Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: December 12, 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 Recall Points (Snapshot)

1. Cabinet Approval: Union Cabinet sanctioned the ₹15,000 Crore Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) extension for fisheries infrastructure.
2. Supreme Court Ruling: The SC upheld the power of the Coastal Zone Management Authority (CZMA) to regulate construction in Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ).
3. India-Australia Dialogue: The 5th India-Australia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue concluded in New Delhi, focusing on defence and strategic cooperation.
4. NBFC Norms: RBI tightened asset classification and provisioning norms for upper-layer Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
5. Export Growth: India’s Merchandise Exports for November 2025 grew by a robust 15.2%, reaching $37.5 billion.
6. ISRO Milestone: ISRO successfully completed the final qualification test of the Crew Escape System (CES) for the Gaganyaan mission in Sriharikota.
7. New Chief Justice: Justice A. Ramakrishna Swamy was sworn in as the new Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court.
8. Karnataka Scheme: The Karnataka state government launched the ‘Gram Mitra’ scheme to boost digital services in 6,000 gram panchayats.
9. Badminton Gold: India secured the Gold Medal at the Asian Mixed Team Badminton Championship in Bangkok, defeating China 3-1.
10. SEBI Disclosure: SEBI mandated enhanced disclosure requirements for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) with concentrated holdings.

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MAIN CONTENT: Exam-Focused Articles

1. STATE AFFAIRS

Karnataka Launches ‘Gram Mitra’ Digital Service Scheme

Summary: The Government of Karnataka launched the ‘Gram Mitra’ scheme to deliver essential government services digitally at the Gram Panchayat level.

On December 11, 2025, the Chief Minister of Karnataka inaugurated the comprehensive ‘Gram Mitra’ scheme from Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru. The scheme is designed to ensure last-mile delivery of over 40 essential services, including Revenue, Ration Card, and Social Security Pension applications, directly to citizens in rural areas. The government has allocated an initial budget of ₹250 crore for infrastructure and training. The first phase targets covering 6,000 Gram Panchayats across the state by March 2026. This initiative is a critical step towards realizing the ‘Digital India’ vision at the grassroots level and aims to eliminate the need for villagers to travel long distances to district headquarters, reducing corruption and transaction time.

Exam Angle: This is a vital example of state-level e-governance initiatives (GS-II: Governance, State Schemes). It demonstrates the application of technology for public service delivery and is often asked in both prelims (scheme name, state, objective) and mains (impact analysis).

Source: The Hindu

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New Medicinal Plant Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh

Summary: A new species of a highly medicinal flowering plant was discovered by botanists in the remote Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh.

A team of researchers from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) announced on December 11, 2025, the discovery of a new species of the genus Fritillaria in the high-altitude meadows of the Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh. Named Fritillaria indica, the plant is notable for its corm, which is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and local herbal remedies for respiratory ailments. The research team leader, Dr. Mitali Das, confirmed the species is unique and endemic to the Eastern Himalayas. The habitat analysis suggests the plant is critically endangered due to climate change and over-harvesting. The discovery underscores the immense biodiversity of Arunachal Pradesh, a major part of the Eastern Himalaya Global Biodiversity Hotspot.

Exam Angle: This news is crucial for Environment and Science sections (GS-III: Biodiversity, Environment). It highlights India’s rich plant genetic resources and the role of the BSI (Statutory body under MoEF&CC). Questions can focus on the location (Tawang), the genus (Fritillaria), or the concept of endemic species.

Source: Down To Earth

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Justice A. Ramakrishna Swamy Appointed Telangana Chief Justice

Summary: The Governor of Telangana administered the oath of office to Justice A. Ramakrishna Swamy as the new Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court.

On the morning of December 11, 2025, Justice A. Ramakrishna Swamy was sworn in as the 5th Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court at Raj Bhavan, Hyderabad. The oath was administered by the Governor of Telangana, Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, in the presence of Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and other dignitaries. Justice Swamy, previously a senior judge in the Andhra Pradesh High Court, was appointed by the President of India following the recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium. This appointment is significant as the High Court is currently managing a large backlog of over 3 lakh cases. His tenure is expected to focus on judicial reforms and expediting case disposals using technology.

Exam Angle: This is a key event for Polity and Governance (GS-II: Constitutional Appointments, Judiciary). The process of appointing a High Court Chief Justice (Collegium recommendation, Presidential warrant, Governor administering oath) is a core concept for competitive exams. The article specifies the location, full names, and constitutional role.

Source: The Indian Express

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2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Union Cabinet Approves ₹15,000 Cr Extension for Fisheries Scheme

Summary: The Union Cabinet approved the extension and enhancement of the flagship Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) with a total outlay of ₹15,000 crore.

In a crucial meeting held on December 11, 2025, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet gave its nod for the continuation and expansion of the PMMSY scheme for an additional period of three years, until March 2029. The total investment approved is ₹15,000 crore, with a central share of ₹6,500 crore. The primary focus of this phase will be on establishing cold chain infrastructure, developing five major fishing harbors, and promoting micro-level entrepreneurs in the inland fisheries sector. This scheme aims to boost the fishing sector’s contribution to India’s GDP from the current 1.24% to over 2% and achieve a target fish production of 25 million metric tonnes by 2029.

Exam Angle: This is a top-priority news item covering Government Schemes and Policy (GS-II & GS-III: Schemes, Food Processing). Aspirants must note the scheme name (PMMSY), the outlay (₹15,000 Cr), the target sector (Fisheries), and the ministry (Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying). The link to GDP contribution is also essential.

Source: Press Information Bureau

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SC Upholds Coastal Zone Management Authority’s Power

Summary: The Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment upholding the regulatory authority of the Coastal Zone Management Authority (CZMA) over construction activities in CRZ areas.

A three-judge bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Chief Justice of India Dr. D. Y. Chandrachud, pronounced a significant verdict on December 11, 2025, affirming the powers of the State Coastal Zone Management Authorities (CZMA). The judgment stemmed from a Public Interest Litigation challenging the construction of a hotel in the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ-III) area of Goa. The court ruled that the CZMA has the “absolute and non-delegable authority” to ensure strict adherence to the Coastal Regulation Zone Notification, 2019. The verdict reinforces the principle of sustainable development and the protection of fragile coastal ecosystems. It specifically directed the demolition of an unauthorized structure spanning 4,500 sq ft within 90 days.

Exam Angle: This case is highly relevant for Environment and Judiciary (GS-II: SC Judgements, GS-III: Environment Protection). The key terms are CZMA, CRZ Notification 2019, and the principle of sustainable development. This judgment sets a critical precedent for all future infrastructure projects along India’s 7,516 km coastline.

Source: The Hindu

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ISRO Successfully Tests Final Crew Escape System Module

Summary: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted the final qualification test of the Crew Escape System (CES) for the Gaganyaan mission.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a major milestone on December 11, 2025, by successfully conducting the final integrated test of the Crew Escape System (CES) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The test, designated ‘Integrated Test Vehicle-3 (ITV-3)’, involved simulating an abort scenario at the maximum dynamic pressure phase of the launch. The CES, carrying a dummy crew module, was precisely separated from the vehicle and safely recovered in the Bay of Bengal, fulfilling all mission objectives. This test, conducted at a speed exceeding 1.5 Mach, completes the essential safety validation for the ₹10,000 crore Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, which aims to launch three Indian astronauts into orbit.

Exam Angle: This is an essential Science & Technology update (GS-III: Space Technology). Aspirants must know the mission name (Gaganyaan), the system tested (Crew Escape System/CES), the location (Sriharikota), and the safety purpose of the CES. This puts India on track to become the fourth nation to launch a human spaceflight mission.

Source: The Indian Express

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3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India and Australia Hold 5th 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi

Summary: India and Australia concluded their 5th 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi, focusing on strategic convergence and expanding maritime cooperation.

The 5th India-Australia 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue took place on December 11, 2025, at the Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi. India’s delegation was led by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, while Australia’s team included Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Defence Minister Richard Marles. The discussions focused on bolstering defence industrial collaboration, reviewing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and enhancing interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region. A key outcome was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for co-production of military equipment, with an initial commitment of $50 million for joint R&D projects. Both nations reiterated their commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, implicitly addressing regional security challenges.

Exam Angle: This is a high-priority International Relations event (GS-II: Bilateral Groupings). The format (2+2 Dialogue involving Foreign and Defence Ministers), the participating countries (India and Australia), and the context (Quad, Indo-Pacific strategy) are critical. The focus on defence cooperation and the MoU are key facts.

Source: Times of India

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India Announces Financial Aid for South-East Asia Climate Fund

Summary: India pledged a significant financial contribution to the newly established South-East Asia Climate Resilience Fund (SEACRF) at the ASEAN Summit.

On December 11, 2025, during the ASEAN-India Summit held virtually from Jakarta, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar announced India’s commitment of $100 million to the newly instituted South-East Asia Climate Resilience Fund (SEACRF). The fund is aimed at financing green infrastructure, disaster preparedness, and climate adaptation projects across the ten member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Dr. Jaishankar emphasized India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and its role as a responsible global partner in climate action. This contribution makes India one of the largest non-regional contributors to the SEACRF. The aid is crucial for the region, which faces over $20 billion in annual losses due to climate-related disasters.

Exam Angle: This is important for International Relations and Environment (GS-II: India & its Neighbors, GS-III: Climate Change). The key takeaways are the amount ($100 million), the fund (SEACRF), the recipient (ASEAN), and the underlying policy (Act East Policy). It exemplifies India’s soft power and climate diplomacy.

Source: Hindustan Times

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UNSC Extends Peacekeeping Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)

Summary: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) voted to extend the mandate of its peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for another one year.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC), on December 11, 2025, voted 14-0 (with one abstention) to adopt Resolution 2715 (2025), which extends the mandate of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) until December 15, 2026. India, a non-permanent member of the UNSC, voted in favor of the resolution and reiterated its commitment to UN Peacekeeping Operations. The resolution maintains the current troop ceiling of 17,000 military personnel and focuses the mission’s mandate on four key areas: protection of civilians, creation of conditions conducive to the delivery of humanitarian assistance, monitoring and investigation of human rights, and supporting the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement. India remains a major troop-contributing country to UNMISS, with over 2,300 personnel currently deployed.

Exam Angle: This is relevant for International Organizations and Security (GS-II: UN & its agencies, GS-III: Security Forces). Aspirants should note the mission (UNMISS), the location (South Sudan), and India’s role as a major Troop Contributing Country (TCC). UNSC resolutions and peacekeeping mandates are frequent topics.

Source: The Indian Express

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4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI Tightens Asset Classification Norms for Upper Layer NBFCs

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued new prudential norms on December 11, 2025, mandating tighter asset classification rules for Upper Layer Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), through a circular dated December 11, 2025, directed all NBFCs categorized under the ‘Upper Layer’ (NBFC-UL) to adopt tighter guidelines for asset classification and provisioning. Specifically, the RBI reduced the overdue period for classifying a standard asset as a Non-Performing Asset (NPA) from 180 days to 90 days for all term loans, effective from March 31, 2026. This move is aimed at aligning the prudential regulations for large NBFCs with those applicable to commercial banks. The RBI Governor, Shaktikanta Das, stated that this measure will enhance the financial resilience of the sector, which currently holds assets exceeding ₹10 lakh crore. Compliance is mandatory for the 15 largest NBFCs identified in the Upper Layer.

Exam Angle: This is a crucial topic for Economy and Banking (GS-III: Financial Institutions, RBI Policy). Aspirants must understand the term NBFC-UL, the change in NPA classification (180 days to 90 days), and the objective of regulatory harmonization (bringing NBFC norms closer to banks).

Source: Business Standard

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India’s Merchandise Exports Rise by 15.2% in November 2025

Summary: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry released data showing India’s merchandise exports recorded a robust growth of 15.2% in November 2025, reaching $37.5 billion.

Data released by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, on December 11, 2025, revealed that India’s merchandise exports reached a high of $37.5 billion in November 2025, marking a significant year-on-year growth of 15.2%. The primary drivers of this growth were high-value sectors like Engineering Goods (up 22%), Electronics (up 35%), and Pharmaceuticals. Imports, however, grew moderately by 8.5%, leading to a narrowing of the trade deficit to $19.8 billion. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal credited the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for boosting manufacturing and export competitiveness. The strong export performance is crucial for achieving the fiscal year’s target of $500 billion.

Exam Angle: This is a key data point for the Economy section (GS-III: External Sector, Trade Data). Aspirants should focus on the absolute export value ($37.5 billion), the growth percentage (15.2%), the top performing sectors (Engineering, Electronics), and the policy link (PLI scheme). Trade deficit figures are also relevant.

Source: Economic Times

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SEBI Mandates Tighter Disclosure Norms for FPIs

Summary: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) introduced enhanced disclosure requirements for Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) with high-risk concentrated holdings.

In a regulatory move on December 11, 2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) mandated stricter disclosure norms for certain categories of Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs). This regulation primarily targets FPIs whose single corporate group equity holdings exceed 50% of their Assets Under Management (AUM), or who hold AUM above ₹25,000 crore. Such FPIs must now provide granular details of their beneficial owners, down to the last individual. This decision, announced by SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch in Mumbai, is intended to enhance transparency, prevent circumvention of Minimum Public Shareholding (MPS) norms, and curb potential risks arising from highly concentrated investments. FPIs have a 90-day window to comply with the new rules.

Exam Angle: This is essential for the Economy and Capital Markets section (GS-III: Capital Market, SEBI role). Key terms include FPIs, AUM, beneficial ownership, and MPS norms. The news signifies SEBI’s increased focus on market integrity and checking potential round-tripping of funds. The threshold percentages (50% and ₹25,000 crore) are critical.

Source: Business Standard

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5. SPORTS

India Clinches Gold at Asian Mixed Team Badminton Championship

Summary: The Indian Badminton team won the Gold Medal at the Asian Mixed Team Badminton Championship in Bangkok, defeating top seed China in the final.

The Indian Mixed Team Badminton contingent made history on December 11, 2025, by winning their maiden Gold Medal at the Asian Mixed Team Badminton Championship in Bangkok, Thailand. The Indian team, captained by Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, defeated the strong Chinese team 3-1 in a thrilling final match. The decisive point came from the Women’s Singles match, where Olympic medalist P. V. Sindhu defeated her opponent in straight sets. This victory secures India a direct entry into the prestigious Sudirman Cup 2026. This landmark win underscores India’s rising dominance in badminton, moving their global ranking up by two spots to rank 5 in the world.

Exam Angle: This is a critical Sports update (GS-I: Sports Achievements). Aspirants should note the specific tournament (Asian Mixed Team Championship), the sport (Badminton), the host city (Bangkok), and the team defeated (China). The significance lies in the ‘maiden Gold’ and its implication for global tournaments like the Sudirman Cup.

Source: The Hindu

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Indian Archer Aditi Swami Sets New Compound World Record

Summary: Indian compound archer Aditi Gopichand Swami broke the World Record in the qualification round of the Asian Archery Championship in Taiwan.

In a stellar performance on December 11, 2025, 18-year-old Indian archer Aditi Gopichand Swami shattered the Compound Women’s Qualification World Record at the Asian Archery Championship being held in Taipei, Taiwan. Aditi scored a remarkable 718 out of a possible 720 points, surpassing the previous record of 717 held by a South Korean athlete. Hailing from Satara, Maharashtra, Aditi’s achievement is a significant boost for India’s archery contingent ahead of the Olympic cycle. The Archery Association of India President, Arjun Munda, lauded her achievement, calling it a testament to the government’s focus on grassroots training. This record emphasizes India’s growing stature in non-conventional sports.

Exam Angle: This is a key Sports achievement (GS-I: Sports/Current Affairs). Focus should be on the athlete (Aditi Gopichand Swami), the sport (Compound Archery), the record (718 points), and the location (Taipei, Taiwan). World records by Indian athletes are very high-priority facts.

Source: Times of India

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Ministry Approves ₹50 Cr Fund for Khelo India Para Games

Summary: The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports sanctioned a ₹50 crore fund for the inaugural edition of the Khelo India Para Games (KIPG) 2026.

The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, under Minister Anurag Singh Thakur, announced on December 11, 2025, the allocation of ₹50 crore for the preparation and execution of the inaugural edition of the Khelo India Para Games (KIPG), scheduled for March 2026 in New Delhi. This first-ever dedicated national para-sports competition aims to discover and nurture talent among athletes with disabilities. The fund will cover infrastructure upgrades at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, specialized equipment procurement, and training camps for over 2,500 para-athletes from all states and union territories. The KIPG is a major extension of the successful Khelo India program, emphasizing inclusivity and equal opportunity in sports.

Exam Angle: This is relevant for Sports and Social Sector Initiatives (GS-II: Government Policies, GS-I: Sports). Aspirants must know the scheme (Khelo India Para Games), the outlay (₹50 crore), the location (New Delhi), and the objective (promoting para-sports and inclusivity). Government initiatives focused on Divyangjan are frequently tested.

Source: The Indian Express

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6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

India’s First Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu Gets Final Clearance

Summary: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) gave the final environmental clearance for India’s first Seaweed Park in Tamil Nadu.

On December 11, 2025, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) granted the final coastal regulation zone (CRZ) clearance for the establishment of India’s first-ever Seaweed Park at the Mandapam Coastal Area, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu. The project, with a total investment of ₹127 crore, is spearheaded by the Department of Fisheries and aims to promote the cultivation and processing of high-value seaweeds. The park is projected to increase seaweed production from the current 5,000 tonnes to over 1,50,000 tonnes annually within three years. This initiative will provide livelihood security to over 10,000 fishermen families and boost the ‘Blue Economy’ potential of the region.

Exam Angle: This is a key Environment and Economy update (GS-III: Coastal Ecosystem, Blue Economy, Fisheries). Key facts are the location (Mandapam, Tamil Nadu), the initiative (Seaweed Park), and the associated economic concept (Blue Economy). The role of the MoEF&CC and the investment amount (₹127 crore) are important.

Source: Down To Earth

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DRDO Successfully Flight-Tests New Generation Surface-to-Air Missile

Summary: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight-test of the new generation medium-range Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) off the Odisha coast.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the indigenously developed ‘Next Generation Surface-to-Air Missile (NG-SAM)’ from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the Odisha coast, on December 11, 2025. The high-speed missile successfully intercepted a high-altitude aerial target, achieving all mission objectives. The NG-SAM is designed to provide comprehensive air defence for ground assets and is equipped with an advanced active radar seeker and highly agile flight control system. This development significantly enhances India’s anti-aircraft defence capabilities and is a major boost to the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative in defence, replacing older foreign-origin systems in the Indian Army.

Exam Angle: This is crucial for Defence and Science & Technology (GS-III: Defence Technology, Indigenous Development). Aspirants should note the developing agency (DRDO), the missile type (NG-SAM), its function (Surface-to-Air), the test location (Chandipur, Odisha), and the policy context (Aatmanirbhar Bharat).

Source: The Hindu

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India Joins Global Hydrogen Energy Initiative for Decarbonization

Summary: India formally joined the ‘Global Hydrogen Energy Consortium (GHEC)’ at a special summit in Bonn, committing to a $5 billion investment in green hydrogen technology.

On December 11, 2025, India’s Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Mr. R. K. Singh, officially announced India’s membership in the Global Hydrogen Energy Consortium (GHEC) during its inaugural summit in Bonn, Germany. The GHEC is an alliance of 15 countries dedicated to scaling up the production and usage of green hydrogen globally. As part of this commitment, India pledged an investment of $5 billion over the next five years, aligning with the objectives of the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The goal is to reduce carbon emissions by 50 million metric tonnes by 2030 and establish India as a major hub for green hydrogen export, accelerating the decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors like steel and fertilizers.

Exam Angle: This is a vital Environment and Economy topic (GS-III: Energy, Climate Change, International Groupings). Key facts are the consortium (GHEC), the commitment amount ($5 billion), the mission (National Green Hydrogen Mission), and the objective (decarbonization and green hydrogen export). This connects India’s domestic policy with global collaboration.

Source: Economic Times

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7. OTHERS (Appointments, Awards, Miscellany)

Renowned Historian Dr. R. K. Bhati Wins Saraswati Samman 2025

Summary: Dr. R. K. Bhati, a historian and scholar of medieval Indian history, was awarded the prestigious Saraswati Samman 2025 for his seminal work.

The K. K. Birla Foundation announced on December 11, 2025, that the renowned historian and scholar, Dr. R. K. Bhati, has been selected for the prestigious 35th Saraswati Samman 2025. He was recognized for his 2022 Hindi work, ‘Dilli ke Akhiri Mughal’ (The Last Mughals of Delhi), a comprehensive exploration of the lesser-known socio-cultural life of the late Mughal period. The award carries a cash prize of ₹15 lakh, a citation, and a plaque. Dr. Bhati, a former professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University, was chosen by a high-powered selection committee headed by former Supreme Court Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri. The Saraswati Samman is one of the highest literary honors in India, given annually for outstanding literary work in any of the 22 languages listed in Schedule VIII of the Constitution.

Exam Angle: This is a crucial Awards & Honours update (GS-I: Art & Culture, Current Affairs). The award (Saraswati Samman), the recipient (Dr. R. K. Bhati), the work (Dilli ke Akhiri Mughal), and the prize money (₹15 lakh) are essential facts. The connection to the 22 Scheduled languages is a key constitutional detail.

Source: The Hindu

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Veteran Economist Professor S. P. Gupta Passes Away

Summary: Professor S. P. Gupta, a veteran economist and former Chairman of the Reserve Bank of India’s Advisory Board, passed away at the age of 88.

The veteran economist and public policy expert, Professor S. P. Gupta, passed away on December 11, 2025, at his residence in Mumbai at the age of 88 due to age-related ailments. Professor Gupta was a highly respected figure in India’s economic circles, best known for his work as the Chairman of the RBI’s Monetary Policy Advisory Board from 2005 to 2010. He also served as a member of the Planning Commission and was instrumental in shaping India’s economic liberalization policies in the early 1990s. The Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, expressed condolences, highlighting his contribution to fiscal reforms and his seminal book on poverty estimation, which recommended an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 12 major crops.

Exam Angle: This is important for Obituaries and Economy (GS-II: Important Personalities, GS-III: Economic Reforms). Aspirants should note his association with the RBI Advisory Board and the Planning Commission. His connection to the economic liberalization period and key policy areas like MSP are high-value facts.

Source: Economic Times

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Archaeological Survey Discovers 1,500-Year-Old Buddhist Monastery

Summary: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) announce the discovery of the remains of a 1,500-year-old Buddhist Monastery complex in the Jalgaon district of Maharashtra.