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Current Affairs Digest – December 31, 2025

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Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: December 31, 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)

  1. Defence Procurement: MoD signs ₹4,666 crore deal for CQB Carbines and Heavy Weight Torpedoes.
  2. Space Milestone: ISRO successfully tests improved SSLV Third Stage (SS3) at Sriharikota.
  3. Banking Trends: RBI report reveals digital payments now account for 97.6% of India’s total payments.
  4. Spectrum Reform: National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP-2025) officially takes effect.
  5. Judicial Clarity: Delhi HC rules father’s maintenance duty is independent of mother’s higher income.
  6. Diplomatic Move: Abhay Kumar (IFS: 2003) appointed as India’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan.
  7. Infrastructure: Kavach 4.0 commissioned on the Bajwa–Ahmedabad railway section in Gujarat.
  8. Cultural Heritage: Deepavali officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
  9. Presidential Visit: President Murmu attends “Kartik Jatra” tribal festival in Gumla, Jharkhand.
  10. Environment Crisis: Delhi’s AQI hits “Severe” (401), disrupting over 130 flights due to dense smog.

1. STATE AFFAIRS

President Murmu Graces Kartik Jatra Tribal Festival in Jharkhand

Summary: President Droupadi Murmu addresses the Antarrajyiy Jansanskritik Samagam Samaroh in Gumla.

On December 30, 2025, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, visited Gumla, Jharkhand, to participate in the “Antarrajyiy Jansanskritik Samagam Samaroh – Kartik Jatra.” Addressing a massive gathering of tribal communities, the President emphasized the critical need to bridge the gap between traditional heritage and modern development. She highlighted that the youth of tribal regions must lead the way in preserving their unique cultural identity while rapidly adopting educational and technological advancements. The event, a significant cultural congregation, saw participation from various states, showcasing the rich diversity of indigenous traditions. The President’s visit is seen as a major push for tribal empowerment and the recognition of “Jan Jatiya” pride.

Exam Angle: Relevant for “Art and Culture” and “Tribal Empowerment” topics in UPSC and State PSCs.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2209787&reg=6&lang=1

Kavach 4.0 Commissioned on Bajwa-Ahmedabad Section in Gujarat

Summary: Indian Railways expands indigenous Automatic Train Protection system in Gujarat.

The Ministry of Railways announced on December 30, 2025, the successful commissioning of the “Made-in-India” Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, Kavach 4.0, on the Bajwa (Vadodara)–Ahmedabad section. This marks a significant milestone in enhancing rail safety on high-density routes. Kavach 4.0 is an advanced version of the indigenous safety system designed to prevent train collisions by automatically applying brakes if the driver fails to do so. The deployment on this crucial Gujarat corridor ensures higher operational efficiency and reduces the risk of human error. This development is part of the larger national goal to cover the entire “Golden Quadrilateral” with Kavach technology to achieve “Zero Accidents” in rail operations.

Exam Angle: Important for “Infrastructure” and “Science & Tech” sections; specifically the development of indigenous safety technologies.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2209713&reg=1&lang=1

Karnataka Launches ‘VijAIpatha’ AI Labs in Government Schools

Summary: Union FM Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurates AI and Robotics labs for rural students.

In a major boost to digital literacy, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched the “VijAIpatha” labs in government schools in Karnataka on December 30, 2025. This initiative, powered by Cyient AI Labs, aims to democratize access to Artificial Intelligence (AI), STEM, and Robotics education. During the pilot phase, five world-class laboratories were established in Hosapete taluk. These labs are equipped with high-performance computers, AI-ready software, IoT devices, and secure broadband. The FM emphasized that such initiatives are vital for ensuring that children from rural and underprivileged backgrounds are not left behind in the global AI revolution. The project aligns with the “Viksit Bharat” vision of creating a future-ready workforce.

Exam Angle: Significant for questions on “Education Policy,” “Digital Divide,” and “Government Initiatives in Technology.”

Source: Press Trust of India — https://www.ptinews.com/story/national/fm-sitharaman-launches-vijaipatha-labs-in-govt-schools-in-karnataka/3207618

2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

MoD Signs ₹4,666 Crore Contracts for Carbines and Torpedoes

Summary: Massive push for indigenous defence procurement under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD), led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, signed two landmark contracts worth ₹4,666 crore in New Delhi on December 30, 2025. The first contract, valued at ₹2,770 crore, involves the procurement of 4.25 lakh Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines for the Indian Army and Navy, to be manufactured indigenously by Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt Ltd. The second contract, worth ₹1,896 crore, was signed with WASS Submarine Systems, Italy, for 48 Heavy Weight Torpedoes to equip the Kalvari Class (P-75) submarines. These acquisitions are part of the ₹1,82,492 crore capital contracts signed in FY 2025-26, aimed at modernizing the armed forces while boosting the domestic MSME ecosystem through component manufacturing.

Exam Angle: Crucial for “Defence and Internal Security” topics; focuses on indigenization and naval modernization.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2209832&reg=1&lang=1

Delhi HC: Father’s Duty to Maintain Child Independent of Mother’s Income

Summary: Landmark ruling affirms shared parental responsibility regardless of financial disparity.

On December 30, 2025, the Delhi High Court, presided over by Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, delivered a significant judgment regarding child maintenance under Section 125 of the CrPC. The Court rejected a father’s plea to reduce maintenance for his two minor children simply because his ex-wife earned a substantial salary of ₹80,000. The father, earning ₹1.75 lakh, had argued for a 50:50 financial split. However, the Court ruled that maintenance is not a “financial favor” but a non-negotiable legal and moral obligation. It further highlighted the mother’s role as the custodial parent, which involves non-monetary caregiving duties that cannot be quantified. This ruling strengthens the legal framework ensuring that custodial parents are not unfairly burdened.

Exam Angle: Important for “Social Justice,” “Judiciary,” and “Women/Child Rights” topics in competitive exams.

Source: The Logical Indian — https://thelogicalindian.com/delhi-high-court-father-cannot-dodge-child-maintenance-because-mother-earns-more-shared-parental-duty-is-non-negotiable/

National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP-2025) Takes Effect

Summary: Department of Telecommunications aligns India’s spectrum standards with global norms.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) officially implemented the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 (NFAP-2025) on December 30, 2025. This comprehensive policy document serves as the regulatory framework for spectrum management in India, detailing the allocation of various frequency bands for services like 5G, 6G research, satellite communications, and emergency services. NFAP-2025 is designed to align India’s spectrum usage with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) standards, facilitating global interoperability for indigenous tech manufacturers. By streamlining spectrum availability, the plan aims to accelerate the “Digital India” mission and provide a roadmap for telecom operators to plan future network expansions. It also includes provisions for unlicensed bands to promote Wi-Fi and IoT innovation.

Exam Angle: Relevant for “Economy” and “Science & Technology” sections regarding telecom reforms and digital infrastructure.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2209821&reg=6&lang=1

3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Abhay Kumar Appointed as India’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan

Summary: Senior IFS officer to lead India’s diplomatic mission in Baku.

On December 30, 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the appointment of Shri Abhay Kumar (IFS: 2003) as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Azerbaijan. Currently serving as a Joint Secretary in the Ministry, Abhay Kumar is a seasoned diplomat known for his work in cultural diplomacy and regional cooperation. Azerbaijan is a key partner for India in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), and his appointment is expected to strengthen bilateral trade, particularly in the energy and pharmaceutical sectors. He is slated to take up his new assignment in Baku shortly, succeeding the outgoing envoy. This move comes at a time when India is actively expanding its footprint in the Caucasus region.

Exam Angle: Essential for “International Relations” and “Important Appointments” sections.

Source: Ministry of External Affairs — https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/40562/Shri_Abhay_Kumar_appointed_as_the_next_Ambassador_of_India_to_the_Republic_of_Azerbaijan

PM Modi Expresses Concern Over Targeting of Russian President’s Residence

Summary: India urges diplomacy and cessation of hostilities following reports of an attack.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a formal statement on December 30, 2025, expressing deep concern over reports of the targeting of the residence of the President of the Russian Federation. In a post on social media and a formal PIB release, the PM underscored that “ongoing diplomatic efforts offer the most viable path toward ending hostilities and achieving lasting peace.” He urged all involved parties to avoid escalatory actions that could undermine peace negotiations. India has consistently maintained a stance of neutrality and dialogue throughout the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and this statement reinforces India’s position as a proponent of the “era is not of war” philosophy. The MEA is reportedly monitoring the situation closely as global tensions rise.

Exam Angle: Relevant for “International Relations” and “India’s Foreign Policy” discussions.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2209713&reg=6&lang=1

India Reaffirms Global Leadership in UNESCO Intangible Heritage

Summary: Deepavali’s inclusion in UNESCO list marks a civilizational milestone.

Following the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee in New Delhi, Indian authorities highlighted on December 30, 2025, the profound impact of Deepavali being inscribed on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition brings India’s total number of ICH inscriptions to 16. The government noted that Diwali 2025 had an extraordinary economic impact, with over ₹5.40 lakh crore in goods traded, significantly boosting the “Vocal for Local” initiative. This UNESCO tag acknowledges the festival not just as a religious event but as a living philosophy of “victory of light over darkness” that fosters social cohesion and community service. It bolsters India’s “soft power” and cultural diplomacy on the world stage.

Exam Angle: High relevance for “Art and Culture” and “International Organizations” (UNESCO).

Source: DD News — https://www.newsonair.gov.in/from-ayodhya-to-unesco-indias-cultural-resurgence-moved-decisively-in-2025/

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI Report: Digital Payments Account for 97.6% of Total Transactions

Summary: Paper-based instruments decline as UPI and retail digital payments surge.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its “Report on Trend & Progress of Banking in India 2024-25” on December 30, 2025. The report highlights a paradigm shift in India’s payment landscape: digital payments grew by 17.9% in value terms, now accounting for 97.6% of all payments. Conversely, paper-based instruments like cheques have dwindled to just 2.4%. A notable trend is the rise of “small-value retail payments,” which has led to a decrease in the average transaction value to ₹3,830. The report also noted a decline in ATM usage and a moderate reduction in the total number of ATMs, primarily off-site ones, as UPI becomes the preferred mode for daily transactions. The RBI emphasized that this transition is driving financial inclusion at an unprecedented scale.

Exam Angle: Crucial for “Banking,” “Economy,” and “Digital India” topics; focus on payment system data.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/business/small-value-retail-digital-payments-on-a-rise-rbi-report/article70454033.ece

RBI Issues New KYC Amendment Directions for UCBs and RCBs

Summary: Clarification on CKYCR responsibilities for Cooperative Banks.

On December 30, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued separate amendment directions for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) and Rural Co-operative Banks (RCBs). These amendments, effective immediately, clarify the responsibilities of regulated entities regarding the Central KYC Records Registry (CKYCR). The key change specifies that the entity which last updated a customer’s records in the CKYCR is responsible for verifying the identity and address. Other banks relying on these records do not need to re-verify the same, provided the data is current and compliant with the PMLA, 2002. However, they remain responsible for other aspects of Customer Due Diligence (CDD). This move is intended to reduce the burden on both banks and customers while maintaining robust anti-money laundering standards.

Exam Angle: Relevant for “Banking Regulations” and “Financial Sector Reforms.”

Source: Indian Cooperative — https://www.indiancooperative.com/co-op-news-snippets/rbi-issues-kyc-amendment-directions-for-ucbs-rcbs/

RBI Cautions Banks on Incremental Risks of Artificial Intelligence

Summary: Central bank highlights concerns over “automation complacency” and “model explainability.”

In its annual banking review released on December 30, 2025, the RBI issued a stern warning to Regulated Entities (REs) regarding the risks associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the financial sector. While acknowledging that AI can enhance credit scoring and fraud detection, the RBI highlighted “incremental risks” such as poor model explainability, data drift, and automation complacency. These factors can lead to systemic errors or biased credit assessments. The central bank urged banks to ensure human oversight and develop specialized skills to manage AI systems. Furthermore, the RBI noted stress in the microfinance sector, with a contraction in credit recorded as of March 2025, and advised lenders to monitor loan performance closely to prevent a buildup of bad debts.

Exam Angle: Significant for “Banking Risks,” “Economy,” and “FinTech” topics.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/business/small-value-retail-digital-payments-on-a-rise-rbi-report/article70454033.ece

5. SPORTS

The Hindu Sports Review 2025: India Celebrates Women’s World Cup Glory

Summary: Year-end analysis highlights historic cricket and chess achievements.

On December 30, 2025, The Hindu published its comprehensive 2025 sports review, marking it as a “fascinating year” for Indian athletics. The pinnacle of the year was the Indian women’s cricket team winning their maiden ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title under Harmanpreet Kaur, defeating South Africa in the final. Additionally, the Indian women’s team won the inaugural T20 World Cup for the Blind. In the world of chess, 19-year-old Divya Deshmukh scripted history by winning the Women’s Chess World Cup in Georgia, defeating veteran Koneru Humpy. The report also highlighted India’s record-breaking performance at the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, where the contingent secured 22 medals, including six golds, surpassing their 2024 tally.

Exam Angle: Important for “Sports and Awards” and “Women Empowerment in Sports.”

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/sports-review-2025-looking-back-at-a-fascinating-year/article70383030.ece

Dubai Hosts 13th Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Sports Awards

Summary: Global sports summit honors excellence; Al Ain FC wins top team award.

The winners of the 13th Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Sports Award were honored on December 30, 2025, during the World Sports Summit in Dubai. The ceremony, attended by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, celebrated the theme “Uniting the World Through Sport.” Al Ain Football Club received the Emirati Sports Team Award for their outstanding continental performance. The awards, launched in 2008, expanded their scope this year to focus on globally influential institutions and human wellbeing. While primarily focused on West Asian excellence, the summit serves as a major networking hub for Indian sports administrators and athletes looking for international training collaborations and investment in India’s growing sports ecosystem.

Exam Angle: Relevant for “International Awards” and “Global Sports Diplomacy.”

Source: NDTV Sports — https://sports.ndtv.com/othersports/hamdan-bin-mohammed-attends-the-mohammed-bin-rashid-al-maktoum-international-sports-award-on-opening-day-of-world-sports-summit-10084306

India Clinches Asia Cup T20 Title and Champions Trophy in 2025

Summary: Men’s cricket dominance continues with dual tournament wins.

Reviewing the year’s sports highlights on December 30, 2025, the Indian men’s cricket team concluded a highly successful season. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, India lifted the ICC Champions Trophy, reasserting their dominance in the 50-over format. Furthermore, with Suryakumar Yadav at the helm, India secured the Asia Cup T20 tournament by defeating arch-rivals Pakistan in a high-stakes final. The year also saw the rise of Shubman Gill, who led the team to a 2-2 draw in the challenging Test series in England. These victories have solidified India’s position at the top of the ICC rankings across formats, providing a significant boost to the sport’s infrastructure and commercial value in the country.

Exam Angle: Relevant for “Sports” and “Recent Records” in national exams.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/sports-review-2025-looking-back-at-a-fascinating-year/article70383030.ece

6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

ISRO Successfully Tests Improved SSLV Third Stage (SS3)

Summary: Ground test at Sriharikota validates Carbon-epoxy motor case for better payload.

On December 30, 2025, ISRO conducted a successful static test of an improved third stage (SS3) of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC). The 108-second test validated a new Carbon-epoxy composite motor case, which significantly reduces the stage’s inert mass. This upgrade increases the SSLV’s payload capacity by 90 kg, making it more efficient for commercial satellite launches. The SS3 stage provides the critical 4 km/s velocity required for orbital injection. ISRO also confirmed the commissioning of the world’s largest 10-tonne vertical mixer for solid propellants at SDSC this year. This milestone is a boost for “Launch-on-Demand” capabilities and India’s growing private space sector.

Exam Angle: Crucial for “Science and Technology” and “Space Research” topics.

Source: ISRO — https://www.isro.gov.in/Ground_Test_of_SSLV_Third_Stage.html

Delhi Air Quality Plunges to “Severe” Category (AQI 401)

Summary: Dense smog and fog disrupt 130+ flights; IMD issues Red Alert.

The national capital faced a severe environmental crisis on December 30, 2025, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) plunged to 401, entering the “Severe” category. Localities like Anand Vihar and Jahangirpuri recorded toxic levels exceeding 450. A thick blanket of smog combined with dense fog reduced visibility to near zero, leading to the disruption of over 134 flights at Delhi airport and multiple train delays. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a Red Alert for the region, citing calm winds and high humidity as factors trapping pollutants. Despite a decrease in farm fires, stagnant atmospheric conditions have made December 2025 one of the most polluted months in seven years. Health experts have warned of a sharp rise in respiratory ailments across the NCR.

Exam Angle: Important for “Environment,” “Pollution Control,” and “Geography” (Climate/Fog).

Source: NDTV — https://special.ndtv.com/fighting-our-killer-air-a-citizens-charter-51/video-detail/delhi-chokes-under-severe-smog-over-130-flights-disrupted-1040893

Year-Ender 2025: India’s Space Vision 2047 and SPADEX Success

Summary: Review of a defining year for Indian space docking and human missions.

As of December 30, 2025, ISRO’s year-end review highlights the success of the SPADEX (Space Docking Experiment) mission as a pivotal breakthrough. Two spacecraft successfully docked in orbit, demonstrating capabilities essential for India’s future space station (Bharatiya Antariksha Station). The year also saw the launch of the NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite for Earth monitoring and the first scientific datasets from Aditya-L1. Notably, astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s 18-day mission to the ISS aboard Axiom-04 marked a historic step for the Gaganyaan program. The Union Cabinet’s approval of the Third Launch Pad at Sriharikota and the development of the SSLV complex at Kulasekarapattinam were cited as critical steps toward achieving “Space Vision 2047.”

Exam Angle: Relevant for “Science & Tech” and “Future Space Missions.”

Source: DD India — https://ddindia.co.in/2025/12/year-ender-2025-indias-space-programme-in-2025-technology-diplomacy-and-the-road-to-space-vision-2047/

7. OTHERS

UNESCO Deepavali Recognition: 16th Intangible Heritage Entry for India

Summary: Global body recognizes “Festival of Lights” as a living civilizational philosophy.

On December 30, 2025, cultural analysts and government officials celebrated the recent official inscription of Deepavali on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) list. This milestone, achieved during the session held in New Delhi, marks India’s 16th entry on the prestigious list since 2008. The recognition emphasizes Diwali’s role in promoting community gathering, acts of charity, and the universal message of light over darkness. The inscription is expected to boost cultural tourism and provide international protection for the various traditional arts associated with the festival, from pottery to rangoli. It also highlights the “Maratha Military Landscapes” which were earlier added to the World Heritage List in 2025, showcasing India’s dual focus on spiritual and historical heritage.

Exam Angle: Essential for “Art and Culture” and “UNESCO World Heritage” topics.

Source: HinduPost — https://hindupost.in/bharat-positive/unescos-recognition-of-dharmic-traditions-2008-2025-a-global-acknowledgment-of-bharats-living-civilisation/

PM Modi Highlights 2025 as the Year of “The Reform Express”

Summary: Year-end LinkedIn post details transformative economic and governance reforms.

On December 30, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a detailed post on LinkedIn titled “India has boarded the Reform Express!” He underscored the pathbreaking reforms of 2025, including AI integration in governance, ease of living initiatives, and massive infrastructure projects. The PM noted that these reforms have added significant momentum to India’s journey toward becoming a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) by 2047. Key areas mentioned included the digitalization of the economy (evidenced by 97.6% digital payment share), the expansion of the “Kavach” rail safety system, and the democratization of AI through school labs. The post serves as a policy roadmap, emphasizing that the government’s focus remains on mission-mode reforms to sustain high GDP growth.

Exam Angle: Relevant for “Governance,” “Economic Development,” and “Government Visions.”

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2209821&reg=6&lang=1

National Letter Writing Campaign “Dhai Akhar” Extended

Summary: Ministry of Communications extends deadline to encourage traditional correspondence.

The Ministry of Communications announced on December 30, 2025, that the deadline for the National Level Letter Writing Campaign, “Dhai Akhar,” has been extended until January 31, 2026. Organized by India Post, the campaign aims to promote the art of letter writing among the youth and the general public. The theme for this year’s competition is centered around “Digital India and Traditional Values.” Participants are invited to send handwritten letters to Postmasters General in various circles. This initiative is part of a broader effort to maintain the relevance of postal services in a digital age and to foster a deeper connection with India’s linguistic and cultural heritage. Winning entries are awarded at the state and national levels, with cash prizes and certificates.

Exam Angle: Minor but relevant for “Cultural Initiatives” and “Government Schemes.”

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2209713&reg=1&lang=1

QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (CORE RECALL POINTS)

1. National & State Governance

2. Defence & Security

3. Economy & Finance

4. International Relations

5. Science, Technology & Environment

6. Sports

7. Miscellaneous

📚 Stay consistent. Stay informed. Stay ahead.

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