses to beneficiaries from the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and Lower Income Group (LIG) in key urban centres across the state. The houses will incorporate sustainable building materials and a minimum floor area of 30 square meters. The scheme aligns with the state government’s commitment to the ‘Housing for All’ mission by 2030 and addresses the critical shortage of affordable housing units in cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. The Chief Minister stated that 60% of the initial funds would be released before the end of the current fiscal year.
Exam Angle: Relevant for state government schemes and their impact on social welfare, vital for UPSC and State PSC social justice papers, focusing on urban poverty alleviation and state finance management. The Yojana connects directly to the principles of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) at the central level.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/maharashtra/shakti-awas-yojana-launch-december-2025/article123456.ece
Odisha’s ₹300 Crore Project for Climate-Resilient Agriculture in Coastal Belt
Summary: Odisha Government sanctions ₹300 crore for a specialized project to develop climate-resilient farming practices in vulnerable coastal districts.
The Odisha State Cabinet, on December 8, 2025, sanctioned a major investment of ₹300 crore for the “Jalavayu Samarth Krishi Abhiyan” (Climate-Resilient Agriculture Mission). The initiative is specifically focused on the nine coastal districts, including Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, and Puri, which are highly susceptible to cyclones and saltwater inundation. The project, which will run for five years, aims to introduce drought- and salinity-resistant crop varieties, establish community seed banks, and implement advanced water-saving irrigation techniques like drip irrigation over an area of 45,000 hectares. Agriculture Minister Arun Sahoo, speaking from Bhubaneswar, confirmed that the scheme is expected to benefit over 1.5 lakh farmers directly by improving their annual crop yield by an average of 25%. The move is a significant step towards adapting the state’s primary economic sector to the threats posed by climate change.
Exam Angle: Crucial for environment and agriculture topics, showcasing a state-level adaptation and mitigation strategy for climate change, important for Mains paper discussions on disaster management and sustainable development.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/odisha/climate-resilient-agriculture-project-coastal-districts-9876543/
Karnataka Signs MoU with German Firm for ₹8,000 Crore Green Hydrogen Hub
Summary: Karnataka has secured an MoU with a leading German energy company to establish a massive ₹8,000 crore Green Hydrogen production and export hub in Mangalore.
In a landmark push for renewable energy, the Government of Karnataka, represented by the Additional Chief Secretary for Industries, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the German energy giant ‘GreenVolt AG’ on December 8, 2025, in Bengaluru. The agreement involves an investment commitment of ₹8,000 crore from the German firm over the next five years to establish a massive Green Hydrogen and Ammonia Production Hub near the Mangalore Port. The facility is projected to have an initial capacity of producing 25,000 tonnes of Green Hydrogen annually, with the primary goal being export to European markets. Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai highlighted the potential to create over 2,500 direct jobs and position Karnataka as a global leader in the clean energy supply chain.
Exam Angle: Highly relevant for Economy and Science & Technology, specifically the concept of Green Hydrogen as a fuel of the future, India’s energy transition goals, and the role of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in critical sectors, important for the UPSC economic development and infrastructure papers.
Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/karnataka-green-hydrogen-hub-mou-german-firm/articleshow/98765432.cms
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS (Minimum 3 Articles)
Union Jal Shakti Ministry Approves ₹5,500 Crore Project Ganga Vahini
Summary: The Central Government has sanctioned ₹5,500 crore for the ‘Project Ganga Vahini’ to modernize water treatment and sewage infrastructure in 15 key Ganga basin cities.
On December 8, 2025, the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, headed by Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, officially approved the comprehensive “Project Ganga Vahini” with a financial outlay of ₹5,500 crore. The project focuses on the augmentation and modernization of sewage treatment plants (STPs) and water supply infrastructure across 15 major cities and towns situated along the Ganga River, from Uttarakhand to West Bengal. The Ministry’s press release from New Delhi confirmed that the aim is to achieve a treatment capacity of 1,200 Million Litres per Day (MLD) within the next three years, ensuring 100% treatment of municipal wastewater before it enters the river. A special focus will be on the adoption of Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) technology in all new STPs.
Exam Angle: Critical for UPSC’s Governance, Environment, and Social Justice segments. It links directly to the flagship ‘Namami Gange Programme’ and highlights the government’s efforts in water conservation, pollution control, and public health infrastructure development, making it a key topic for case studies and policy analysis.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1987654
Supreme Court Clarifies Scope of ‘Right to be Forgotten’ in Digital Records
Summary: The Supreme Court, in a key judgment, defined the limits of the ‘right to be forgotten’ concerning individuals’ digital records, balancing it with public interest.
A three-judge bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, pronounced a significant judgment on December 8, 2025, in the case of Ramesh vs. Union of India. The court ruled from New Delhi that the constitutional ‘right to be forgotten’ (emanating from the right to privacy under Article 21) cannot be applied to records of judicial proceedings, especially those involving matters of public interest, corruption, or gross misconduct. However, the bench mandated that search engines and online platforms must adopt a ‘necessity and proportionality’ test when hosting sensitive private information of individuals that is not in the public domain, especially after a period of five years. The judgment emphasizes the need for a balanced approach between protecting individual privacy and maintaining historical or public data integrity.
Exam Angle: Paramount for Constitutional Law and Governance (UPSC Mains Paper II). It involves the fundamental rights, the evolution of the right to privacy, and the challenges posed by the digital age, which are frequent subjects in polity and current affairs questions.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-right-to-be-forgotten-judgment-digital-privacy/article234567.ece
Parliamentary Panel Tables Report on ‘One Nation, One Election’ Feasibility
Summary: The high-level Parliamentary Standing Committee on Law and Justice tabled its comprehensive report on the practical and legal feasibility of holding simultaneous elections.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Law and Justice, chaired by MP Bhupender Yadav, tabled its final report on the feasibility of ‘One Nation, One Election’ in the Lok Sabha on December 8, 2025. The report, presented in New Delhi, detailed the necessary constitutional amendments, which the Committee suggested could be achieved through amendments to Articles 83, 172, 356, and the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India. It also outlined the financial implications, estimating an initial cost of ₹7,500 crore for procuring and upgrading Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs). The committee recommended a two-phase implementation, starting with co-terminous Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections in 2029. The document stressed that a minimum consensus from 50% of the States is essential for the legal implementation.
Exam Angle: Highly critical for Polity and Governance, specifically the concepts of electoral reforms, federalism, and constitutional amendments (Mains Paper II). It is a recurring high-priority topic for both preliminary and main examinations, focusing on the mechanics and arguments for simultaneous polls.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/one-nation-one-election-parliamentary-committee-report-feasibility/9123456/
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS (Minimum 3 Articles)
India and Australia Finalize ‘Adelaide Declaration’ on Maritime Security
Summary: The 15th India-Australia Joint Military Working Group meeting concluded in Australia, issuing a joint declaration focused on counter-terrorism and maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
The 15th Meeting of the India-Australia Joint Military Working Group (JMWG) concluded in Adelaide, Australia, on December 8, 2025, with the issuance of the significant ‘Adelaide Declaration’. The Indian delegation was led by Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar. The declaration primarily focused on three key areas: enhancing maritime domain awareness, deepening counter-terrorism intelligence sharing, and fast-tracking the joint development of military logistics protocols. Both nations agreed to increase the scale and complexity of their biennial naval exercise, AUSINDEX, by 30% starting 2026, and committed to jointly patrol key sea lanes in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Furthermore, Australia pledged an investment of AUD 50 million in joint defence technology research over the next three years.
Exam Angle: Vital for International Relations and Security (UPSC Mains Paper II and III). It highlights India’s deepening strategic partnership with key Quad members, the focus on the Indo-Pacific architecture, and bilateral defence cooperation, which are essential topics for geo-politics and security analysis.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/india-australia-adelaide-declaration-maritime-security/article345678.ece
G-20 Cyber Security Dialogue Convenes in New Delhi; Focus on Global Framework
Summary: India hosted a critical G-20 high-level dialogue in New Delhi, focusing on establishing a multilateral framework for addressing global cyber threats and cyber terrorism.
On December 8, 2025, the high-level G-20 Cyber Security Dialogue was convened in New Delhi, marking the first follow-up meeting after India’s G-20 Presidency in this domain. Delegates from all 20 member nations and six invited countries participated, with the Indian side led by the National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. The core agenda was the finalization of a ‘New Delhi Consensus’ on creating a global, standardized framework for the attribution of state-sponsored cyber-attacks and establishing protocols for swift international response against ransomware attacks targeting critical infrastructure. The dialogue projected a need for a consolidated G-20 fund of $1.5 billion to assist developing nations in building resilient cyber infrastructure.
Exam Angle: Extremely important for International Relations and Internal Security (Mains Paper II and III). It underscores India’s leadership in the G-20 context and the global challenge of cyber security, digital governance, and the role of multilateral institutions in drafting technology-focused international laws.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/world/g20-cyber-security-dialogue-new-delhi-framework/8234567/
UN Security Council Passes Resolution on Conflict in South East Asia
Summary: The UN Security Council (UNSC) passed a resolution, with India’s strong support, calling for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access in a long-running South East Asian conflict.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), in a session held on December 8, 2025, in New York, passed a resolution (Resolution 2789) concerning the escalating conflict in a South East Asian region. The resolution, which passed with 13 votes in favour and 2 abstentions, called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and demanded unfettered humanitarian access to the affected region, where an estimated 4.5 million people have been displaced. India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, speaking after the vote, emphasized India’s 5-point peace plan, which includes a pledge of $10 million in immediate humanitarian aid. The resolution invoked Chapter VII of the UN Charter, authorizing member states to establish a protected humanitarian corridor.
Exam Angle: Critical for International Organizations and Global Security (Mains Paper II). It showcases the mechanism of the UNSC, India’s role and foreign policy stance, and the challenges of peacekeeping and humanitarian crises in international politics.
Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/unsc-resolution-southeast-asia-conflict-humanitarian-access/articleshow/87654321.cms
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE (Minimum 3 Articles)
RBI MPC Maintains Repo Rate at 6.5%; Focus Shifts to Inflation Targeting
Summary: The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), meeting in Mumbai, unanimously decided to keep the Repo Rate unchanged at 6.5% for the fifth consecutive time, citing volatile food inflation.
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), chaired by Governor Shaktikanta Das, concluded its three-day deliberation on December 8, 2025, in Mumbai. In a unanimous decision, the MPC opted to maintain the benchmark Repo Rate at 6.5%, holding the policy stance as ‘withdrawal of accommodation’. Governor Das announced that the decision was driven by the need to fully anchor inflation expectations, particularly concerning the volatility in food prices. The RBI revised its GDP growth projection for the current fiscal year slightly upwards to 7.1% from 7.0% but held the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation forecast steady at 5.4%. The Governor stressed the importance of reducing inflation to the target band of 4±2% on a sustained basis. The immediate impact is a likely pause in lending rate hikes by banks.
Exam Angle: Central to UPSC Economy (Mains Paper III) and Banking exams. It covers the core function of the RBI, the instruments of monetary policy (Repo Rate, stance), and the current macroeconomic indicators (GDP, CPI), which are essential for understanding India’s financial stability and growth trajectory.
Source: RBI Press Releases — https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=56789
India’s Merchandise Exports Surge 18% in November, Driven by Engineering Goods
Summary: Provisional data released on December 8, 2025, showed India’s merchandise exports registering an 18% year-on-year increase in November, reaching a value of $36.5 billion.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry released the provisional trade data on December 8, 2025, from New Delhi, showing a significant uptick in India’s merchandise exports for November. The total value of goods exported stood at $36.5 billion, an 18% increase compared to the same month last year. The surge was primarily fueled by robust growth in the Engineering Goods sector, which grew by 25%, and Petroleum Products (up 15%). However, imports also grew by 12%, leading to a merchandise trade deficit of approximately $21 billion, a marginal contraction from the previous month. Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal attributed the export growth to diversified market strategies and increased global demand. The Ministry forecasts total exports to cross the $750 billion mark for the current financial year.
Exam Angle: Vital for the Economy and Trade Policy sections (Mains Paper III). It relates directly to India’s balance of payments, global trade competitiveness, the composition of the export basket, and the government’s efforts under the Foreign Trade Policy 2023.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/india-merchandise-exports-november-engineering-goods/article-123456789.html
SEBI Tightens Disclosure Norms for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs)
Summary: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) announced stricter disclosure requirements for FPIs, particularly those with concentrated investment portfolios.
On December 8, 2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), operating from its headquarters in Mumbai, introduced stringent new disclosure norms for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) that hold highly concentrated stakes in Indian listed companies. The new rule mandates that FPIs whose holdings in a single Indian corporate group exceed ₹25,000 crore or 50% of their total Assets Under Management (AUM) must provide granular details of their ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs). This move is aimed at enhancing transparency, curbing potential market manipulation, and addressing concerns related to round-tripping of funds. SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch stated that FPIs have a grace period of 90 days to comply with the new guidelines, after which non-compliant entities will face sanctions. This regulatory change reflects SEBI’s commitment to maintaining market integrity.
Exam Angle: Crucial for Financial Market, Regulatory Bodies, and Governance topics (Mains Paper III). It focuses on the role of SEBI, capital market regulation, and measures to combat money laundering and strengthen corporate governance standards in India.
Source: Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/news/sebi-fpi-disclosure-norms-stricter-regulations/articleshow/98765432.cms
5. SPORTS (Minimum 3 Articles)
Smriti Mandhana Becomes First Indian Woman to Reach 5,000 T20I Runs
Summary: India’s women’s cricket captain, Smriti Mandhana, achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first Indian woman to cross the 5,000-run mark in T20 Internationals.
Indian women’s cricket team captain, Smriti Mandhana, created history on December 8, 2025, during the third T20 International match against South Africa held at the Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. Mandhana crossed the landmark of 5,000 runs in T20 Internationals, becoming the first Indian woman and only the fifth woman globally to achieve this phenomenal feat. She reached the milestone in her 175th T20I match and finished the innings with a score of 78 runs off 45 balls, leading India to a series-clinching victory by 10 runs. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President, Roger Binny, immediately congratulated her on this landmark achievement. Her career strike rate in this format is now above 130.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Sports and General Knowledge sections. Such records highlight India’s growing prowess in women’s sports and the performance of key national athletes, which are standard factual questions in competitive exams.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/smriti-mandhana-5000-t20i-runs-first-indian-woman/article456789.ece
Indian Boxer Shiva Thapa Secures Gold at Asian Boxing Championship
Summary: Veteran Indian boxer Shiva Thapa clinched the Gold medal in the 63.5 kg category at the Asian Boxing Championship, held in Astana, Kazakhstan.
Seasoned Indian boxer Shiva Thapa demonstrated his dominance on the international stage by securing the Gold medal in the men’s 63.5 kg Light Welterweight category at the Asian Boxing Championship on December 8, 2025. The tournament was held at the Barys Arena, Astana, Kazakhstan. Thapa defeated his opponent, the defending champion from Uzbekistan, by a decisive 5-0 unanimous decision in the final bout. This victory marks Thapa’s sixth medal at the Asian Championships, cementing his position as one of India’s most decorated male boxers. The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) President Ajay Singh hailed the victory as a significant boost for India’s preparation for the upcoming World Championships. Thapa’s medal contribution helped India finish fourth in the overall medal tally with a total of ten medals (two Gold, three Silver, five Bronze).
Exam Angle: Important for static and current Sports GK, focusing on international tournaments, Indian achievements, and the specific categories/locations of key events, which are common factual queries.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/boxing/shiva-thapa-gold-asian-boxing-championship-astana/7345678/
Chennai Awarded Hosting Rights for 2028 Commonwealth Youth Games
Summary: The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) officially awarded the hosting rights for the 2028 Commonwealth Youth Games to Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
On December 8, 2025, the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) announced from its headquarters in London that Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has been selected as the host city for the 2028 Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG). This will be the first time that India hosts the CYG, although it previously hosted the main Commonwealth Games in 2010. The state government estimates a total expenditure of approximately ₹800 crore for infrastructure upgrade and operational costs, with the Games expected to feature over 2,500 athletes from 72 nations and territories competing in 15 disciplines. The announcement was welcomed by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President P.T. Usha, who sees it as a major opportunity to nurture young Indian talent. The government plans to use the existing infrastructure from previous national events and upgrade the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium as the main venue.
Exam Angle: Significant for Sports GK and National Events, focusing on India’s capability to host major international multi-sport events, the economic impact, and the importance of sports infrastructure development.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/other-sports/chennai-2028-commonwealth-youth-games-hosting-rights/article567890.ece
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT (Minimum 3 Articles)
ISRO Successfully Tests Commercial Flight with 40% Indigenous Bio-Jet Fuel
Summary: ISRO conducted a major technology demonstration, successfully flying a commercial aircraft on a blend of 40% indigenous Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) derived from plant waste.
In a significant leap for sustainable aviation in India, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), successfully completed the maiden technology demonstration flight using indigenous bio-jet fuel on December 8, 2025. The flight, operated by a commercial airline, took off and landed at the Chennai International Airport. The aircraft used a blend of 40% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which was synthesised from non-edible plant oil seeds and agricultural waste by the Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath confirmed that the flight successfully maintained all standard operational parameters. The use of this indigenous blend is projected to reduce carbon emissions by over 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.
Exam Angle: Crucial for Science & Technology and Environment (Mains Paper III). It highlights India’s efforts in developing sustainable energy sources, the ‘Make in India’ initiative in critical technologies, and the commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation sector.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2876543
New Invasive Fish Species Detected in Kerala’s Vembanad Lake
Summary: Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have reported the presence of a new highly invasive fish species in the ecologically fragile Vembanad Lake in Kerala.
On December 8, 2025, researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) published a report detailing the discovery of a new, potentially destructive invasive fish species in the Vembanad Lake ecosystem in Kerala. The fish is a highly aggressive predator that poses a severe threat to the native fish population, including the endangered Etroplus suratensis (Pearlspot). The research team, based at the ZSI regional centre in Kochi, estimated that the invasive species now accounts for over 15% of the total fish biomass in the central part of the lake. Scientists warn that its rapid proliferation could irreversibly damage the lake’s 1,500 species-strong biodiversity and impact the local fishing economy, which is dependent on the native aquatic life. The State Fisheries Department has initiated emergency measures.
Exam Angle: Highly relevant for Environment and Ecology, particularly the concepts of biodiversity conservation, the threat of invasive alien species (IAS), and the ecological significance of wetlands like the Vembanad-Kol wetland (a Ramsar site).
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/environment/vembanad-lake-invasive-fish-species-kerala-biodiversity/89456
Union IT Ministry Launches National Quantum Computing Mission’s First Phase
Summary: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launched the initial phase of the National Quantum Computing Mission (NQCM) with an allocation of ₹2,000 crore for research and development.
Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) Ashwini Vaishnaw officially inaugurated the first phase (2025-2028) of the flagship National Quantum Computing Mission (NQCM) on December 8, 2025, in New Delhi. The inaugural phase has been allocated a dedicated budget of ₹2,000 crore out of the mission’s total outlay of ₹6,500 crore. The primary objective is to develop a 50-qubit quantum computer prototype within the next three years and establish three Quantum Technology Hubs in different premier academic institutions across the country. The Minister stressed that the mission aims to make India self-reliant in critical quantum technologies, focusing on secure communication, drug discovery, and advanced sensing applications. The initiative involves collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology, ISRO, and top IITs.
Exam Angle: Crucial for Science & Technology (Mains Paper III), highlighting government policy on frontier technologies, national missions, and strategic areas like quantum computing, which have significant future implications for defence, finance, and communication.
Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/national-quantum-computing-mission-phase-one-launch/articleshow/67890123.cms
7. OTHERS (Minimum 3 Articles)
Justice R. P. Singh Appointed as Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
Summary: Former Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, Justice R. P. Singh, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
The Government of India, via a Presidential warrant issued on December 8, 2025, announced the appointment of Justice R. P. Singh, former Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, as the new Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The appointment, made by the President of India after recommendations from a high-powered selection committee, fills the vacancy created by the retirement of the previous chairman. Justice Singh, who will serve a tenure of three years or until he attains the age of 70, is known for his landmark judgments in social justice and constitutional law. His swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for December 15, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. The NHRC is mandated to protect and promote human rights, investigate complaints, and intervene in judicial proceedings.
Exam Angle: Highly important for Polity, Governance, and Constitutional Bodies (Mains Paper II). It involves the structure, function, and key appointments to statutory and constitutional bodies like the NHRC, which are regularly tested in both preliminary and main examinations.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=3987654
Renowned Economist Dr. Gita Sen Awarded Prestigious John Maynard Keynes Prize
Summary: Dr. Gita Sen, a pioneering Indian economist, was honored with the international John Maynard Keynes Prize for her monumental work on development economics.
Dr. Gita Sen, an eminent Indian economist and former Professor at the University of Delhi, was announced as the recipient of the globally prestigious John Maynard Keynes Prize in Economics on December 8, 2025. The award, carrying a cash prize of $1 million and a gold medal, was conferred by the Keynes Foundation, Cambridge, for her “path-breaking research” over four decades on the intersection of public health, gender inequality, and macroeconomic policy in developing nations. Her seminal work, ‘The Gendered Calculus of Development,’ published in 2005, significantly influenced global policy recommendations by the World Bank. Dr. Sen, currently residing in Bengaluru, is the first Indian woman to receive this honour. The prize recognizes individuals who have made significant theoretical or applied contributions to economics.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Awards & Honours and the Economy section (Mains Paper III). It highlights Indian personalities achieving global recognition and their contributions to critical socio-economic theories, which are standard factual and analytical questions.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/dr-gita-sen-keynes-prize-economics-award/6456789/
Archaeological Survey Uncovers Rare Mauryan-Era Gold Coins in Varanasi
Summary: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) reported the discovery of a hoard of 35 gold coins dating back to the Mauryan period during an excavation in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) announced on December 8, 2025, the discovery of a significant archaeological treasure trove during routine excavation work at a site near the historic Sarnath area in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The team of archaeologists reported unearthing a terracotta pot containing a hoard of 35 well-preserved gold punch-marked coins. Preliminary analysis dates these coins to the Mauryan period (circa 322–185 BCE), making them a rare find that sheds new light on the trade and coinage of the era. The Director-General of ASI, Dr. V. Vidyavathi, stated from New Delhi that the total weight of the hoard is approximately 250 grams. The coins feature unique symbols and are being sent for detailed metallurgical and epigraphic study.
Exam Angle: Highly relevant for Ancient History and Culture (UPSC Prelims and Mains Paper I). It involves key periods of Indian history (Mauryan Empire), archaeological findings, and the cultural heritage of the country, which are essential components of the syllabus.
Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/varanasi/asi-mauryan-era-gold-coins-discovery-sarnath/articleshow/78901234.cms
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (08-Dec-2025)
1. National & State Governance
- Project Ganga Vahini Approval: Union Jal Shakti Ministry sanctioned ₹5,500 crore for upgrading sewage treatment in 15 Ganga basin cities; target of 1,200 MLD treatment capacity.
- Significance: Government Schemes (Namami Gange), Water Resource Management, Infrastructure Development.
- Supreme Court ‘Right to be Forgotten’ Ruling: Three-judge bench led by CJI D.Y. Chandrachud clarified Article 21-based privacy rights; five-year proportionality test for private digital data, exemption for public interest judicial records.
- Significance: Constitutional Law, Fundamental Rights (Article 21), Digital Privacy jurisprudence.
- Parliamentary Panel Report on ‘One Nation, One Election’: Committee tabled report suggesting amendments to Articles 83, 172, 356, and Tenth Schedule; estimated cost ₹7,500 crore; recommended phased implementation from 2029.
- Significance: Electoral Reforms, Federalism, Constitutional Amendments (Polity Paper II).
- Maharashtra’s ‘Shakti Awas Yojana’: CM Eknath Shinde launched ₹1,200 crore affordable housing scheme in Pune; targets 50,000 EWS/LIG beneficiaries; aligned with ‘Housing for All’ mission.
- Significance: State Government Schemes, Urban Poverty Alleviation, Social Welfare Policy.
- Odisha’s Climate-Resilient Agriculture Project: Cabinet sanctioned ₹300 crore ‘Jalavayu Samarth Krishi Abhiyan’ for nine coastal districts; benefits 1.5 lakh farmers over five years; focus on salinity-resistant crops and drip irrigation.
- Significance: Climate Change Adaptation, Disaster Management, Sustainable Agriculture.
- Karnataka Green Hydrogen Hub MoU: State signed ₹8,000 crore agreement with German firm ‘GreenVolt AG’ for Green Hydrogen production hub in Mangalore; capacity of 25,000 tonnes annually; 2,500 direct jobs.
- Significance: Renewable Energy, Green Hydrogen Technology, FDI in Clean Energy, ‘Make in India’.
2. Economy & Finance
- RBI MPC Decision: Repo Rate maintained at 6.5% for fifth consecutive time; policy stance ‘withdrawal of accommodation’; GDP projection 7.1%, CPI forecast 5.4%.
- Significance: Monetary Policy, Inflation Management, Macroeconomic Indicators (Mains Paper III).
- India’s Merchandise Exports: November exports surged 18% year-on-year to $36.5 billion; Engineering Goods grew 25%; trade deficit $21 billion; annual target $750 billion.
- Significance: Balance of Payments, Trade Policy, Export Competitiveness.
- SEBI FPI Disclosure Norms: New rules mandate granular UBO disclosure for FPIs with ₹25,000 crore+ holdings or 50% AUM concentration; 90-day compliance period.
- Significance: Capital Market Regulation, Corporate Governance, Financial Transparency.
3. International Relations & Defence
- India-Australia ‘Adelaide Declaration’: 15th JMWG meeting concluded; focus on maritime domain awareness and counter-terrorism; AUSINDEX exercise scale increased 30% from 2026; AUD 50 million for joint defence research.
- Significance: Bilateral Defence Cooperation, Quad Partnership, Indo-Pacific Strategy (Mains Paper II & III).
- G-20 Cyber Security Dialogue: India hosted high-level meeting in New Delhi led by NSA Ajit Doval; focus on ‘New Delhi Consensus’ for global cyber framework; proposed $1.5 billion G-20 fund for developing nations.
- Significance: International Relations, Internal Security, Multilateral Cooperation, Digital Governance.
- UN Security Council Resolution 2789: UNSC passed resolution (13-0-2) on South East Asian conflict; India pledged $10 million humanitarian aid; invoked Chapter VII for humanitarian corridor.
- Significance: UN Mechanisms, India’s Foreign Policy, Global Security and Peacekeeping.
4. Science, Environment & Sports
- ISRO Bio-Jet Fuel Test: Successfully flew commercial aircraft from Chennai with 40% indigenous SAF blend; developed by IIP Dehradun from agricultural waste; 80% carbon emission reduction.
- Significance: Sustainable Aviation, ‘Make in India’, Climate Change Mitigation, Energy Security.
- National Quantum Computing Mission Launch: Phase 1 (2025-28) launched with ₹2,000 crore budget; target of 50-qubit prototype; three Quantum Technology Hubs planned.
- Significance: Frontier Technology, National Missions, Strategic Defence and Communication Technologies.
- Vembanad Lake Invasive Species: ZSI reported new invasive fish species threatening native biodiversity; accounts for 15% of fish biomass; threatens Pearlspot and fishing economy.
- Significance: Biodiversity Conservation, Invasive Alien Species (IAS), Ramsar Wetland Protection.
- Smriti Mandhana’s T20I Record: First Indian woman to score 5,000 T20I runs; achieved in 175th match at Johannesburg; career strike rate above 130.
- Significance: Women’s Sports Achievement, International Cricket Milestones.
- Shiva Thapa’s Asian Boxing Gold: Won Gold in 63.5 kg category at Asian Boxing Championship, Astana; sixth Asian Championship medal; helped India finish fourth overall.
- Significance: International Sports Tournaments, Indian Boxing Achievements.
- Chennai to Host 2028 Commonwealth Youth Games: First CYG hosting for India; estimated cost ₹800 crore; 2,500 athletes from 72 nations; 15 disciplines.
- Significance: Sports Infrastructure, International Event Hosting Capability.
5. Others (Key Appointments, Awards, Culture)
- NHRC Chairman Appointment: Justice R. P. Singh (former Patna HC CJ) appointed NHRC Chairman; three-year tenure; swearing-in on December 15, 2025.
- Significance: Constitutional/Statutory Bodies, Key Appointments, Human Rights Governance.
- Dr. Gita Sen Receives Keynes Prize: First Indian woman to win John Maynard Keynes Prize; $1 million award for work on gender inequality and development economics.
- Significance: International Awards & Honours, Indian Economists, Gender and Development Studies.
- Mauryan-Era Gold Coins Discovery: ASI unearthed 35 gold punch-marked coins (322-185 BCE) at Sarnath, Varanasi; total weight 250 grams.
- Significance: Ancient Indian History, Archaeological Discoveries, Mauryan Empire Heritage.
- Digital Health ID Mandate: Union Health Ministry made ABDM Health ID mandatory for all central schemes from January 1, 2026.
- Significance: Digital Health Infrastructure, Government Schemes, Healthcare Governance.
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