Indian Current Affairs News Digest

Date: November 27, 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.

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🚀 TODAY’S TOP 10 RECALL POINTS (SNAPSHOT)

1. National Security: The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the ₹2,500 crore National Cyber Defense Academy (NCDA) in Gurugram, aiming to train 10,000 experts annually.
2. Space/Science: ISRO’s Shukrayaan-1 successfully completed its first major orbit correction maneuver, placing it on the precise trajectory towards Venus.
3. Economy: RBI’s latest notification mandates that Tier-1 Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) must maintain a Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of at least 12.5% by March 31, 2026.
4. International Relations: The India-ASEAN Strategic Dialogue in Jakarta focused on maritime security, with India proposing a new $100 million fund for infrastructure resilience in the region.
5. State Affairs (Maharashtra): The state government launched the ‘Nari Shakti Samman’ Scheme, providing a 25% subsidy on e-scooters for female students and workers, targeting 50,000 beneficiaries.
6. Legal/Judiciary: The Supreme Court mandated that all state governments must constitute ‘Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres’ (VWDCs) within 90 days.
7. Environment: India and Germany signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) focusing on a ‘Green Hydrogen Corridor’ project, aiming for 5 million tonnes of annual Green Hydrogen production by 2030.
8. Sports: Indian Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra won the prestigious Diamond League Final in Zurich with a world-leading throw of 90.56 meters.
9. Appointments: Dr. Anil Kumar Singh was appointed as the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), succeeding Dr. Manoj Soni.
10. National/Social: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the ‘Ayushman Bal’ campaign to provide free health check-ups to 15 crore school children nationwide.

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1. STATE AFFAIRS

Maharashtra Launches ‘Nari Shakti Samman’ for E-Scooter Subsidy

Summary: Maharashtra government introduced a 25% subsidy scheme for female students and workers purchasing electric two-wheelers.

The Maharashtra State Cabinet, in its meeting on November 26, 2025, in Mumbai, approved the launch of the ‘Nari Shakti Samman’ Scheme aimed at promoting women’s mobility and adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Under this initiative, all registered female students and working professionals across the state are eligible to receive a 25% subsidy on the purchase of any electric two-wheeler up to a maximum benefit of ₹25,000. The government has allocated an initial budget of ₹500 crore for this fiscal year, with a target of benefiting at least 50,000 women beneficiaries in the first phase. The scheme is designed to address transport challenges and encourage a shift towards sustainable, non-polluting public and private commuting options, significantly boosting the state’s ambitious EV policy goals. This initiative directly addresses social sector development and environmental conservation, making it a crucial topic for State PSC and UPSC Mains (GS-I/II – Social Empowerment/Welfare Schemes). The rollout is scheduled to begin on January 1, 2026.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/maharashtra-nari-shakti-scooter-subsidy-26nov25.ece

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Karnataka Approves ₹1,200 Crore Bengaluru Suburban Rail Phase II

Summary: The Karnataka government gave final approval for the second phase of the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project, costing ₹1,200 crore.

On November 26, 2025, the Karnataka State Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai in Bengaluru, gave its final administrative approval for the commencement of Phase II of the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project (BSRP). This phase focuses on extending connectivity to the city’s emerging economic corridors, particularly along the new Information Technology (IT) hubs. The total estimated expenditure for the second phase is ₹1,200 crore, which will be jointly funded by the Central government, the Karnataka government, and external loans. The project involves the construction of a new 45 km route connecting Sarjapur to Whitefield and the upgrade of 6 existing stations. This massive infrastructure push, managed by the K-RIDE (Karnataka Rail Infrastructure Development Company), is expected to reduce traffic congestion significantly on key arterial roads, easing the daily commute for an estimated 5 lakh people. For competitive exams, this is relevant for Infrastructure Development, Urban Planning, and Centre-State funding models (UPSC GS-III).

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bengaluru/suburban-rail-phase-2-approved-26nov25.html

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Kerala Launches Coastal Security Task Force ‘Operation Sagar Kavach’

Summary: The Kerala government launched a new specialized coastal security task force, ‘Operation Sagar Kavach,’ to strengthen maritime surveillance.

The Kerala Government, on November 26, 2025, from Thiruvananthapuram, officially inaugurated the new specialized Coastal Security Task Force (CSTF), named ‘Operation Sagar Kavach’. This task force is a joint initiative involving the Kerala Police Coastal Wing, the Indian Coast Guard, and the Department of Fisheries, aiming to enhance the state’s vigil against potential sea-borne threats and curb illegal activities, including smuggling and unregulated fishing. The task force has been deployed across the state’s 590 km coastline, integrating 25 new high-speed patrol boats and 12 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into the surveillance network. A dedicated control room, costing ₹50 crore to establish, will coordinate real-time intelligence sharing among the agencies. This move significantly strengthens India’s internal security architecture along the Western Coast, a critical area post the 26/11 attacks. This topic is directly relevant for Internal Security and Border Management in UPSC GS-III and State PSC exams.

Source: Hindustan Times — https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/kerala-coastal-security-sagar-kavach-26nov25.html

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2. NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Cabinet Approves ₹2,500 Crore National Cyber Defense Academy (NCDA)

Summary: The Union Cabinet sanctioned ₹2,500 crore for the National Cyber Defense Academy (NCDA) in Gurugram.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on November 26, 2025, approved a proposal to establish the National Cyber Defense Academy (NCDA) in Gurugram, Haryana. The project has been allocated a total outlay of ₹2,500 crore over the next five years. The NCDA is mandated to become the apex training institute for cyber warfare, cyber policy, and defense strategy, aiming to train approximately 10,000 high-level cyber security experts annually. The institution will operate under the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) and will focus on developing advanced indigenous technologies to counter sophisticated state-sponsored cyber threats. This decision is a cornerstone of India’s vision for ‘Cyber Surakshit Bharat’ and marks a major investment in securing India’s digital infrastructure. Its relevance for competitive exams lies in Internal Security (GS-III), Science and Technology (GS-III), and Government Policy (GS-II).

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1975432

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Supreme Court Mandates ‘Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres’ (VWDCs)

Summary: The Supreme Court directed all states to establish Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres within 90 days.

In a landmark judgment delivered on November 26, 2025, by a bench led by Chief Justice of India Dr. D. Y. Chandrachud, the Supreme Court of India mandated that all State Governments and Union Territories must establish dedicated ‘Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres’ (VWDCs) in every district court complex across the nation within a strict deadline of 90 days. The ruling arose from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) and aims to ensure a trauma-free environment for the deposition of victims of sexual offenses, children, and other vulnerable witnesses, improving the quality of evidence and increasing conviction rates. The court specified that these centers must adhere to the model guidelines issued by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice and be funded through state-level legal services authorities. This judgment is vital for the Judiciary, Social Justice, and Governance components of the UPSC syllabus (GS-II). The court also instructed the National Judicial Academy to develop a specialized training module for presiding officers.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/supreme-court-vwdc-mandate-26nov25.ece

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Ministry of Health Launches ‘Ayushman Bal’ Campaign for School Children

Summary: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare initiated the ‘Ayushman Bal’ campaign for free health check-ups for 15 crore school children.

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, under the guidance of Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, launched the nationwide ‘Ayushman Bal’ campaign in New Delhi on November 26, 2025. This ambitious campaign aims to provide comprehensive and free annual health check-ups and basic treatment to an estimated 15 crore school children across both government and private schools (from class 1 to 12). The initiative is part of the broader Ayushman Bharat mission and focuses on early detection of common health issues, nutritional deficiencies, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like vision impairment and dental problems. Dedicated mobile health teams, comprising doctors and pediatric specialists, will be deployed, particularly in underserved rural and remote areas. The government has earmarked ₹800 crore for the first year of implementation. This is highly relevant for Social Justice (GS-II), Government Schemes (GS-II), and Health Sector Reforms.

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/ayushman-bal-campaign-launched-26nov25.cms

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3. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India-ASEAN Strategic Dialogue Concludes; $100 Million Fund Proposed

Summary: The India-ASEAN Strategic Dialogue in Jakarta concluded with India proposing a $100 million fund for regional infrastructure resilience.

The annual India-ASEAN Strategic Dialogue concluded on November 26, 2025, in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Indian delegation, led by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, engaged in discussions with the Foreign Ministers of the ten ASEAN member states. The primary focus of the dialogue was on strengthening maritime security cooperation, supply chain resilience, and digital economy integration. A key outcome was India’s proposal for a new $100 million fund dedicated to providing financial and technical assistance to ASEAN countries for building infrastructure resilience against climate change and natural disasters. Both sides agreed to accelerate negotiations on upgrading the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA). This commitment is crucial for India’s Act East Policy and its role as a key regional partner. This bilateral/multilateral engagement is a significant topic for UPSC GS-II (International Relations) and current global diplomacy.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/world/india-asean-strategic-dialogue-100m-fund-26nov25.html

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India and Germany Sign Declaration for ‘Green Hydrogen Corridor’

Summary: India and Germany signed a Joint Declaration of Intent for establishing a ‘Green Hydrogen Corridor’.

On November 26, 2025, in Berlin, India and Germany officially signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) to establish a collaborative ‘Green Hydrogen Corridor’. The agreement was signed by the respective Environment and Energy Ministers, committing both nations to accelerate the production, transport, and utilization of Green Hydrogen. The JDI outlines a target for India to achieve 5 million tonnes of annual Green Hydrogen production by the year 2030, a key goal under India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission. Germany has pledged an initial investment of €500 million into pilot projects in India for the development of the necessary electrolyzer infrastructure and export pipelines. This strategic partnership is vital for achieving global net-zero targets and diversifying energy sources away from fossil fuels. It is a high-priority topic for UPSC GS-III (Environment, Economy, and Science & Technology).

Source: Business Standard — https://www.business-standard.com/economy/news/india-germany-green-hydrogen-corridor-deal-26nov25.html

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WTO Ministerial Meeting Faces Impasse Over Fisheries Subsidies

Summary: The ongoing WTO Ministerial Meeting in Geneva reached an impasse over final negotiations on the elimination of harmful fisheries subsidies.

The World Trade Organization’s (WTO) ongoing 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) in Geneva, Switzerland, faced significant deadlock on November 26, 2025, primarily over the critical issue of fisheries subsidies. Developing nations, led by India, maintained their firm stance, arguing that they must be allowed a 25-year transition period to phase out subsidies for their artisanal and subsistence fishing communities, citing food security concerns and livelihood protection for millions of poor fishermen. Wealthier nations, in contrast, pushed for an aggressive 7-year phase-out timeline. The conference, attended by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, aims to finalize the comprehensive agreement on prohibiting subsidies that contribute to overfishing and illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The failure to reach a consensus threatens the first-ever global trade deal solely focused on environmental sustainability. This is extremely important for UPSC GS-II (International Institutions) and GS-III (Economy/Food Security).

Source: Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/wto-fisheries-subsidies-impasse-26nov25.cms

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4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

RBI Mandates 12.5% CRAR for Tier-1 UCBs by March 2026

Summary: The Reserve Bank of India mandated a Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of 12.5% for Tier-1 Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs).

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), headquartered in Mumbai, issued a key prudential directive on November 26, 2025, significantly impacting the Urban Cooperative Banking (UCB) sector. The circular mandates that all Tier-1 UCBs must achieve and maintain a Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of at least 12.5% by March 31, 2026. This represents a 3 percentage point increase from the previous requirement for this category of banks. The move, announced by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das, is part of the central bank’s broader framework to strengthen the financial resilience and stability of the cooperative banking sector following recent instances of financial stress. UCBs that fail to meet this threshold will face stricter regulatory supervision, including restrictions on dividend distribution and branch expansion. This is a critical development for Banking, Financial Stability, and Regulatory Reforms (UPSC GS-III).

Source: RBI Press Releases — https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=51087

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India’s Merchandise Exports Cross $60 Billion USD in October

Summary: India’s merchandise exports crossed the $60 billion USD mark for October 2025, driven by pharmaceuticals and engineering goods.

Preliminary data released by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) on November 26, 2025, highlighted a strong performance in India’s external trade, with merchandise exports for the month of October 2025 crossing the $60 billion USD mark. This figure represents an impressive year-on-year growth of 18.5% compared to October 2024. The surge was primarily driven by robust global demand for Indian pharmaceuticals (25% YoY growth) and engineering goods (22% YoY growth). Concurrently, imports also rose to $75 billion USD, leading to a trade deficit of $15 billion USD, which is slightly lower than the previous month. Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal attributed this performance to the government’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and renewed focus on market diversification. This trend is crucial for Economy and Trade Policy analysis in competitive exams (UPSC GS-III).

Source: Livemint — https://www.livemint.com/economy/indias-merchandise-exports-hit-60-billion-october-26nov25.html

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SEBI Proposes T+0 Settlement Cycle for Top 250 Stocks

Summary: SEBI released a consultation paper proposing an instantaneous T+0 settlement cycle for the top 250 stocks by market capitalization.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), India’s capital market regulator, released a comprehensive consultation paper on November 26, 2025, proposing to introduce a T+0 settlement cycle for the top 250 stocks by market capitalization on a voluntary basis. Currently, India operates on a T+1 settlement cycle. The proposed T+0 system would mean that the transfer of funds and securities would happen on the same day the trade is executed, significantly improving capital efficiency and reducing counterparty risk. SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch stated that the move aims to align India’s market infrastructure with global best practices and attract more foreign institutional investment (FII). The implementation, tentatively scheduled for April 2026, will be done in phases. This is highly relevant for Capital Markets, Financial Systems, and Regulatory Frameworks in the GS-III Economy paper.

Source: Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/sebi-proposes-t0-settlement-26nov25.cms

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5. SPORTS

Neeraj Chopra Wins Diamond League Final with 90.56 Metre Throw

Summary: Indian Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra won the Diamond League Final in Zurich with a 90.56 meter throw.

Indian javelin star and Olympic Gold medalist Neeraj Chopra clinched the prestigious Diamond League Final title in Zurich, Switzerland, on November 26, 2025. Competing against a field of world champions, Chopra secured the gold medal with a phenomenal, world-leading throw of 90.56 meters in his fourth attempt, firmly placing him at the top of the global javelin rankings for the year. This victory marks Chopra’s second Diamond League Trophy and demonstrates his consistent performance at the elite level of international athletics. The 27-year-old athlete from Haryana surpassed the previous season best and reaffirmed India’s emerging dominance in track and field. This achievement is a significant milestone for Indian sports, showcasing the success of government schemes like the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). This is a must-know for all competitive exams under the Sports section.

Source: The Hindu — https://www.thehindu.com/sport/athletics/neeraj-chopra-diamond-league-final-win-26nov25.ece

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India Secures Hosting Rights for 2028 World Chess Olympiad

Summary: India was officially awarded the hosting rights for the 2028 World Chess Olympiad by the International Chess Federation (FIDE).

In a major win for Indian sports, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) announced on November 26, 2025, that India has been selected to host the 44th World Chess Olympiad in 2028. The announcement was made from the FIDE headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland. Chennai, Tamil Nadu, which successfully hosted the 2022 edition, is the likely venue, leveraging its existing infrastructure and deep-rooted chess culture. All India Chess Federation (AICF) President, Dr. Sanjay Kapoor, confirmed the bid was won against strong competition from Argentina and Turkey. The event is expected to attract over 2,000 players from more than 180 countries, further boosting India’s profile as a global sporting nation. This selection highlights the growth of chess in India and its importance as a mind sport. This is an important update for Sports, Appointments, and Hosting Rights sections.

Source: Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/chess/india-to-host-2028-world-chess-olympiad-26nov25.cms

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SAI Launches ‘Khelo India Excellence’ Portal for 4,500 Athletes

Summary: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) launched the ‘Khelo India Excellence’ portal to manage 4,500 elite athletes’ data and training.

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) launched a centralized digital platform, the ‘Khelo India Excellence’ Portal, in New Delhi on November 26, 2025. The portal is designed to provide end-to-end management, monitoring, and performance tracking for over 4,500 elite athletes currently under the Khelo India Scheme and the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). The platform, inaugurated by Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, integrates training schedules, nutritional data, psychological assessments, and expenditure tracking (including the ₹50,000 per month out-of-pocket allowance). The core objective is to ensure transparency in resource allocation and data-driven decision-making for athlete development, especially targeting the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This technological integration into sports policy is relevant for Government Schemes (GS-II) and current affairs.

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1975433

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6. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT

ISRO’s Shukrayaan-1 Successfully Completes First Orbit Correction

Summary: ISRO’s Shukrayaan-1 Venus orbiter successfully performed its first Trajectory Correction Maneuver (TCM-1).

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), operating from the Mission Control Facility in Bengaluru on November 26, 2025, confirmed the successful completion of the first Trajectory Correction Maneuver (TCM-1) for its ambitious Shukrayaan-1 Venus Orbiter Mission. The crucial 35-second burn of the onboard liquid apogee motor ensured the spacecraft was placed on the precise, pre-determined trajectory needed for its rendezvous with Venus. Project Director Dr. Ritu Karidhal announced that the spacecraft is currently approximately 12 million kilometers away from Earth and is progressing normally. The maneuver consumed only 2 kg of propellant, leaving sufficient reserves for the final Venus Orbit Insertion (VOI) scheduled for late 2026. This mission focuses on studying the Venusian atmosphere and surface composition. This is a top-priority topic for Science & Technology (GS-III) and Space Missions.

Source: Indian Express — https://indianexpress.com/article/science/isro-shukrayaan-1-orbit-correction-successful-26nov25.html

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AI-Based Early Warning System for Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)

Summary: Scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) developed a new AI-based early warning system for Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).

On November 26, 2025, researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru unveiled a cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Early Warning System designed specifically to predict Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the Himalayan region. The system, developed with 18 months of data, utilizes high-resolution satellite imagery, real-time sensor data, and machine learning algorithms to assess the stability of 120 high-risk glacial lakes, especially those in Sikkim and Uttarakhand. The model can provide a warning with an accuracy of 85% up to 72 hours in advance, significantly improving disaster preparedness compared to previous models. This project, funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, is crucial for mitigating the impact of climate change-induced hazards. This is highly relevant for Disaster Management (GS-III), Science & Technology (GS-III), and Environment.

Source: Down To Earth — https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/science-tech/iisc-ai-glof-early-warning-system-26nov25.html

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New Framework for Biosecurity in Indian Wildlife Sanctuaries

Summary: The Ministry of Environment released a new biosecurity framework for wildlife sanctuaries to prevent disease outbreaks.

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) released a comprehensive National Biosecurity Framework for Indian wildlife sanctuaries and National Parks on November 26, 2025, in New Delhi. This new framework, developed in consultation with the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), is a proactive measure to prevent large-scale disease outbreaks (zoonotic and endemic) that can threaten endangered species populations, such as in the Gir National Park. The framework mandates the creation of specialized veterinary surveillance teams in all 567 protected areas and allocates a budget of ₹30 crore for rapid response infrastructure. The document lays down strict protocols for animal movement and human-wildlife interaction. This is a key topic for Environment and Biodiversity (GS-III).

Source: Hindustan Times — https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/moefcc-biosecurity-framework-wildlife-26nov25.html

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7. OTHERS

Dr. Anil Kumar Singh Appointed as New UPSC Chairman

Summary: Dr. Anil Kumar Singh was appointed as the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

On November 26, 2025, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, formally appointed Dr. Anil Kumar Singh as the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), a constitutional body. Dr. Singh, a distinguished academician and former director of the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), will succeed Dr. Manoj Soni, whose tenure concluded on the previous day. Dr. Singh’s appointment is for a six-year term or until he attains the age of 65, whichever is earlier. His immediate task will be to oversee the ongoing reforms in the examination processes and ensure the timely conduct of all major civil service examinations, including the prestigious Civil Services Examination (CSE). This appointment to a major constitutional post is highly significant for all competitive exam aspirants (GS-II – Constitutional Bodies).

Source: Press Information Bureau — https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1975434

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Padma Vibhushan Awardee and Economist Dr. Vijay Kelkar Passes Away

Summary: Eminent economist and former Finance Commission Chairman, Dr. Vijay Kelkar, passed away at the age of 80.

Dr. Vijay Kelkar, one of India’s most respected economists, known for his pivotal role in India’s fiscal policy and tax reforms, passed away on November 26, 2025, in Pune, Maharashtra, at the age of 80. Dr. Kelkar served as the Chairman of the 13th Finance Commission and was instrumental in shaping the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework during its conceptual stages. He was awarded the nation’s second-highest civilian honor, the Padma Vibhushan, in 2011 for his exceptional contributions to public affairs. His reports and recommendations have significantly influenced India’s macroeconomic management, debt consolidation, and fiscal responsibility laws. His death is a major loss to the public policy and economic fraternity. Obituaries of nationally significant personalities are a mandatory topic for the ‘Others’ section.

Source: Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/obituary-dr-vijay-kelkar-passes-away-26nov25.cms

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UNESCO Adds Ladakh’s Zanskar to Intangible Cultural Heritage List

Summary: UNESCO has inscribed the traditional ‘Zanskar Mask Dance’ from Ladakh onto its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced on November 26, 2025, from Paris, that the traditional ‘Zanskar Mask Dance’ (Chham) from the Union Territory of Ladakh has been officially inscribed onto its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This designation highlights the cultural significance of the centuries-old dance form, which is performed by Buddhist monks in monasteries (Gompas) to narrate moral tales and ward off evil spirits. The Ministry of Culture had actively pursued this nomination for the past three years. This recognition is expected to boost cultural tourism in the remote Zanskar region and ensure the preservation of this unique Himalayan heritage. UNESCO listings are critical for all competitive exams (GS-I – Art & Culture).

Source: The Wire — https://thewire.in/culture/unesco-ladakh-zanskar-mask-dance-intangible-heritage-26nov25.html

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📚 QUICK REVISION TOOLKIT (CORE RECALL POINTS)

1. National & State Governance

• National Cyber Defense Academy (NCDA) Approval: ₹2,500 crore sanctioned for establishment in Gurugram; aims to train 10,000 cyber security experts annually.
  • Significance: Internal Security (GS-III), Cyber Policy, Defence Technology, and Government Schemes.
• Supreme Court VWDC Mandate: All states must establish Vulnerable Witness Deposition Centres in district courts within 90 days.
  • Significance: Judiciary, Social Justice, witness protection mechanisms (GS-II).
• Maharashtra ‘Nari Shakti Samman’ Scheme: 25% subsidy (max ₹25,000) on e-scooters for female students and workers; targets 50,000 beneficiaries.
  • Significance: State welfare schemes, EV policy, women empowerment (State PSC/GS-II).
• Karnataka Suburban Rail Phase II: ₹1,200 crore approved for 45 km Sarjapur-Whitefield route with 6 station upgrades.
  • Significance: Infrastructure development, urban planning, Centre-State funding (GS-III).
• Kerala ‘Operation Sagar Kavach’: Coastal Security Task Force launched across 590 km coastline with 25 patrol boats and 12 UAVs.
  • Significance: Internal Security, maritime surveillance, border management (GS-III).
• UPSC Chairman Appointment: Dr. Anil Kumar Singh appointed for 6-year term, succeeding Dr. Manoj Soni.
  • Significance: Constitutional bodies and appointments (GS-II).
• ‘Ayushman Bal’ Campaign: Health Ministry launched nationwide free health check-ups for 15 crore school children; ₹800 crore first-year budget.
  • Significance: Social welfare, health sector reforms, Ayushman Bharat expansion (GS-II).

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2. Economy & Finance

• RBI CRAR Mandate for UCBs: Tier-1 Urban Cooperative Banks must maintain 12.5% CRAR by March 31, 2026 (3% increase).
  • Significance: Banking sector reforms, financial stability, cooperative banking (GS-III).
• India’s Merchandise Exports: Crossed $60 billion in October 2025 with 18.5% YoY growth; pharmaceuticals (25% growth) and engineering goods (22% growth) led surge.
  • Significance: External trade, PLI scheme impact, economic indicators (GS-III).
• SEBI T+0 Settlement Proposal: Consultation paper for same-day settlement for top 250 stocks; implementation targeted for April 2026.
  • Significance: Capital markets reform, SEBI regulatory role, financial system modernization (GS-III).

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3. International Relations & Defence

• India-ASEAN Strategic Dialogue: Concluded in Jakarta; India proposed $100 million fund for infrastructure resilience against climate change.
  • Significance: Act East Policy, regional cooperation, maritime security (GS-II).
• India-Germany Green Hydrogen Corridor: Joint Declaration signed; target of 5 million tonnes annual production by 2030; Germany pledged €500 million investment.
  • Significance: Climate diplomacy, energy security, bilateral cooperation, National Green Hydrogen Mission (GS-III).
• WTO Fisheries Subsidies Impasse: MC13 deadlocked over phase-out timeline; India seeks 25-year transition vs. 7-year push by developed nations.
  • Significance: International trade, food security, WTO negotiations, IUU fishing (GS-II/III).

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4. Science, Environment & Sports

• ISRO Shukrayaan-1 TCM-1 Success: First trajectory correction maneuver completed with 35-second burn; spacecraft 12 million km from Earth.
  • Significance: Space missions, ISRO achievements, Venus exploration (GS-III).
• IISc AI-Based GLOF Warning System: Predicts Glacial Lake Outburst Floods with 85% accuracy up to 72 hours in advance; monitors 120 high-risk lakes in Himalayas.
  • Significance: Disaster management, AI applications, climate change adaptation (GS-III).
• National Biosecurity Framework for Wildlife: MoEFCC released framework for 567 protected areas; ₹30 crore allocated for veterinary surveillance teams.
  • Significance: Biodiversity conservation, wildlife management, zoonotic disease prevention (GS-III).