Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: December 19, 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)
- SHANTI Bill Passed: Parliament approves the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025.
- MGNREGA Replaced: Both Houses pass the VB-G RAM G Bill, repealing the 20-year-old MGNREGA.
- India-Oman CEPA: India signs a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with Oman in New Delhi.
- Nuclear Private Entry: The SHANTI Bill officially opens India’s civil nuclear sector to private sector participation.
- Satwik-Chirag Win: The Indian duo secures their second straight win at the BWF World Tour Finals 2025 in Hangzhou.
- Joint Venture Ruling: Supreme Court rules that firms can claim proportionate experience from JVs for future individual tenders.
- LegRAA AI Tool: PIB announces the development of “Legal Research Analysis Assistant” to aid judges.
- Russia Recruitments: MEA informs Rajya Sabha that 202 Indians were recruited into the Russian Army since 2022.
- RRB Branding: Finance Ministry unveils a “Single Brand Logo” for all Regional Rural Banks nationwide.
- Arctic Melt Crisis: New reports highlight “extreme melting” episodes in the Arctic, accelerating global sea-level rise.
1. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Parliament Passes Landmark SHANTI Bill to Overhaul Nuclear Sector
Summary: The SHANTI Bill, 2025, was passed by the Rajya Sabha on December 18, opening the nuclear sector to private players.
On December 18, 2025, the Rajya Sabha passed the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, following its approval by the Lok Sabha on December 17. Union Minister Jitendra Singh moved the bill, which amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1962. The legislation is a paradigm shift, allowing private sector participation in the traditionally state-controlled nuclear power industry. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the passage as a “transformational moment” for India’s clean energy future and AI-driven manufacturing. The bill also addresses supplier liability clauses, which had been a point of contention for the Opposition. By inviting private investment, India aims to rapidly scale its nuclear capacity to meet its Net Zero 2070 targets. For competitive exams, this is a major update in energy policy and statutory changes. It signifies a transition from a government monopoly to a public-private partnership model in strategic sectors.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2206295
VB-G RAM G Bill Replaces MGNREGA Amid Intense Opposition Protests
Summary: Parliament passed the VB-G RAM G Bill on December 18, repealing the 20-year-old MGNREGA scheme.
The Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025, was passed by both Houses of Parliament on December 18, 2025. The new legislation replaces the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which has been the cornerstone of rural employment since 2005. Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that the change was necessary to address large-scale corruption and align rural employment with the “Viksit Bharat” vision. The Opposition staged an overnight dharna at the Parliament complex, calling the bill “draconian” and a “murder of the Mahatma’s legacy.” Unlike MGNREGA, the new scheme emphasizes skill development and permanent asset creation. For UPSC aspirants, this represents a fundamental shift in social security and rural development policy. Understanding the structural differences between the demand-driven MGNREGA and the mission-mode VB-G RAM G is crucial for GS Paper II and III.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/parliament-winter-session-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-day-14-live-updates-december-18-2025/article70410178.ece
Supreme Court Rules on Proportionate Experience for Joint Venture Firms
Summary: A bench ruled on December 18 that firms can claim their share of experience from JVs when bidding solo.
The Supreme Court of India, comprising Justice Manoj Misra and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, delivered a significant judgment on December 18, 2025, regarding tender eligibility. The Court held that an entity’s experience gained as a partner in a Joint Venture (JV) can be claimed proportionately when that entity bids separately for future contracts. The case arose from a Chhattisgarh Public Works Department tender worth ₹45.22 crore, where a bidder was disqualified because its experience was gained as part of a 49% stake in a JV. The Court set aside the High Court’s ruling, stating that refusing to recognize proportionate experience is “arbitrary and unreasonable,” violating Article 14 of the Constitution. This ruling clarifies corporate jurisprudence regarding “own name and style” requirements in government procurement. For law and governance exams, this judgment reinforces the principle of “substance over form” in administrative law and ensures fair competition in infrastructure bidding.
Source: LiveLaw — https://www.livelaw.in/supreme-court/individual-firms-can-claim-proportionate-jv-experience-for-future-work-contracts-when-applying-solo-supreme-court-513803
2. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
India and Oman Sign Historic Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
Summary: On December 18, India and Oman signed a CEPA to eliminate tariffs on over 98% of goods.
In a major boost to India’s “Look West” policy, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Oman’s Minister Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef signed the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in New Delhi on December 18, 2025. This is the second free trade agreement India has signed in the last six months. The deal provides zero-duty access for 98.08% of Oman’s tariff lines, covering 99.38% of India’s exports by value. Key sectors benefiting include gems and jewelry, textiles, and engineering goods. Notably, Oman has offered service commitments in 127 sub-sectors, including professional and healthcare services, marking the first time it has opened its market to this extent. The agreement also includes a first-of-its-kind commitment on Traditional Medicine (AYUSH). For exams, this is vital for International Relations (IR), highlighting India’s deepening ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and its strategy of bilateral trade pacts over multilateral ones.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2205889
Parliamentary Panel Warns of Strategic Challenge in Bangladesh
Summary: A report tabled on December 18 terms the situation in Bangladesh as India’s greatest challenge since 1971.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Shashi Tharoor, tabled a report on December 18, 2025, stating that developments in Bangladesh pose the “greatest strategic challenge” to India since the 1971 Liberation War. The report notes a significant “shift” in the bilateral relationship over the past two years, warning that New Delhi risks losing “strategic space” in Dhaka. This comes amidst rising instability in Bangladesh following the death of uprising leader Sharif Osman Hadi in Singapore on the same day. The committee urged the Ministry of External Affairs to adopt a more proactive and nuanced diplomatic approach to safeguard Indian interests and the security of minorities in the neighboring country. For UPSC aspirants, this report provides a critical analysis of India’s neighborhood policy and internal security dynamics. It highlights the volatility of regional geopolitics and the importance of the “Neighborhood First” policy in maintaining regional stability.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
MEA Discloses Data on Indian Recruits in Russian Army
Summary: On December 18, the MEA informed Rajya Sabha that 202 Indians joined the Russian Army, with 26 fatalities.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) provided a written response to the Rajya Sabha on December 18, 2025, revealing that 202 Indian nationals are believed to have been recruited into the Russian armed forces since the conflict began in 2022. Out of these, 26 individuals have been reported killed, while seven remain missing. The government stated that it has been actively pursuing the discharge of these individuals with Russian authorities, emphasizing that many were misled by unscrupulous recruitment agents. At least two Indians were cremated in Russia after their families could not repatriate the remains. This development underscores the risks of illegal human trafficking and the complexities of India-Russia relations during the ongoing war. For competitive exams, this news is relevant to topics of Indian Diaspora, international labor laws, and the role of the MEA in protecting citizens abroad during foreign conflicts.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
3. ECONOMY & FINANCE
Finance Ministry Unveils Single Brand Logo for Regional Rural Banks
Summary: On December 18, the DFS unveiled a unified logo for RRBs to ensure nationwide brand consistency.
The Department of Financial Services (DFS), under the Ministry of Finance, unveiled a single brand logo for all Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) across India on December 18, 2025. This move follows the consolidation of 26 RRBs across 11 states and Union Territories, a process that became effective on May 1, 2025, under the “One State, One RRB” principle. The unified branding is intended to enhance the trust and visibility of RRBs among rural customers while streamlining their identity. Additionally, the Finance Ministry has directed three specific RRBs—Haryana Gramin Bank, Kerala Gramin Bank, and Tamil Nadu Grama Bank—to submit their draft Initial Public Offering (IPO) plans by the end of March 2026. This signals the government’s intent to professionalize and tap capital markets for rural banking. For banking and SSC exams, this is a key update in the financial sector, focusing on institutional reforms and rural credit mechanisms.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
RBI Approves Paytm Arm for Offline Payment Aggregator Role
Summary: On December 18, the RBI granted PPSL approval to act as a payment aggregator for offline transactions.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on December 18, 2025, granted approval to Paytm Payments Services Limited (PPSL), a subsidiary of One 97 Communications, to operate as a payment aggregator for offline transactions. This follows the online payment aggregation license granted just last month. This authorization allows PPSL to facilitate point-of-sale (PoS) transactions for merchants across the country, marking a significant recovery for the brand after regulatory hurdles in early 2024. The move comes as the RBI continues to tighten norms for the payment ecosystem to ensure data security and transparency. For economy and banking exams, this reflects the evolving regulatory landscape of the Fintech sector in India. It highlights the stringent “Fit and Proper” criteria the RBI applies to payment entities. The news is a critical case study on regulatory compliance and the growth of the digital payments infrastructure in the Indian economy.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
Stock Market: Sensex Slips 78 Points Amid Late Session Volatility
Summary: Indian indices ended in the red on December 18, 2025, marking the fourth consecutive session of losses.
The Indian equity market faced a tepid trading session on December 18, 2025, with the BSE Sensex ending 78 points lower at 78,500. This marked the fourth straight day of declines for the benchmark index. Similarly, the NSE Nifty 50 retreated from its intraday high of 25,902 to settle at 24,815.55. Gains in the IT sector, led by TCS which rose 2%, were offset by losses in the auto, pharma, and metal sectors. Market analysts pointed toward persistent concerns over the “AI trade” and geopolitical tensions as factors weighing on investor sentiment. Meanwhile, the Indian rupee remained under pressure, sliding past 91 against the US dollar due to sustained FPI outflows. For finance-focused exams, these milestones highlight the volatility in the capital markets and the ongoing depreciation of the rupee, which has lost nearly 6% in 2025, making it one of the worst-performing Asian currencies of the year.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/markets/news/stock-market-live-updates-december-18-nse-bse-sensex-today-nifty-gift-nifty-ipo-gmp-125121800078_1.html
4. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Supreme Court Launches “LegRAA” AI Tool for Judicial Research
Summary: PIB announced on December 18 the development of an AI-based legal research tool for judges.
The e-Committee of the Supreme Court of India announced on December 18, 2025, the development of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool named “Legal Research Analysis Assistant” (LegRAA). This tool is designed to assist judges in legal research, document analysis, and decision support by utilizing Machine Learning (ML) and Natural Language Processing (NLP). Additionally, the “Digital Courts 2.1” application was showcased, which includes “SHRUTI” (voice-to-text) and “PANINI” (translation) functionalities to help with judgment dictation. The Supreme Court has partnered with IIT Madras to deploy these AI tools to identify defects in electronic filings. This initiative is part of the broader e-Courts Project aimed at improving administrative efficiency and reducing the case backlog. For competitive exams, this is a prime example of “AI in Governance” and judicial reforms. Understanding these specific tool names (LegRAA, SHRUTI, PANINI) is essential for science and technology sections of State PSC and UPSC exams.
Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2205770
Arctic Ice Facing “Extreme Melting” Episodes, Threatening Sea Levels
Summary: A report on December 18 warns that heatwaves in the Arctic are causing unprecedented ice loss.
Environmental researchers, in a report published on December 18, 2025, warned of “extreme melting” episodes in the Arctic that are drastically accelerating ice loss. Unlike gradual seasonal melting, these episodes involve high melting rates occurring over just a few days, often triggered by stationary high-pressure systems known as “blocking anticyclones.” Northwestern Greenland and the Canadian Arctic have recorded the highest rates of loss. Greenland’s ice reserve alone holds enough water to raise global sea levels by over seven meters. The report emphasizes that these events are becoming more frequent, altering ocean salinity and potentially disrupting the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). For environment-related exam questions, this highlights the impact of climate change on the cryosphere and the global “teleconnections” of Arctic warming. It serves as a critical update on global climate stability and the urgent need for international climate action.
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/climate-change/extreme-melting-episodes-are-accelerating-ice-loss-in-the-arctic
Weak Western Disturbances Lead to Dry Winter and Smog in North India
Summary: IMD data analyzed on December 18 links warm North Indian winters to a shifting jet stream.
An analysis of India Meteorological Department (IMD) data on December 18, 2025, revealed that North India is experiencing a warmer and drier winter than usual due to weak Western Disturbances (WDs). Only 12 WDs affected India between October 15 and December 17, most of which were moisture-deficient. Meteorologists pointed to a shift in the subtropical westerly jet stream, which has moved from its usual position over Northwest India toward the Northeast. This displacement has prevented the typical winter rainfall and snowfall in the Himalayas, while also trapping pollutants to cause persistent smog in the National Capital Region (NCR). The jet stream speeds have been recorded between 176 kmph and 222 kmph at a height of 12.6 km. For Geography and Environment exams, this news illustrates the mechanics of Indian winter weather, the role of Western Disturbances, and the impact of the jet stream on regional climates and air quality.
Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/climate-change/weak-western-disturbances-and-shifting-jet-stream-drive-warm-dry-winter-in-north-india
5. SPORTS
Satwik-Chirag Secure Second Consecutive Win at BWF World Tour Finals
Summary: The Indian pair defeated the Indonesian world No. 8 on December 18 in Hangzhou.
India’s star badminton duo, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, continued their dominant run at the BWF World Tour Finals 2025 in Hangzhou, China. On December 18, 2025, they defeated the world No. 8 Indonesian pair, Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri, in a thrilling three-game match (21-11, 16-21, 21-11). This victory marks their second straight win in Group B, bringing them to the brink of the semi-finals. Despite the loss of the second game, the Indians showed immense resilience in the decider to seal the match in 60 minutes. The BWF World Tour Finals is the season-ending tournament featuring only the top eight performers of the year. For sports sections in competitive exams, Satwik and Chirag’s consistency on the global stage is a frequent topic. Their progress in this tournament is significant as they aim to become the second Indians after PV Sindhu (2018) to win the prestigious title.
Source: Olympics.com — https://www.olympics.com/en/news/bwf-world-tour-finals-2025-badminton-india-group-b-match-2-report
India vs South Africa 4th T20I Abandoned Due to Heavy Fog
Summary: The series finale in Lucknow was called off on December 18 without a ball being bowled.
The fourth and final T20 International between India and South Africa, scheduled for December 18, 2025, at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, was abandoned due to heavy fog and poor visibility. Despite the efforts of the ground staff, the conditions were deemed unsafe for play, and the match was called off without even the toss taking place. As a result, the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) announced a full ticket refund for the fans. The series, which saw Suryakumar Yadav leading the Indian side, concluded with the results of the previous three matches determining the winner. For general knowledge and sports-related current affairs, this event highlights the impact of seasonal weather (smog and fog) on major sporting events in North India. It also touches upon the administrative procedures of cricket associations regarding match cancellations and ticket refunds.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-18-december-2025-india-t20i-clash-south-africa-india-raises-security-concerns-bangladesh-rbi-policy-10425442/
Chennai Super Kings and KKR Reveal Contrasting IPL 2026 Auction Strategies
Summary: Auction trends on December 18 showed CSK focusing on youth while KKR opted for overseas stars.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction trends emerged on December 18, 2025, revealing distinct strategies by the league’s powerhouses. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have reportedly focused their investment on young, domestic talent, aiming to build a core for the post-MS Dhoni era. In contrast, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have prioritized proven overseas performers to bolster their squad. These strategic shifts are being closely watched by fans and analysts as the teams prepare for the upcoming season. While the IPL is primarily an entertainment event, its economic impact, the valuations of players, and the management of sporting franchises are often subjects of interest in business and general awareness sections of competitive exams. The auction process itself is a case study in market dynamics and talent management in the multi-billion-dollar sports industry.
Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-18-december-2025-india-t20i-clash-south-africa-india-raises-security-concerns-bangladesh-rbi-policy-10425442/
6. STATE AFFAIRS
Maharashtra: BJP and Shiv Sena Reach Seat-Sharing Deal for BMC Polls
Summary: On December 18, the Mahayuti allies agreed to contest 150 seats together for the upcoming Mumbai polls.
The Mahayuti alliance partners, BJP and Shiv Sena, announced on December 18, 2025, that they have reached a consensus on seat-sharing for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections scheduled for January 15, 2026. Out of the 227 seats in India’s richest municipal body, the two parties will jointly contest 150 seats. Mumbai BJP president Ameet Satam and Maharashtra Industries Minister Uday Samant held a joint press conference in Mumbai to finalize the arrangement. Discussion on the remaining 77 seats is expected to be completed within the next 48 hours. This agreement is seen as a crucial step in maintaining alliance stability ahead of the high-stakes urban local body polls. For State PSC and national exams, this news highlights the dynamics of coalition politics and the significance of local governance in India’s financial capital.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
Odisha and Telangana Emerge as Top GST Contributors
Summary: Data released on December 18 shows Odisha and Telangana leading in tax growth rates.
In an unexpected shift in India’s economic landscape, data analyzed on December 18, 2025, revealed that Odisha and Telangana have emerged as the fastest-growing contributors to Goods and Services Tax (GST) and direct taxes. Traditionally, states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka have dominated these charts. However, the latest figures indicate that these two states are now challenging the long-held dominance of traditional economic powerhouses. This growth is attributed to increased industrial activity, better tax compliance, and flourishing service sectors in Hyderabad and Bhubaneswar. For competitive exams, this trend is a vital indicator of “regional economic convergence” and the success of state-led economic reforms. It is a key point for discussions on fiscal federalism and the changing geography of India’s wealth generation.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
NCST to Probe Tribal Student’s Death at KISS Campus, Odisha
Summary: On December 18, the NCST announced a probe into the suspected murder of a tribal boy in Bhubaneswar.
The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) announced on December 18, 2025, that it would launch a formal investigation into the alleged murder of a minor tribal student at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) in Bhubaneswar. The boy was reportedly killed by three of his hostel mates. KISS is a prominent residential institute that provides free education to nearly 30,000 tribal students. The NCST’s intervention comes after local protests and demands for a transparent inquiry into the safety of students at the campus. For GS Paper II (Social Justice) and State PSC exams, this highlights the role of constitutional bodies like the NCST in protecting the rights and safety of vulnerable communities. It also raises questions about the oversight and security protocols in large-scale residential educational institutions.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
7. OTHERS
ED Restitutes ₹311 Crore to Kingfisher Airlines Employees
Summary: On December 18, the Enforcement Directorate facilitated the payment of long-pending dues to former KAL workers.
In a significant move for labor rights, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) announced on December 18, 2025, that it has facilitated the restitution of ₹311.67 crore towards the long-pending dues of former employees of Kingfisher Airlines Limited (KAL). These funds were recovered from the assets of fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, which had been attached by the agency. The payout is intended to cover the salaries and provident fund contributions of the airlines’ workers who have been waiting for compensation since the airline collapsed in 2012. This is one of the largest such restitutions to employees under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). For exams, this case study is relevant to corporate governance, the PMLA, and the legal mechanisms for asset recovery from economic offenders. It demonstrates the government’s efforts to prioritize workers’ welfare during the liquidation of insolvent companies.
Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
Shashwat Sharma Appointed CEO of Airtel India Effective January 1
Summary: Bharti Airtel announced on December 18 that Shashwat Sharma will take charge as MD & CEO in 2026.
Bharti Airtel, India’s second-largest telecommunications company, announced a major leadership transition on December 18, 2025. Shashwat Sharma, currently the CEO Designate, is set to assume the role of Managing Director and CEO of Airtel India with effect from January 1, 2026. The board also approved the appointment of the current MD, Gopal Vittal, as the Executive Vice Chairman for a period of five years. Other key appointments include Soumen Ray as Group CFO and Akhil Garg as CFO of Airtel India. This restructuring is part of a planned succession strategy to drive the company’s 5G expansion and digital services growth. For banking and corporate exams, these high-level appointments in the telecom sector are important facts. Airtel’s leadership changes are significant given the intense competition in the Indian telecom market and the ongoing rollout of advanced network technologies.
Source: Economic Times — https://m.economictimes.com/markets/stocks/live-blog/bse-sensex-today-live-nifty-stock-market-updates-18-december-2025/liveblog/126048675.cms
PFRDA Rationalizes Partial Withdrawal Norms for NPS Accounts
Summary: New rules announced on December 18 allow easier access to pension savings for loan repayments.
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) introduced amendments to the exit regulations for National Pension System (NPS) accounts on December 18, 2025. The new norms allow subscribers to make partial withdrawals against their pension savings for specific purposes, including the repayment of home loans. Additionally, the PFRDA has relaxed the mandatory annuity purchase requirement for accounts with smaller balances at the time of retirement, providing more flexibility to retirees. These changes are aimed at making the NPS a more attractive and liquid investment option for the workforce. For competitive exams, this is a critical update in the financial and social security sector. Understanding the role of PFRDA and the features of NPS is essential for economy and banking papers. These reforms reflect the government’s objective of promoting long-term savings while providing short-term financial relief to subscribers.
Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT
1. National & State Governance
- SHANTI Bill – Nuclear Sector Liberalization: Parliament passes the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, opening India’s civil nuclear sector to private sector participation for the first time.
- Significance: Marks a paradigm shift from government monopoly to public-private partnership in strategic energy sector; essential for energy policy updates and constitutional law related to state enterprise privatization.
- Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2206295
- VB-G RAM G Bill – MGNREGA Replacement: The Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill repeals the 20-year-old MGNREGA, replacing demand-driven employment guarantee with mission-mode skill development emphasis.
- Significance: Fundamental restructuring of rural employment policy; critical for GS Paper II & III (social schemes and rural development); tests understanding of government welfare schemes evolution.
- Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/parliament-winter-session-lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-day-14-live-updates-december-18-2025/article70410178.ece
- Supreme Court JV Tender Judgment: Firms can claim proportionate experience from Joint Ventures when bidding independently for future government contracts; reinforces “substance over form” in procurement law.
- Significance: Important for administrative law and Article 14 (equality principle); relevant for civil service exams testing government procurement jurisprudence.
- Source: https://www.livelaw.in/supreme-court/individual-firms-can-claim-proportionate-jv-experience-for-future-work-contracts-when-applying-solo-supreme-court-513803
- Maharashtra BMC Seat-Sharing Deal: BJP and Shiv Sena (Mahayuti partners) finalize contest of 150 seats out of 227 for January 2026 Mumbai municipal elections.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of coalition politics and local governance structures; important for understanding urban local bodies and electoral processes.
- Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
- NCST Investigation into KISS Campus Death: National Commission for Scheduled Tribes launches probe into alleged murder of tribal student at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences.
- Significance: Highlights constitutional bodies protecting Scheduled Tribes rights; relevant for GS Paper II (Social Justice) and minority protection mechanisms under Indian Constitution.
- Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
2. Economy & Finance
- India-Oman CEPA – Trade Milestone: India and Oman sign Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement eliminating tariffs on 98.08% of Oman’s tariff lines and 99.38% of Indian exports by value; includes first-of-its-kind AYUSH (Traditional Medicine) commitment.
- Significance: Strengthens India’s “Look West” policy and Gulf Cooperation Council relations; demonstrates shift toward bilateral FTAs over multilateral approaches; critical for IR and international trade exams.
- Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2205889
- Regional Rural Banks Consolidation & Rebranding: Finance Ministry unveils single unified logo for 26 consolidated RRBs across 11 states/UTs under “One State, One RRB” principle; three RRBs directed to submit IPO plans by March 2026.
- Significance: Key banking sector reform signaling RRB professionalization and capital market entry; important for bank management and institutional restructuring topics.
- Source: https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
- RBI Approves Paytm Offline Payment Aggregation: RBI grants Paytm Payments Services Limited (PPSL) approval for offline payment aggregation, enabling PoS transactions nationwide.
- Significance: Demonstrates RBI’s regulatory framework for fintech; important for digital payment infrastructure and financial technology evolution in India.
- Source: https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
- Stock Market Volatility – Sensex at 78,500: BSE Sensex declines 78 points marking fourth consecutive session of losses; NSE Nifty 50 settles at 24,815.55; Indian rupee depreciates past 91 against USD with FPI outflows.
- Significance: Reflects capital market trends, currency depreciation (worst-performing Asian currency in 2025), and macroeconomic indicators relevant for finance and economics exams.
- Source: https://www.business-standard.com/markets/news/stock-market-live-updates-december-18-nse-bse-sensex-today-nifty-gift-nifty-ipo-gmp-125121800078_1.html
- Odisha & Telangana – Emerging Economic Powerhouses: Odisha and Telangana emerge as fastest-growing GST and direct tax contributors, challenging traditional dominance of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka.
- Significance: Demonstrates regional economic convergence and changing wealth distribution geography; essential for understanding fiscal federalism and state-level economic reforms.
- Source: https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
- PFRDA NPS Reforms – Partial Withdrawal Liberalization: PFRDA introduces partial withdrawal flexibility for NPS accounts including home loan repayments and relaxes mandatory annuity purchase for lower balances.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of pension sector reforms and retirement security mechanisms; important for social security and financial inclusion topics.
- Source: https://www.business-standard.com/finance/news
- Kingfisher Restitution – ₹311.67 Crore: Enforcement Directorate facilitates payment of long-pending dues to 30,000+ former Kingfisher Airlines employees from assets of fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya.
- Significance: Critical case study in PMLA enforcement, corporate insolvency, and worker protection; relevant for governance and economic offences topics.
- Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
3. International Relations & Defence
- Bangladesh Strategic Challenge – Parliamentary Alert: Parliamentary Standing Committee warns that Bangladesh developments pose India’s “greatest strategic challenge” since 1971; reports shift in bilateral relations with loss of strategic space in Dhaka.
- Significance: Critical for understanding neighborhood policy, India’s regional security dynamics, and diplomatic strategies; essential for international relations and South Asian geopolitics exams.
- Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
- Indian Nationals in Russian Army – 202 Recruits, 26 Deaths: MEA reveals 202 Indians recruited into Russian forces since 2022; 26 killed, 7 missing; highlights human trafficking risks and diaspora protection challenges.
- Significance: Relevant for Indian diaspora studies, international labor law, MEA’s protective role during foreign conflicts, and geopolitical complexities of India-Russia relations.
- Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/the-hindu-morning-digest-december-19-2025/article70413439.ece
4. Science, Technology & Environment
- Supreme Court’s LegRAA AI Tool – Judicial Reforms: e-Committee announces development of “Legal Research Analysis Assistant” utilizing Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing for judicial support; integration with “Digital Courts 2.1” featuring SHRUTI (voice-to-text) and PANINI (translation tools).
- Significance: Prime example of “AI in Governance” and e-courts modernization; tests knowledge of judicial administration, technological integration in justice delivery, and specific tool nomenclature.
- Source: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2205770
- Arctic Extreme Melting Episodes – 7-Meter Sea-Level Threat: Environmental report warns of accelerating ice loss in Arctic through “extreme melting” events triggered by blocking anticyclones; Greenland reserves alone could raise global sea levels by over 7 meters.
- Significance: Critical for climate change, cryosphere, and environmental impacts exams; highlights Arctic warming teleconnections and urgent need for international climate action.
- Source: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/climate-change/extreme-melting-episodes-are-accelerating-ice-loss-in-the-arctic
- Western Disturbances & Jet Stream Shifts – North Indian Winter Dynamics: IMD data reveals only 12 weak Western Disturbances affected India (Oct 15-Dec 17) due to subtropical westerly jet stream shift from Northwest to Northeast; jet stream speeds recorded at 176-222 kmph at 12.6 km height.
- Significance: Essential for understanding Indian weather mechanics, Western Disturbances’ role, jet stream impacts on climate and air quality; important for geography and environmental studies.
- Source: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/climate-change/weak-western-disturbances-and-shifting-jet-stream-drive-warm-dry-winter-in-north-india
5. Sports & Recreation
- Satwik-Chirag Double Victory at BWF World Tour Finals: Indian badminton pair defeats world No. 8 Indonesian pair (Fajar Alfian & Muhammad Shohibul Fikri) 21-11, 16-21, 21-11 for second consecutive Group B win at Hangzhou 2025.
- Significance: Highlights India’s badminton excellence and pathway toward prestigious title win; tracks international sporting achievement and tournament progression.
- Source: https://www.olympics.com/en/news/bwf-world-tour-finals-2025-badminton-india-group-b-match-2-report
- India vs South Africa T20I Abandoned – Weather Impact: Fourth and final T20I between India and South Africa called off without toss due to heavy fog and poor visibility at Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium.
- Significance: Demonstrates climate and weather impacts on major sporting events; relevant for environmental effects on sports and administrative procedures.
- Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-18-december-2025-india-t20i-clash-south-africa-india-raises-security-concerns-bangladesh-rbi-policy-10425442/
- IPL 2026 Auction Strategies – CSK Youth Focus vs KKR Overseas: Chennai Super Kings prioritizes young domestic talent for post-MS Dhoni era; Kolkata Knight Riders focuses on proven overseas performers.
- Significance: Case study in franchise management, talent economics, and market dynamics in multi-billion-dollar sports industry; relevant for business and general awareness exams.
- Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-18-december-2025-india-t20i-clash-south-africa-india-raises-security-concerns-bangladesh-rbi-policy-10425442/
- Airtel Leadership Restructuring: Shashwat Sharma assumes MD & CEO role (January 1, 2026); Gopal Vittal becomes Executive Vice Chairman; Soumen Ray appointed Group CFO.
- Significance: Highlights corporate governance transitions in telecom sector; important for understanding management structure and succession planning in major industries.
- Source: https://m.economictimes.com/markets/stocks/live-blog/bse-sensex-today-live-nifty-stock-market-updates-18-december-2025/liveblog/126048675.cms
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