Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: December 23, 2025
Compiled from 15+ leading Indian news sources
Your daily exam-focused news digest covering critical developments across governance, economy, international relations, science, and sports. Every article verified from original newspaper sources.
Today’s Top 10 Recall Points (Snapshot)
- India-New Zealand FTA: Historic trade deal concluded; targets $20 billion FDI over 15 years.
- Defence Landmark: India Optel Ltd (IOL) and Safran (France) sign a pact for high-precision navigation systems.
- Economic Overhaul: MoSPI to release new GDP and CPI series (base year 2024/2022-23) starting Feb 2026.
- Judiciary: Supreme Court bars leasing of forest land for agriculture without Central approval.
- State Policy: Meghalaya makes Khasi and Garo languages mandatory for preschool to Class 1.
- Diplomatic Tension: Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi suspends visa services indefinitely.
- Football: East Bengal FC wins the inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship 2025.
- Cricket: India Women defeat Sri Lanka by 8 wickets in the 1st T20I at Visakhapatnam.
- Economy: India’s net FDI nearly doubles to $6.2 billion in April-October FY26.
- Energy: US welcomes India’s SHANTI Bill for private participation in the nuclear sector.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
Meghalaya Mandates Khasi and Garo Languages in Foundational Education
Summary: Meghalaya Cabinet approves mandatory indigenous language curriculum for early schooling to preserve cultural identity.
On December 21-22, 2025, the Meghalaya state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, approved the new State Curriculum Framework (SCF). The policy makes the Khasi and Garo languages mandatory for all students from preschool to Class 1 across the state. While textbooks will be optional for the 2025-26 session, they will become strictly compulsory starting April 2026. The reform aims to improve early learning outcomes by teaching children in their mother tongue while fostering a sense of belonging. Additionally, the cabinet cleared a revised pay structure for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) teachers and approved a ₹25 crore “Mission Mode” project to combat HIV/AIDS over five years.
Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC GS-II (Education/Language Policy) and State PSCs. It aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s emphasis on multilingualism and regional languages in foundational stages.
Source: India Today
Goa Zilla Panchayat Elections: BJP-MGP Alliance Secures Dominant Victory
Summary: The ruling BJP-MGP combine wins 30 seats in the local body polls, consolidating its grassroots hold.
On December 22, 2025, the results for the Goa Zilla Panchayat elections were declared, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) alliance securing 30 out of the 50 seats. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant hailed the result as a mandate for the “Double Engine” growth model. The elections, held on December 20, saw a high voter turnout in rural pockets. The opposition Congress and AAP managed to win 8 and 4 seats respectively, with independents taking the remainder. The victory is seen as a crucial indicator of the ruling party’s popularity ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, highlighting rural satisfaction with infrastructure projects.
Exam Angle: Relevant for State PSCs regarding local self-government and panchayat-level political dynamics in India.
Source: Indian Express – India Section
Assam Eviction Drive Turns Violent in West Karbi Anglong
Summary: Mob violence erupts during a government eviction drive against unauthorized settlers in Assam’s hill district.
On December 22, 2025, tensions escalated in Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district as a mob set fire to a local leader’s ancestral home following an eviction demand. The state government had initiated the removal of unauthorized settlers from protected tribal lands. Protesters claimed the drive targeted specific communities, leading to clashes with security forces. The Assam government, led by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, has maintained that the evictions are necessary to protect the administrative and land rights of the Karbi people under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Extra paramilitary forces have been deployed to Kheroni and surrounding areas to restore order.
Exam Angle: Significant for UPSC GS-II (Internal Security) and GS-I (Geography/Tribal Rights). Focus on the Sixth Schedule and land alienation in Northeast India.
Source: Indian Express – India Section
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Supreme Court Prohibits Agricultural Leases on Forest Land Without Central Nod
Summary: SC rules that forest land cannot be diverted for non-forestry purposes like farming under the Forest (Conservation) Act.
On December 19-22, 2025, the Supreme Court of India, in a landmark judgment, ruled that forest land cannot be leased for agricultural purposes without prior approval from the Central Government. A bench led by the Chief Justice set aside a Karnataka High Court order, stating that granting such leases leads to “devastation and deforestation.” The court emphasized that agriculture constitutes a “non-forestry purpose” under Section 2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The case involved 134 acres of forest land in Dharwad, Karnataka, which had been cleared for cultivation by a cooperative society. The court ordered the Karnataka Forest Department to restore the forest with indigenous species within 12 months.
Exam Angle: Critical for UPSC GS-III (Environment/Forest Laws) and GS-II (Judiciary). Understand Section 2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 and the Godavarman series of cases.
Source: CaseMine Commentary
MoSPI Announces Base Year Revision for GDP, CPI, and IIP Data
Summary: India to shift to a new macroeconomic data series with updated base years starting February 2026.
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) announced on December 22, 2025, that it will release a new series of macroeconomic data with revised base years. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) will move to a 2024 base year (currently 2012) starting February 12, 2026. The National Accounts (GDP) will shift to a 2022-23 base year on February 27, 2026. Additionally, the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) will use 2022-23 as its base starting May 2025. These changes aim to better reflect current consumption patterns and industrial structures. A pre-release consultative workshop with economists and stakeholders is scheduled for December 23 in New Delhi to finalize the methodology.
Exam Angle: Vital for UPSC GS-III (Economy/Inflation/Growth). Understanding “Base Year Effect” and the role of MoSPI/NSO in data collection.
Source: The Hindu – Business/Economy
India and France Partner for High-Precision Defence Manufacturing
Summary: India Optel Limited (IOL) and Safran sign a deal to manufacture combat-proven navigation and firing systems in India.
On December 22, 2025, in New Delhi, India Optel Limited (IOL), a Mini-Navratna Defence PSU, signed a collaboration agreement with France’s Safran Electronics & Defense. The pact focuses on the “Transfer of Production” for two critical systems: the SIGMA 30N Digital Ring Laser Gyro Inertial Navigation System and the CM3-MR Direct Firing Sight. These systems are used in artillery guns, air defence, and anti-drone mechanisms. The agreement was signed by IOL CMD Tushar Tripathi and Safran’s Alexandre Ziegler. Under the “Make in India” initiative, IOL will handle the final assembly, testing, and life-cycle support, enhancing the Indian Army’s operational readiness with high-end indigenous technology.
Exam Angle: Important for UPSC GS-III (Defence/Indigenization of Technology). Connect with “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and India-France strategic ties.
Source: Press Information Bureau
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
India and New Zealand Successfully Conclude Landmark Free Trade Agreement
Summary: Prime Ministers Modi and Luxon announce the completion of FTA negotiations in a record nine months.
In a telephone conversation on December 22, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon announced the conclusion of a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The deal, negotiated in just nine months, aims to double bilateral trade in five years and attract $20 billion in investment from New Zealand over 15 years. The agreement removes or reduces tariffs on 95% of New Zealand’s exports to India. Crucially, India has protected its sensitive dairy and key agricultural sectors, which remain excluded from the deal. The FTA also includes a capped skilled visa pathway for Indian professionals, enhancing labor mobility between the two nations.
Exam Angle: Significant for UPSC GS-II (International Relations/Bilateral Agreements). This is India’s seventh FTA in recent years, highlighting its “Trade Policy” shift.
Source: The Hindu – National News
Bangladesh Suspends Visa Services in New Delhi Amid Security Concerns
Summary: Consular and visa operations at the Bangladesh High Commission are halted indefinitely following protests.
On December 22, 2025, the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi issued a notice suspending all consular and visa services until further notice due to “unavoidable circumstances.” This follows a security incident where a group of protesters gathered outside the mission to protest the killing of a Hindu youth, Dipu Chandra Das, in Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Dhaka expressed concerns over the safety of its diplomats, despite India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stating the protest was brief and posed no threat. Simultaneously, Bangladesh suspended visa services in Siliguri. This move comes after India recently suspended its visa operations in Chittagong, signaling a significant diplomatic chill between the two neighbors.
Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC GS-II (India and Neighborhood Relations). Understand the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and current India-Bangladesh dynamics.
Source: ANI News
EAM Jaishankar Visits Sri Lanka as Special Envoy Following Cyclone
Summary: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar arrives in Colombo to coordinate relief efforts after a devastating tropical storm.
On December 22, 2025, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar arrived in Sri Lanka as a special envoy of PM Narendra Modi. The visit follows a severe cyclone that caused widespread destruction across the island nation. Jaishankar met with Sri Lankan leadership to hand over a relief package including medicines, temporary shelters, and food supplies. India was the “First Responder” to the crisis, deploying Indian Navy ships for disaster relief (HADR) operations. The visit underscores India’s “Neighborhood First” policy and its commitment to regional stability. Discussions also touched upon the long-term rehabilitation of affected coastal communities and cooperation in climate-resilient infrastructure.
Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC GS-II (International Relations). Focus on India’s role as a net security provider and HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) operations.
Source: Indian Express – India Section
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI State of the Economy: GDP Growth Poised to Exceed 7% in FY26
Summary: RBI report highlights robust domestic demand and resilient economic activity despite global headwinds.
In its “State of the Economy” report released on December 22, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) stated that India’s real GDP growth is likely to exceed 7% for the current fiscal year, surpassing the initial estimate of 6.5%. The report noted that while external sectors face headwinds from changing global trade policies, domestic demand remains robust. High-frequency indicators for November, including air passenger traffic and retail tractor sales, show strong momentum. The RBI highlighted that the cumulative 100 basis points reduction in the repo rate since February 2025 has started transmitting to lending rates. However, system liquidity turned into a deficit in late December due to advance tax payments, prompting the RBI to inject ₹1 trillion through OMO purchases.
Exam Angle: Critical for UPSC GS-III and Banking exams. Terms like “Repo Rate Transmission,” “System Liquidity,” and “Open Market Operations (OMO)” are high-yield.
Source: Business Standard – Finance News
Net FDI into India Nearly Doubles to $6.2 Billion; Outward FDI Rises
Summary: RBI data shows a significant surge in net Foreign Direct Investment during April-October FY26.
According to data released by the RBI on December 22, 2025, net Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into India nearly doubled to $6.2 billion during the April-October period of the current fiscal year. This growth was driven by a sharp decline in repatriation/disinvestment, which fell to $31.65 billion compared to the previous year. However, outward FDI from India also saw an uptick, reaching $20.5 billion. The manufacturing, financial services, and retail sectors remained the primary recipients of these inflows. Economists suggest that political stability and the “China Plus One” strategy are encouraging long-term capital inflows into the Indian market, despite global volatility.
Exam Angle: Important for UPSC GS-III (Economy/Investment Models). Focus on FDI trends, repatriation, and the impact on the Balance of Payments (BoP).
Source: Business Standard – Economy News
Eight Core Industries Rebound to 1.8% Growth in November
Summary: Infrastructure sectors show recovery after a contraction in October, led by steel, cement, and coal.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry reported on December 22, 2025, that the Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) grew by 1.8% in November. This follows a contraction in October, which was the first in 15 months. The recovery was primarily fueled by positive growth in cement, steel, fertilizers, and coal. Specifically, steel and cement production rose due to increased infrastructure demand. However, four sectors—crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, and electricity—continued to record declines. The core sector accounts for over 40% of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), making this rebound a positive signal for industrial health.
Exam Angle: High-yield for UPSC/SSC. Memorize the eight core industries (Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement, Electricity).
Source: Business Standard – Economy News
5. SPORTS
Jemimah Rodrigues Stars as India Women Beat Sri Lanka in 1st T20I
Summary: India secures an 8-wicket victory in Visakhapatnam, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
On December 21-22, 2025, the Indian Women’s Cricket Team defeated Sri Lanka by 8 wickets in the first T20 International at the ACA-VDCA Stadium, Visakhapatnam. Chasing a modest target of 122, India reached the goal in just 14.4 overs. Jemimah Rodrigues was the star of the match, scoring a brilliant unbeaten 69 off 34 balls, including 10 fours. Earlier, Indian bowlers Kranti Gaud and Deepti Sharma restricted Sri Lanka to 121/6 in their 20 overs. Young debutant Vaishnavi bowled an economical spell of 0/16. The clinical win gives India momentum in the bilateral series, with Jemimah Rodrigues being named ‘Player of the Match’ for her aggressive half-century.
Exam Angle: Relevant for SSC/Banking and State PSCs. Focus on match venues, award winners, and debutants in Indian sports.
Source: Indian Express – Sports/Cricket
East Bengal FC Clinches Inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship
Summary: The Kolkata Giants make history by becoming the first Indian women’s club to win an international title.
On December 20-22, 2025, East Bengal FC won the inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship 2025 after defeating Nepal’s APF (Armed Police Forces) 3-0 in the final held at Dasharath Stadium, Kathmandu. Ugandan forward Fazila Ikwaput scored twice (21′, 46′), while India international Shilky Devi Hemam added a third with a header. East Bengal, coached by Anthony Andrews, finished the tournament undefeated and remarkably did not concede a single goal throughout the competition. Fazila Ikwaput ended as the tournament’s top scorer with nine goals. This victory marks a historic milestone as East Bengal becomes the first Indian women’s football club to lift an international trophy.
Exam Angle: Important for sports sections of competitive exams. Note the venue (Kathmandu), the winner (East Bengal), and the significance of the “Inaugural” edition.
Source: Olympics.com News
Meghalaya to Host 39th National Games; Secretariat Society Cleared
Summary: State cabinet approves the formation of a dedicated society to coordinate preparations for the upcoming National Games.
On December 22, 2025, the Meghalaya government officially cleared the creation of the “National Games Secretariat Society” to oversee the preparations for the 39th National Games, which the state is scheduled to host. The move aims to streamline infrastructure development, athlete management, and logistics for the mega-event. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma stated that hosting the games is part of a broader strategy to promote sports culture and youth engagement in the Northeast. The state is currently upgrading stadiums in Shillong and Tura to meet international standards. This will be the first time Meghalaya hosts the National Games, following the successful co-hosting of the South Asian Games in 2016.
Exam Angle: Important for current affairs. Know the host state for the 39th National Games (Meghalaya).
Source: India Today
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
US Welcomes SHANTI Bill: Strengthening Global Nuclear Energy Ties
Summary: The US government hails India’s new nuclear legislation allowing private sector entry as a boost for energy security.
On December 22, 2025, the United States government officially welcomed the passage of India’s SHANTI (Strategic Harnessing of Atomic energy for National Transformation and Innovation) Bill. The Bill, which recently received Presidential assent, amends the Atomic Energy Act to allow private sector participation in the nuclear energy sector. US officials stated that this is a “step towards stronger energy security ties” and opens doors for American technology transfers in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). The Indian government intends to use this private investment to triple its nuclear power capacity by 2032. The move is seen as a pivotal shift in India’s energy policy, transitioning from a state-controlled model to a collaborative ecosystem.
Exam Angle: Highly relevant for UPSC GS-III (Energy/Science). Focus on the Atomic Energy Act and the role of nuclear energy in India’s Net Zero 2070 goal.
Source: Indian Express – India Section
CDS General Anil Chauhan Highlights Role of IITs in Modern Warfare
Summary: Chief of Defence Staff emphasizes the integration of indigenous technology and academia in future military operations.
Speaking at a technology conclave on December 22, 2025, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan underscored the critical role of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) in shaping modern warfare. He noted that the nature of conflict is shifting towards autonomous systems, AI, and cyber capabilities. General Chauhan urged the academic community to collaborate with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to develop “dual-use” technologies. He highlighted that the future “Atmanirbhar” (self-reliant) defense ecosystem depends on domestic research to counter asymmetric threats. The CDS also pointed out that India is currently developing indigenous drone swarms and hypersonic flight technologies in partnership with premier institutes.
Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC GS-III (Defence/Internal Security). Understand the concept of “Dual-Use Technology” and the “Military-Academia” interface.
Source: Indian Express – India Section
Aravalli Mining Restricted to 0.19% Area After Detailed Ecological Study
Summary: Union Ministry informs that mining in the Aravalli range is strictly regulated to minimize environmental impact.
On December 22, 2025, the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change informed that mining activities are being permitted in only 0.19% of the total Aravalli range following a comprehensive ecological impact study. The statement comes amidst ongoing concerns about the degradation of the “green lungs” of the National Capital Region (NCR). The Minister clarified that all current mining leases are subject to stringent restoration clauses and satellite monitoring. The Aravalli range, stretching across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi, acts as a barrier against desertification. The government is also implementing the “Aravalli Green Wall Project” to create a 1,400 km long green corridor to restore degraded land.
Exam Angle: Important for UPSC GS-I (Geography) and GS-III (Environment). Focus on the Aravalli Green Wall Project and the ecological significance of the range.
Source: Indian Express – India Section
7. OTHERS
JSS Science and Technology University Wins CII Women in STEM Award
Summary: The Mysuru-based university is recognized for its excellence in promoting women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
On December 22, 2025, the JSS Science and Technology University (JSS STU) was awarded the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) “Excellence for Women in STEM 2025” award. The recognition was bestowed during a national summit on diversity and inclusion. The university was lauded for its specific mentorship programs, scholarships, and research grants dedicated to female students and faculty. According to the CII, JSS STU has seen a 40% increase in female enrollment in core engineering branches over the last three years. The award highlights the institution’s commitment to bridging the gender gap in technical fields, which is a key objective of the Department of Science and Technology’s (DST) “GATI” initiative.
Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC GS-II (Social Justice/Education). Note the “GATI” (Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions) initiative.
Source: The Hindu – National News
Former Chief Justice S. Vaidyanathan Appointed Meghalaya Human Rights Chief
Summary: The Meghalaya government fills the long-vacant post of Chairperson for the State Human Rights Commission.
On December 22, 2025, the Government of Meghalaya appointed former Meghalaya High Court Chief Justice S. Vaidyanathan as the Chairperson of the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC). The post had been vacant for an extended period, leading to a backlog of cases related to civil liberties and police conduct. The appointment was made by a committee headed by the Chief Minister. Justice Vaidyanathan, known for his landmark judgments on environmental and labor laws, is expected to bring proactive oversight to the commission. The MHRC is a statutory body empowered to investigate human rights violations within the state, functioning under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC GS-II (Polity/Statutory Bodies). Understand the composition and powers of State Human Rights Commissions.
Source: India Today
India and Canada to Revive Trade Pact Talks Following Diplomatic Reset
Summary: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal indicates a resumption of negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced on December 22, 2025, that India and Canada are set to resume discussions for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Talks had been paused due to diplomatic tensions over the past two years. Goyal stated that the revival reflects a “pragmatic approach” to economic engagement, focusing on sectors like clean energy, pulses, and technology services. Canada remains a significant source of pulses for India, while Indian IT professionals are a key component of the Canadian workforce. The move is seen as an attempt to decouple trade from political friction, ensuring mutual economic benefit in a volatile global market.
Exam Angle: Relevant for UPSC GS-II (International Relations/Bilateral Trade). Focus on the importance of CEPA and the strategic sectors involved.
Source: Business Standard – Economy News
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT: CORE RECALL POINTS
1. National & State Governance
- Meghalaya Language Policy: Khasi and Garo languages made mandatory for preschool to Class 1 students (April 2026 onwards).
- Significance: Aligns with NEP 2020’s multilingualism and mother tongue education in foundational learning stages.
- Supreme Court Forest Land Ruling: SC bars leasing of forest land for agriculture without Central Government approval under Section 2, Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980.
- Significance: Critical for Environment Law, Godavarman jurisprudence, and forest conservation mechanisms.
- Goa Zilla Panchayat Elections: BJP-MGP alliance wins 30 out of 50 seats (December 22, 2025).
- Significance: Tests knowledge of local self-government and rural political dynamics.
- Assam Eviction Drive: Violence erupts in West Karbi Anglong during removal of unauthorized settlers from protected tribal lands under Sixth Schedule.
- Significance: Relevant for Tribal Rights, Sixth Schedule provisions, and internal security in Northeast India.
- Meghalaya Human Rights Commission: Justice S. Vaidyanathan appointed as Chairperson of MHRC.
- Significance: Constitutional/Statutory appointments under Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
2. Economy & Finance
- MoSPI Base Year Revision: CPI shifts to 2024 base year (Feb 12, 2026); GDP shifts to 2022-23 base year (Feb 27, 2026); IIP shifts to 2022-23 (May 2025).
- Significance: Understanding base year effects and macroeconomic data accuracy for inflation and growth metrics.
- RBI GDP Growth Forecast: Real GDP growth projected to exceed 7% in FY26, surpassing initial 6.5% estimate.
- Significance: Key indicator of economic resilience; repo rate transmission and OMO operations.
- Net FDI Inflow: Doubles to $6.2 billion during April-October FY26; outward FDI reaches $20.5 billion.
- Significance: Investment climate, Balance of Payments (BoP), and “China Plus One” strategy impact.
- Eight Core Industries Growth: Index rebounds to 1.8% in November 2025, driven by steel, cement, and coal.
- Significance: Memorize all eight core industries (Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilizers, Steel, Cement, Electricity) for industrial health assessment.
3. International Relations & Defence
- India-New Zealand FTA: Historic trade agreement concluded; targets $20 billion FDI over 15 years; 95% tariff reduction on NZ exports.
- Significance: Major bilateral trade policy milestone; India’s 7th recent FTA showcasing trade liberalization approach.
- IOL-Safran Defence Pact: India Optel Limited and Safran (France) sign agreement for SIGMA 30N navigation system and CM3-MR firing sight production.
- Significance: Defence indigenization under “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat”; Technology Transfer (ToT) in strategic systems.
- Bangladesh Visa Suspension: Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi suspends consular/visa services indefinitely (December 22, 2025).
- Significance: India-Bangladesh diplomatic tensions; Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations; neighborhood policy challenges.
- EAM Jaishankar’s Sri Lanka Visit: Special envoy visit to Colombo following cyclone; HADR operations by Indian Navy.
- Significance: “Neighborhood First” policy; India as regional first responder and net security provider.
- India-Canada Trade Revival: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announces resumption of CEPA talks after diplomatic reset.
- Significance: Bilateral economic engagement in clean energy, pulses, and technology services sectors.
4. Science, Technology & Environment
- SHANTI Bill Welcome: US government welcomes India’s nuclear legislation allowing private sector participation; focus on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
- Significance: Amendment to Atomic Energy Act; energy security and Net Zero 2070 goal; tripling nuclear capacity by 2032.
- CDS on Defence Technology: General Anil Chauhan highlights IITs’ role in modern warfare; focus on AI, autonomous systems, and dual-use technology.
- Significance: Military-academia interface; DRDO collaboration for indigenous drone swarms and hypersonic technologies.
- Aravalli Mining Regulation: Mining permitted in only 0.19% of Aravalli range after ecological study; Aravalli Green Wall Project underway.
- Significance: Environmental protection; desertification barrier; 1,400 km green corridor for NCR’s ecological health.
5. Sports & Recognition
- India Women’s Cricket: Defeated Sri Lanka by 8 wickets in 1st T20I at Visakhapatnam; Jemimah Rodrigues scored unbeaten 69 off 34 balls (Player of the Match).
- Significance: Track match venues, award winners, and debutants (Vaishnavi: 0/16 in debut).
- East Bengal FC: Won inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship 2025 in Kathmandu (3-0 vs Nepal APF); first Indian women’s club to win international trophy.
- Significance: Historic sporting achievement; tournament top scorer Fazila Ikwaput (9 goals); undefeated campaign.
- 39th National Games Host: Meghalaya confirmed as host; National Games Secretariat Society formed for coordination.
- Significance: First time Meghalaya hosts National Games; infrastructure development in Shillong and Tura.
6. Education & Social Justice
- JSS STU CII Award: JSS Science and Technology University wins “Excellence for Women in STEM 2025” award; 40% increase in female enrollment.
- Significance: Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI) initiative; bridging gender gap in technical education.
