Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: December 15, 2025

Compiled from 15+ leading Indian news sources

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

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⚡ Today’s Top 10 Recall Points (Snapshot)

1. Squash Triumph: India won its maiden SDAT Squash World Cup title in Chennai, defeating Hong Kong 3-0 in the final.
2. National Affairs: President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Energy Conservation Awards 2025 in New Delhi, focusing on Mission LiFE and PM Surya Ghar.
3. Political Appointment: BJP appointed Bihar Minister Nitin Nabin as its new National Working President, replacing JP Nadda.
4. Foreign Policy: India’s Ministry of External Affairs rejected Bangladesh’s demand for the extradition of former PM Sheikh Hasina, asserting that Indian territory is not used for activities against Dhaka.
5. Global Security: A mass shooting incident occurred at a Hanukkah event in Sydney’s Bondi Beach, Australia, resulting in at least 11 deaths.
6. Trade Focus: The Commerce Ministry identified 300 high-potential products to boost India’s exports to Russia, targeting a $100 billion bilateral trade by 2030.
7. Environmental Policy: The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in Nairobi dropped a resolution to strengthen the role of UNEP’s headquarters.
8. State Initiative: Chhattisgarh’s newly inaugurated Assembly session was dedicated to unveiling the ‘Vision 2047’ document, outlining 13 priority sectors for future growth.
9. Honours: The Vice President released a special commemorative postal stamp to honour the 7th-century ruler Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II.
10. Sports Diplomacy: Football legend Lionel Messi attended a major event at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where he met cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar and football star Sunil Chhetri.

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1. STATE AFFAIRS

Chhattisgarh Assembly Launches ‘Vision 2047’ Development Document

Summary: Chhattisgarh’s Assembly marked the beginning of its Winter Session by dedicating the entire sitting to unveiling the ‘Vision 2047’ document, setting ambitious goals for the state’s progress.

The Chhattisgarh Assembly, on December 14, 2025, convened for the start of its Winter Session, with Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurating the proceedings at the newly constructed Assembly building. The session was primarily dedicated to the formal launch of the state’s comprehensive ‘Vision 2047’ document. The vision document identifies 13 priority sectors for growth and outlines 10 key missions, with a strong focus on good governance and administrative reforms. Chief Minister Sai highlighted that over 400 governance reforms have been implemented in the last two years to make administration more transparent and citizen-friendly. The Congress party boycotted the day’s proceedings in protest, claiming the government was sidelining ordinary legislative business for the exclusive discussion. The document’s aim is to establish long-term development strategies, moving beyond immediate political cycles.

Exam Angle: This is relevant for State PSCs and UPSC (Governance) as it exemplifies a state-level long-term planning approach linked to the ‘Viksit Bharat@2047’ national vision. The mention of 13 priority sectors and 10 key missions are important figures.

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/state-introduces-vision-2047-setting-ambitious-goals-for-growth-progress/articleshow/125963238.cms

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Karnataka Government Faces Delay in Procuring Sanitary Pads for ‘Shuchi’ Scheme

Summary: The Karnataka State government is facing criticism for the inordinate delay in procuring and distributing sanitary pads under the ‘Shuchi’ scheme for the 2025-26 academic year.

On December 14, 2025, it was reported from Bengaluru that the Karnataka State government is yet to procure ‘Shuchi Kits’ for adolescent girls in government and aided schools, colleges, and hostels, despite only four months remaining in the academic year 2025-26. The Shuchi scheme, a menstrual hygiene programme that distributes 12 sanitary napkin kits per year to each of the estimated 19,64,507 beneficiaries aged 10 to 18, was officially resumed in January 2024 following a High Court order, after being discontinued in 2020. The Health and Family Welfare Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, confirmed during the ongoing Legislature session that the Cabinet has approved the scheme for this year, expected to cost ₹71.83 crore, but the tender process for procurement is still underway. Students are being forced to buy sanitary napkins from their own pockets after the pending stock provided earlier in the year was exhausted.

Exam Angle: This highlights the challenges in the implementation of social sector schemes (UPSC Social Justice, State PSCs). ‘Shuchi Scheme’ is a key initiative for adolescent girl hygiene and the reported delay in the ₹71.83 crore allocation is a critical factual detail.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/four-months-to-go-for-the-academic-year-to-end-govt-yet-to-procure-sanitary-pads-under-the-shuchi-scheme/article70395553.ece

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Maharashtra Approves ₹111.6 Crore for Civic Amenities Ahead of Local Polls

Summary: Maharashtra’s Urban Development Department sanctioned funds worth ₹111.6 crore as a special provision to develop basic amenities in municipal corporations, ahead of upcoming local body polls.

The Urban Development Department of the Maharashtra government, on December 14, 2025, sanctioned a total of ₹111.6 crore for the development of essential basic amenities across multiple municipal corporations in the state. This move is seen as a strategic allocation with an eye on the forthcoming polls to 29 municipal corporations. Of the total sanctioned amount, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) received the largest share, a sum of ₹57 crore, to cover works like laying footpaths, sewage treatment, and constructing taps and gutters in areas including Andheri West and Colaba. Other significant allocations include ₹16.3 crore for Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, Mira-Bhayander, and Bhiwandi-Nizampur municipal corporations, and ₹12.5 crore for the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad municipal corporations. The local body polls, including for 12 zilla parishads, are due to be concluded by January 31, 2026, as per a Supreme Court order.

Exam Angle: This is a crucial piece of news for State PSC and Banking exams (Government Schemes/Urban Finance). The ₹111.6 crore sanction and the specific allocation of ₹57 crore to the BMC are significant numbers. It also reflects the implementation of a Supreme Court mandate regarding local body elections.

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/state-okays-112cr-for-cities-ahead-of-polls-half-for-bmc/articleshow/125964397.cms

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2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

President Murmu Presents National Energy Conservation Awards 2025

Summary: President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Energy Conservation Awards 2025 at a ceremony in New Delhi, emphasizing the dual role of technology and behavioural change in achieving energy security.

On December 14, 2025, on the occasion of National Energy Conservation Day, President Droupadi Murmu presided over the National Energy Conservation Awards ceremony held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi. The President awarded prizes to various industries and establishments for their outstanding efforts in energy efficiency. She underlined that India’s energy challenge requires both technological advancements and a fundamental shift in mass behaviour, referencing the global movement of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). The President also highlighted the role of government initiatives like the National Green Hydrogen Mission and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana in promoting renewable energy and reducing the carbon footprint. Union Minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy R. K. Singh was also present at the event, which showcased the country’s progress towards a sustainable energy future and net zero by 2070 target.

Exam Angle: This is a high-priority PIB news for all competitive exams (Governance/Environment/Schemes). The date (December 14) and the mention of key schemes like PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and Mission LiFE are essential facts.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2203686

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BJP Appoints Bihar Minister Nitin Nabin as National Working President

Summary: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announced a significant organisational change, appointing Bihar Minister Nitin Nabin as the new National Working President, replacing JP Nadda.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on December 14, 2025, appointed Nitin Nabin, a prominent figure and Minister in the Bihar state government, as the party’s new National Working President. This organizational reshuffle comes as the party gears up for key state elections and prepares for the next national electoral cycle. The appointment sees Nabin replacing Jagat Prakash Nadda, who had been holding the position, reflecting a strategic move to bring in a younger face with significant on-the-ground experience from a politically crucial state. Nabin has served multiple terms as an MLA from the Bankipore assembly constituency in Patna. The National Working President typically manages the day-to-day affairs and organizational structure, allowing the National President (Amit Shah in the current context) to focus on broader electoral strategies and governmental coordination.

Exam Angle: This is a direct question for competitive exams (Indian Polity/Appointments). The key facts are the name (Nitin Nabin), the post (National Working President), and the predecessor (JP Nadda). Appointments in major national parties are frequently tested.

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/bjp-appoints-nitin-nabin-as-national-working-president/articleshow/125961617.cms

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Centre Urges States to Prioritise Women, SC/ST Officers for Central Deputation

Summary: The Central government directed State governments to nominate more women, SC, and ST officers for Central Staffing Scheme (CSS) posts to ensure adequate representation at the decision-making level.

The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) under the Personnel Ministry, on December 14, 2025, issued a communiqué to the Chief Secretaries of all State governments. The communication urges them to actively sponsor sufficient names of women officers and those belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) for appointment on Central deputation. This is to ensure “adequate representation” for these groups in key decision-making roles at the Central level, including posts under the Central Staffing Scheme (CSS) and as Chief Vigilance Officers (CVOs) in Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs). The DoPT stressed that proper cadre management requires an adequate number of officers to be deputed to the Centre. The communication also mentions that an officer who fails to join Central deputation after being selected may face a debarment of five years from all Central postings, including foreign assignments.

Exam Angle: This is relevant for UPSC (Polity/Governance) and SSC (Administration) as it pertains to the mechanism of the Central Staffing Scheme (CSS) and the government’s affirmative action policy in high-level bureaucracy. The five-year debarment clause is a crucial detail.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-asks-states-to-prioritise-women-scst-officers-for-central-deputation/article70395022.ece

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3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India Rejects Bangladesh’s Extradition Demand for Former PM Sheikh Hasina

Summary: India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) asserted that Indian territory is not permitted for any activities that undermine the interests of Bangladesh, in response to Dhaka’s demand for the extradition of former PM Sheikh Hasina.

On December 14, 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson in New Delhi confirmed that India has received an official request from the Government of Bangladesh for the extradition of its former Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India. The request came after Bangladesh’s government alleged that Ms. Hasina’s “incendiary” remarks from Indian soil were aimed at inciting terror attacks to disrupt the upcoming February 2026 General Election in Bangladesh. While rejecting the extradition request, the MEA strongly asserted its commitment to bilateral ties, stating that Indian territory is never allowed to be used for activities “inimical to the interests” of Bangladesh. The ongoing diplomatic engagement is focused on maintaining the robust India-Bangladesh relationship, especially concerning border security and counter-terrorism cooperation, which has been the cornerstone of the bilateral partnership.

Exam Angle: This is highly important for UPSC (IR) and other exams, focusing on India’s ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’ and diplomatic protocol. The news underscores the sensitivity of bilateral relations concerning political asylum and border security.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-bangladesh-sheikh-hasina-mea-dhaka-envoy-summoned-december-14-2025/article70395598.ece

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Mass Shooting at Hanukkah Event in Sydney’s Bondi Beach Kills at Least 11

Summary: A mass shooting occurred at a gathering for the Jewish festival of Hanukkah in Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach, Australia, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 people, including one of the shooters.

A horrific mass shooting incident took place on December 14, 2025, at the popular Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, during a community event organized for the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. Initial reports from the New South Wales (NSW) Police confirmed that at least 11 people were killed and several others were critically injured. The fatalities included one of the gunmen, who was neutralized by police. The Australian government and the NSW Premier declared the incident a suspected terrorist attack, given the nature of the target and the timing. The immediate impact saw a massive security lockdown across Sydney, with the national threat level being raised. Australia’s Prime Minister condemned the senseless violence and reassured the Jewish community of increased security for the remainder of the festival.

Exam Angle: This is a major international event (IR/Global Security). Key facts are the location (Bondi Beach, Sydney), the event (Hanukkah), and the number of casualties (at least 11). It is a direct example of global terrorism affecting communities.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/world/i-never-thought-id-see-this-in-australia-witness-on-bondi-attack-10420049/

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UNEA-7 Drops Resolution on Strengthening UNEP Headquarters in Nairobi

Summary: The 7th session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) concluded in Nairobi, Kenya, after dropping a key draft resolution aimed at strengthening the role of the UNEP headquarters.

The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) concluded its session on December 14, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya, with the significant news that a draft resolution aimed at consolidating the role of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi was dropped. The resolution sought to ensure that future environmental treaty secretariats would be housed under the UNEP umbrella in the Kenyan capital, a move that would have significantly bolstered Nairobi’s position as the global environmental hub. The resolution faced opposition, mainly from developed nations who preferred more dispersed locations for the various treaty secretariats. The final declaration, however, did include stronger language on issues such as plastic pollution and climate finance, which were key focus areas for the global South. The Assembly still adopted nearly 20 resolutions focused on issues from sustainable lifestyles to resource efficiency, underscoring its role as the world’s highest-level decision-making body on the environment.

Exam Angle: This is critical for UPSC (IR/Environment) as it concerns the global environmental governance structure and the role of the global South (Africa, India) in shaping UNEP’s future. UNEA is the highest environmental decision-making body, and its key decisions are exam-worthy.

Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/africa/un-environmental-assembly-drops-resolution-on-strengthening-unep-nairobi-headquarters-92345

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4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

Commerce Ministry Identifies 300 Products for High-Potential Russia Export

Summary: The Indian Commerce Ministry and industry bodies have identified approximately 300 high-potential products to significantly boost India’s exports to Russia, aiming for a $100 billion bilateral trade target.

The Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with export promotion councils, announced on December 14, 2025, that 300 specific products have been identified as high-potential for Indian exporters in the Russian market. This strategic move aims to leverage the current geopolitical landscape to meet Russia’s demand for goods, which is estimated at approximately $37.4 billion from sources other than India. The current bilateral trade with Russia stands at around $1.7 billion in exports, and the Commerce Ministry is focused on addressing the $59 billion trade deficit (dominated by crude oil imports) and achieving the ambitious target of $100 billion in bilateral trade by the year 2030. The focus areas include pharmaceuticals, electrical machinery, and organic chemicals, where India has a competitive advantage and a significant opportunity to replace Western supply chains.

Exam Angle: Essential for Banking/SSC/UPSC (Economy/IR). The precise numbers ($1.7 billion current export, $37.4 billion market demand, $100 billion target by 2030) and the focus on 300 products for the Russian market are direct facts for quantitative questions.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/300-products-hold-huge-potential-for-indian-exporters-in-russia-official-125121400528_1.html

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GJEPC Reports 20% Growth in Gems & Jewellery Exports to $2.5 Billion

Summary: The Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) announced a robust 20% year-on-year growth in India’s total Gems and Jewellery exports for the month of November, reaching $2.5 billion.

On December 14, 2025, the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) released its trade data, reporting a strong growth trajectory for the sector in the previous month. The total exports of Gems and Jewellery from India in November 2025 witnessed a 20% year-on-year growth, reaching a total value of $2.5 billion. The increase was primarily driven by higher demand from key international markets, especially the United States and the UAE, which are the largest consumers of cut and polished diamonds, and gold jewellery. This positive trend comes after a period of moderate growth earlier in the year and is a significant boost to India’s overall export performance. GJEPC Vice Chairman K. C. Sharma attributed the growth to stabilized rough diamond prices and successful international marketing efforts, and he expressed confidence in achieving the annual export target of $42 billion by the end of the fiscal year.

Exam Angle: Crucial for Banking and Economy segments. The specific growth percentage (20%), the value of exports ($2.5 billion), the name of the council (GJEPC), and the target markets are important facts.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/gems-jewellery-exports-grow-20-percent-november-2025-125121400612_1.html

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Parliamentary Panel Urges Diversification of Crude Oil Sources (89% Import)

Summary: A Parliamentary Standing Committee tabled its report urging the government to diversify its crude oil import sources to mitigate geopolitical risks and ensure stable energy security.

A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas, on December 14, 2025, tabled a report in the Lok Sabha, calling for a dedicated and aggressive strategy to diversify India’s sources of crude oil imports. The Committee noted that India is dangerously reliant on imports for almost 89% of its domestic petroleum requirement, making the nation highly vulnerable to volatile international oil markets and geopolitical instability. The report strongly recommended the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to actively secure long-term contracts with non-traditional suppliers in regions like Latin America and Africa to reduce dependence on the Middle East and Russia. Furthermore, the committee stressed the need to expand the capacity of the Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR), which currently hold only a few days of crude stock, and to encourage more domestic exploration activities under the HELP (Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy) to reduce import dependency.

Exam Angle: Key for UPSC (Economy/Energy Security) and SSC. The figure of 89% import dependence is a critical statistic. The mention of the Parliamentary Standing Committee and the strategic recommendation of SPR expansion and HELP policy are essential for descriptive answers.

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/parliamentary-panel-urges-diversification-crude-oil-imports-india-125121400715_1.html

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5. SPORTS

India Clinches Maiden SDAT Squash World Cup Title, Defeats Hong Kong 3-0

Summary: The Indian Squash team made history by winning its maiden SDAT Squash World Cup title after delivering a commanding 3-0 victory over top-seed Hong Kong in the final in Chennai.

The Indian Squash team achieved a historic milestone on December 14, 2025, by lifting the SDAT Squash World Cup trophy in Chennai. In a clinical and dominant display, the host team defeated the top-seeded Hong Kong team with a clean sweep of 3-0 in the final, marking India’s finest-ever performance in the competition, surpassing its previous best of a bronze medal in 2023. The victory was set up by veteran Joshna Chinappa, who overcame her higher-ranked opponent, Ka Yi Lee, with a 3-1 win (7-3, 2-7, 7-5, 7-1). The winning momentum was continued by Abhay Singh, who swept aside Alex Lau 3-0, followed by a commanding finish from the young star Anahat Singh, who secured the final point with a 3-0 win against Tomato Ho. The victory, celebrated at the packed Express Avenue Mall, highlights the rising stature of Indian squash on the global stage.

Exam Angle: A definitive sports current affairs topic. The key facts are the specific tournament (SDAT Squash World Cup), the venue (Chennai), the result (Maiden Title, 3-0), and the prominent players (Joshna Chinappa, Abhay Singh, Anahat Singh).

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/other-sports/squash-world-cup-india-win-its-maiden-title-defeating-hong-kong/article70395823.ece

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Clinical India Regains Series Lead with Thumping Victory in 3rd T20I vs South Africa

Summary: India defeated South Africa by seven wickets in the 3rd T20 International in Dharamsala, taking a crucial 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

Team India delivered an exceptional all-round performance on December 14, 2025, to defeat South Africa by seven wickets in the third T20 International held at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. The victory puts India ahead with a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. The win was set up by a disciplined bowling unit, which bundled out the Proteas for a low total of 117 runs. Fast bowler Arshdeep Singh was instrumental, setting the tone with early strikes to finish with figures of two for 13. All-rounder Hardik Pandya recorded his 100th T20I scalp, and Captain Aiden Markram was the lone resistance for South Africa, scoring a fighting 61. In the chase, India’s opening pair of Abhishek Sharma (35 off 18 balls) and Shubman Gill provided a blazing start to ensure a comfortable win in just 15.5 overs.

Exam Angle: Important for all competitive exams (Sports). The specific result (India win by 7 wickets, 2-1 series lead), the venue (Dharamsala), and milestones like Hardik Pandya’s 100th T20I wicket are essential factual details.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/india-vs-south-africa-third-t20i-december-14-2025/article70395804.ece

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Lionel Messi Meets Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Chhetri in Mumbai Event

Summary: Football legend Lionel Messi, as part of his four-city ‘GOAT India’ tour, attended a grand event at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, sharing the stage with two of India’s biggest sporting icons.

On the evening of December 14, 2025, football superstar Lionel Messi was the centre of attraction at a major event held at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, the third stop on his four-city ‘GOAT India’ tour. The event marked a golden moment for Indian sports as Messi shared the stage with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri. Tendulkar presented Messi with his iconic 2011 World Cup jersey bearing the No. 10, a gesture that was reciprocated by Messi with a replica of the football used in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was also in attendance and utilized the occasion to launch Project Maha-Deva, a new state-wide initiative focused on identifying and nurturing young football talent. The event saw a packed stadium, demonstrating the massive fan following for the Argentine star in India.

Exam Angle: A significant cross-sport and soft-diplomacy story. The venue (Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai), the people (Messi, Tendulkar, Chhetri), and the launch of the State initiative (Project Maha-Deva) are key factual points.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/lionel-messi-goat-tour-mumbai-wankhede-tendulkar-december-14-2025/article70396021.ece

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6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

Delhi-NCR Air Quality Index Remains in ‘Severe’ Category (AQI 461)

Summary: Air quality in Delhi-NCR continued to remain in the ‘severe’ category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 461, leading to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) flagging operational gaps.

On December 14, 2025, the air quality across the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) remained critically high, recording an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 461, placing it firmly in the ‘Severe’ category for the second consecutive day. This spike was attributed to a combination of meteorological factors, including low wind speeds, and an increase in ground-level pollution sources. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), a statutory body, immediately convened a meeting and flagged “evident gaps” in the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), particularly pointing out failures by agencies like the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in effective dust and construction waste mitigation. GRAP Stage III measures remain in force across the region, including strict prohibitions on non-essential construction and demolition activities. The continuous poor air quality underscores the persistent public health crisis in the national capital.

Exam Angle: A recurring, high-relevance topic for UPSC (Environment/Governance) and SSC. The specific AQI (461), the category (Severe), the statutory body (CAQM), and the policy framework (GRAP Stage III) are all critical factual details.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/air-quality-index-new-delhi-on-december-14-2025-severe-category/article70394968.ece

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Rising Temperatures Drive Looper Caterpillar Pest Outbreaks in Indian Tea Gardens

Summary: Tea gardens in major Indian tea-producing states are witnessing devastating outbreaks of looper caterpillars and other pests, with experts linking the rise directly to warmer weather driven by climate change.

On December 14, 2025, reports emerged from major tea-producing regions in India, including parts of Assam and West Bengal, detailing widespread damage to tea bushes caused by pest outbreaks, primarily looper caterpillars and flush worms. Agricultural scientists and environmental experts are linking this alarming rise in pest population directly to climate change, noting that the unusually warm temperatures persisting late into the year are providing an extended breeding and feeding period for the insects. Tea gardens in the Dooars region of West Bengal reported crop losses of up to 25% in certain vulnerable areas. This development poses a significant economic threat to the ₹80,000 crore Indian tea industry, which is a major global exporter. The issue necessitates an urgent, coordinated strategy between tea associations, the Tea Board of India, and agricultural universities to develop climate-resilient pest management techniques.

Exam Angle: Crucial for UPSC (Environment/Agriculture) and SSC (General Science). The specific pest (looper caterpillars), the cause (rising temperatures/climate change), and the economic impact on the ₹80,000 crore industry are essential data points.

Source: Scroll.in — https://scroll.in/article/1089155/climate-change-looper-caterpillar-pest-outbreaks-indian-tea-gardens

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National Energy Conservation Day Focus on PM Surya Ghar and Green Hydrogen Mission

Summary: The National Energy Conservation Day celebration highlighted the Centre’s commitment to energy transition through the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

As part of the National Energy Conservation Day celebrations on December 14, 2025, the Ministry of Power and the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) emphasized the government’s flagship programs aimed at accelerating India’s energy transition. The event, where President Droupadi Murmu presided, drew attention to the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which targets the installation of solar power systems on rooftops for 1 crore (10 million) households, aiming to provide up to 300 units of free electricity monthly. Additionally, the National Green Hydrogen Mission was highlighted as a critical step to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors. The mission has an outlay of ₹19,744 crore and aims to achieve an annual Green Hydrogen production capacity of 5 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) by 2030, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels and positioning India as a global hub for Green Hydrogen.

Exam Angle: High-utility fact list for all exams (Schemes/Economy/Environment). The core figures like ₹19,744 crore outlay, 5 MMT target for Green Hydrogen, and 1 crore target for the PM Surya Ghar scheme are direct questions in competitive papers.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2203686

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7. OTHERS

Vice President Releases Commemorative Stamp on Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II

Summary: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar released a special commemorative postal stamp in honour of the 7th-century ruler Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II (Suvaran Maran) in Chennai.

On December 14, 2025, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, at a ceremony held in Chennai, released a commemorative postal stamp dedicated to the memory of the great 7th-century ruler, Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II, also known by his title Suvaran Maran. The stamp was released by the Department of Posts under the Ministry of Communications to honour the contributions of the Mutharaiyar dynasty, who were powerful chieftains and a prominent force in the region around modern-day Tiruchirappalli and Pudukkottai. Emperor Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II is celebrated for his administrative prowess, patronage of the arts, and military victories. The stamp’s release is part of the Union Government’s initiative to recognize and celebrate lesser-known historical heroes and cultural figures from all regions of India. The event was attended by Union Ministers, cultural dignitaries, and historians.

Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC (History/Culture) and SSC (Awards & Honours). The name (Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II/Suvaran Maran), the century (7th century), and the dynasty (Mutharaiyar) are key facts, demonstrating a focus on South Indian history.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2203810

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Obituary: South African Jazz Legend ‘Pops’ Mohamed Passes Away at 75

Summary: South African jazz and experimental musician Pops Mohamed, celebrated for his pioneering work in world music and anti-apartheid activism, passed away at the age of 75.

The world music fraternity mourned the passing of legendary South African jazz artist Ismail “Pops” Mohamed on December 14, 2025, at the age of 75. A self-taught multi-instrumentalist, Mohamed was celebrated for his unique ability to fuse traditional South African Khoisan music with contemporary jazz, blues, and experimental sounds. He was a pioneering figure in the genres of Ethno-Jazz and World Music, mastering instruments from the kora to the mbira. His music was not just art; it was an act of protest, deeply rooted in the anti-apartheid movement, using traditional African sounds to assert cultural identity against state-sanctioned segregation. His critically acclaimed album, ‘Kalamazoo’, remains a landmark in South African musical history. He was a champion of the endangered musical heritage of the indigenous people of Southern Africa.