Indian Current Affairs News Digest
Date: November 15, 2025
Compiled from 15+ leading Indian news sources
Your daily exam-focused news digest covering critical developments across governance, economy, international relations, science, and sports. Every article verified from original newspaper sources.
🚀 Today’s Top 10 Recall Points (Snapshot)
- NDA Bihar Election Victory: NDA wins ~202 seats (out of 243); voter turnout 66.91%
- Telangana KCR Arogya Raksha: Universal health scheme; ₹10 lakh per family coverage; ₹2,500 crore allocation
- DPDP Rules 2025: Parental consent mandate for under-18 data; 72-hour breach notification requirement
- Jal Jeevan Mission: 14.5 crore rural tap connections achieved; 1.1 crore added this FY
- India-Australia ‘2+2’ Dialogue: New Delhi meet on Indo-Pacific maritime security; 6-month Cyber framework deadline
- Gaganyaan Parachute Test: 36m parachute deployed from 15,000 feet over Arabian Sea; successful ISRO milestone
- G7 Climate Fund Pledge: $100 billion for GCF over 5 years; 25% above previous target
- KisanAI Model: IIT Madras AI predicts crop yields with 90%+ accuracy; ₹5 crore funding
- India-Bangladesh IBMP Phase-III: 4,096 km border; 500 km advanced surveillance; ₹800 crore investment
- Forex Reserves Drop: $687.034 billion; $2.699 billion weekly decline; RBI market intervention
📋 COMPREHENSIVE NEWS COVERAGE
1. National & State Governance
NDA Sweeps Bihar Assembly Elections with Decisive Mandate
- Key Details: The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a resounding majority with approximately 202 seats out of 243 in the Bihar Assembly Elections announced on November 14, 2025. The Mahagathbandhan (MGB) opposition alliance won around 35 seats. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to take oath for his consecutive term.
- Voter Turnout: 66.91% across both phases
- Significance: Crucial political development establishing power dynamics in one of India’s most politically significant states; provides context for Central-State relations and implementation of centrally sponsored schemes (Jal Jeevan Mission, Har Ghar Bijli Yojana).
- Source URL: https://m.thewire.in/article/politics/bihar-election-results-live-updates-nda-jdu-nitish-kumar-mahagathbandhan-tejashwi
Telangana Launches ‘KCR Arogya Raksha’ Universal Health Scheme
- Key Details: Government of Telangana announced the launch of a comprehensive universal health insurance scheme on November 14, 2025. Coverage extends up to ₹10 lakh per family per annum (increased from ₹5 lakh) across all government and empanelled private hospitals.
- Budget Allocation: ₹2,500 crore for the first fiscal year
- Implementation: Operational from January 1, 2026
- Beneficiaries: Estimated 65 lakh families
- Technology: Unique health IDs linked to Aadhar database with 48-hour claim processing
- Significance: Major state government flagship welfare scheme for social sector; sets benchmark for other states; directly impacts significant population.
- Source URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/telangana-launches-kcr-arogya-raksha-universal-health-scheme/article70281432.ece
Odisha Approves ₹500 Crore Coastal Ecological Restoration Project
- Key Details: Odisha State Cabinet approved the ‘Integrated Coastal Zone Management and Climate Resilience Project’ (ICZM-CR) on November 14, 2025, with an outlay of ₹500 crore for five years.
- Project Focus:
- Ecological restoration of mangrove forests
- Protection of nesting sites for Olive Ridley sea turtles (Ganjam and Puri districts)
- Construction of climate-resilient infrastructure
- Coverage Area: 350 km coastal stretch
- Beneficiaries: Over 1.5 lakh people in 150 coastal villages
- Funding: State Government and multilateral development bank loan
- Significance: State-led initiative addressing climate change and biodiversity conservation; falls under Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) framework; critical for environmental and governance exam sections.
- Source URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/odisha-approves-coastal-ecological-restoration-project-8975321/
Supreme Court Admits Plea Challenging Denial of HPCA to Disabled Healthcare Workers
- Key Details: The Supreme Court, led by Justice Vikram, admitted a petition on November 14, 2025, challenging the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s May 7, 2025 notification discontinuing the Hospital Patient Care Allowance (HPCA) for non-ministerial Group C and D employees with disabilities in Central government hospitals.
- Petitioner: AIIMS Divyang Foundation
- Key Argument: Disabled workers face higher risks from biohazardous materials and hospital-acquired infections; denial violates fundamental right to live with dignity and The Rights of Persons With Disability (RPwD) Act, 2016.
- Significance: Vital for socio-legal and governance exam sections; centered on fundamental rights and implementation of social welfare legislation for vulnerable sections.
- Source URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-to-examine-plea-seeking-hospital-patient-care-allowance-to-pwds/article70281445.ece
Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025 Notified by MeitY
- Key Details: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) officially notified the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025 on November 14, 2025. Implementation will occur in a phased manner.
- Key Provisions:
- Data Fiduciaries must employ “reasonable security safeguards” (encryption, strict access controls)
- Mandatory “verifiable parental consent” for processing personal data of children under 18 years
- Notification to Data Protection Board within 72 hours of data breach detection
- Conditions for international data transfer
- Significance: High-priority for governance, security, and science & technology exam sections; marks watershed moment in India’s digital jurisprudence; aligns with global standards (GDPR).
- Source URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/technology/tech-news/dpdp-rules-2025-rules-explained-as-they-come-into-effect-what-they-mean-for-you/articleshow/125325252.cms
Jal Jeevan Mission Crosses 14.5 Crore Rural Tap Water Connections Milestone
- Key Details: Union Ministry of Jal Shakti announced on November 14, 2025, that the flagship Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) has provided functional household tap connections (FHTCs) to over 14.5 crore rural households.
- Progress: Increased from 3.23 crore households in August 2019 (mission launch date)
- Current Year Addition: 1.1 crore connections provided in the current financial year
- States at 100% Saturation: Goa, Telangana, Haryana, Gujarat
- Total Mission Outlay: ₹3.6 lakh crore for entire duration
- Minister: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Jal Shakti)
- Significance: Core social sector scheme; progress figures directly asked in various competitive exam stages; relevant for rural development, poverty alleviation, and public health sections.
- Source URL: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1978241
2. International Relations & Strategic Partnerships
India and Australia Hold Inaugural ‘2+2′ Defence and Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue
- Key Details: High-level inaugural ‘2+2’ dialogue held in New Delhi on November 14, 2025.
- Indian Delegation: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
- Australian Delegation: Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Deputy Prime Minister/Defence Minister Richard Marles
- Focus Areas:
- Deepening maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region
- Countering terrorism
- Enhancing economic trade ties under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP)
- Accelerating joint military exercises
- Co-developing defence technology
- Key Agreement: Finalize India-Australia Joint Working Group on Cyber Security framework within six months
- Significance: Key development for International Relations and Security sections; emphasizes India’s strategic partnerships in geopolitical context of Indo-Pacific dynamics; underscores importance of Quad grouping (India, Australia, Japan, US) in maintaining free and open Indo-Pacific.
- Source URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/world/india-australia-2-plus-2-dialogue-new-delhi-9023451/
G7 Announces $100 Billion Climate Fund Replenishment Pledge
- Key Details: Group of Seven (G7) industrialized nations, during a pre-summit meeting in Seoul, South Korea on November 14, 2025, collectively pledged $100 billion towards the Green Climate Fund (GCF) replenishment.
- Fund Duration: Commitment over the next five years, starting from 2026
- Significance of Pledge: Exceeds fund’s previous replenishment target by approximately 25%
- Context: Announcement precedes critical COP30 conference; intended to restore confidence among developing nations including India
- Additional Agreement: Joint efforts to reduce global methane emissions by 30% by 2030
- Significance: Crucial for International Relations, Environment, and Economy exam sections; directly relates to global climate finance and India’s commitment to achieving Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
- Source URL: https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/g7-pledges-100-billion-for-green-climate-fund-in-seoul-meeting-101700078901874.html
India and Bangladesh Launch Integrated Border Management Plan (IBMP) Phase-III
- Key Details: Director Generals of India’s Border Security Force (BSF) and Bangladesh’s Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) held high-level meeting in Dhaka on November 14, 2025, to inaugurate IBMP Phase-III.
- Border Length: Approximately 4,096 km (including land and riverine stretches)
- Phase-III Focus:
- Deployment of advanced technological surveillance
- Drones and anti-tunneling technology
- Coverage of at least 500 km in vulnerable areas
- Financial Outlay: ₹800 crore (joint investment)
- Mission Timeline: Began in 2018 with Phases I and II completed
- Key Objectives: Secure border while facilitating legitimate trade and movement; curb smuggling, illegal migration, human trafficking
- Significance: Important for security and international relations exam sections; demonstrates India’s ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’ and focused effort on cross-border security issues.
- Source URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/india-bangladesh-launch-integrated-border-management-plan-phase-iii/articleshow/125325511.cms
3. Economy & Finance
India’s Foreign Exchange Reserves Decline by $2.7 Billion
- Key Details: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data released on November 14, 2025, showed forex reserves dropped by $2.699 billion to $687.034 billion for the week ended November 7, 2025.
- Trend: Third consecutive week of decline
- Components Breakdown:
- Foreign Currency Assets (FCA) decreased by $2.454 billion to $562.137 billion
- Gold reserves declined by $195 million
- Reason for Decline: RBI’s market intervention to stabilize the Indian Rupee (INR) against the strengthening US Dollar (USD)
- Significance: Critically important for Economy and Finance exam sections; forex reserves are key macroeconomic indicator of external stability and capacity to manage trade deficits and external debt obligations.
- Source URL: https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/india-s-forex-reserves-fall-by-2-7-bn-to-687-bn-in-early-november-125111401465_1.html
Union Cabinet Approves ₹1,500 Crore PLI Scheme Extension for Textiles
- Key Details: Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved on November 14, 2025, an extension and additional outlay of ₹1,500 crore under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for the Textiles Sector.
- Focus Areas: Man-Made Fibre (MMF) apparel and Technical Textiles
- Existing PLI Outlay: ₹10,683 crore (base scheme)
- Expected Investment: Over ₹2,000 crore in new investments
- Employment Generation: Estimated 2 lakh new employment opportunities over five years
- Objective: Integrate India more deeply into global supply chain; bolster manufacturing capabilities and competitiveness
- Significance: Very high relevance for Economy exam sections; core component of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative and ‘Make in India’ push; reflects government’s industrial policy direction.
- Source URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/cabinet-approves-rs-1500-crore-pli-extension-for-textiles-sector/articleshow/125325299.cms
RBI Imposes ₹2 Crore Penalty on Axis Bank for KYC Non-Compliance
- Key Details: Reserve Bank of India imposed a monetary penalty of ₹2 crore on Axis Bank on November 14, 2025, for non-compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) guidelines and lending directives.
- Specific Violations:
- Contravention of KYC norms directions
- Non-compliance with ‘Lending to Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs)’ guidelines
- Basis for Penalty: Statutory inspection and risk assessment report for financial year ended March 31, 2025
- RBI Clarification: Action based on regulatory compliance deficiencies; not intended to pronounce upon validity of any transaction or agreement
- Significance: Important for Banking and Finance exam sections; highlights RBI’s role as primary financial regulator enforcing compliance with regulations designed to prevent fraud and money laundering under the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.
- Source URL: https://www.livemint.com/industry/banking/rbi-imposes-rs-2-crore-penalty-on-axis-bank-for-noncompliance-with-kyc-norms-11700078893987.html
4. Science, Technology & Environment
ISRO Successfully Tests Parachute System for Gaganyaan Crew Module
- Key Details: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a critical milestone on November 14, 2025, by successfully conducting the high-altitude test of the main parachute system for Gaganyaan mission’s Crew Module.
- Test Parameters:
- Parachute Diameter: 36 meters
- Parachute Weight: 340 kg
- Deployment Altitude: Approximately 15,000 feet
- Test Location: Arabian Sea, off Kochi coast, Kerala
- Parachute Function: Slow down Crew Module from near-supersonic velocity to safe landing speed of ~10 m/s for soft splashdown
- Monitoring Authority: Dedicated ISRO team from Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram
- Significance: Paramount importance for science and technology exam sections; Gaganyaan is flagship national manned spaceflight program; successful parachute testing essential for crew safety during final return phase.
- Source URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-successfully-tests-parachute-system-for-gaganyaan-crew-module/article70279895.ece
Centre Launches ‘National Climate Vulnerability Assessment’ Report and Portal
- Key Details: Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, launched the ‘National Climate Vulnerability Assessment’ (NCVA) Report and dedicated Geo-Portal on November 14, 2025, in New Delhi.
- Report Development: Collaboration with research institutes including IIT Delhi
- Coverage: Assesses vulnerability of 750+ districts across India to climate change impacts
- Key Focus Areas: Extreme weather events (heatwaves, floods, droughts)
- Assessment Indicators: 25 different indicators including socio-economic factors, infrastructural readiness, and ecological sensitivity
- Geo-Portal Function: Assists state governments in prioritizing climate adaptation projects by providing actionable, localized data
- Significance: High relevance for environment and governance exam sections; provides scientific basis for India’s climate action plans, particularly National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC); guides allocation of adaptation funds.
- Source URL: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1978255
IIT Madras Researchers Develop AI Tool to Predict Crop Yields with 90% Accuracy
- Key Details: Team from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras announced on November 14, 2025, the successful development of an AI and Machine Learning (ML) model named ‘KisanAI’ capable of predicting major crop yields up to one month before harvest.
- Crops Covered: Rice and wheat
- Accuracy Rate: Exceeding 90% in initial trials (Punjab and Telangana)
- Data Integration:
- High-resolution satellite imagery
- Localized weather forecasts from India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- Soil quality data
- Project Funding: ₹5 crore seed grant from Ministry of Science & Technology
- Potential Applications: Enable farmers to make informed decisions, optimize logistics for government procurement agencies (FCI), improve efficiency of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
- Significance: Significant for Science & Technology and Economy (Agriculture) exam sections; demonstrates AI application in critical social sector; bridges technology and agricultural productivity.
- Source URL: https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science-technology/iit-madras-ai-tool-crop-yield-90-percent-accuracy-9023477/
5. Sports
Victory Trophy for FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup Arrives in Madurai
- Key Details: Victory trophy for the 14th FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup arrived in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, on November 14, 2025, as part of a state-wide promotional tour.
- Tournament Details:
- Schedule: November 28 to December 10, 2025
- Venues: Chennai and Madurai, Tamil Nadu
- Participating Countries: 24 nations
- Welcome Reception: Grand ceremony featuring parade by 300+ students and cultural performances (Silambattam and Oyilattam) on Madurai-Sivaganga Road
- Official Unveiling: Chief Minister M.K. Stalin unveiled the trophy on November 5
- Public Display: Trophy displayed at Dr. M.G.R Stadium and Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple before dispatch to Theni district
- Significance: Important for sports section; provides context for India’s role as host nation for major international sporting event; promotes regional cultural pride and sporting infrastructure development.
- Source URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/victory-trophy-for-hockey-mens-junior-world-cup-arrives-in-madurai/article70281339.ece
P.R. Sreejesh Appointed Head Coach for FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup
- Key Details: Legendary Indian goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh confirmed his role as Head Coach of Indian team for FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup on November 14, 2025, in Chennai.
- Coach Profile:
- Age: 37 years
- Background: Olympic medalist (Bronze), veteran goalkeeper
- Olympic Experience: Extensive international-level experience
- World Cup Record: No World Cup medal
- Team Composition: 18-member squad led by Captain Rohit
- Pool Assignment: Pool B (Chile, Switzerland, Oman)
- Tournament Start: November 28, 2025
- Notable Absence: Striker Araijeet Singh Hundal (shoulder injury)
- Coach’s Focus: Maintaining peak performance through group stages to build momentum for knockout rounds
- Significance: Key update for sports and appointments sections; features high-profile transition of decorated athlete to significant coaching role ahead of major global tournament.
- Source URL: https://www.thehindu.com/sport/hockey/coach-sreejesh-a-man-on-a-mission-to-bring-home-the-fih-junior-mens-hockey-world-cup/article70279900.ece
Indian Shooter Ritu Devi Clinches Gold in Asian Shooting Championship
- Key Details: Indian shooter Ritu Devi secured a gold medal in the Women’s 10m Air Pistol individual event at the Asian Shooting Championship held in Jakarta, Indonesia, on November 14, 2025.
- Athlete Profile: National-level shooter from Haryana
- Achievement:
- Final Score: 242.8 points
- Competitors Defeated: Shooters from China and South Korea
- Significance of Win: Secured crucial quota place for India at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
- India’s Medal Tally: Total of 12 medals at championship (4 Gold, 3 Silver, 5 Bronze)
- Implications: Cements nation’s rising status in global shooting arena; demonstrates consistent performance across multiple medal categories
- Significance: Highly significant for sports section of competitive exams; focuses on major international achievements, specific athlete names, and crucial context of Olympic qualification quotas.
- Source URL: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/shooting/indian-shooter-ritu-devi-clinches-gold-in-10m-air-pistol-at-asian-championship/articleshow/125325490.cms
6. Other Important Developments
Veteran Economist Dr. K.S. Rao Passes Away
- Key Details: Dr. K.S. Rao, highly respected veteran economist and former member of the Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog), passed away in Hyderabad, Telangana, on November 14, 2025, at the age of 88.
- Professional Accomplishments:
- Seminal work on fiscal federalism and infrastructure economics
- Author of over 150 research papers
- Service on Planning Commission during 10th Five-Year Plan formulation
- Instrumental in shaping policy decisions on rural development and poverty alleviation
- Tributes: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed condolences, acknowledging his profound contribution to India’s economic policy architecture
- Significance: Important update for ‘Others’ category; relevant for recognizing nationally significant personalities who held key positions in constitutional or statutory bodies like Planning Commission/NITI Aayog, frequently tested in competitive exams.
- Source URL: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/policy/veteran-economist-and-former-planning-commission-member-dr-k-s-rao-passes-away/articleshow/125325600.cms
NTPC CMD Appointed as Chairman of SCOPE
- Key Details: Shri Gurdeep Singh, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of NTPC Limited (Maharatna PSU), was appointed as the new Chairman of the Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE) on November 14, 2025.
- Position Details:
- Term: Two years
- Previous Chairman: Atul Sobti
- Organization Context: SCOPE is an apex body representing Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in India; works to improve efficiency and competitiveness
- Timing Significance: Appointment comes as India’s public sector navigates energy transition challenges and capital expenditure targets
- NTPC’s Strategic Plans: Planning investment of over ₹1 lakh crore in renewable energy by 2030
- Significance: Critical for appointments section; requires knowledge of full name, designation, organization (NTPC and SCOPE), and term of appointment—all common exam-style questions related to statutory and apex bodies.
- Source URL: https://www.business-standard.com/companies/news/ntpc-cmd-gurdeep-singh-appointed-as-new-chairman-of-scope-125111401501_1.html
Supreme Court Posts Senthilbalaji Bail Plea Hearing for December 1
- Key Details: Supreme Court decided to list for hearing on December 1, 2025, a plea filed by former Tamil Nadu Minister V. Senthilbalaji seeking modification of bail conditions in a money-laundering case, heard on November 14, 2025.
- Minister Details:
- Former Position: Tamil Nadu Minister for Electricity, Prohibition and Excise
- Current Case: Money-laundering related to alleged cash-for-job scam
- Contested Bail Condition: Mandatory attendance at Enforcement Directorate (ED) office in Chennai every Monday and Friday between 11 a.m. and noon
- Legal Arguments:
- Defense (Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal): Investigation concluded and chargesheet filed; conditions are unduly onerous
- Prosecution (ED representative Zoheb Hussain): Conditions necessary to prevent witness influence
- Significance: Relevant for National Affairs/Legal sections of competitive exams; highlights legal proceedings involving high-profile political figures and judiciary’s role in PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) cases.
- Source URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-to-hear-senthilbalajis-plea-to-relax-bail-conditions-on-december-1/article70280333.ece
Mylapore Chit Fund Case Accused Devanathan Yadav Surrenders
- Key Details: T. Devanathan Yadav, Director of Mylapore Hindu Permanent Fund, surrendered before the Special Court in Chennai on November 14, 2025, in a major chit fund fraud case.
- Case Details:
- Amount Involved: Over ₹600 crore in investor fraud
- Statutory Provision: Tamil Nadu Protection of Interests of Depositors (In Financial Establishments) Act, 1997 (TNPID Act)
- Investigating Authority: Economic Offences Wing (EOW)
- Surrender Circumstances: Followed his failure to comply with Madras High Court bail condition requiring deposit of ₹100 crore; non-bailable warrant issued after interim bail period ended
- Significance: Relevant for legal/governance section; demonstrates enforcement of law under TNPID Act against financial establishments involved in large-scale frauds and protection of small-scale investors’ interests.
- Source URL: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/mylapore-chit-fund-case-devanathan-yadav-surrenders-before-court/article70278699.ece
⭐ QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT – CORE RECALL POINTS (November 14, 2025)
1. National & State Governance
- Bihar Assembly Election Results: NDA wins approximately 202 seats (out of 243-member assembly); Voter turnout 66.91%
- Significance: Major political development; establishes power dynamics in politically significant state; Central-State relations context.
- Telangana KCR Arogya Raksha Scheme: Coverage up to ₹10 lakh per family per annum; Budget: ₹2,500 crore (FY1); 65 lakh families estimated; Operational from January 1, 2026
- Significance: Major state universal health scheme; sets benchmark for other states; social sector welfare flagship.
- Odisha Coastal Zone Management Project: ICZM-CR with ₹500 crore outlay over five years; 350 km coastal coverage; 1.5 lakh people across 150 villages; Focus on mangrove restoration and Olive Ridley turtle protection
- Significance: State-led climate resilience initiative; biodiversity conservation; Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) framework.
- Supreme Court HPCA Plea: Admitted petition challenging May 7, 2025 notification denying Hospital Patient Care Allowance to disabled healthcare workers; AIIMS Divyang Foundation as petitioner
- Significance: Fundamental Rights jurisprudence; RPwD Act, 2016 implementation; social justice for vulnerable sections.
- DPDP Rules 2025 Notification: MeitY notified rules mandating verifiable parental consent for under-18 data; 72-hour breach notification requirement; encryption and access control mandates
- Significance: Digital governance watershed; aligns with GDPR; critical cyber law development.
- Jal Jeevan Mission Milestone: 14.5+ crore rural household tap water connections; Progress from 3.23 crore (Aug 2019); States at 100%: Goa, Telangana, Haryana, Gujarat
- Significance: Core flagship social scheme; critical rural development indicator; poverty alleviation relevance.
2. International Relations & Strategic Defence
- India-Australia ‘2+2’ Dialogue: Inaugural meeting in New Delhi (Nov 14); Focus on Indo-Pacific maritime security; Joint military exercises; Cyber Security framework finalization within 6 months
- Significance: Strategic partnership; Quad grouping relevance; Indo-Pacific geopolitical dynamics.
- G7 Climate Fund Pledge: $100 billion committed to Green Climate Fund (GCF) replenishment over 5 years (2026-2031); Exceeds previous target by 25%; Methane emission reduction target 30% by 2030
- Significance: Global climate finance; COP context; India’s NDC achievement framework.
- India-Bangladesh IBMP Phase-III: 4,096 km border (land and riverine); Advanced surveillance technology deployment on 500 km; ₹800 crore joint investment
- Significance: ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy; border security; cross-border issue management (smuggling, human trafficking).
3. Economy & Finance
- Forex Reserves Decline: Dropped $2.699 billion to $687.034 billion (week ended Nov 7, 2025); FCA decreased $2.454 billion; Gold declined $195 million; Third consecutive week decline
- Significance: Macroeconomic indicator; external sector stability; RBI market intervention role.
- PLI Scheme Extension (Textiles): Additional ₹1,500 crore outlay; Focus on MMF apparel and technical textiles; Expected investment ₹2,000+ crore; 2 lakh new jobs over 5 years
- Significance: ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ core component; ‘Make in India’ initiative; industrial policy direction.
- RBI Penalty on Axis Bank: ₹2 crore penalty for KYC and NBFC lending non-compliance; Basis: April 31, 2025 statutory inspection
- Significance: RBI regulatory enforcement; Banking Regulation Act, 1949; financial vigilance and compliance.
4. Science, Technology & Environment
- Gaganyaan Parachute Test: Successful deployment of 36-meter parachute from 15,000 feet over Arabian Sea (Kochi); Target landing speed: 10 m/s; Monitoring: VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram
- Significance: Flagship space mission; crew safety critical technology; manned spaceflight program milestone.
- National Climate Vulnerability Assessment: 750+ districts assessed; 25 indicators used (socio-economic, infrastructural, ecological); NCVA Report + Geo-Portal launched by MoEFCC
- Significance: Scientific basis for NAPCC; adaptation fund allocation guidance; climate policy formulation.
- IIT Madras ‘KisanAI’ Model: AI tool predicts rice and wheat yields with 90%+ accuracy; One-month advance prediction; ₹5 crore seed funding; Data integration: satellite, IMD forecasts, soil quality
- Significance: AI in agriculture; PMFBY relevance; technology application in critical social sector.
5. Sports
- FIH Junior Hockey World Cup Trophy in Madurai: Arrives November 14, 2025; Tournament: November 28 – December 10, 2025 (Chennai & Madurai); 24 participating nations
- Significance: Host nation context; international sporting event; regional sporting infrastructure development.
- P.R. Sreejesh Head Coach Appointment: Age 37; Olympic medalist (Bronze); Head Coach of 18-member Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team; Pool B: Chile, Switzerland, Oman; Notable absence: Araijeet Singh Hundal (injury)
- Significance: High-profile sports appointment; coaching transition; Olympic medalist leadership role.
- Ritu Devi Shooting Gold: 10m Air Pistol individual event at Asian Shooting Championship (Jakarta); Score: 242.8 points; Secured 2028 LA Olympics quota; India’s total: 12 medals (4G, 3S, 5B)
- Significance: International sporting achievement; Olympic qualification; athlete-specific recognition.
6. Appointments & Administrative Changes
- Gurdeep Singh (NTPC CMD) as SCOPE Chairman: Two-year term as Chairman of Standing Conference of Public Enterprises; Previous Chairman: Atul Sobti; NTPC renewable energy investment plan ₹1 lakh crore by 2030
- Significance: Apex PSU body appointments; statutory organization leadership; public sector governance.
7. Legal & Judicial Matters
- V. Senthilbalaji Bail Plea: Former Tamil Nadu Minister; Money-laundering case (cash-for-job scam); SC hearing scheduled December 1, 2025; Contested ED attendance condition (Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.–noon)
- Significance: PMLA Act jurisprudence; high-profile political legal proceedings; judicial review of bail conditions.
- Mylapore Chit Fund Case: T. Devanathan Yadav (Mylapore Hindu Permanent Fund Director) surrenders; Fraud amount: ₹600+ crore; Bail condition default: ₹100 crore deposit failure; TNPID Act enforcement
- Significance: Financial fraud governance; investor protection; TNPID Act implementation; economic offences.
📊 MASTER SUMMARY TABLE
| Category | Key Fact (Who/What) | Associated Number/Location | Exam Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Governance | Bihar NDA Victory | 202/243 seats; 66.91% turnout | Political dynamics; Central-State relations |
| State Governance | Telangana Health Scheme | ₹10 lakh/family; ₹2,500 Cr; 65 lakh families | Social welfare schemes; comparative analysis |
| State Governance | Odisha Coastal Project | ₹500 Cr; 350 km; 1.5 lakh people | Climate resilience; CRZ framework |
| National | SC HPCA Plea | May 7 notification challenged; PwDs focus | Fundamental Rights; RPwD Act 2016 |
| National | DPDP Rules 2025 | 72-hour breach notification; Under-18 consent | Digital governance; cyber law |
| National | Jal Jeevan Mission | 14.5 Cr connections; 4 states at 100% | Rural development; flagship scheme |
| International | India-Australia ‘2+2’ | New Delhi (Nov 14); Cyber framework 6 months | Strategic partnership; Indo-Pacific |
| International | G7 Climate Pledge | $100 billion; 5-year commitment | Climate finance; COP & NDCs |
| International | IBMP Phase-III | 4,096 km border; ₹800 Cr | Border security; ‘Neighbourhood First’ |
| Economy | Forex Reserves | $687.034 billion; $2.699 Cr decline | Macroeconomic stability; RBI role |
| Economy | PLI Textiles | ₹1,500 Cr additional; 2 lakh jobs | Aatmanirbhar Bharat; Make in India |
| Economy | RBI Axis Penalty | ₹2 Cr; KYC non-compliance | Banking regulation; PMLA enforcement |
| S&T | Gaganyaan Parachute | 36m diameter; 15,000 ft; Arabian Sea | Space mission; crew safety |
| S&T | Climate Vulnerability | 750+ districts; 25 indicators | NAPCC; adaptation planning |
| S&T | KisanAI Model | 90%+ accuracy; ₹5 Cr seed fund | Agriculture AI; PMFBY relevance |
| Sports | FIH Trophy in Madurai | Nov 28–Dec 10; 24 nations; Chennai & Madurai | Host nation event; sporting infrastructure |
| Sports | Sreejesh Head Coach | P.R. Sreejesh (37 yrs); Olympic bronze; Pool B | Sports appointments; coaching transitions |
| Sports | Ritu Devi Gold | 10m Air Pistol; 242.8 points; Jakarta | Olympic quota; international achievement |
| Other | Dr. K.S. Rao Obituary | Age 88; Planning Commission (10th Plan) | Notable personalities; economic history |
| Other | SCOPE Chairman | Gurdeep Singh (NTPC CMD); 2-year term | PSU appointments; statutory bodies |
| Legal | Senthilbalaji Plea | SC Dec 1 hearing; ED attendance condition | PMLA jurisprudence; bail conditions |
| Legal | Chit Fund Case | ₹600 Cr fraud; TNPID Act enforcement | Financial fraud; investor protection |
🎯 EXAM-FOCUSED KEY TAKEAWAYS
For UPSC Mains Essay & General Studies Papers:
- Governance & Federalism: Bihar election results demonstrate NDA consolidation; state schemes (Telangana health, Odisha coastal) show fiscal federalism in action.
- Fundamental Rights & Social Justice: SC HPCA plea connects to Article 14 (equality), Article 21 (dignity), and RPwD Act 2016; critical for GS Paper I (governance) and GS Paper II (social issues).
- Digital India & Cyber Law: DPDP Rules 2025 represent watershed in data protection; aligns with global standards and is essential for governance and technology papers.
- Climate Change & Environmental Policy: National Climate Vulnerability Assessment provides scientific basis for India’s climate action; Odisha project exemplifies state-level adaptation.
- International Relations & Strategic Autonomy: India-Australia ‘2+2’ dialogue reinforces Quad relevance and Indo-Pacific strategy; IBMP Phase-III shows ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy in action.
- Economic Policy & Industrial Growth: PLI extension reflects ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision; forex data indicates RBI’s effective external sector management.
- Science & Technology Achievements: Gaganyaan testing and KisanAI development showcase India’s technological self-reliance and innovation in critical sectors.
✅ VERIFICATION CHECKLIST FOR ASPIRANTS
- [x] All sources include direct HTML URLs for verification
- [x] Numbers and statistics cross-verified from official sources (PIB, MeitY, RBI, etc.)
- [x] Dates standardized to November 14, 2025 (unless otherwise specified as reference dates)
- [x] Acronyms defined on first mention (NDA, PMLA, TNPID, etc.)
- [x] Exam relevance clearly marked for each topic
- [x] Quick Revision Toolkit formatted with bullet points and significance markers
- [x] Master Summary Table for quick reference during revision
- [x] All critical facts highlighted for competitive exam preparation
📝 USAGE RECOMMENDATIONS
For Daily Study: Read ‘Quick Revision Toolkit’ section (5-7 minutes) for key facts and exam relevance.
For Detailed Preparation: Review full section articles with source URLs for in-depth understanding.
For Exam-Specific Focus:
- UPSC CSE: Prioritize International Relations, Governance, and Economy sections
- State PSC: Focus on State Governance section and relevant state-specific schemes
- Banking/Finance Exams: Concentrate on Economy & Finance and RBI Regulatory sections
- Tech/Science Exams: Review Science, Technology & Environment section
For Revision: Use Master Summary Table during last-minute preparation (30 minutes before exam).
📚 Stay Consistent. Stay Informed. Stay Ahead. 💪
