Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: December 26, 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)
- PM Inaugurates Rashtra Prerna Sthal: 65-acre memorial site in Lucknow honors Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 101st birth anniversary.
- CCPA Penalizes Vision IAS: ₹11 lakh fine imposed for misleading UPSC result advertisements; first case of repeat offence.
- Supreme Court on Dowry: Terms dowry a “cross-cultural evil”; directs changes in educational curricula to promote equality.
- Good Governance Day: Observed nationwide on December 25 to mark the birth anniversary of former PM Vajpayee.
- Pax Silica Initiative: India remains excluded from the new US-led semiconductor and AI supply chain alliance.
- RBI Liquidity Infusion: Central Bank announces ₹2 trillion OMO purchases to ease system liquidity stress.
- ISL Crisis: Clubs seek clarity from AIFF over long-term roadmap as the Master Rights Agreement expires.
- Prithvi Scheme Update: Ministry of Earth Sciences reports ₹1,194 crore expenditure on indigenous climate modeling.
- Maharaja Bijli Pasi: PM pays homage to the 12th-century king of Lucknow, highlighting inclusive governance.
- Christmas Celebrations: PM Modi attends morning service at The Cathedral Church of the Redemption in Delhi.
1. STATE AFFAIRS
PM Inaugurates Rashtra Prerna Sthal in Lucknow to Honor Vajpayee
Summary: PM Modi inaugurates a 65-acre memorial in Lucknow dedicated to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
On December 25, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, to inaugurate the “Rashtra Prerna Sthal.” The project, constructed at an approximate cost of ₹230 crore, spans 65 acres and features 65-foot-high bronze statues of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, and Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The site also includes a lotus-shaped museum showcasing India’s national journey. Notably, the PM mentioned that the site was formerly a garbage dump of 30 acres, cleared over three years.
This memorial serves as a tribute to the 101st birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee. During the ceremony, the PM highlighted the significance of Lucknow as a land of inspiration and good governance. He emphasized that the statues symbolize the foundational political thought of modern India. The inauguration marks a major push in Uttar Pradesh’s cultural and political infrastructure development.
Exam Angle: Relevant for State PSCs and UPSC (Culture/Personalities). Focus on the “Rashtra Prerna Sthal” location, the trio of leaders honored, and the significance of Lucknow in Vajpayee’s political career.
Source: Press Information Bureau
Uttar Pradesh Eyes $1 Trillion Economy with Export Boost
Summary: UP government ramps up infrastructure to achieve $50 billion export goal.
On December 25, 2025, reports highlighted the Uttar Pradesh government’s intensified efforts to reach a $50 billion export target as a stepping stone to becoming a $1 trillion economy. The state has focused on “One District One Product” (ODOP) and mobile manufacturing, with PM Modi noting that UP is now the top mobile manufacturing state in India. The state is streamlining logistics and providing specialized services to exporters to mitigate global supply chain disruptions.
The progress in UP’s manufacturing sector, particularly in electronics, aligns with the central government’s “Make in India” 2.0. The state’s strategy involves leveraging its massive workforce and improving ease of doing business to attract global majors. This development is crucial as UP seeks to transition from an agrarian-heavy economy to an industrial powerhouse.
Exam Angle: Significant for UPPSC and General Economy. Note the $50 billion export target and the role of the ODOP scheme in decentralized industrial growth.
Source: Business Standard
Homage to Maharaja Bijli Pasi on Birth Anniversary
Summary: Prime Minister pays tribute to 12th-century Pasi King in Lucknow.
On December 25, 2025, during his visit to Lucknow, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid respectful homage to Maharaja Bijli Pasi on his birth anniversary. The Maharaja, a 12th-century ruler of the Lucknow region, is celebrated for his valor, good governance, and inclusive leadership. The PM recalled that it was Atal Bihari Vajpayee who issued a postage stamp in his honor in the year 2000, connecting the legacies of the two leaders.
The recognition of Maharaja Bijli Pasi is significant for the Pasi community, which holds a substantial demographic presence in Uttar Pradesh. By highlighting his legacy of “good governance” alongside Vajpayee, the government aims to promote subaltern historical figures. This cultural outreach emphasizes the historical continuity of indigenous governance models in the Awadh region.
Exam Angle: Relevant for History and Culture sections (UPSC/UPPSC). Focus on Maharaja Bijli Pasi’s era and his contribution to the regional history of Lucknow.
Source: Press Information Bureau
2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS
CCPA Imposes ₹11 Lakh Penalty on Vision IAS for Misleading Ads
Summary: First repeat offence penalty under Consumer Protection Act on coaching institute.
On December 25, 2025, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), led by Chief Commissioner Nidhi Khare, imposed a ₹11 lakh penalty on Vision IAS (AjayVision Education Pvt Ltd). The penalty was issued for publishing misleading advertisements regarding UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2022 and 2023 results. The institute claimed credit for 119 toppers, but an investigation revealed only 3 had enrolled in their foundation courses; the rest took only mock interviews or test series.
This marks the first instance where a higher penalty has been imposed for a “subsequent contravention” (repeat offence). The CCPA noted that such deliberate concealment of material information creates a false impression of success rates, inducing students to enroll in expensive programs. The authority has issued 57 notices to various coaching centers to date, signaling a major crackdown on the “coaching mafia” and unfair trade practices in the education sector.
Exam Angle: Important for Polity (Consumer Rights) and Governance. Understand the powers of CCPA under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the definition of “misleading advertisement.”
Source: The Hindu
Supreme Court Terms Dowry a ‘Cross-Cultural Evil’ in Landmark Ruling
Summary: Apex court directs educational changes to eradicate the social evil of dowry.
In a judgment released on December 24-25, 2025, a Supreme Court Bench comprising Justices Sanjay Karol and N.K. Singh termed dowry a “cross-cultural evil” that has disguised itself as “gifts” and “social expectations.” The court observed that hypergamy—the social strategy of marrying daughters into higher-status families—has come at a great cost to women’s rights. The ruling came in a case where a 20-year-old woman died over a demand for a TV, a motorcycle, and ₹15,000.
The Court directed the Union and State governments to incorporate changes into educational curricula across all levels to reinforce the constitutional position of equality between partners. It also ordered the prompt appointment of Dowry Prohibition Officers and requested High Courts to expedite pending dowry cases. The judgment noted that the practice has also increasingly affected Muslim families, where dowry is replacing the traditional empowerment tool of ‘mehr.’
Exam Angle: Crucial for UPSC GS Paper 1 (Social Issues) and GS Paper 2 (Judiciary). Note the focus on Article 14 (Equality) and the directive for educational curriculum reform.
Source: The Hindu
Nation Observes Good Governance Day 2025
Summary: Birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee marked with governance initiatives.
December 25, 2025, was observed across India as “Good Governance Day” to commemorate the 101st birth anniversary of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The day was marked by various ministries launching digital governance tools and citizen-centric services. PM Modi emphasized that Vajpayee truly brought good governance to the ground through initiatives like the Golden Quadrilateral and the foundation of digital identity (Aadhaar predecessor).
The celebration focused on the theme of “Saturation and Fulfillment,” moving beyond mere slogans like poverty eradication to actual service delivery. Various states held “Sushasan” (Good Governance) workshops to discuss the integration of AI in public service delivery. The day serves as an annual reminder of the accountability and transparency required in the Indian democratic setup.
Exam Angle: Important for Governance and Ethics papers. Remember the date (Dec 25) and its association with Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s birth anniversary.
Source: Press Information Bureau
3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
India Excluded from US-Led ‘Pax Silica’ Initiative
Summary: Nine-country tech alliance leaves India out of critical semiconductor supply chain.
As of December 25, 2025, geopolitical analysts are assessing the impact of India’s exclusion from the “Pax Silica” initiative, a strategic move by the US Department of State. The alliance, which includes Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the Netherlands, the UK, Israel, the UAE, and Australia, aims to build a secure silicon supply chain, covering critical minerals, semiconductors, and AI infrastructure. The group signed the “Pax Silica Declaration” earlier in December to reduce global dependence on China.
Critics argue that India’s exclusion indicates a shift in Washington’s strategic calculus, prioritizing “policy coherence” and “regulatory stability” over potential market size. While Indian industry experts suggest that private US investments will continue, the formal exclusion from this technology core limits India’s role in shaping the economic architecture of the 21st century. This development poses a challenge to India’s “strategic autonomy” stance in the high-tech sector.
Exam Angle: Vital for International Relations (India-US relations). Understand the term “Pax Silica” and the countries involved. Analyze the implications for India’s “Semicond India” mission.
Source: National Herald
PM Modi Extends Christmas Greetings to Global Community
Summary: Prime Minister emphasizes Jesus Christ’s teachings of peace and compassion.
On the morning of December 25, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Christmas service at ‘The Cathedral Church of the Redemption’ in New Delhi. He extended his greetings to the nation and the world via social media, stating that the teachings of Jesus Christ should strengthen harmony and goodwill in society. The Prime Minister’s participation in the service was seen as a gesture of inclusivity and cultural diplomacy.
This engagement comes at a time when India is positioning itself as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (Global Friend), balancing its domestic cultural identity with global pluralistic values. The PM shared glimpses of the service, highlighting themes of hope and shared kindness. Such public gestures are part of the government’s broader outreach to various communities within the country and the global Christian diaspora.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Social Harmony/Culture. Note the venue: The Cathedral Church of the Redemption, an architecturally significant site in Delhi.
Source: Press Information Bureau
4. ECONOMY & FINANCE
RBI Announces ₹2 Trillion Liquidity Infusion to Ease Bond Stress
Summary: Central bank launches OMOs and Dollar/Rupee swaps to counter liquidity drain.
On December 25, 2025, details of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) aggressive liquidity support measures were analyzed by market experts. The RBI has announced an additional ₹2 trillion in Open Market Operation (OMO) purchases and a $10 billion dollar/rupee buy-sell swap to be conducted through January 2026. This follows a period where system liquidity slipped into a deficit due to advance tax outflows and foreign exchange interventions.
The scale of this durable liquidity infusion is significantly higher than market expectations. It aims to flatten the G-sec (Government Security) yield curve, which has seen upward pressure on ultra-long bond yields. The RBI’s actions are intended to support private investment by lowering borrowing costs, particularly after the surprise 25-basis point rate cut earlier in December that brought the repo rate down to 6.25%.
Exam Angle: High relevance for Economy (Banking/Monetary Policy). Study the impact of OMOs on liquidity and the meaning of a “flattening yield curve.”
Source: Business Standard
Indian Economy Enters H2-FY26 on Strong Footing: EY Report
Summary: GDP growth recorded at 8.2% in Q2; inflation remains at historic lows.
According to the December 2025 edition of the EY Economy Watch report, the Indian economy has entered the second half of the 2025-26 fiscal year with robust momentum. Real GDP growth for the September quarter (Q2) stood at 8.2%, following a 7.8% growth in Q1. A defining feature of this period is the persistently low CPI inflation, which hit a historic low of 0.3% in October and remained at 0.7% in November 2025.
The report credits the government’s front-loaded capital expenditure, which rose by 32.4% during the April-October period. However, it warns that the contribution of net exports to GDP remains negative due to global trade volatility. The RBI has projected a 7.3% growth for the full fiscal year FY26. To sustain a medium-term growth of 6.5%, the report suggests a continued focus on domestic demand and fiscal consolidation.
Exam Angle: Important for Economic Data. Note the Q2 GDP figure (8.2%) and the record-low inflation rates which enabled the RBI’s recent rate cut.
Source: Business Standard
Stock Markets Closed for Christmas; NSE/BSE Observe Holiday
Summary: Indian bourses shut for trading on December 25; global markets also on break.
On December 25, 2025, India’s premier stock exchanges, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), remained closed in observance of Christmas. Trading in the equity, derivative, and SLR segments was suspended for the day. Multi-commodity exchanges (MCX) were also shut. Markets were set to resume normal operations on Friday, December 26.
This holiday followed a period of “risk-on” mood in the Indian markets, driven by the RBI’s recent 25 bps rate cut. Financial and auto stocks have been the primary beneficiaries of the easing borrowing costs. Globally, US markets also saw shorter trading hours on Christmas Eve and remained shut on Christmas Day, creating a synchronized global cooling period for financial activities.
Exam Angle: General awareness. Note the impact of monetary policy (rate cuts) on market sentiment leading into the holiday.
Source: Economic Times
5. SPORTS
ISL Clubs Seek Clarity from AIFF Over League Roadmap
Summary: Contractual impasse threatens India’s top football league as MRA expires.
On December 25, 2025, the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs sent a formal letter to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) seeking immediate clarity on the league’s future structure. The 2025-26 season was previously put on hold due to a dispute over the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between the AIFF and the former organizers, FSDL. The existing deal is set to expire in December 2025, and a recent tender for commercial rights found no takers.
The clubs, represented by Mohun Bagan CEO Vinay Chopra, are pushing for “perpetual” operational and commercial ownership. While the AIFF General Body recently rejected this proposal, a committee has been formed to find a middle ground. The clubs have requested a briefing on both short-term and long-term plans to ensure the sustainability of Indian football. The situation remains critical as the contractual deadline approaches.
Exam Angle: Important for Sports Management/Governance. Note the role of AIFF and the significance of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) in Indian football.
Source: The Hindu
Hosting Rights and Infrastructure Focus in National Sports Policy
Summary: Government reviews progress of sports infrastructure for upcoming 2026 events.
On December 25, 2025, as part of Good Governance Day, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports reviewed the progress of “Khelo India” infrastructure projects. The focus is on preparing facilities for international tournaments scheduled for 2026. The government highlighted that the “saturation” model is being applied to sports, ensuring that rural talent has access to world-class coaching and equipment.
The review also touched upon the upcoming Asian Games and Commonwealth Games preparations. Officials emphasized that the decentralized model of sports governance, involving state-level centers of excellence, has started showing results in podium finishes. The ministry is also looking at digital tracking of athlete performance to ensure transparent selection processes.
Exam Angle: Relevant for Sports Policy. Understand the “Khelo India” scheme and the role of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) in infrastructure.
Source: Press Information Bureau
6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
Ministry of Earth Sciences Updates on ‘PRITHVI’ Scheme
Summary: ₹1,194 crore spent on indigenous climate models and disaster prediction.
On December 25, 2025, the Ministry of Earth Sciences provided a comprehensive update on the “PRITHVI” (PRogramme on Integrated THreshold Vulnerability and Impact) scheme. Of the total ₹1,385 crore allocated for FY 2024-26, the ministry has already utilized ₹1,194.56 crore. A major achievement includes the development of the “Bharat Forecasting System” (Bharat FS), a global climate model with a high resolution of 6 km.
The scheme has also funded “Digital Twin of the Ocean” projects for better disaster prediction, including tsunami and storm surge alerts. In seismology, microzonation of 12 cities has been completed, with reports released for Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Coimbatore, and Mangalore. These efforts aim to reduce earthquake risks and improve the skill score for monsoonal heavy rainfall detection, which currently stands at 85% for 24-hour forecasts.
Exam Angle: High relevance for Science & Tech (Climate/Disaster Management). Note the “Bharat FS” model resolution and the cities covered under seismic microzonation.
Source: Press Information Bureau
Nanobots for Targeted Cancer Treatment: New Research Insights
Summary: Scientists explore microscopic robots for precision medicine in India.
On December 25, 2025, scientific discussions in India highlighted the potential of nanobots in delivering targeted treatments for cancer. Researchers are focusing on “programmable” nanostructures that can navigate the human bloodstream to deliver drugs directly to malignant cells, sparing healthy tissue. This “targeted delivery” system aims to minimize the side effects of traditional chemotherapy.
The research, being conducted in several IITs and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), aligns with India’s “National Quantum Mission” and advanced biotechnology initiatives. While still in the experimental stage, the technology represents a significant leap in precision medicine. Experts believe that within the next decade, nanobots could become a standard tool in oncology.
Exam Angle: Important for Science & Tech (Biotechnology). Understand the concept of “nanobots” and their application in healthcare.
Source: Indian Express – Explained Sci-Tech
Environment Ministry Enforces Aravalli Conservation Orders
Summary: States directed to strictly implement Supreme Court orders on Aravalli ranges.
On December 25, 2025, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change sent a directive to the governments of Haryana and Rajasthan to strictly enforce the Supreme Court’s orders regarding the protection of the Aravalli ranges. The directive follows reports of continued illegal mining and construction in the eco-sensitive zones. The Aravallis are crucial for preventing the eastward expansion of the Thar Desert and maintaining the groundwater table in the NCR region.
The ministry emphasized that no new construction or mining activity should be allowed without clearance from the Central Empowered Committee. This move is part of the “Green Wall of India” project, which aims to create a 1,400 km long and 5 km wide green belt from Gujarat to Delhi to combat land degradation.
Exam Angle: Significant for Environment and Ecology. Note the “Green Wall of India” project and the ecological importance of the Aravalli Range.
Source: The Hindu
7. OTHERS
Sanchar Saathi App Made Optional for Smartphone Makers
Summary: Government clarifies that pre-installation of the security app is not mandatory.
On December 25, 2025, the Ministry of Communications clarified that the “Sanchar Saathi” app remains optional for smartphone manufacturers. Earlier reports had suggested a mandatory pre-installation directive, which raised privacy concerns among users. The app is designed to help citizens track lost mobile phones and check the number of connections registered in their name.
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated that while the government encourages the use of the app for digital security, it respects user data privacy and manufacturer autonomy. The portal has already helped block millions of fraudulent SIM cards. This clarification aims to balance national security needs with individual privacy rights under the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act.
Exam Angle: Important for Tech Policy and Privacy. Note the features of the “Sanchar Saathi” portal and its relevance to the DPDP Act.
Source: Indian Express – Explained Sci-Tech
101st Birth Anniversary of Mahamana Madan Mohan Malaviya
Summary: Nation remembers the founder of BHU alongside Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
December 25, 2025, also marked the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Mahamana Madan Mohan Malaviya. PM Modi paid tributes to the great educationist and social reformer, who founded the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). The PM noted that both Malaviya and Vajpayee dedicated their lives to safeguarding India’s identity and unity.
Malaviya’s legacy as a four-time President of the Indian National Congress and his role in the Indian independence movement were highlighted in commemorative events across the country. His philosophy of “Satyamev Jayate” (which he popularized) continues to be the bedrock of the Indian state.
Exam Angle: History and Personalities. Focus on Malaviya’s role in the education sector and his political contributions during the freedom struggle.
Source: Press Information Bureau
QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT: CORE RECALL POINTS
1. National & State Governance
- Rashtra Prerna Sthal Memorial: 65-acre site in Lucknow with 65-foot statues of Mookerjee, Upadhyaya, and Vajpayee; cost ₹230 crore.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of modern political personalities and state infrastructure projects.
- CCPA Penalty on Vision IAS: ₹11 lakh fine for misleading UPSC advertisements; first repeat offence case.
- Significance: Crucial for Consumer Protection Act, 2019 provisions and CCPA’s regulatory powers.
- Supreme Court Dowry Ruling: Termed dowry a “cross-cultural evil”; directed curriculum changes and appointment of Dowry Prohibition Officers.
- Significance: Important for Social Issues (GS Paper 1) and Fundamental Rights (Article 14).
- Good Governance Day: Observed on December 25 to mark Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 101st birth anniversary.
- Significance: Relevant for Governance, Ethics, and Important Dates.
- Maharaja Bijli Pasi Tribute: 12th-century Lucknow ruler honored by PM Modi; postage stamp issued by Vajpayee in 2000.
- Significance: Tests knowledge of regional history and inclusive governance narratives.
- Uttar Pradesh Export Target: State aims for $50 billion exports through ODOP scheme and mobile manufacturing.
- Significance: State-specific economic policies and Make in India initiatives.
2. Economy & Finance
- RBI Liquidity Infusion: ₹2 trillion OMO purchases and $10 billion dollar/rupee swap announced through January 2026.
- Significance: Core development in Monetary Policy and understanding of Open Market Operations.
- Repo Rate: Currently at 6.25% after a 25 bps cut in December 2025.
- Significance: Key indicator of RBI’s monetary stance and its impact on borrowing costs.
- GDP Growth (Q2 FY26): 8.2% real GDP growth recorded for September 2025 quarter.
- Significance: Important macroeconomic indicator for Economic Survey and Budget analysis.
- CPI Inflation: Historic low of 0.3% in October 2025 and 0.7% in November 2025.
- Significance: Critical for understanding inflation targeting framework and RBI policy.
- Stock Market Holiday: NSE and BSE closed on December 25, 2025 for Christmas.
- Significance: General awareness of market operations and holiday calendar.
3. International Relations
- Pax Silica Initiative: US-led 9-country semiconductor alliance (Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Netherlands, UK, Israel, UAE, Australia); India excluded.
- Significance: Vital for understanding global tech alliances and India’s strategic autonomy challenges.
- Christmas Celebrations: PM Modi attended service at The Cathedral Church of the Redemption, New Delhi.
- Significance: Relevant for Social Harmony, Pluralism, and Cultural Diplomacy.
4. Science, Technology & Environment
- PRITHVI Scheme: ₹1,194.56 crore spent out of ₹1,385 crore allocation (FY 2024-26); Bharat Forecasting System developed with 6 km resolution.
- Significance: Important for Climate Science, Disaster Management, and indigenous technology development.
- Seismic Microzonation: 12 cities completed; reports released for Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Coimbatore, and Mangalore.
- Significance: Relevant for Disaster Risk Reduction and Urban Planning.
- Nanobot Research: IITs and IISc working on programmable nanostructures for targeted cancer treatment.
- Significance: Cutting-edge development in Biotechnology and Precision Medicine.
- Aravalli Conservation: MoEFCC directs Haryana and Rajasthan to enforce Supreme Court orders; part of “Green Wall of India” project (1,400 km long, 5 km wide).
- Significance: Critical for Environment & Ecology, focusing on eco-sensitive zones and desertification control.
- Sanchar Saathi App: Government clarifies optional status for smartphone makers; balances security with privacy under DPDP Act.
- Significance: Important for Digital Governance, Privacy Rights, and Cybersecurity.
5. Sports & Miscellaneous
- ISL Crisis: Clubs seek clarity from AIFF as Master Rights Agreement (MRA) expires in December 2025.
- Significance: Tests understanding of Sports Governance and organizational structures.
- Khelo India Review: Ministry reviewed infrastructure progress for 2026 international tournaments; focus on “saturation model.”
- Significance: Relevant for Sports Policy and Government Schemes.
- Madan Mohan Malaviya Birth Anniversary: 101st birth anniversary observed on December 25; founder of BHU and four-time INC President.
- Significance: Important for Freedom Struggle History and Educational Institutions.
📚 Stay consistent. Stay informed. Stay ahead.
