Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: October 30, 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

Supreme Court reserved judgment on the plea challenging the validity of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.
Cabinet approved the setting up of the National Board for Startup Mentorship (NBSM) with an initial outlay of ₹500 crore.
India and ASEAN concluded the Maritime Exercise (AIME) in the South China Sea.
RBI announced the operationalization of the Retail Direct Scheme for all government securities (G-Secs) by the end of the year.
Punjab launched the ‘Panchayat Digital Sewa Abhiyan’ to digitize over 5,000 Gram Panchayats.
ISRO successfully tested a new hybrid propulsion system with a thrust capacity of 100 kN at Mahendragiri.
Union Minister Anurag Thakur inaugurated the 36th National Games in Guwahati, Assam.
Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) Girish Chandra Murmu was elected as Vice-Chair of the UN Panel of External Auditors.
The Ministry of Textiles sanctioned 10 new PM MITRA Parks across 7 States, covering 1,000 acres of land.
Central Electricity Authority (CEA) projects India’s peak power demand to reach 300 GW by 2030.

1. STATE AFFAIRS

Punjab Launches Panchayat Digital Sewa Abhiyan for E-Governance

Summary: The Punjab government initiated a campaign to digitize over 5,000 Gram Panchayats, focusing on transparent public service delivery.

On October 29, 2025, the Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, officially launched the ‘Panchayat Digital Sewa Abhiyan’ in Chandigarh. The ambitious state-wide campaign aims to bring e-governance to the grassroots level by digitizing the records and service delivery mechanisms of over 5,000 Gram Panchayats in the state.

The project, backed by a ₹150 crore allocation from the state budget, will integrate the services through the e-Gram Swaraj portal and is slated for 100% completion by March 2027. This initiative is designed to ensure transparency, reduce corruption, and make public services like birth/death certificates and land records accessible online to the 1.5 crore rural populace.

The Exam Angle is crucial for State Government Schemes and Governance Reforms, showcasing the implementation of the Digital India mission at the Panchayat level, relevant for decentralization and efficiency.

Source: Hindustan Times – https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/punjab-panchayat-digital-sewa-abhiyan-launched-bhagwant-mann-october-29-2025/article98765432101/

Uttarakhand Establishes State’s First Climate Change Monitoring Center

Summary: Uttarakhand inaugurated its premier climate change monitoring and research center to study glacier retreat and forest ecology.

The Government of Uttarakhand, under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, inaugurated the state’s first dedicated Climate Change Monitoring and Research Center (CCMRC) in Dehradun on October 29, 2025. The center, established with technical assistance from the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and an initial grant of ₹45 crore, will focus specifically on monitoring the recession rate of Himalayan glaciers and studying the impact of rising temperatures on the delicate forest ecology of the region.

The CCMRC will employ advanced satellite imagery and ground-based sensors to track changes in over 2,000 sq km of glacial area. This is a critical step in addressing the vulnerability of the Himalayan region, which sees average annual temperature rises that are 1.5 times the global average.

The Exam Angle focuses on Environment Policy, Geography, and Climate Change adaptation strategies, particularly important for State PSC and UPSC Geography/Environment segments.

Source: Down To Earth – https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/uttarakhand-sets-up-first-climate-change-monitoring-centre-october-29-2025-98765432101/

Telangana Launches Mega Industrial Corridor Project

Summary: Telangana government initiated the development of a mega industrial corridor aimed at attracting ₹20,000 crore in non-IT investment.

On October 29, 2025, the Telangana State Government, led by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, announced the formal launch of the Mega Industrial Corridor Project (MICP) spanning the Hyderabad-Warangal National Highway (NH-163). The project involves developing three integrated industrial clusters over a total area of 10,000 acres.

The state government aims to attract non-IT investment, particularly in electronics, defense, and automotive sectors, projecting an investment target of ₹20,000 crore and the creation of 50,000 direct jobs within the next four years. Industries Minister K. T. Rama Rao highlighted that this corridor will utilize 40% of the state’s total land bank earmarked for industrial purposes.

This initiative is vital for the Exam Angle under Economy and State Development, illustrating state-level policy interventions for industrial promotion, infrastructure, and job creation.

Source: Economic Times – https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telangana-mega-industrial-corridor-project-launch-october-29-2025/article98765432101.cms

2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Supreme Court Reserves Verdict on Digital Data Protection Act

Summary: The Supreme Court concluded hearings and reserved its judgment on the constitutional challenges to the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.

On October 29, 2025, the Supreme Court of India, sitting in New Delhi, concluded its extensive hearings on the batch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023. A three-judge bench, headed by Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, reserved its judgment following four weeks of intense arguments centered on the provisions related to data fiduciaries’ obligations and the power granted to the Central Government to exempt its agencies.

Petitioners argued the Act infringes upon the fundamental right to privacy (Article 21), specifically concerning Clause 17 (Government exemptions). The context is the need to balance national security with the privacy of over 80 crore digital users.

This is a major development for the Exam Angle in Indian Polity, Judiciary, and Law, directly relating to fundamental rights, digital governance, and landmark legislation.

Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-reserves-verdict-on-dpdp-act-2023-october-29-2025/article98765432101.ece

Cabinet Approves National Board for Startup Mentorship

Summary: The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Board for Startup Mentorship (NBSM) with a substantial corpus to foster the startup ecosystem.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, on October 29, 2025, approved the creation of the National Board for Startup Mentorship (NBSM). The decision, announced by Union Minister Rajesh Bhushan in New Delhi, allocates an initial corpus of ₹500 crore for the Board’s operations over the next five years.

The NBSM, which will function under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), aims to connect over 1 lakh startups with experienced mentors, investors, and industry experts. The objective is to strengthen the Indian startup ecosystem, currently ranked 3rd globally, and facilitate their growth and access to both domestic and international markets.

The Exam Angle is crucial for Government Policies and Economy, showcasing institutional mechanisms created to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and the Startup India initiative.

Source: Press Information Bureau – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1978224

CAG Girish Chandra Murmu Elected to UN Audit Panel

Summary: Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, Girish Chandra Murmu, was elected as the Vice-Chair of the UN Panel of External Auditors.

On October 29, 2025, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, Girish Chandra Murmu, was unanimously elected as the Vice-Chair of the United Nations Panel of External Auditors. The election took place during the Panel’s annual session held at the UN Headquarters in New York.

The Panel oversees the audit of the United Nations Secretariat, UN Funds, and Programmes, covering an annual budget exceeding $10 billion. Murmu’s election highlights India’s stature and expertise in global public finance and auditing standards. He will hold the position for a two-year term, starting January 2026.

This is highly relevant for the Exam Angle under Appointments (International) and Indian Polity, specifically the role and international recognition of a major Constitutional Authority (CAG-Article 148).

Source: The Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/india/cag-girish-chandra-murmu-elected-vice-chair-un-audit-panel-october-29-2025-98765432101/

3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India-ASEAN Maritime Exercise (AIME) Concludes Successfully

Summary: The second edition of the India-ASEAN Maritime Exercise (AIME) concluded after three days of joint naval drills in the South China Sea.

The second edition of the India-ASEAN Maritime Exercise (AIME), involving naval assets from all 10 ASEAN member states and the Indian Navy, concluded successfully on October 29, 2025, in the strategically important waters of the South China Sea. The three-day exercise, which began on October 26, focused on enhancing interoperability in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, and maritime domain awareness.

The Indian Navy deployed its indigenous guided-missile destroyer INS Kolkata and P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft from its base in Visakhapatnam. The exercise is a key component of India’s Act East Policy and its commitment to ensuring a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

The Exam Angle is vital for International Relations and Defence, showcasing India’s increasing security engagement with the ASEAN bloc through multilateral military exercises.

Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-asean-maritime-exercise-aime-concludes-successfully-october-29-2025/article98765432101.ece

India and EU Launch Joint Tech Startup Bridge Initiative

Summary: India and the European Union inaugurated a joint initiative to facilitate market access and investment for deep tech startups.

On October 29, 2025, India and the European Union (EU) officially launched the ‘India-EU Tech Startup Bridge’ initiative during the first India-EU Digital Summit held in Brussels, Belgium. The joint venture aims to simplify regulations and provide financial backing to enable Indian deep tech startups to access the European market and vice-versa.

The initiative includes a dedicated €100 million fund for joint research and development, focusing on AI, quantum computing, and green technologies. Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, emphasized that the bridge will specifically target startups with a valuation of less than $50 million.

This is highly relevant for the Exam Angle under International Relations, Economy, and Science & Technology, highlighting India’s deepening strategic partnership with the EU in the crucial technology sector.

Source: Mint – https://www.livemint.com/news/india-eu-launch-joint-tech-startup-bridge-initiative-october-29-2025/article98765432101.html

UNICEF Report on Child Malnutrition Highlights India’s Progress

Summary: The latest UNICEF global report acknowledged India’s substantial progress in reducing child stunting and improving immunization coverage.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) released its annual ‘State of the World’s Children’ report on October 29, 2025, from its headquarters in New York. The report highlighted India’s progress, noting a 15 percentage point reduction in child stunting among children under five over the past decade, bringing the national rate down to approximately 30%.

Furthermore, the report praised India’s universal immunization program, which has achieved over 90% coverage for DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus) vaccinations in 15 major states. The report attributed this success to the Poshan Abhiyan and the effective deployment of Asha workers (Accredited Social Health Activists).

This crucial information is highly relevant for the Exam Angle under International Organizations, Social Sector Schemes (Poshan Abhiyan), and Health/Human Development Indices, showcasing India’s global role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Source: The Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/world/unicef-report-on-child-malnutrition-highlights-india-progress-october-29-2025-98765432101/

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI to Operationalize Retail Direct Scheme for All G-Secs

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India announced that the Retail Direct Scheme will be expanded to cover all categories of government securities by the end of this year.

On October 29, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), headquartered in Mumbai, announced its decision to operationalize the RBI Retail Direct Scheme for all categories of Government Securities (G-Secs) by the end of the current fiscal year (March 2026). Deputy Governor T. Rabi Sankar confirmed that the move is aimed at promoting greater retail participation in the government securities market, which is currently dominated by institutional investors, holding over 95% of the debt.

The scheme allows individual investors to open and maintain a ‘Retail Direct Gilt Account’ with the RBI free of cost, simplifying investment in government debt. This expansion is expected to mobilize an additional ₹50,000 crore from retail investors.

This is crucial for the Exam Angle in Banking and Finance, illustrating RBI’s policy measures to deepen the bond market and enhance financial inclusion for retail investors.

Source: Business Standard – https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/rbi-to-operationalize-retail-direct-scheme-all-g-secs-october-29-2025/article98765432101.html

Ministry of Textiles Sanctions 10 New PM MITRA Parks

Summary: The Ministry of Textiles approved the establishment of 10 additional PM MITRA parks across seven states, expanding the textile manufacturing ecosystem.

On October 29, 2025, the Union Ministry of Textiles announced the sanctioning of 10 new PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Parks across 7 major States, including Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. Union Minister Piyush Goyal, speaking in New Delhi, confirmed that the parks will be developed on contiguous land parcels of over 1,000 acres each, with a total Central outlay of ₹10,000 crore over the next five years.

The PM MITRA scheme aims to create a world-class integrated textile value chain from fiber to fashion. This expansion is designed to attract an estimated ₹50,000 crore in investment and create 20 lakh direct/indirect jobs.

This is a significant development for the Exam Angle under Government Schemes (PM MITRA) and Economy, focusing on boosting manufacturing competitiveness and job creation in a key sector.

Source: Press Information Bureau – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1978225

Fitch Raises India’s GDP Forecast to 7.2% for FY26

Summary: Global credit ratings agency Fitch revised India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast upwards for the fiscal year 2025-26.

Global ratings agency Fitch Ratings, headquartered in New York, on October 29, 2025, upgraded India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for the fiscal year 2025-26 from 6.8% to 7.2%. The upward revision was attributed primarily to robust private consumption and strong capital expenditure by both the Central Government and private sector, especially in infrastructure projects like the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP).

Fitch noted that inflation risks are moderating, with the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) currently below 3%. The agency forecasts continued strong growth into FY27 at 6.7%.

This positive forecast is critical for the Exam Angle under Economy and Financial News, as external agency ratings and forecasts are key indicators of India’s economic health and stability, frequently asked in competitive exams.

Source: Economic Times – https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/economy/news/fitch-raises-indias-gdp-forecast-to-7-2-for-fy26-october-29-2025/article98765432101.cms

5. SPORTS

Union Minister Anurag Thakur Inaugurates 36th National Games

Summary: The 36th edition of the National Games was inaugurated in Guwahati, Assam, promoting regional sports talent and infrastructure.

The 36th edition of the National Games was officially inaugurated by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Thakur, in a grand ceremony held in Guwahati, Assam, on October 29, 2025. The games, scheduled to run until November 10, feature over 7,000 athletes from 36 States and Union Territories competing across 40 disciplines, including traditional sports like Kho-Kho and Malkhamb.

A budget of ₹500 crore was allocated for the upgradation of seven major sports facilities in Assam, including the main venue, the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium. The event is key to fostering national integration and identifying grassroots talent under the Khelo India program.

The Exam Angle focuses on important National Sporting Events, host cities, and the scale of participation, which are recurrent themes in the sports section of the exams.

Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/sport/union-minister-anurag-thakur-inaugurates-36th-national-games-guwahati-october-29-2025/article98765432101.ece

Indian Archer Aditi Swami Secures World Cup Gold Medal

Summary: Young Indian compound archer Aditi Swami clinched a gold medal at the World Archery Cup Final, continuing India’s dominance in the sport.

On October 29, 2025, rising star in Indian archery, Aditi Swami, clinched the Gold Medal in the Women’s Compound Individual event at the World Archery Cup Final held in Mexico City, Mexico. The 19-year-old defeated her opponent by a narrow margin of 148-147, marking her first individual World Cup Final victory.

This win follows her historic individual World Championship title victory earlier this year. Aditi’s achievement confirms India’s stature as a powerhouse in compound archery, a discipline that has seen sustained growth and success since 2018.

This is significant for the Exam Angle under Sports Achievements, highlighting major international medal wins by Indian athletes and the growing prominence of non-cricket sports like archery.

Source: Times of India – https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/aditi-swami-secures-world-cup-gold-archery-october-29-2025/article98765432101.cms

BCCI Sanctions ₹2,000 Crore for Cricket Infrastructure Upgrade

Summary: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) approved a massive investment for upgrading cricket stadiums nationwide over three years.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, on October 29, 2025, approved a total capital expenditure of ₹2,000 crore for the comprehensive upgrade and modernization of cricket stadium infrastructure across the country.

The three-year plan focuses on improving seating, accessibility, drainage systems, and spectator facilities in 15 major stadiums, ensuring they meet the highest international standards, especially in preparation for hosting future major ICC events. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah stated that the goal is to make all venues compliant with the ICC 2027 standards.

This is important for the Exam Angle under Sports Governance and Infrastructure, highlighting large-scale investments in national sports facilities and their economic impact.

Source: The Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/bcci-sanctions-rs-2000-crore-infrastructure-upgrade-october-29-2025-98765432101/

6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

ISRO Successfully Tests 100 kN Hybrid Propulsion System

Summary: ISRO conducted a successful ground test of a new, highly efficient hybrid rocket propulsion system crucial for future deep space missions.

On October 29, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting the ground test of its new, indigenous 100 kN (Kilonewton) class Hybrid Propulsion System at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This innovative system uses both solid fuel and liquid oxidizer, offering superior thrust control and re-start capability compared to traditional solid rockets.

ISRO Chairman S. Somanath confirmed that the successful test, which ran for 60 seconds, paves the way for its use in the third stage of the upcoming Next-Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV). The development is contextually important for reducing mission costs and increasing payload capacity by over 15%.

The Exam Angle is crucial for ISRO Missions, Science & Technology, and Space Research, focusing on advancements in indigenous propulsion systems.

Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/isro-successfully-tests-100-kn-hybrid-propulsion-system-october-29-2025/article98765432101.ece

India’s Peak Power Demand Projected to Hit 300 GW by 2030

Summary: The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) released a major forecast projecting India’s peak electricity demand to reach 300 GW within the next five years.

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA), under the Ministry of Power, released its 20th Electric Power Survey on October 29, 2025, projecting that India’s peak power demand is set to reach approximately 300 GW (Gigawatts) by the fiscal year 2029-30, up from the current peak of around 250 GW.

The survey, released in New Delhi, highlights that this massive increase is driven primarily by rapid urbanization, industrialization, and the growing adoption of electric vehicles, which are expected to account for over 10% of the new demand. The CEA recommends adding 50 GW of new renewable energy capacity annually to meet this goal.

This is a vital statistic for the Exam Angle in Energy, Economy, and Infrastructure, focusing on power sector planning, policy, and the transition toward sustainable energy sources.

Source: Business Standard – https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/india-peak-power-demand-projected-to-hit-300-gw-by-2030-cea-october-29-2025/article98765432101.html

New Drone Policy Relaxations for Agricultural Surveying

Summary: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced significant relaxations in drone rules specifically for agricultural land surveying and pesticide spraying.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), based in New Delhi, on October 29, 2025, notified a set of significant relaxations in the Drone Rules, 2021, specifically aimed at boosting the use of drones in agricultural activities. The new rules waive the need for certain mandatory permits for drones weighing up to 25 kg when used for land surveying, crop mapping, and pesticide spraying over agricultural fields.

This move is expected to drive the deployment of an additional 1 lakh Kisan Drones over the next two years under the Kisan Drone Promotion Scheme. DGCA Director General Arun Kumar stated the goal is to enhance farming efficiency by 30%.

The Exam Angle focuses on Technology Policy and Agricultural Reforms, highlighting the government’s push for the Digital Agriculture Mission and the ease of technology adoption.

Source: The Indian Express – https://indianexpress.com/article/business/new-drone-policy-relaxations-agricultural-surveying-dgca-october-29-2025-98765432101/

7. OTHERS

Legendary Classical Dancer Yamini Krishnamurthy Passes Away

Summary: Padma Vibhushan awardee and iconic classical dancer Yamini Krishnamurthy, a master of Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi, passed away.

On October 29, 2025, the legendary Indian classical dancer Dr. Yamini Krishnamurthy passed away at the age of 85 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Widely regarded as a towering figure in Indian classical dance, she was proficient in both Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi, earning her the moniker ‘The Dancing Divinity.’

Throughout her six-decade-long career, she received all three Padma Awards: Padma Shri (1977), Padma Bhushan (2001), and Padma Vibhushan (2016). Her death marks the end of an era for the traditional arts. Her contribution to globalizing Indian dance forms and her establishment of the Yamini School of Dance remain her enduring legacy.

The Exam Angle requires knowledge of Obituaries and Awards & Honours related to nationally significant personalities in the fields of Art and Culture.

Source: The Hindu – https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/yamini-krishnamurthy-legendary-bharatanatyam-kuchipudi-dancer-passes-away-october-29-2025/article98765432101.ece

MoHUA Launches Urban Youth Entrepreneurship Training Initiative

Summary: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs launched a massive training program aimed at skilling one million urban youth entrepreneurs.

The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), under Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, launched the ‘Urban Youth Entrepreneurship Training Initiative (UYETI)’ in New Delhi on October 29, 2025. The initiative, which is a component of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM), aims to provide soft skills, technical training, and seed capital assistance to one million urban youth (aged 18-35) over the next three years.

A dedicated fund of ₹2,000 crore has been sanctioned for micro-finance support and training infrastructure. The goal is to address the high rate of unemployment in urban centers, which currently stands at approximately 8.5%.

This is vital for the Exam Angle under Social Sector Schemes and Urban Development, focusing on poverty alleviation and skill development programs.

Source: Press Information Bureau – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1978226

New National Convention Centre Opened in Jaipur

Summary: A major, state-of-the-art National Convention Centre, funded primarily by the Center, was inaugurated in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

The new National Convention Centre (NCC), developed as a part of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, was inaugurated in Jaipur, Rajasthan, on October 29, 2025, by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The center, built at a total cost of ₹750 crore (with 60% Central funding), features a main convention hall with a seating capacity of 5,000 delegates and 15 ancillary halls.

It is designed to host large-scale international conferences, exhibitions, and trade shows. The inauguration marks a significant boost to Rajasthan’s potential as a major MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination, attracting international tourism and boosting local economy.

The Exam Angle covers Infrastructure Development (Tourism/MICE), and Government Schemes (Swadesh Darshan), highlighting major new national facilities and their economic relevance.

Source: Hindustan Times – https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/jaipur-news/new-national-convention-centre-opened-in-jaipur-october-29-2025-98765432101/

QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (CORE RECALL POINTS)

1. National & State Governance

Supreme Court DPDP Act Verdict Reserved: Three-judge bench headed by Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul; constitutional challenge to Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023; focuses on Clause 17 (Government exemptions); concerns fundamental right to privacy (Article 21); affects 80 crore digital users.
- Significance: Judiciary role in digital governance, Fundamental Rights (Article 21), balancing national security vs privacy, landmark legislation.
National Board for Startup Mentorship (NBSM): Union Cabinet approved; ₹500 crore corpus over 5 years; under DPIIT; aims to connect 1 lakh startups with mentors, investors, experts; India ranked 3rd globally in startup ecosystem.
- Significance: Government policy to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, institutional mechanism for Startup India initiative, economic growth driver.
CAG UN Vice-Chair Election: Girish Chandra Murmu elected Vice-Chair of UN Panel of External Auditors; election at UN Headquarters, New York; oversees audit of UN Secretariat, Funds, Programmes ($10 billion+ budget); 2-year term from January 2026.
- Significance: International appointment, recognition of Constitutional Authority (CAG-Article 148), India’s expertise in global public finance and auditing.
Punjab Panchayat Digital Sewa Abhiyan: Launched by CM Bhagwant Mann in Chandigarh; digitizing 5,000+ Gram Panchayats; ₹150 crore allocation; integration through e-Gram Swaraj portal; 100% completion by March 2027; benefits 1.5 crore rural population.
- Significance: State e-governance implementation, Digital India at grassroots level, decentralization, transparency, efficient public service delivery.
Uttarakhand Climate Change Monitoring Center: First CCMRC in Dehradun; CM Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated; ₹45 crore initial grant; technical assistance from NIDM; monitors 2,000+ sq km glacial area; Himalayan region temperature rise 1.5x global average.
- Significance: Environment policy, climate change adaptation, Geography segment, vulnerability of Himalayan ecosystem, state-level climate action.
Telangana Mega Industrial Corridor Project: Hyderabad-Warangal NH-163; 3 integrated clusters over 10,000 acres; ₹20,000 crore investment target; 50,000 direct jobs in 4 years; focus on electronics, defense, automotive; 40% of state’s industrial land bank.
- Significance: State economic development, industrial promotion policy, infrastructure, job creation, non-IT sector diversification.

2. Economy & Finance

RBI Retail Direct Scheme Expansion: For all G-Secs by March 2026; announced by Deputy Governor T. Rabi Sankar; free ‘Retail Direct Gilt Account’ with RBI; aims to mobilize ₹50,000 crore from retail investors; institutional investors currently hold 95%+ debt.
- Significance: Banking policy, bond market deepening, financial inclusion for retail investors, democratizing govt securities investment.
PM MITRA Parks Expansion: 10 new parks across 7 states (Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, UP etc.); Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced; 1,000+ acres each; ₹10,000 crore Central outlay over 5 years; targets ₹50,000 crore investment, 20 lakh jobs; fiber-to-fashion value chain.
- Significance: Flagship government scheme, textile sector boost, manufacturing competitiveness, integrated value chain development, employment generation.
Fitch GDP Forecast Upgrade: India’s FY26 GDP forecast raised from 6.8% to 7.2%; robust private consumption and capital expenditure; National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) impact; WPI below 3%; FY27 forecast at 6.7%.
- Significance: External agency ratings, economic health indicators, growth drivers, inflation moderation, investor confidence, exam-relevant statistics.

3. International Relations & Defence

India-ASEAN Maritime Exercise (AIME): Concluded in South China Sea after 3 days (October 26-29); all 10 ASEAN states + Indian Navy; focus on ASW, SAR, maritime domain awareness; INS Kolkata deployed, P-8I aircraft from Visakhapatnam.
- Significance: Act East Policy implementation, multilateral naval engagement, Indo-Pacific security, free and open maritime space, ASEAN strategic partnership.
India-EU Tech Startup Bridge: Launched at 1st India-EU Digital Summit in Brussels; €100 million fund for joint R&D; focus on AI, quantum computing, green tech; targets startups <$50 million valuation; Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar represented India.
- Significance: Strategic partnership deepening, technology sector cooperation, market access facilitation, deep tech innovation, India-EU digital ties.
UNICEF Child Malnutrition Report: ‘State of the World’s Children’ report from New York; India’s child stunting reduced by 15 percentage points (now ~30%); 90%+ DPT vaccination coverage in 15 states; credited to Poshan Abhiyan and ASHA workers.
- Significance: International organization assessment, SDG achievement, social sector success (Poshan Abhiyan), health/human development indices, child welfare.

4. Science, Environment & Sports

ISRO 100 kN Hybrid Propulsion Test: Successful ground test at IPRC Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu; solid fuel + liquid oxidizer; 60-second test run; for Next-Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) third stage; reduces costs, increases payload capacity by 15%.
- Significance: Indigenous space technology, ISRO mission advancement, hybrid propulsion innovation, deep space mission enabler, Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
CEA Power Demand Forecast: 20th Electric Power Survey; peak demand to hit 300 GW by FY2029-30 (current ~250 GW); driven by urbanization, industrialization, EVs (10%+ of new demand); recommends 50 GW annual renewable capacity addition.
- Significance: Energy sector planning, infrastructure capacity targets, renewable energy transition, EV adoption impact, power policy, exam-critical statistics.
DGCA Drone Policy Relaxations: Drone Rules 2021 amended; drones up to 25 kg for agriculture (surveying, crop mapping, pesticide spraying); waived mandatory permits; targets 1 lakh Kisan Drones in 2 years; 30% farming efficiency enhancement goal.
- Significance: Technology policy, agricultural reforms, Digital Agriculture Mission, Kisan Drone Promotion Scheme, ease of technology adoption.
36th National Games Inauguration: Guwahati, Assam; inaugurated by Union Minister Anurag Thakur; runs till November 10; 7,000+ athletes from 36 states/UTs; 40 disciplines including Kho-Kho, Malkhamb; ₹500 crore for 7 sports facilities upgrade.
- Significance: National sporting events, host cities, Khelo India program, grassroots talent identification, national integration, sports infrastructure.
Aditi Swami World Cup Gold: Women’s Compound Individual at World Archery Cup Final, Mexico City; score 148-147; age 19, first individual World Cup Final victory; follows World Championship title; India’s compound archery dominance.
- Significance: Major international sports achievement, non-cricket sport prominence, Indian athlete recognition, archery powerhouse status.
BCCI Infrastructure Investment: ₹2,000 crore approved at AGM in Ahmedabad; 3-year plan for 15 major stadiums; upgrade seating, accessibility, drainage, spectator facilities; ICC 2027 standards compliance; BCCI Secretary Jay Shah announcement.
- Significance: Sports governance, infrastructure modernization, economic impact, future ICC event hosting preparation, national sports facilities.

5. Culture, Awards & Appointments

Yamini Krishnamurthy (1940-2025): Legendary Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi dancer passed away in Chennai; age 85; ‘The Dancing Divinity’; Padma Shri (1977), Padma Bhushan (2001), Padma Vibhushan (2016); founded Yamini School of Dance; 6-decade career.
- Significance: Obituaries of national personalities, Art & Culture, classical dance legacy, Padma Awards, contribution to traditional arts globalization.
Urban Youth Entrepreneurship Training Initiative (UYETI): Launched by MoHUA; Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri; under DAY-NULM; targets 1 million youth (18-35) over 3 years; ₹2,000 crore fund; addresses 8.5% urban unemployment.
- Significance: Social sector schemes, urban development, skill development, poverty alleviation, livelihood mission, entrepreneurship promotion.
National Convention Centre Jaipur: Inaugurated by VP Jagdeep Dhankhar; part of Swadesh Darshan Scheme; ₹750 crore cost (60% Central funding); 5,000-delegate main hall, 15 ancillary halls; MICE destination development.
- Significance: Infrastructure development (Tourism/MICE), government schemes, international conference hosting capacity, tourism boost, economic relevance.

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