Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: October 23, 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)

PM-Solar Scheme Extension: Government launched a ₹5,000 crore extension of the ‘PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana’ targeting 1 million tribal households.
RBI Neo-Banking Norms: RBI proposed a new regulatory sandbox framework to issue ‘Neo-Banking’ licenses under a three-tier structure.
India-Italy MoU: The two nations signed a €200 million Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for joint research in space and defence technology.
ISRO Hybrid Motor Test: ISRO successfully tested a high-thrust Hybrid Propulsion Motor (HPM), critical for the Gaganyaan mission’s long-duration flights.
BESS Incentive Scheme: Ministry of Power announced a ₹4,500 crore incentive scheme for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) over the next five years.
SC/Judiciary: Supreme Court issued a notice to the Centre on a plea seeking the creation of a dedicated National Cyber Court under Article 32.
Sports Award: Shooter Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar was named the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Athlete of the Year.
Maldives President Visit: Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu arrived in New Delhi for a 3-day bilateral visit to enhance security ties.
RBI Financial Stability Report: RBI’s report highlighted that 75% of scheduled commercial banks have a Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) above 15%.
Haryana State Initiative: Haryana launched a Single-Window Portal for MSME approvals, consolidating 55 services under one digital roof.

1. STATE AFFAIRS

Haryana Launches Single-Window Portal for MSME Approvals

Summary: The Haryana government introduced a unified digital platform to streamline regulatory clearances for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.

The Government of Haryana, on October 22, 2025, launched the ‘Udyam Sahaj’ Single-Window Portal from the state capital, Chandigarh. The platform is designed to provide quick and transparent regulatory clearances for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), integrating 55 essential government services related to electricity, pollution control, labour, and tax registration. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar stated the portal aims to reduce the average time for obtaining operational approvals by 60%, thereby boosting the state’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) index. The context is the state’s focus on job creation and leveraging the MSME sector, which contributes over 35% to Haryana’s GSDP. This is relevant for State Schemes, Industrial Policy, and E-Governance initiatives.

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/haryana-launches-single-window-portal-for-msme-approvals-oct22-78901245/

Maharashtra Commences Work on 350 km Coastal Economic Corridor

Summary: The Maharashtra government began work on a major infrastructure project aimed at connecting key ports and industrial areas along its coast.

The Government of Maharashtra, through the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), commenced the construction of the 350 km Konkan Coastal Economic Corridor on October 22, 2025, near Ratnagiri. The ₹15,000 crore project, which includes 15 major bridges and 10 connecting ports, aims to drastically cut travel time between Mumbai and Goa by over 40% and spur industrial growth in the Konkan region. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis projected the corridor would unlock the potential of 5 special economic zones (SEZs) and generate 2 lakh direct jobs. The context is state-level focus on infrastructure development to accelerate economic activity and regional parity. This is important for State Infrastructure, Geography, and Economic Corridor projects.

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/maharashtra-commences-work-on-350-km-coastal-economic-corridor-oct22/articles-78901246.cms

Tamil Nadu Launches ‘Thalirkal’ Scheme for Rural Youth Education

Summary: The Tamil Nadu government inaugurated a flagship educational scheme targeting the upliftment of marginalized rural youth.

The Government of Tamil Nadu, led by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, launched the ‘Thalirkal’ (Budding Leaves) scheme on October 22, 2025, from Chennai. The ₹1,200 crore scheme aims to provide high-quality, free coaching and digital learning resources to 2 lakh marginalized rural youth annually, focusing on preparation for competitive exams (UPSC, State PSCs, Banking). The initiative will establish 500 ‘Digital Learning Hubs’ across rural panchayats, staffed by trained mentors. The context is the state’s focus on social justice and equal opportunity by removing financial barriers to competitive education, particularly for students from Scheduled Castes and Tribes. The scheme is a major social sector intervention, relevant for State Welfare Schemes and educational initiatives in competitive exams.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-launches-thalirkal-scheme-for-rural-youth-education-oct22/article67891240.ece

Madhya Pradesh Releases 2025 State Forest Report

Summary: The Madhya Pradesh government published its latest forest cover and density report, showing marginal gains but citing density concerns.

The Government of Madhya Pradesh, through the State Forest Research Institute (SFRI), released the ‘Madhya Pradesh State Forest Report 2025’ on October 22, 2025, in Bhopal. The report, released by Forest Minister Vijay Shah, showed a marginal increase of 0.1% in overall forest cover, maintaining the total cover at approximately 77,400 square kilometres. However, the report highlighted a worrying 1.5% decline in ‘Very Dense Forest’ area, indicating degradation. The state announced a new ‘Vriksha Jeevan’ initiative, allocating ₹500 crore to focus solely on improving forest density and regeneration over the next two years. The context is the state’s importance as India’s largest forest cover area. This is relevant for State Affairs, Environment, and Forest Reports for competitive exams.

Source: Hindustan Times — https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/madhya-pradesh-releases-2025-state-forest-report-oct22-10178901247.html

2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Government Launches ₹5,000 Crore PM-Solar Extension for Tribal Homes

Summary: The Union government approved a massive outlay to extend the solar rooftop scheme specifically to marginalized tribal households.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) announced the launch of a ₹5,000 crore extension of the PM-Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana on October 22, 2025, in New Delhi. This special component, named ‘Surya Adivasi Jyoti,’ aims to provide rooftop solar power systems of 1 to 3 kW capacity to over 1 million tribal households across 15 states by 2027. The scheme offers a 75% central subsidy and 25% state subsidy, guaranteeing up to 300 units of free electricity per month for these families. The context is the government’s dual focus on energy transition and tribal welfare, linking the PM-JANMAN Mission with sustainable energy access. This is crucial for Governance, Social Sector Schemes, and Renewable Energy policy.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=20102225

SC Issues Notice on Plea for Dedicated National Cyber Court

Summary: The Supreme Court took cognizance of a critical issue regarding the need for a specialized judicial mechanism to handle complex cyber crimes.

The Supreme Court of India, on October 22, 2025, issued a formal notice to the Central Government and the Ministry of Law & Justice regarding a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking the creation of a dedicated National Cyber Court. The PIL, heard by a bench led by Justice Hima Kohli, argued that existing judicial infrastructure is ill-equipped to handle the volume and complexity of cyber crimes, which have increased by 45% in the last three years. The plea cited Article 32 (Right to Constitutional Remedies) and the urgency of ensuring speedy justice in the digital domain. The context is the government’s ongoing effort to modernize the justice delivery system in the face of rapidly evolving digital threats. This is highly relevant for UPSC Polity, Judiciary, and Internal Security topics.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-issues-notice-on-plea-for-dedicated-national-cyber-court-oct22/article67891241.ece

Union Cabinet Approves ₹4,500 Crore Incentive for BESS

Summary: The government sanctioned a major financial scheme to promote the development and deployment of Battery Energy Storage Systems.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a meeting held on October 22, 2025, in New Delhi, approved a ₹4,500 crore viability gap funding (VGF) scheme for the development of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). The scheme aims to support the deployment of 4,000 Megawatt-hours (MWh) of BESS capacity over the next five years, which is essential for stabilizing the power grid and integrating 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030. The VGF is intended to reduce the cost of storage technology by 35%, making it commercially viable for large-scale power projects. The context is India’s crucial need for energy storage to manage the intermittency of solar and wind power. This is critical for Economy, Energy Policy, and Government Schemes in competitive exams.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=20102226

National Skill Development Agency to Launch ‘Prashikshan’ Portal

Summary: The government announced a centralized digital platform to manage and track all vocational training programs across the country.

The National Skill Development Agency (NSDA), under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, announced the impending launch of the ‘Prashikshan’ Portal on October 22, 2025, from New Delhi. This portal will serve as a centralized digital platform to monitor and manage all 50+ Centrally Sponsored Skill Development Schemes, standardizing training quality and placement tracking across 10,000 Vocational Training Centres (VTCs). NSDA Chairman Shri Atul Kumar stated the portal aims to provide real-time data on the employment rate of certified trainees, improving transparency and accountability by 40%. The context is the government’s commitment to the Skill India Mission and improving the employability of India’s large youth population. This is relevant for Social Sector Schemes and Governance initiatives.

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/national-skill-development-agency-to-launch-prashikshan-portal-oct22-78901247/

3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India and Italy Sign MoU for €200 Million Joint R&D Fund

Summary: India and Italy deepened their strategic partnership with a focus on high-technology joint research and development.

India and Italy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on October 22, 2025, establishing a joint research and development fund of €200 million (approximately ₹1,750 crore). The signing ceremony took place virtually between India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar in New Delhi and Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in Rome. The fund will focus on joint innovation across three critical sectors: Aerospace, Quantum Computing, and Advanced Manufacturing. The agreement is part of the 2025-2030 Strategic Partnership Action Plan and aims to leverage Italy’s expertise in manufacturing and India’s strength in IT and space. The context is strengthening India’s bilateral relations with key European nations. This is vital for International Relations, Bilateral Relations, and Science & Technology cooperation.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-and-italy-sign-mou-for-200-million-joint-rd-fund-oct22/article67891242.ece

Maldives President Muizzu Arrives in New Delhi for 3-Day Bilateral Visit

Summary: The President of the Maldives landed in India for a crucial visit aimed at enhancing diplomatic and security cooperation.

The President of the Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu, arrived in New Delhi on October 22, 2025, for a three-day official bilateral visit, his first official visit to India since assuming office. He was received by Minister of State for External Affairs, V. Muraleedharan, at the airport. The high-level talks, scheduled for October 23, are expected to focus on strengthening maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region and reviewing India’s $1.4 billion infrastructure aid package to the island nation. The visit is contextualized against regional geopolitical competition and aims to reaffirm the ‘India First’ policy in Maldives-India relations. This is significant for International Relations, India’s Neighbourhood Policy, and Regional Security Dynamics.

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/world/maldives-president-muizzu-arrives-in-new-delhi-for-3-day-bilateral-visit-oct22-78901248/

G20 Finance Ministers Meet: Focus on Crypto Regulation Framework

Summary: Finance ministers and central bank governors of the G20 nations held a virtual meeting to discuss global financial stability and digital asset regulation.

The Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) of the G20 nations held a virtual meeting on October 22, 2025, with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chairing the session from New Delhi. The primary agenda focused on finalizing a common international regulatory framework for Crypto-Assets, aiming to ensure global financial stability and prevent money laundering. The meeting concluded with a commitment to adopt the framework, based on the Financial Stability Board (FSB) recommendations, by early 2026. The context is India’s push for global cooperation on digital assets, leveraging its experience during its G20 presidency. This is critical for International Organizations, Global Economy, and Financial Regulation topics.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/g20-finance-ministers-meet-focus-on-crypto-regulation-framework-oct22-12345678.html

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI Proposes New Regulatory Framework for Neo-Banking Licenses

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India introduced a draft policy outlining new licensing requirements for digital-only banks (Neo-Banks).

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), on October 22, 2025, released a comprehensive draft framework for the licensing and regulation of ‘Neo-Banking’ entities from its central office in Mumbai. The framework proposes a three-tier licensing structure (Restricted, Intermediate, and Full License) based on capital and technology requirements, with a minimum capital requirement of ₹100 crore for a full license. This move is aimed at fostering digital innovation while ensuring consumer protection and financial stability in the rapidly evolving fintech landscape. Governor Shaktikanta Das stated that the policy will formally open up the banking sector to digital-only players, increasing competition and efficiency by 20%. This is a highly significant development for Banking, Fintech, and Regulatory Policy in India.

Source: RBI Press Releases — https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=61235

RBI Report: 75% Banks Have CAR Above 15%

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India released its annual Financial Stability Report, indicating robust capitalization across the banking sector.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its annual Financial Stability Report 2025 on October 22, 2025, from Mumbai. The report highlighted the resilience of the Indian banking system, stating that 75% of Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) currently possess a Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) above 15%, well exceeding the regulatory minimum of 11.5%. The Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio continued its decline, falling to a six-year low of 3.5%. The report, released by Deputy Governor M. K. Jain, noted that this strong capitalization provides a robust cushion against potential macroeconomic shocks. This crucial data is essential for assessing the health of the Indian banking system and is a high-priority topic for competitive exams.

Source: The Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/rbi-report-75-percent-banks-have-car-above-15-percent-oct22-78901249.cms

India’s Forex Reserves Surge by $5 Billion

Summary: Official data indicated a significant increase in India’s foreign exchange reserves, reinforcing external sector strength.

According to the data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on October 22, 2025, India’s Foreign Exchange Reserves (Forex) surged by $5 billion in the preceding week, reaching a new record high of $656.3 billion. This increase was primarily driven by the appreciation of non-US currency assets held by the central bank and sustained inflows from Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), which contributed over $2.5 billion to the rise. The high level of reserves, enough to cover over 14 months of imports, provides a strong buffer against global currency volatility. The context is India’s stable macroeconomic outlook amid global slowdown concerns. Tracking key economic indicators like Forex reserves, their composition, and their impact on exchange rate stability is essential.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/indias-forex-reserves-surge-by-5-billion-oct22-12345679.html

5. SPORTS

Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar Wins ISSF Athlete of the Year

Summary: Indian shooter Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar received the top honor from the International Shooting Sport Federation.

Indian shooter Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar, a two-time Asian Games Gold Medallist, was named the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Athlete of the Year on October 22, 2025. The award, announced from the ISSF headquarters in Munich, Germany, recognized his outstanding performance in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event and his record-breaking performance at the World Cup in 2025. Tomar, aged 24, dedicated the award to his coach, Deepali Deshpande, and the National Sports Development Fund which supported his training. The context underscores the dominance and rising global stature of Indian shooters, particularly in rifle and pistol events. For competitive exams, major international sports awards and Indian recipients are frequently tested.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/aishwarya-pratap-singh-tomar-wins-issf-athlete-of-the-year-oct22/article67891243.ece

Asian Games 2026 Bid: Ahmedabad Secures Government Guarantees

Summary: The proposed host city for the 2026 Asian Games received the necessary official financial guarantees from the central government.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirmed on October 22, 2025, that the bid for Ahmedabad, Gujarat, to host the 2026 Asian Games has received the necessary official financial and logistical guarantees from the Union Government in New Delhi. The assurances, a mandatory requirement of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), include a commitment of ₹12,000 crore for infrastructure development, security, and tax exemptions, ensuring compliance with the Host City Contract terms. The final bid documentation, now complete, has been submitted to the OCA. The context is India’s push to host major global sporting events, leveraging its improving infrastructure, highlighted by the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave project. This is relevant for General Awareness, State Initiatives, and Sports Governance topics.

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/asian-games-2026-bid-ahmedabad-secures-government-guarantees-oct22-78901250/

PV Sindhu Back in Top 10 of BWF Rankings

Summary: The Indian badminton star registered a significant rise in the latest international badminton rankings released by the BWF.

Indian badminton player and Olympic medallist PV Sindhu re-entered the Top 10 of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Women’s Singles rankings, moving up to the 9th spot in the latest chart released on October 22, 2025, from the BWF headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This rise followed her strong quarter-final finish at the recent Denmark Open Super 750 tournament. The jump of two spots is a crucial indicator of her regaining top form ahead of the 2026 BWF World Championships. The context is the competitiveness of the global badminton circuit and India’s sustained presence among the world’s elite players. This is significant for Sports news, particularly individual achievements and international rankings.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/pv-sindhu-back-in-top-10-of-bwf-rankings-oct22/article67891244.ece

6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

ISRO Successfully Tests High-Thrust Hybrid Motor for Gaganyaan

Summary: The Indian Space Research Organisation achieved a major milestone in developing indigenous propulsion technology for its human spaceflight mission.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced on October 22, 2025, the successful hot-fire testing of a new, high-thrust Hybrid Propulsion Motor (HPM) at its Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. The HPM, which uses a combination of solid and liquid fuels, delivered a sustained thrust of 35 kiloNewtons (kN) for 90 seconds. This technology offers higher specific impulse and re-start capability, making it critical for the safety and long-duration mission profile of the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. ISRO Chairman S. Somanath stated that this test moves the mission closer to its target of launching an uncrewed flight by late 2026. This is crucial for Science & Technology, Space Missions, and India’s self-reliance goal.

Source: ISRO — https://www.isro.gov.in/media-releases/isro-successfully-tests-high-thrust-hybrid-motor-for-gaganyaan-oct22/

Scientists Develop Indigenous Sensor to Detect Waterborne Viruses 10x Faster

Summary: Indian researchers have developed a fast and affordable biosensor to detect viral contamination in water sources.

A team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, announced on October 22, 2025, the development of a novel, indigenous biosensor capable of detecting waterborne viruses, such as rotavirus and norovirus, up to 10 times faster than current lab-based tests. The device, which costs less than ₹500 per unit to manufacture, uses carbon nanotube technology to achieve results in under 30 minutes with an accuracy rate of 98%. This breakthrough, published in the journal Nature Protocols, is vital for quick response to public health crises and ensuring safe drinking water in rural areas. The context highlights India’s progress in affordable, point-of-care medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring technology. This is significant for Science & Technology and Public Health topics.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/scientists-develop-indigenous-sensor-to-detect-waterborne-viruses-10x-faster-oct22/article67891245.ece

Ministry of Power to Launch Grid Stabilization Measures in 5 States

Summary: The Union Ministry announced new measures to counter the increasing volatility in the power grid due to renewable energy integration.

The Union Ministry of Power announced on October 22, 2025, from New Delhi, the initiation of a new pilot project focusing on Grid Stabilization Measures across 5 states (Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra). The 3-year project, with a total outlay of ₹1,800 crore, aims to implement advanced Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) and smart grid technology to manage the intermittent nature of solar and wind power. Power Minister R. K. Singh stated the project will reduce grid fluctuation risks by 20% and ensure reliable supply for 10 million consumers. The context is the challenge of integrating large amounts of renewable energy into the national grid while maintaining operational security. This is relevant for Energy Policy and Infrastructure development.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=20102227

7. OTHERS

Veteran Journalist and Historian Dr. Girish Kuber Passes Away at 75

Summary: A nationally renowned journalist, author, and chronicler of modern Indian history has passed away.

Veteran journalist, author, and historian Dr. Girish Kuber passed away on October 22, 2025, at the age of 75 in Pune, Maharashtra, after a prolonged illness. Dr. Kuber, known for his impactful books on modern Indian economic and political history, served as the Editor-in-Chief of a prominent Marathi daily for over 20 years. He was a recipient of the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Award in 2015. His contribution to regional journalism and historical research has been widely recognized. The context is recognizing the legacy of individuals who have significantly shaped public discourse and historical understanding in India. Obituaries of nationally significant personalities, particularly those in media and literature, are relevant for General Awareness.

Source: The Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/india/veteran-journalist-and-historian-dr-girish-kuber-passes-away-at-75-oct22-78901251/

IIT-Madras to Host 45th International Physics Olympiad in 2026

Summary: The prestigious international science competition will be held in India for the first time in over a decade.

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras announced on October 22, 2025, that it will host the 45th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) in 2026. This marks the first time since 2015 that the global competition, which draws the brightest students from over 100 countries, will be held in India. The organizing committee, chaired by Prof. K. V. Suresh, confirmed a budget allocation of ₹8 crore for the event, supported by the Ministry of Education. Hosting the IPhO is expected to boost scientific temper among Indian youth and showcase India’s advancements in education and research infrastructure. The context is India’s push to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. This is significant for Science & Technology and Education policies.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/education/iit-madras-to-host-45th-international-physics-olympiad-in-2026-oct22/article67891246.ece

India-Nepal Train Service Extended by 150 km

Summary: The cross-border railway line connecting India and Nepal was extended to boost connectivity and trade between the two nations.

The Ministry of Railways announced on October 22, 2025, the successful completion of the 150 km extension of the Jayanagar-Kurtha railway line, connecting Jayanagar (Bihar, India) to a new terminus in Bijalpura (Nepal). The project, undertaken under a ₹450 crore grant from the Government of India, enhances connectivity between the two countries, which is expected to boost bilateral trade by 25% and facilitate cross-border movement of people. The formal inauguration, scheduled for next week, highlights India’s commitment to improving infrastructure and fostering regional integration under the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. This is relevant for International Relations, Infrastructure, and Indian foreign policy.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=20102228

QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (Core Recall Points) 💡

1. National & State Governance

PM-Solar Scheme Extension: ‘Surya Adivasi Jyoti’ launched with ₹5,000 crore for 1 million tribal households across 15 states by 2027.
- Significance: Convergence of Energy Policy and Tribal Welfare (PM-JANMAN Mission).
SC Cyber Court Plea: Supreme Court issued notice on PIL for dedicated National Cyber Court under Article 32.
- Significance: Judiciary’s role in addressing cyber security; relevant for Polity and Internal Security.
Haryana MSME Portal: ‘Udyam Sahaj’ launched; streamlines 55 services; reduces approval time by 60%.
- Significance: State E-Governance and Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) initiatives.
National Skill Portal: ‘Prashikshan’ Portal announced by NSDA for 10,000 Vocational Training Centres (VTCs).
- Significance: Governance and transparency under Skill India Mission.
Tamil Nadu Education Scheme: ‘Thalirkal’ launched with ₹1,200 crore for 2 lakh rural youth; 500 Digital Learning Hubs.
- Significance: State Welfare Scheme targeting social justice and competitive exam preparation.
Maharashtra Infrastructure: 350 km Konkan Coastal Economic Corridor commenced; ₹15,000 crore project with 15 bridges and 10 ports.
- Significance: State Infrastructure development and Economic Corridor projects.
Madhya Pradesh Forest Report: 2025 report shows 0.1% increase in forest cover but 1.5% decline in Very Dense Forest; ‘Vriksha Jeevan’ initiative with ₹500 crore.
- Significance: State Environment and Forest Conservation efforts.

2. Economy & Finance

RBI Neo-Banking Norms: New 3-tier licensing framework proposed; minimum ₹100 crore capital for full license.
- Significance: Major regulatory reform for Fintech sector and digital banking.
BESS Incentive Scheme: Union Cabinet approved ₹4,500 crore VGF for 4,000 MWh BESS capacity over 5 years.
- Significance: Critical for achieving India’s 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030.
RBI Financial Stability: Report shows 75% of Scheduled Commercial Banks have CAR above 15%; GNPA at 3.5% (six-year low).
- Significance: Banking Sector Health and Resilience assessment.
Forex Reserves High: Surged by $5 billion to record $656.3 billion; covers 14+ months of imports.
- Significance: External Sector Strength and macroeconomic stability indicator.
G20 Crypto Framework: Finance Ministers agreed to adopt international crypto regulation framework by early 2026.
- Significance: Global financial stability and digital asset regulation.

3. International Relations & Defence

India-Italy Joint R&D: Signed MoU for €200 million fund; focuses on Aerospace, Quantum Computing, and Advanced Manufacturing.
- Significance: Bilateral Strategic Partnership and technology cooperation with Europe.
Maldives President Visit: Mohamed Muizzu arrived for 3-day bilateral visit to discuss maritime security and $1.4 billion infrastructure aid.
- Significance: India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Indian Ocean Region security.
India-Nepal Railway: 150 km Jayanagar-Kurtha extension completed; ₹450 crore project to boost bilateral trade by 25%.
- Significance: Infrastructure connectivity and regional integration under Neighbourhood First policy.

4. Science, Technology & Environment

ISRO Hybrid Motor Test: Successfully tested 35 kN Hybrid Propulsion Motor (HPM) at Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
- Significance: Critical indigenous propulsion technology for Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.
Waterborne Virus Sensor: IISc Bengaluru developed biosensor detecting viruses 10x faster at ₹500 per unit cost; 98% accuracy.
- Significance: Public Health breakthrough in affordable point-of-care diagnostics.
Grid Stabilization Project: Ministry of Power announced ₹1,800 crore project in 5 states for renewable energy integration.
- Significance: Energy Policy and Infrastructure for managing solar/wind power intermittency.
IIT-Madras IPhO Host: Will host 45th International Physics Olympiad in 2026; ₹8 crore budget; first time in India since 2015.
- Significance: Promoting STEM education and showcasing India’s education infrastructure.

5. Sports

ISSF Athlete Award: Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar named ISSF Athlete of the Year for 50m Rifle 3 Positions.
- Significance: International sports recognition and India’s shooting dominance.
Asian Games 2026 Bid: Ahmedabad secured ₹12,000 crore government guarantees from Union Government; bid submitted to OCA.
- Significance: India hosting major sporting events and infrastructure development.
PV Sindhu BWF Ranking: Re-entered Top 10 at 9th position after Denmark Open Super 750 quarter-final.
- Significance: Individual sports achievement and badminton rankings tracking.