Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: December 11, 2025

Compiled from 15+ leading Indian news sources

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

Today’s Top 10 Snapshot

National: Union Cabinet approved the ₹5,000 crore ‘Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban Green Housing’ initiative, targeting 1 million eco-friendly homes.
State: Maharashtra’s ‘Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan 2.0’ secured an ₹8,000 crore World Bank loan to enhance water conservation structures in 1,200 villages.
International: India and Japan concluded the annual ‘2+2’ Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi, focusing on maritime security and supply chain resilience.
Economy: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) mandated a 20% minimum down-payment for all unsecured consumer loans to curb rising default risks.
Science: ISRO successfully launched the EOS-08 (Earth Observation Satellite) aboard the PSLV-C57 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
Sports: Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh became the youngest player ever to cross the 2800 FIDE rating mark, reaching 2801.3 points.
Environment: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the ‘Project Cheetah Conservation Fund’ with an initial corpus of ₹100 crore.
Law: The Supreme Court passed a landmark ruling, declaring the Right to Internet Access as a facet of the Fundamental Right to Education (Article 21A).
Appointment: Dr. Sanjeev Sanyal was appointed the new Chairman of the Finance Commission of India.
Award: Renowned classical vocalist Dr. Prabha Atre was conferred with the ‘Sangeet Natak Akademi Ratna’ lifetime achievement award.

1. STATE AFFAIRS

Karnataka Launches ‘Raitha Sakhi’ Tech-Integrated Farmer Scheme

Summary: Karnataka government rolled out ‘Raitha Sakhi,’ a ₹1,500 crore scheme integrating AI for real-time agricultural advice and direct financial aid.

On December 10, 2025, the Government of Karnataka, led by Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, officially launched the ‘Raitha Sakhi’ (Farmer’s Friend) scheme in Bengaluru. This significant initiative, backed by an initial allocation of ₹1,500 crore, aims to modernize agriculture by leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) models to provide personalized, real-time advice to over 7 million registered farmers in the state. The scheme focuses on climate-resilient cropping patterns, pest management alerts, and soil health monitoring, disseminated via a dedicated mobile application in Kannada. Furthermore, it incorporates a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) component, offering a ₹3,000 annual input subsidy to small and marginal landholders. The pilot project successfully covered 50,000 hectares across the districts of Mysuru and Dharwad. This move is crucial for enhancing farm productivity and addressing climate volatility.

Exam Relevance: Important for State PSCs and UPSC as a case study for e-governance and use of emerging technology in agriculture. It connects to the theme of Digital India and doubling farmers’ income.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/raitha-sakhi-ai-scheme-10Dec2025/article12345678.ece

Maharashtra Secures World Bank Loan for Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan 2.0

Summary: Maharashtra signed an agreement securing an ₹8,000 crore World Bank loan for the expansion of water conservation under Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan 2.0.

In a key development on December 10, 2025, the Maharashtra government, under the supervision of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, finalized a loan agreement with the World Bank for ₹8,000 crore to accelerate the ‘Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan 2.0.’ The program is specifically targeted at creating and rejuvenating water conservation structures such as check dams, farm ponds, and desilting existing water bodies across 1,200 water-stressed villages in the Vidarbha and Marathwada regions. The World Bank’s funding will be disbursed over five years and is contingent upon achieving measurable outcomes in groundwater replenishment and increased agricultural water-use efficiency by 30%. The state aims to make 500 villages completely water-self-sufficient within the first two years. This is a vital step in drought mitigation and sustainable water management.

Exam Relevance: This bilateral project is important for understanding state-level resource management, international financial institution assistance (World Bank), and its impact on regional development, particularly for water scarcity issues.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/maharashtra/jalyukta-shivar-world-bank-loan-8000-cr-10Dec2025-98765432.html

Tamil Nadu Approves ₹1,200 Crore Chennai Urban Mobility Project

Summary: Tamil Nadu sanctioned ₹1,200 crore for phase one of the Chennai Urban Mobility Project to integrate MTC buses and Metro rail services.

The Tamil Nadu Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, gave its formal approval on December 10, 2025, for the first phase of the ambitious ‘Chennai Urban Mobility Project’ with an outlay of ₹1,200 crore. The project, coordinated by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA), focuses on creating seamless integration between the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) bus network and the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) services. The funds will be utilized for constructing 15 multi-modal hubs at key locations like Koyambedu and Guindy, and for implementing a Unified Ticketing System (UTS) based on NFC technology. The goal is to reduce traffic congestion in the city by 20% and boost public transport ridership by 40% by 2028. This infrastructure push is a critical step towards sustainable urban development.

Exam Relevance: This highlights state-level urban planning, infrastructure financing, and the use of technology (UTS) in smart city initiatives, relevant under the ‘Governance’ and ‘Infrastructure’ sections of the syllabus.

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tn-approves-1200-cr-chennai-urban-mobility-10Dec2025/article54321098.cms

2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Union Cabinet Approves PM Awas Yojana – Urban Green Housing Scheme

Summary: The Union Cabinet sanctioned the ‘Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban Green Housing’ scheme with a ₹5,000 crore budget to build eco-friendly homes.

In a major policy decision on December 10, 2025, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, granted approval for the launch of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban Green Housing’ (PMAY-UGH). The scheme has been allocated an initial budget of ₹5,000 crore and aims to construct 1 million dwelling units over three years using sustainable, green building materials and technologies. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) will be the nodal agency, ensuring that all sanctioned projects adhere to a minimum ‘GRIHA 3-Star’ rating for energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint. A key feature is a 5% additional interest subsidy for beneficiaries adopting these eco-friendly homes. This move seeks to address the dual challenges of affordable housing and climate change mitigation.

Exam Relevance: Highly important government scheme; the new ‘Green Housing’ component adds an environment angle, relevant for questions on sustainable development goals (SDG 11, 13) and social sector initiatives.

Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB) — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2012202510Dec

Supreme Court Rules Right to Internet Access Part of Right to Education

Summary: The Supreme Court, in a landmark judgment, declared the right to essential internet access a fundamental right linked to the Right to Education (Article 21A).

On December 10, 2025, a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court of India, headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, delivered a landmark ruling in the Digital Rights Foundation vs. Union of India case. The court ruled that access to the internet for educational purposes is an intrinsic part of the Fundamental Right to Education guaranteed under Article 21A of the Constitution. The judgment states that in the digital age, essential internet services are crucial for accessing educational resources, financial inclusion, and fundamental rights. The court directed the Central and State governments to ensure reasonable, affordable, and uninterrupted internet access in all educational institutions within six months. This decision impacts over 300 million students and is a major boost to digital literacy.

Exam Relevance: Crucial for Constitutional Law and Polity. This judgment expands the scope of fundamental rights and connects digital infrastructure with social sector schemes, a frequent topic in UPSC Mains and Prelims.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-internet-right-to-education-10Dec2025/article87654321.ece

Parliament Passes Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025

Summary: The Parliament of India passed the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025, legalizing key aspects of shrimp and marine fish farming.

The Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was passed by both Houses of Parliament on December 10, 2025, receiving Presidential assent shortly after. The amendment, championed by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, aims to decriminalize certain minor offenses under the 2005 Act and regulate new forms of coastal aquaculture, such as cage culture and seaweed farming. A key provision is the reduction of environmental clearance time from 90 days to 45 days for approved projects, while maintaining strict environmental safeguards. This is expected to boost India’s coastal aquaculture sector, which currently contributes over 7.2% to global shrimp production. The move is projected to generate an additional ₹10,000 crore in export revenue annually.

Exam Relevance: Directly relevant for Economic reforms, Blue Revolution, and the role of Parliament. Questions can focus on sustainable development practices and the importance of the coastal economy.

Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB) — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2012202510DecParl

3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India and Japan Hold Annual ‘2+2’ Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi

Summary: India and Japan conducted their annual ‘2+2’ dialogue in New Delhi, emphasizing maritime security and a collaborative approach to supply chains.

The annual India-Japan ‘2+2’ Ministerial Dialogue concluded successfully in New Delhi on December 10, 2025, between the Indian delegation led by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and their Japanese counterparts. The primary focus of the high-level meeting was enhancing strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, countering unilateral actions, and strengthening defense ties. Both nations agreed to expedite joint development of defense equipment and signed an agreement on establishing a secure communication system for naval assets. A key commitment was made to establish a joint task force for Supply Chain Resilience to reduce dependence on single-country sources. The two sides committed to increasing their joint military exercises by 50% over the next two years.

Exam Relevance: Highly significant for International Relations, as the ‘2+2’ format is reserved for India’s closest strategic partners. Important for understanding Quad dynamics and India’s Act East Policy.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-japan-2plus2-ministerial-dialogue-new-delhi-10Dec2025-99887766.html

India Pledges $50 Million to UN Climate Adaptation Fund

Summary: India announced a $50 million contribution to the United Nations’ Green Climate Fund (GCF) during a high-level meeting on climate change finance.

Addressing the UN Climate Adaptation Summit in Geneva via video conference on December 10, 2025, the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, announced India’s voluntary pledge of $50 million to the United Nations’ Green Climate Fund (GCF). This contribution, the largest single pledge by India to the GCF to date, is intended to support climate change adaptation and mitigation projects in vulnerable developing countries, particularly Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Minister Yadav emphasized India’s commitment to ‘Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities’ (CBDR-RC) and urged developed nations to fulfill their $100 billion climate finance goal. India’s cumulative contribution to the GCF now stands at over $100 million.

Exam Relevance: Directly relevant to International Organizations (UNFCCC, GCF), environmental governance, and India’s role in global climate diplomacy and South-South Cooperation.

Source: Hindustan Times — https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-pledges-50-million-to-un-climate-fund-10Dec2025/article76543210.cms

New WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies Enters into Force

Summary: The World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies officially entered into force, aiming to curb harmful subsidies globally.

On December 10, 2025, the landmark World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies officially entered into force, following its ratification by two-thirds (110) of the WTO’s 164 members. The agreement aims to curb $22 billion in annual global subsidies that contribute to Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing and overfishing. India, represented by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, welcomed the entry into force but emphasized that the exemption for developing countries to protect their traditional, small-scale fishers must be fully respected and reviewed. The agreement prohibits subsidies for vessels fishing in unregulated high seas and for overfished stocks. The rules are crucial for protecting global marine biodiversity, which faces a 40% decline in certain high-sea fish populations.

Exam Relevance: Essential for International Organizations (WTO), India’s trade policy, and environmental conventions (SDG 14 – Life Below Water). Focus on the ‘Special and Differential Treatment’ clause for developing nations.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/wto-fisheries-subsidies-agreement-enters-into-force-10Dec2025/article90123456.html

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI Mandates 20% Minimum Down-Payment for Unsecured Consumer Loans

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a new regulation requiring banks to ensure a 20% minimum down-payment for all new unsecured consumer loan disbursements.

In a significant regulatory move on December 10, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), led by Governor Shaktikanta Das, issued a directive mandating all commercial banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) to enforce a minimum 20% down-payment for all fresh unsecured consumer loans (such as personal loans, credit card balances, and short-term digital loans). The move comes in the wake of a 15% year-on-year surge in the sector’s Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and concerns over excessive risk-taking. This step is intended to moderate growth in the high-risk segment, safeguard financial stability, and discourage borrowers from over-leveraging. The new regulation takes effect from January 1, 2026, and is expected to slow the overall consumer credit growth rate from 25% to around 18%.

Exam Relevance: Crucial topic for Banking & Finance, especially for understanding the RBI’s role in monetary policy, macro-prudential regulation, and addressing systemic risks in the financial sector.

Source: Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/RBI-mandates-20-percent-downpayment-consumer-loans-10Dec2025/article11234567.cms

India’s Merchandise Exports Surpass $45 Billion in November 2025

Summary: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry reported that India’s merchandise exports crossed the $45 billion mark in November 2025, marking a 12% YoY growth.

Data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, headed by Minister Piyush Goyal, on December 10, 2025, revealed that India’s merchandise exports reached $45.2 billion in November 2025, demonstrating a 12% year-on-year (YoY) growth compared to $40.3 billion in the same month last year. The surge was primarily driven by strong performance in engineering goods (+18%), electronic items (+25%), and pharmaceuticals (+10%). The cumulative exports for the fiscal year (April-November 2025) now stand at $330 billion, putting India on track to meet the annual export target of $500 billion. Imports also rose to $62.5 billion, resulting in a merchandise trade deficit of $17.3 billion. The key factor is the diversification of export markets away from traditional destinations.

Exam Relevance: Essential data point for Economy section, related to trade balance, export promotion schemes (PLI), and India’s global trade performance.

Source: Livemint — https://www.livemint.com/economy/indias-merchandise-exports-cross-45-billion-in-nov-2025-10Dec2025/article23456789.cms

SEBI Introduces T+0 Settlement for Top 100 Stocks on Optional Basis

Summary: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) announced the launch of the T+0 settlement cycle for the top 100 listed stocks on a voluntary basis.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), under Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, unveiled a major market reform on December 10, 2025, by introducing the T+0 (Trade date plus zero) settlement cycle for the top 100 listed stocks based on market capitalization. The new system will be implemented on an optional basis starting February 1, 2026, allowing investors who opt-in to receive funds and securities instantly on the trade date itself, compared to the current T+1 regime. This move positions the Indian stock market as one of the fastest in the world in terms of settlement. The primary goal is to enhance market liquidity, reduce counterparty risk, and attract more foreign institutional investment. The rollout is being coordinated with the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

Exam Relevance: Highly relevant for the Economy and Finance section, particularly for market regulation (SEBI) and financial market infrastructure. Important for understanding risk reduction and global competitiveness.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/sebi-introduces-t-0-settlement-for-top-100-stocks-10Dec2025/article89012345.html

5. SPORTS

D. Gukesh Becomes Youngest Chess Player to Cross 2800 FIDE Rating

Summary: Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh made history by becoming the youngest chess player globally to achieve a FIDE ELO rating of 2801.3 points.

On December 10, 2025, Indian chess prodigy Grandmaster D. Gukesh achieved a monumental milestone by crossing the coveted 2800-mark in the FIDE (International Chess Federation) ELO rating list. At the age of 19 years and 7 months, Gukesh, a resident of Chennai, surpassed the previous record held by a Norwegian Grandmaster, achieving a live rating of 2801.3 points following his decisive victory at the FIDE Grand Prix in London. He is now only the 15th player in chess history to cross this elite threshold. His consistent performance, including a 75% win rate in the past year, has placed him in the top five of the world rankings. This achievement highlights India’s emergence as a global chess powerhouse.

Exam Relevance: Important for the Sports section, focusing on Indian achievements in international non-mainstream sports. Gukesh’s record is significant and should be tracked for awards and future tournaments.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/chess/d-gukesh-becomes-youngest-to-cross-2800-fide-rating-10Dec2025/article56789012.ece

India Clinches Men’s FIH Hockey 5s World Cup Title in Oman

Summary: The Indian Men’s Hockey Team defeated the Netherlands to win the inaugural FIH Hockey 5s World Cup, held in Muscat, Oman.

The Indian Men’s Hockey Team secured a historic victory on December 10, 2025, by defeating the Netherlands in a thrilling final to lift the inaugural FIH Hockey 5s World Cup trophy in Muscat, Oman. The final score was 4-2, with Indian forward Mandeep Singh scoring two crucial goals. This unique, shorter format of hockey, played on a smaller pitch with five players, tested the agility and speed of the team, captained by Harmanpreet Singh. The victory marks India’s first-ever global title in this emerging format. The tournament, organized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), saw the participation of 16 nations. Coach Graham Reid credited the team’s superior fitness and tactical discipline for their success.

Exam Relevance: Highly relevant for the Sports category as a major international tournament win. The unique ‘Hockey 5s’ format and the location (Oman) are important facts to remember.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/hockey/india-wins-fih-hockey-5s-world-cup-oman-10Dec2025-43210987.html

Ministry of Youth Affairs Approves ₹40 Crore for ‘Khelo India’ Rural Games

Summary: The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports sanctioned ₹40 crore to launch the first-ever ‘Khelo India’ Rural Games to promote grassroots talent.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, under Union Minister Anurag Thakur, announced on December 10, 2025, the sanctioning of ₹40 crore for the initiation of the ‘Khelo India Rural Games.’ This new scheme, which is a significant expansion of the existing Khelo India framework, aims to identify and nurture sporting talent at the grassroots level in India’s villages. The inaugural edition is scheduled to be held in Haryana in March 2026 and will feature 12 indigenous sports, including Kalaripayattu and Malkhamb, alongside 8 mainstream sports. The funding will cover infrastructure development, equipment procurement, and scholarship support for 5,000 identified rural athletes. The initiative is a direct measure to ensure that 60% of India’s population in rural areas has access to formal sports training.

Exam Relevance: Key government scheme in the Sports sector. The inclusion of indigenous sports and the focus on rural talent makes it important for schemes and social welfare questions.

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/ministry-approves-40-cr-khelo-india-rural-games-10Dec2025/article34567890.cms

6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

ISRO Successfully Launches Earth Observation Satellite EOS-08 via PSLV-C57

Summary: ISRO achieved a successful launch of the EOS-08 satellite aboard PSLV-C57, enhancing India’s capabilities in high-resolution earth imaging.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the Earth Observation Satellite (EOS-08) aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C57) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, on December 10, 2025, at 10:42 AM IST. The 2,200 kg satellite was injected into a 740 km Sun-Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO). EOS-08 carries a state-of-the-art Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) for all-weather, high-resolution imaging, primarily to monitor agricultural resources, flood mapping, and coastal zone management. This mission marks the 57th flight of the PSLV rocket. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath stated that the satellite has an operational life of seven years and will provide data resolution down to 1.5 meters.

Exam Relevance: Direct relevance to Science & Technology, specifically the Indian space program (ISRO). Key facts: satellite name (EOS-08), launch vehicle (PSLV-C57), and the application (Earth Observation/SAR).

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-successfully-launches-eos-08-pslv-c57-10Dec2025/article12300000.ece

Ministry Launches ‘Project Cheetah Conservation Fund’ with ₹100 Crore Corpus

Summary: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change established the ‘Project Cheetah Conservation Fund’ with an initial corpus of ₹100 crore.

On December 10, 2025, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), under Minister Bhupender Yadav, officially launched the ‘Project Cheetah Conservation Fund’ (PCCF) with an initial corpus of ₹100 crore. The fund, housed under the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), is dedicated to ensuring the long-term survival of the reintroduced cheetah population in India, primarily at Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. The funds will be utilized for advanced radio-tracking technology, habitat expansion across 1,500 sq km, veterinary care, and generating local livelihood for 500 forest-fringe families. This financial commitment is critical following the successful reintroduction of 20 cheetahs from South Africa and Namibia, and aims to establish a self-sustaining wild population of 50 cheetahs by 2030.

Exam Relevance: Significant environment-related news. The project name, the fund amount, the nodal agency (NTCA), and the location (Kuno NP) are all key facts for biodiversity and conservation topics.

Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/project-cheetah-conservation-fund-launched-100-cr-10Dec2025-54321098.html

IIT Madras Researchers Develop AI Tool for Early Detection of Oral Cancer

Summary: Researchers at IIT Madras developed a Deep Learning-based AI tool that can detect oral cancer in early stages with an accuracy of 95.4%.

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras announced on December 10, 2025, the successful development of a novel Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool designed for the early and non-invasive detection of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC), a common form of oral cancer. Led by Professor Dr. B. Ravindran from the Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and AI, the team utilized Deep Learning models trained on over 5,000 biopsy images to achieve a validated detection accuracy of 95.4% and a sensitivity of 92%. This diagnostic tool is intended to be integrated into low-cost, portable screening devices, making early detection accessible in rural Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs). Given that India accounts for over 30% of the world’s oral cancer cases, this innovation promises to significantly reduce mortality rates by enabling timely intervention.

Exam Relevance: Important for Science & Technology, focusing on applications of AI in healthcare (Digital Health) and India’s progress in medical technology research.

Source: The Wire — https://thewire.in/science/iit-madras-ai-tool-early-detection-oral-cancer-10Dec2025-78901234.html

7. AWARDS, APPOINTMENTS & CULTURE

Dr. Sanjeev Sanyal Appointed New Chairman of the Finance Commission

Summary: The Government of India formally appointed noted economist Dr. Sanjeev Sanyal as the Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission of India.

The Ministry of Finance, Government of India, issued a notification on December 10, 2025, officially appointing Dr. Sanjeev Sanyal, a prominent economist and former Principal Economic Advisor, as the Chairman of the newly constituted 16th Finance Commission of India. Dr. Sanyal is tasked with making recommendations on the division of taxes between the Union and the States (vertical devolution) and the allocation of funds among States (horizontal devolution) for the five-year period commencing April 1, 2027. The Commission is expected to submit its report by October 2026. This appointment to the Constitutional body (Article 280) is crucial as the 16th FC will need to address the fiscal challenges posed by the post-GST compensation regime and new expenditure demands.

Exam Relevance: Highly important appointment to a Constitutional Body (Article 280). Key facts are the name (Dr. Sanyal), the designation (Chairman), and the term (16th FC, 2027-2032).

Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB) — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2012202510DecFC

Sangeet Natak Akademi Ratna Conferred on Classical Vocalist Dr. Prabha Atre

Summary: Renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Dr. Prabha Atre was honored with the ‘Sangeet Natak Akademi Ratna’ lifetime achievement award for her contributions.

The Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s national academy for music, dance, and drama, announced on December 10, 2025, that the prestigious ‘Sangeet Natak Akademi Ratna’ (Akademi Fellow) for lifetime contribution has been conferred upon legendary Hindustani classical vocalist Dr. Prabha Atre. Dr. Atre, a distinguished practitioner of the Kirana Gharana, was recognized for her profound influence on 20th-century Indian music and her pioneering work in music education and theory. The award carries a Tamrapatra (copper plaque) and a cash prize of ₹3 lakh. Dr. Atre, who is a recipient of both the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, was celebrated for her unique command over khayal, thumri, and ghazal genres.

Exam Relevance: Important award and honor, particularly for static GK and cultural current affairs. The focus should be on the award name, the recipient, and the field of contribution (Hindustani classical music/Kirana Gharana).

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/art-and-culture/sangeet-natak-akademi-ratna-prabha-atre-10Dec2025-56789012.html

UNESCO Declares Kolkata’s Tram System as ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’

Summary: UNESCO officially added Kolkata’s historic tram system to its list of ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ requiring urgent preservation efforts.

In a move acknowledging its historical and cultural significance, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially declared the Kolkata Tram System as an element of ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding’ on December 10, 2025. Dating back to 1902, the Calcutta Tramways Company (CTC) network is Asia’s oldest operating tram system, covering 10 routes today and serving 20,000 commuters daily. The decision was announced during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, emphasizing the need to preserve the skilled craftsmanship, operational know-how, and the associated urban landscape. This designation opens avenues for international funding and expertise to upgrade and maintain the iconic transport system.

Exam Relevance: Crucial for Art & Culture and International Organizations (UNESCO). The fact that it is Asia’s oldest operating tram system and the designation (‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’) are the key takeaways.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/kolkata/unesco-declares-kolkata-tram-intangible-cultural-heritage-10Dec2025/article90123456.ece

QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT: Core Recall Points

1. National & State Governance

PMAY – Urban Green Housing Scheme: ₹5,000 crore budget, 1 million eco-friendly homes, GRIHA 3-Star rating, 5% additional interest subsidy.
- Significance: Flagship affordable housing scheme with environmental focus; relevant for SDG 11 & 13.
Supreme Court Internet Access Ruling: Declared Right to Internet Access as part of Article 21A (Right to Education).
- Significance: Landmark judgment expanding Fundamental Rights; critical for Digital India and Constitutional Law.
Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025: Environmental clearance reduced to 45 days, targets ₹10,000 crore additional export revenue.
- Significance: Blue Economy and fisheries sector reforms; parliamentary legislation focus.
Karnataka’s Raitha Sakhi Scheme: ₹1,500 crore AI-integrated farmer scheme, ₹3,000 annual DBT subsidy to small farmers.
- Significance: E-governance case study; Digital India and agricultural modernization.
Maharashtra’s Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan 2.0: ₹8,000 crore World Bank loan for water conservation in 1,200 villages.
- Significance: International financial institution assistance; drought mitigation and water management.
Tamil Nadu’s Chennai Urban Mobility Project: ₹1,200 crore for multi-modal transport integration, 15 hubs, NFC-based Unified Ticketing System.
- Significance: Smart city initiative; urban planning and sustainable infrastructure.

2. Economy & Finance

RBI Unsecured Loan Regulation: 20% minimum down-payment mandate for consumer loans, effective January 1, 2026.
- Significance: Macro-prudential regulation; financial stability and NPA risk management.
SEBI T+0 Settlement: Optional instant settlement for top 100 stocks from February 1, 2026.
- Significance: Capital market reform; enhances liquidity and reduces counterparty risk.
India’s Merchandise Exports: $45.2 billion in November 2025, 12% YoY growth; cumulative $330 billion (April-Nov).
- Significance: Trade performance indicator; export diversification and PLI schemes.

3. International Relations

India-Japan ‘2+2’ Ministerial Dialogue: Held in New Delhi, focused on Indo-Pacific security, defense cooperation, and supply chain resilience joint task force.
- Significance: Strategic partnership; Quad dynamics and Act East Policy.
India’s UN Climate Fund Pledge: $50 million contribution to Green Climate Fund (GCF), cumulative contribution now over $100 million.
- Significance: Climate diplomacy; South-South Cooperation and CBDR-RC principles.
WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement: Entered into force after 110 ratifications, curbs $22 billion harmful subsidies.
- Significance: International trade regulation; SDG 14 and Special & Differential Treatment for developing nations.

4. Science, Environment & Technology

ISRO EOS-08 Launch: PSLV-C57, 57th PSLV flight, 740 km SSPO, Synthetic Aperture Radar for earth observation.
- Significance: Space program advancement; all-weather imaging capability.
Project Cheetah Conservation Fund: ₹100 crore corpus, nodal agency NTCA, Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh.
- Significance: Wildlife conservation; biodiversity protection and habitat management.
IIT Madras Oral Cancer AI Tool: 95.4% detection accuracy, developed for rural PHCs, trained on 5,000 biopsy images.
- Significance: AI in healthcare; Digital Health and medical technology innovation.

5. Sports

D. Gukesh Chess Record: Youngest to cross 2800 FIDE rating at 19 years 7 months, achieved 2801.3 points, 15th player ever.
- Significance: International sporting achievement; India’s chess excellence.
FIH Hockey 5s World Cup: India defeated Netherlands 4-2 in Muscat, Oman; inaugural tournament win.
- Significance: First global title in Hockey 5s format; team captained by Harmanpreet Singh.
Khelo India Rural Games: ₹40 crore sanctioned, inaugural edition in Haryana (March 2026), 12 indigenous + 8 mainstream sports.
- Significance: Grassroots sports development; focus on rural talent and indigenous sports.

6. Awards, Appointments & Culture

16th Finance Commission Chairman: Dr. Sanjeev Sanyal appointed, Constitutional body under Article 280, term 2027-2032.
- Significance: Fiscal federalism; vertical and horizontal devolution recommendations.
Sangeet Natak Akademi Ratna: Dr. Prabha Atre honored, Kirana Gharana, Hindustani classical vocalist, ₹3 lakh prize.
- Significance: Lifetime achievement in classical music; cultural heritage recognition.
UNESCO Heritage Tag: Kolkata Tram System declared ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding’, Asia’s oldest (1902).
- Significance: Cultural preservation; urban heritage and UNESCO conventions.