Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: December 13, 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)
- ₹11,718 Crore for Census 2027: The Union Cabinet approved ₹11,718 crore for the Census 2027, which will be India’s first-ever digital census.
- DoP-BSE Star MF Partnership: Department of Posts (DoP) and BSE signed an MoU to sell Mutual Fund products through India Post’s vast network, boosting financial inclusion in rural areas.
- Rupee Hits New Low: The Indian Rupee weakened to a record low of 90.56 against the US Dollar due to foreign fund outflows and the US-India trade deal impasse.
- Silver Milestone: Silver future prices in India crossed the historical ₹2 lakh-per-kg milestone.
- CRISPR Sickle Cell Therapy: India unveiled its first home-grown CRISPR-based therapy for Sickle Cell Anaemia, targeting disease elimination by 2047.
- KIUG 2025 Title: Chandigarh University became the first Indian university to win the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) title for two consecutive years, securing 42 Gold medals.
- Obituary – Shivraj Patil: Former Union Home Minister and Lok Sabha Speaker Shivraj Patil passed away at the age of 90 in Latur, Maharashtra.
- Mexico Tariffs: Mexico imposed steep tariffs of up to 50% on specific goods imported from India and several other Asian nations.
- AP Water Aerodromes: An expert committee approved the preparation of Terms of Reference for seven water aerodromes in Andhra Pradesh to boost regional connectivity and tourism.
- Junior Hockey Bronze: The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team won the Bronze medal in the Junior Hockey World Cup, defeating their opponent with a stunning final-quarter comeback.
1. STATE AFFAIRS (Regional Development & Culture)
Andhra Pradesh Gets Green Light for Seven Water Aerodromes
Summary: An expert committee approved the first phase of a project to establish seven water aerodromes across Andhra Pradesh to enhance connectivity and tourism.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation’s expert committee gave in-principle approval on December 12, 2025, for preparing the Terms of Reference (ToR) for seven potential water aerodromes in Andhra Pradesh. This ambitious project aims to connect popular tourism and pilgrimage sites via seaplanes, drastically cutting travel time and boosting the state’s regional economic potential. The identified locations include areas near the Krishna and Godavari rivers and select coastal regions.
This move aligns with the Union Government’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, which focuses on enhancing regional air connectivity. The successful implementation, starting with these seven points, is expected to provide a significant boost to the tourism sector, attracting both domestic and international visitors. This is a key development for state-level infrastructure and regional connectivity schemes like UDAN, making it important for UPSC/State PSC exams focusing on transportation policy and tourism infrastructure.
Source: Economic Times
International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) Begins 30th Edition
Summary: The 30th edition of the prestigious International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) commenced in Thiruvananthapuram, spotlighting world cinema and a special ‘Cinema of Palestine’ section.
The 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) officially commenced on December 12, 2025, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, continuing until December 19. Organized by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, the government-backed event is one of the largest and most politically conscious film festivals in the country.
This edition features a special focus on the ‘Cinema of Palestine’ and will screen over 150 films from various countries. Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty serves as the Chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, the organizing body. The opening film was the acclaimed period drama Palestine 36 by renowned director Annemarie Jacir. The festival is a crucial platform for promoting cultural exchange, and its focus sections are significant for both cultural affairs and international relations topics in competitive exams.
Source: Scroll.in
Union Minister Scindia to Unveil Chhatrapati Shivaji Statue in Belagavi
Summary: The Ministry of Communications announced that Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia will unveil a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Belagavi, Karnataka, on December 14.
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) announced on December 12, 2025, that Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, will visit Maharashtra and Karnataka on December 13 and 14. A key highlight of the visit is the scheduled unveiling of the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Belagavi, Karnataka, on December 14.
Furthermore, on December 13, the Minister will attend a Stamp Release Function at Bombay Gymkhana, Mumbai, as the Chief Guest, showcasing the Department of Posts’ commitment to cultural heritage. The announcement, released from New Delhi/Mumbai, emphasizes the government’s focus on honoring historical figures and leveraging the postal network for public engagement. This event, dedicated to one of India’s greatest historical figures, is relevant for questions on cultural heritage, historical personalities, and the role of Union Ministers in state-level public functions for administrative exams.
Source: Press Information Bureau
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS (Governance & Policy)
Cabinet Approves ₹11,718 Crore for First Digital Census 2027
Summary: The Union Cabinet approved a massive budget of ₹11,718 crore for the Census 2027, which will be the first digital population enumeration in the country’s history.
The Union Cabinet, in its meeting on Friday, December 12, 2025, approved a substantial outlay of ₹11,718 crore for conducting the next population census, the Census 2027. Announcing the decision in New Delhi, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the upcoming enumeration would mark a historical moment as India’s “first-ever digital census.”
This digital approach will utilize modern technology for data collection, processing, and dissemination, promising greater accuracy and quicker results than previous methods. The enormous budget allocation underscores the government’s commitment to obtaining comprehensive and timely demographic data, which is crucial for the formulation and effective execution of various central and state government schemes and policies. As the census is a constitutional mandate and its data directly impacts governance and welfare schemes, this announcement is of paramount importance for all competitive exams.
Source: The Hindu
President Murmu Calls for Peace and Reconciliation in Manipur
Summary: President Droupadi Murmu, on December 12, 2025, addressed the ongoing situation in Manipur, urging all communities to work towards peace and reconciliation.
On Friday, December 12, 2025, President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu issued a significant appeal for calm and harmony in the troubled state of Manipur. The President called upon all communities in the state to set aside their differences and “continue the efforts for peace, understanding, and reconciliation.” Speaking from New Delhi, she reaffirmed the Union government’s commitment to the well-being and holistic progress of the people of Manipur, a region that has witnessed prolonged ethnic tensions and instability.
The statement from the highest constitutional office is an important intervention in matters of national integration and internal security. The emphasis on reconciliation and peace-building is key for exam topics related to internal security, ethnic conflict resolution, and the role of constitutional authorities in maintaining social harmony in a federal structure.
Source: The Hindu
Supreme Court Insists on Non-Tamil Nadu Officers in Karur Probe Monitoring
Summary: The Supreme Court mandated the inclusion of non-Tamil Nadu ‘native’ police officers in the supervisory committee overseeing the CBI probe into the Karur stampede tragedy.
In a crucial judicial pronouncement on December 12, 2025, the Supreme Court of India, sitting in New Delhi, underscored the importance of impartiality in investigations by insisting on the appointment of non-Tamil Nadu “native” police officers to the supervisory committee. This committee, headed by a retired apex court judge, is tasked with monitoring the CBI probe into the tragic Karur stampede incident. The bench stressed a “strong belief that everything has to be fair” as the driving force behind this insistence.
This ruling is aimed at ensuring transparency and maintaining public faith in the investigative process, particularly in sensitive cases involving local administration. For competitive exams, this judgment highlights the role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and ensuring neutral investigations, falling under the purview of constitutional law and the accountability of the executive.
Source: The Hindu
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS (Global Diplomacy & Events)
Trump Negotiates Renewal of Thailand-Cambodia Border Ceasefire
Summary: US President Donald Trump announced that the leaders of Thailand and Cambodia agreed to renew a ceasefire following a recent flare-up of deadly border clashes.
On December 12, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced via his social media platform that the Prime Ministers of Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to renew a fragile truce. Trump confirmed he spoke with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet after days of deadly border clashes that had killed dozens. The leaders agreed to “CEASE all shooting effective this evening,” reverting to the ‘Kuala Lumpur Accord,’ a previous peace agreement brokered with the assistance of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
The US President’s direct mediation in Southeast Asian regional conflicts highlights the continuing role of global powers in maintaining regional stability. This development is significant for International Relations topics, particularly those dealing with US foreign policy and regional diplomacy in ASEAN.
Source: The Indian Express
Mexico Imposes Tariffs Up to 50% on Specific Indian Goods
Summary: The Mexican government imposed steep new tariffs, up to 50%, on various products imported from India and several other countries, raising concerns for Indian exporters.
In a significant trade policy move announced on December 12, 2025, the government of Mexico imposed new tariffs, with rates reaching as high as 50%, on imports of certain goods originating from India and other Asian nations. This protectionist measure targets specific sectors, including certain metals and manufacturing products, aiming to protect domestic Mexican industries.
This action poses a considerable challenge to Indian exporters, particularly those who rely on Mexico as a key market in Latin America. India’s exports, which are expected to total around $36 billion for November 2025, could face headwinds due to this sudden tariff imposition. The move is a critical piece of news for candidates focusing on International Trade, India’s export dynamics, and global economic challenges in competitive exams.
Source: Economic Times
Major 6.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Northern Japan
Summary: A strong 6.7-magnitude earthquake rattled northern Japan, prompting a tsunami advisory for parts of the northern Pacific coastline.
On Friday, December 12, 2025, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.7 struck off the coast of northern Japan, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The tremor followed a larger 7.5-magnitude quake that had hit the same region earlier in the week. The JMA immediately issued a tsunami advisory, warning that waves of up to one meter could potentially hit the northern Pacific coastline.
While immediate reports did not detail widespread damage or severe injuries from the latest quake, the repeated seismic activity has kept emergency services on high alert in the region, particularly around the Aomori prefecture. This event serves as an important update for questions on global geographical phenomena, disaster management, and the frequency of natural calamities in the Asia-Pacific region.
Source: The Indian Express
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE (Fiscal Policy & Markets)
DoP and BSE Sign MoU to Sell Mutual Funds via India Post Network
Summary: The Department of Posts (DoP) and BSE signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to leverage India Post’s vast network for the distribution of mutual fund products.
In a major step towards strengthening financial inclusion, the Department of Posts (DoP), Ministry of Communications, and BSE (Asia’s oldest stock exchange) signed a landmark MoU on December 12, 2025, in New Delhi. The partnership enables India Post to act as a distributor of mutual fund products, utilizing its unmatched 1.5 lakh plus postal outlets to reach rural, semi-urban, and underserved regions.
The MoU was signed by Ms. Manisha Bansal Badal (General Manager, DoP) and Shri Sundararaman Ramamurthy (MD & CEO, BSE). This strategic move, which leverages the BSE Star MF platform, is in line with the Budget 2025–26 announcement to use the India Post network as a catalyst for economic activity. This initiative is highly relevant for topics like financial inclusion, banking sector reforms, and postal network modernization for all exams.
Source: Press Information Bureau
Indian Rupee Weakens to a New Record Low of 90.56/$
Summary: The Indian Rupee hit a fresh all-time low of 90.56 against the US Dollar on December 12, 2025, primarily due to global fund selling and lack of clarity on the US-India trade deal.
The Indian Rupee continued its weakening trend on Friday, December 12, 2025, falling to a new record low of 90.56 against the US Dollar, according to Bloomberg data from Mumbai. The domestic currency opened lower at 90.42 and slipped further during trading hours. The depreciation is attributed primarily to persistent selling of Indian equities and debt by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) and ongoing uncertainty surrounding the conclusion of the crucial US-India trade agreement.
So far in the calendar year 2025, the unit is down by 5.7%, placing it among the worst-performing Asian currencies. Analysts predict further downside to 91.50 per dollar over the next two to three months. This depreciation is a critical piece of news for the Economy section, particularly concerning macro-economic indicators, trade deficits, and RBI intervention policies.
Source: Business Standard
Silver Future Prices Cross Historic ₹2 Lakh-Per-Kg Milestone
Summary: Silver futures in the Indian market breached the significant ₹2 lakh per kilogram mark, marking a major milestone amidst a sharp rally in precious metal prices.
In a landmark event for the commodity markets, Silver future prices in India crossed the historical ₹2 lakh-per-kg milestone on Friday, December 12, 2025. This achievement extends a significant rally that has seen the precious metal soar nearly 130% in value this calendar year. The surge is driven by a confluence of factors, including global safe-haven buying, increased industrial demand, and the metal’s growing utility in new technologies.
On the equity side, the BSE Sensex closed 449.53 points higher at 85,267.66, with the Nifty50 at 26,046.95, driven primarily by metal and realty stocks. The breach of this psychological mark for Silver is a major indicator of commodity market trends and is a must-know fact for the Economy section of competitive exams.
Source: Business Standard
India’s Exports Expected to Jump 15% to $36 Billion in November
Summary: Preliminary trade data suggests India’s exports are likely to witness a strong 15% growth, reaching approximately $36 billion US dollars for November 2025.
In a positive sign for the external sector of the Indian economy, preliminary data released on December 12, 2025, indicates that India’s exports are expected to register a sharp jump of approximately 15% in November 2025, reaching a total value of around $36 billion US dollars. This robust growth is largely attributed to improved global demand, competitive pricing, and the government’s sustained focus on trade promotion schemes.
The increase in exports provides a crucial counter-balance to the widening trade deficit, helping to manage India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) pressures. This key economic data point is essential for competitive exam questions on India’s trade policy, economic growth drivers, and balance of payments scenario.
Source: Economic Times
5. SPORTS (Achievements & Events)
Chandigarh University Creates History, Wins KIUG 2025 Title
Summary: Chandigarh University became the first university in India to win the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) title for two consecutive years, dominating the 5th edition held in Rajasthan.
Chandigarh University (CU) secured a historic victory by topping the medal tally at the 5th Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2025 held in Rajasthan (concluded December 5, results published December 12). With a record haul of 42 Gold, 14 Silver, and 11 Bronze medals, totaling 67 medals, CU became the first university to win the KIUG title for two years in a row, having also won in 2024.
The university’s contingent of 174 student-athletes excelled particularly in newly introduced sports like Canoeing and Kayaking, securing 23 Gold medals in aquatic sports alone. This achievement underscores the success of the central government’s Khelo India initiative to promote grassroots sports and is a key topic for Sports, Governance, and Social Sector development in exams.
Source: The Hindu
KIUG 2025: Tanya, Rahul, and Deepika Break University Records
Summary: Several athletes from Chandigarh University set new records at the Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2025, highlighting India’s burgeoning sports talent pool.
During the recently concluded 5th Khelo India University Games (KIUG) 2025 in Rajasthan, several Indian athletes achieved new milestones. On December 12, 2025, the final medal tally was officially confirmed, highlighting new records. Tanya from Chandigarh University set a new KIUG record in the Hammer Throw with a phenomenal distance of 64.29 metres. Similarly, CU’s Rahul shattered the previous record in the 20-kilometer Race Walk, clocking a time of 1:25:43. In the Javelin Throw event, CU’s Deepika also set a new KIUG record with a throw of 55.53 metres.
These specific achievements by young Indian athletes are direct examples of the success of government-led sports initiatives and are crucial facts for questions on Sports Awards, National Records, and key government schemes like Khelo India.
Source: The Hindu
Germany Wins Junior Hockey World Cup; India Secures Bronze
Summary: Germany clinched their eighth Junior Hockey World Cup title, while the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team secured the Bronze medal with a dramatic comeback victory.
In a thrilling finale to the Junior Hockey World Cup, held in a major international city, Germany emerged victorious, securing their record-extending eighth title on Friday, December 12, 2025. The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team, however, provided a moment of national pride by winning the Bronze medal match. The Indian team staged a stunning comeback, scoring four goals in the final quarter to secure the victory.
This third-place finish underscores the strength of India’s hockey pipeline and the efficacy of the national sports training programs. Goalkeeping hero Jasper Ditzer was lauded for his performance in the German team’s win. The result is important for competitive exams as it pertains to India’s performance in major international sporting events and the status of national sports.
Source: Economic Times
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT (Breakthroughs & Policy)
India Unveils First Home-Grown CRISPR Sickle Cell Therapy
Summary: India announced the development and launch of its first domestically developed CRISPR-based gene therapy for the treatment of Sickle Cell Anaemia, an endemic disease.
In a major scientific and medical breakthrough, India on December 12, 2025, unveiled its first domestically developed CRISPR-based gene therapy for the debilitating genetic disorder, Sickle Cell Anaemia. This development is directly linked to the Union Government’s ambitious mission to eliminate Sickle Cell Anaemia by 2047. Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, confirmed the news in the Lok Sabha, stating the therapy aims to provide an affordable and accessible solution to patients, especially in tribal and rural regions where the disease is prevalent.
The use of CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) technology signifies India’s growing self-reliance in cutting-edge biotechnological research. This is a critical development for Science & Technology, Health Policy, and Government Missions (Sickle Cell Elimination Mission) for competitive exams.
Source: Down To Earth
Government Pushes Green Steel Production Towards Net-Zero 2070 Goal
Summary: The government announced concrete steps to promote low-carbon steel manufacturing, including green certification for 43 units, aligning with India’s 2070 net-zero target.
The Union Government is actively promoting the transition to low-carbon steel manufacturing as part of India’s commitment to achieve Net-Zero by 2070. On December 12, 2025, Minister of State for Steel, Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, informed the Rajya Sabha that a national Green Steel Taxonomy has been introduced, and 43 private steel units have already received green steel certification. Furthermore, four pilot projects utilizing hydrogen in steelmaking have been approved under the flagship National Green Hydrogen Mission.
This push towards Green Steel is vital for reducing the industrial sector’s carbon footprint, as steel production is a significant emitter globally. The announcement is highly relevant for Environment, Climate Change mitigation, and economic sector policy (Steel industry) topics in competitive examinations.
Source: Down To Earth
ICMR Study Highlights Rising Lung Cancer Incidence in Indian Women
Summary: An ICMR study revealed that Adenocarcinoma is the most common form of lung cancer among women and non-smokers in India, noting a rising incidence in metropolitan cities.
On December 12, 2025, Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, informed the Lok Sabha about the findings of an ICMR-National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research study. The study revealed that Adenocarcinoma is the most frequent type of lung cancer among women and non-smokers in India, with an overall rising incidence rate, particularly in metropolitan areas.
While the study did not quantify the link to air pollution, the Minister highlighted that the government is addressing urban air quality through the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). Furthermore, suspected lung cancer cases identified during the screening under the TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan are being referred for specialized care, creating a dual-purpose health screening system. This is a crucial update for the Health and Social Sector topics for competitive exams.
Source: Down To Earth
Polar Bears in Southeast Greenland Show Genetic Adaptation to Warming
Summary: A new international study found that a subset of polar bears in southeast Greenland is undergoing rapid genetic changes to adapt to their diminishing sea ice habitat.
Research published in the journal Mobile DNA on December 12, 2025, from the University of East Anglia (UK) reported a significant discovery: polar bears in the southeastern part of Greenland are demonstrating rapid genetic adaptation to the warming Arctic environment. Scientists, including lead researcher Dr. Alice Godden, analyzed blood samples and found changes in the expression of “jumping genes” related to fat processing and metabolism in these bears, indicating a shift away from their primary seal-based, fatty diet towards rougher, plant-based diets found in warmer regions.
The study, which compared them with northern populations, suggests a potential mechanism for survival for this vulnerable species in an environment resembling future climate predictions. This discovery is a vital concept for the Environment, Climate Change Adaptation, and Biodiversity sections of competitive exams.
Source: Down To Earth
7. OTHERS (Appointments, Awards, Obituaries, Misc.)
Obituary: Former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil Passes Away at 90
Summary: Senior Congress leader and former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil, who served in various high-profile roles, passed away at the age of 90 in Latur, Maharashtra.
Senior Congress party veteran and former Union Minister Shivraj Patil passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the age of 90 at his residence in Latur, Maharashtra, after a brief illness. Born in 1935, Patil had a political career spanning over five decades. He held several significant positions, notably serving as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996 and as the Union Home Minister from 2004 to 2008.
The news prompted immediate condolences from political leaders across the spectrum, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who remembered him as an experienced leader passionate about public service. His death is an important event for the ‘Obituaries’ section, requiring candidates to recall his key constitutional and ministerial posts.
Source: Mint
RBI Imposes ₹50,000 Penalty on Tamil Nadu Co-operative Bank for KYC Lapse
Summary: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty on The Big Kancheepuram Co-operative Town Bank Ltd. for non-compliance with ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) norms.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), acting under its regulatory powers, announced the imposition of a monetary penalty of ₹50,000 (Rupees Fifty Thousand only) on The Big Kancheepuram Co-operative Town Bank Limited, a co-operative bank in Tamil Nadu. The penalty order, dated November 12, 2025, was made public on December 12, 2025, for non-compliance with specific directions issued by the RBI regarding ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) standards.
The non-compliance was identified during the bank’s statutory inspection with reference to its financial position as of March 31, 2024. This regulatory action is a key reminder of the RBI’s role as a supervisor of cooperative banks and its strict enforcement of guidelines to ensure financial integrity. This development is relevant for the Banking Sector and Regulatory Bodies (RBI’s functions) topics in the exam.
Source: RBI Press Releases
Eminent Historian Dr. Ramchandra Guha Awarded National Prize
Summary: The Ministry of Culture announced that Dr. Ramchandra Guha was selected for the prestigious National Prize for his lifelong contribution to historical writing and contemporary analysis.
On December 12, 2025, the Union Ministry of Culture, in New Delhi, announced that the eminent historian, environmentalist, and author Dr. Ramchandra Guha has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious National Prize for Lifetime Contribution to Historical Writing and Contemporary Analysis. The award carries a cash prize of ₹10 lakh (Rupees Ten Lakhs) and a citation.
Dr. Guha, an acclaimed author known for his detailed biographies and works on environmental history like India after Gandhi, was selected by a distinguished committee chaired by the Secretary, Ministry of Culture. This recognition highlights the government’s acknowledgement of deep scholarship in the humanities and is an important fact for the Awards & Honours section of competitive exams.
Source: Press Information Bureau
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (Core Recall Points)
1. National & State Governance
- Census 2027 Approval: Union Cabinet approved ₹11,718 crore for India’s first-ever digital census.
- Significance: Constitutional mandate, demographic data for policy formulation, governance modernization.
- President’s Manipur Appeal: President Droupadi Murmu called for peace and reconciliation in Manipur on December 12, 2025.
- Significance: Constitutional authority’s role in internal security and ethnic conflict resolution.
- SC on Karur Probe: Supreme Court mandated non-Tamil Nadu native officers in the supervisory committee for CBI probe.
- Significance: Judicial oversight, impartiality in investigations, accountability of executive.
- AP Water Aerodromes: Expert committee approved ToR for 7 water aerodromes in Andhra Pradesh under UDAN scheme.
- Significance: Regional connectivity, tourism infrastructure, state-level development initiatives.
- IFFK 2025: 30th International Film Festival of Kerala commenced in Thiruvananthapuram with ‘Cinema of Palestine’ focus.
- Significance: Cultural diplomacy, India’s soft power, international relations.
2. Economy & Finance
- DoP-BSE MoU: Department of Posts and BSE signed MoU to sell mutual funds through 1.5 lakh+ postal outlets.
- Significance: Financial inclusion, banking sector reforms, leveraging public infrastructure for capital markets.
- Rupee at Record Low: Indian Rupee fell to all-time low of 90.56 per USD, down 5.7% in CY 2025.
- Significance: Macroeconomic indicator, FPI outflows, impact of trade deal uncertainty on currency markets.
- Silver Milestone: Silver futures crossed historic ₹2 lakh/kg mark, rallying 130% in 2025.
- Significance: Commodity market trends, safe-haven asset demand, inflation indicators.
- Exports Growth: India’s exports expected to jump 15% to $36 billion in November 2025.
- Significance: Trade policy success, balance of payments, economic growth drivers.
- RBI Penalty: RBI imposed ₹50,000 penalty on Big Kancheepuram Co-operative Town Bank for KYC violations.
- Significance: Banking regulation, RBI’s supervisory role, compliance enforcement.
3. International Relations
- Thailand-Cambodia Ceasefire: US President Trump mediated renewal of ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, reverting to Kuala Lumpur Accord.
- Significance: US role in Southeast Asian diplomacy, ASEAN regional stability, global power mediation.
- Mexico Tariffs: Mexico imposed tariffs up to 50% on specific goods from India and other Asian nations.
- Significance: Trade barriers, protectionism, challenges to Indian exporters in Latin American markets.
- Japan Earthquake: 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck northern Japan with tsunami advisory issued.
- Significance: Disaster management, seismic activity in Asia-Pacific, geographical phenomena.
4. Science, Technology & Environment
- CRISPR Therapy Launch: India unveiled first home-grown CRISPR-based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Anaemia, targeting 2047 elimination.
- Significance: Biotechnology self-reliance, Health Mission, affordable treatment for tribal populations.
- Green Steel Push: 43 steel units certified green; 4 hydrogen pilot projects approved under National Green Hydrogen Mission.
- Significance: Net-Zero 2070 goal, industrial decarbonization, climate change mitigation.
- ICMR Lung Cancer Study: Adenocarcinoma most common lung cancer in women/non-smokers; rising incidence in metros.
- Significance: Public health trends, air quality concerns, National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
- Polar Bear Adaptation: Southeast Greenland polar bears show rapid genetic changes to survive warming Arctic.
- Significance: Climate change adaptation, biodiversity, evolutionary biology, Arctic ecosystem shifts.
5. Sports
- KIUG 2025 Champions: Chandigarh University won KIUG title for 2nd consecutive year with 42 Gold, 14 Silver, 11 Bronze medals.
- Significance: Khelo India scheme success, grassroots sports development, university-level sports excellence.
- KIUG Records: Tanya (Hammer Throw: 64.29m), Rahul (20km Race Walk: 1:25:43), Deepika (Javelin: 55.53m) set new KIUG records.
- Significance: National sporting talent, youth achievements, benchmark performances.
- Junior Hockey Bronze: India won Bronze at Junior Hockey World Cup with dramatic 4-goal final quarter comeback.
- Significance: Hockey development pipeline, international sporting achievements, national sports performance.
6. Awards, Honors & Obituaries
- Dr. Ramchandra Guha: Awarded National Prize for Lifetime Contribution to Historical Writing (₹10 lakh cash prize).
- Significance: Recognition of scholarship in humanities, contemporary analysis, environmental history.
- Shivraj Patil Obituary: Former Union Home Minister (2004-08) and Lok Sabha Speaker (1991-96) passed away at 90 in Latur.
- Significance: Constitutional posts, political history, senior Congress leader’s legacy.
- Union Minister’s Visit: Jyotiraditya Scindia to unveil Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Belagavi on December 14.
- Significance: Cultural heritage, historical personalities, government’s focus on national icons.
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