Daily GK Update- 13th Nov, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. AIIA Pharmacology Lab Achieves Triple ISO Certification from BIS: The Pharmacology Laboratory of the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, has achieved a major milestone by receiving triple ISO certification from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) — IS/ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management), IS/ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management), and IS/ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health & Safety Management).The certification highlights AIIA’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and workplace safety, enabling the institute to implement an Integrated Management System (IMS) that streamlines Ayurvedic research processes and enhances compliance with ethical and environmental standards.

 

2. Manohar Lal Inaugurates National Urban Conclave 2025: Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, inaugurated the National Urban Conclave 2025 at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi. The two-day event focuses on “Sustainable Urban Development and Governance”, bringing together policymakers, urban planners, and experts to discuss key urban issues.Key initiatives unveiled include the Dumpsite Remediation Accelerator Programme (DRAP) to reclaim land from legacy waste, the Urban Invest Window (UiWIN) to attract private investment for urban infrastructure, and the Swachh Bharat Mission – Knowledge Management Unit (KMU) to facilitate capacity building and knowledge sharing.DRAP targets 214 high-impact dumpsites, UiWIN provides access to long-term financing from institutions like the World Bank and ADB, and KMU serves as a national platform for learning.

 

3. CIL and DVC Sign ₹21,000 Crore Joint Venture to Set Up 1,600 MW Power Project in Jharkhand: Coal India Limited (CIL) and Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) have signed a ₹21,000 crore joint venture agreement to develop a 1,600 MW thermal power project in Jharkhand, aimed at strengthening India’s energy infrastructure.The project will be established as a jointly owned company between the two PSUs, combining CIL’s coal supply expertise with DVC’s operational experience in power generation.This initiative aligns with the government’s focus on energy security and industrial growth, supporting the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission by enhancing domestic power production capacity.

 

4. UIDAI Partners with Behavioural Insights Ltd to Boost Biometric Updates for Children Aged 5 and 15 Years: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has partnered with Behavioural Insights Ltd (BIT) to promote Mandatory Biometric Updates (MBU) for children aged 5 to 15 years, using behavioural insights to overcome awareness and logistical challenges.The MoU, signed by Tanusree Deb Barma (UIDAI) and Ravi Gurumurthy (BIT), aims to design and implement behaviour-based interventions to encourage timely Aadhaar biometric updates, ensuring seamless access to Aadhaar-linked public services.UIDAI has waived all MBU charges for the 7–15 age group from October 1, 2025, benefiting around six crore children, with the waiver remaining effective for one year to increase participation in biometric updates.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi and Bhutan’s King Inaugurate 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project, Boosting India–Bhutan Energy Partnership: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck jointly inaugurated the 1,020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, the largest fully operational hydropower plant in Bhutan, financed through a 30% grant and 70% loan from India.The project increases Bhutan’s hydropower capacity by nearly 40%, strengthening its renewable energy sector — where 99% of electricity generation is from hydropower, most of which is exported to India.India remains Bhutan’s largest investor and trading partner, supporting the Himalayan nation with ₹10,000 crore ($1.2 billion) under its Five-Year Plan, new solar energy collaborations, and a planned $454 million cross-border railway project linking Bhutan with India’s railway network.

 

2. PM Modi Highlights India–Bhutan Ties Rooted in Peace, Progress, and Trust: Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the India–Bhutan relationship as one rooted in emotions, peace, and progress, describing it as a partnership of trust and development during his meeting with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in Thimphu.Both leaders discussed connectivity, spiritual ties related to Buddhism, and the historic hydropower partnership that began under Bhutan’s Fourth King in the 1970s. They also signed an MoU on renewable energy cooperation, covering solar, wind, biomass, green hydrogen, and energy storage.India announced a ₹4,000 crore line of credit to Bhutan, while the Bhutanese King led special prayers for India, PM Modi, and the victims of the recent Delhi incident, highlighting the deep emotional and cultural bond between the two nations.

 

3. India and Saudi Arabia Sign Bilateral Hajj Agreement 2026: Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju signed the Bilateral Hajj Agreement 2026 in Jeddah during his official visit to Saudi Arabia, confirming a quota of 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims for Hajj 2026 after a detailed meeting with Saudi Minister Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah.Both sides discussed coordination, logistics, facilities, transportation, accommodation, and health support to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage experience, reaffirming their commitment to streamlining the Hajj process for Indian pilgrims.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Rezang La Memorial Stamp Unveiled by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh: A commemorative postal stamp honouring the legendary bravery of the 13th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment was unveiled in New Delhi, highlighting the enduring legacy of the Battle of Rezang La. The event brought together the Ministry of Defence, the Postal Department, and the makers of an upcoming war drama inspired by the 1962 heroism. The newly released ‘My Stamp’ pays homage to the battalion’s extraordinary courage during the 1962 conflict. Centred on the iconic Rezang La War Memorial in Ladakh, the stamp reflects the sacrifice of Major Shaitan Singh and his troops, who fought in extreme sub-zero conditions against overwhelming odds. The stamp launch coincided with promotional activities for ‘120 Bahadur’, an upcoming film portraying the events at Rezang La. Lead actor and producer Farhan Akhtar, along with director Razneesh Ghai and the production team, attended the ceremony. The film aims to bring the historic battle to contemporary audiences and is scheduled for theatrical release on November 21.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. India Shines with Two Golds at Asian Archery Championships: India’s compound archers delivered a strong medal-winning performance at the Asian Archery Championships in Dhaka, securing two gold medals and one silver. The women’s team and the mixed team produced composed finishes, while the men’s team narrowly missed the top podium spot. The women’s compound trio of Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Deepshikha, and Prithika Pradeep edged past Korea in a tight 236–234 final. Their consistent shooting, including standout ends of 59 and 58 points, proved decisive. The team displayed superior precision and composure in the closing stages. The men’s compound team of Abhishek Verma, Sahil Rajesh Jadhav, and Prathamesh Bhalchandra Fuge earned silver after a narrow 229–230 loss to Kazakhstan. The contest remained close until the final arrows, with the Kazakh combination of Dilmukhamet Mussa, Bunyod Mirzametov, and Andrey Tyutyun maintaining a slim lead.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. India Launches Digital Layout Map and Census 2027-Houselist Apps to Begin First-Ever Digital Population Census: The Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India launched two mobile apps — Digital Layout Map (DLM) and Census 2027-Houselist — to facilitate India’s first digital Population Census, scheduled for 2027.A pre-test for the House Listing and Housing Operations (HLO) phase will be conducted from November 10 to 30, 2025, covering 30 questions related to housing amenities in selected areas across the country.The DLM app digitally records details like building coordinates, structure type, usage, and landmarks, ensuring accuracy, real-time monitoring, and complete digitization of layout maps — replacing the earlier paper-based system used till 2011.A Self-Enumeration Portal (https://test.census.gov.in/se) was made available from November 1 to 7, 2025, allowing citizens in pre-test areas to submit their information online before field visits by enumerators.

 

2. Tidco Space Propellant Park Near Kulasekarapattinam Launch Centre: Tamil Nadu is advancing its aerospace ambitions with a major industrial initiative near the upcoming Isro launch site at Kulasekarapattinam. The state-owned Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation has earmarked extensive land parcels in Tuticorin district to support space propulsion, manufacturing and allied services. The new launch complex at Kulasekarapattinam is emerging as India’s second rocket launch centre. Its south-facing coastal location allows direct trajectory launches over the sea, particularly advantageous for Small Satellite Launch Vehicle missions. The absence of the fuel-intensive dogleg manoeuvre required at Sriharikota is expected to reduce mission costs by nearly one-third. Authorities have allocated a significant area for developing a specialised propellant manufacturing ecosystem. The proposed park will be situated at least 25 kilometres from the launch centre to meet safety standards for handling energetic materials. Land acquisition procedures are scheduled to begin shortly, forming a key component of the wider aerospace corridor development plan.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SEBI Revises Anchor Investor Rules, Increases IPO Allocation and Participation Limits from November 30, 2025: SEBI has increased the total reservation for anchor investors in IPOs from 33% to 40%, with 33% for mutual funds and 7% for insurance companies and pension funds, aiming to broaden domestic institutional participation.For IPOs with an anchor portion above ₹250 crore, the number of allowed anchor investors has been increased from 10 to 15 per ₹250 crore, with a minimum allotment of ₹5 crore per investor, ensuring wider allocation.SEBI has merged Category I and II discretionary allotments into a single category for allocations up to ₹250 crore, under the revised ICDR norms effective from November 30, 2025, to encourage long-term institutional investment in IPOs.

 

2. CCI Approves Lence Pte. Ltd.’s Acquisition of up to 20% Stake in AWL Agri Business Limited: The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposed acquisition of 11% to 20% shareholding in AWL Agri Business Limited (formerly Adani Wilmar Limited) by Lence Pte. Ltd.Lence Pte. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Wilmar International Limited, already holds a 43.94% stake in AWL and is part of the Wilmar Group, which has business interests in India through AWL and Shree Renuka Sugars Limited.The acquisition aims to strengthen Wilmar Group’s stake in AWL Agri Business Limited, which operates across edible oils, food, FMCG, and industry essentials like soaps and cleaners.

 

3. Pralhad Joshi Unveils NGHM Logo and Announces ₹100 Crore Biomass-Based Green Hydrogen Initiative at ICGH 2025: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi inaugurated the 3rd International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH 2025) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, emphasising that the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) is driving India’s clean energy transformation, job creation, and global leadership in green hydrogen.The Minister launched the official NGHM logo, selected from over 2,500 entries, and announced a ₹100 crore Call for Proposals for pilot projects using biomass and waste materials to produce green hydrogen under the Mission, to be implemented through BIRAC.Under NGHM’s SIGHT programme, incentives have been sanctioned for 3,000 MW electrolyser manufacturing and 8.62 lakh MTPA green hydrogen production, with India achieving the world’s lowest green ammonia price at ₹49.75 per kg; additional investments support projects in green steel, hydrogen vehicles, and bunkering facilities.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Kovalam Beach Secures Blue Flag Certification for Fifth Consecutive Year: Kovalam Beach in Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu has been awarded the prestigious International Blue Flag certification for the fifth consecutive year, meeting the global standards set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark.The beach first earned the Blue Flag recognition on September 21, 2021, becoming Tamil Nadu’s first Blue Flag-certified beach. During 2024–25, it recorded a footfall of over 5.5 lakh visitors, reflecting its growing appeal as a sustainable eco-tourism destination.Encouraged by this achievement, the Tamil Nadu government has launched initiatives to obtain Blue Flag certification for 10 more beaches, including Palavakkam, Thiruvanmiyur, and Uthandi beaches.

 

2. Hungarian-British Author David Szalay Wins Booker Prize 2025 for Novel ‘Flesh’: Hungarian-British author David Szalay won the Booker Prize 2025 for his novel ‘Flesh’, receiving a £50,000 award at a ceremony held at Old Billingsgate, London.Flesh spans decades, from a Hungarian housing estate to London’s elite mansions, and follows an emotionally detached man whose life unravels due to events beyond his control. It is Szalay’s sixth work of fiction.David Szalay, born in Montreal to a Hungarian father and Canadian mother, grew up in London and has previously authored novels including All That Man Is, Spring, The Innocent, and the short story collection Turbulence.

 

Daily GK Update- 12th Nov, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Government Proposes Mandatory ‘Country of Origin’ Filter on E-Commerce Platforms to Boost Transparency and Promote ‘Vocal for Local’: The Department of Consumer Affairs has proposed the Draft Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) (Second) Amendment Rules, 2025, making it mandatory for e-commerce platforms to provide a searchable and sortable ‘Country of Origin’ filter for packaged commodities.The move aims to enhance consumer transparency and empowerment, allowing buyers to easily identify the origin of products and make informed purchasing decisions while shopping online.The amendment supports ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ initiatives by promoting visibility of Made-in-India products, giving them a level playing field against imported goods.Under the proposed rule, every e-commerce entity selling imported products must provide this filter, helping consumers search and sort products based on their country of origin directly from product listings.

 

2. Amit Shah Launches Sahakar Digi Pay and Sahakar Digi Loan to Boost Digital Transformation in Urban Cooperative Banks: Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah launched two mobile apps — Sahakar Digi Pay and Sahakar Digi Loan — to promote digital transformation in urban cooperative banks and ensure their competitiveness in a cashless economy.He highlighted reforms in the sector, noting that NPAs in urban cooperative banks declined from 2.8% to 0.6% in two years, and set a target for NAFCUB to open at least one new UCB in every town with a population over two lakh within five years.Since the formation of the Cooperation Ministry in 2021-22, model bylaws for PACS have been implemented nationwide, enabling computerisation, while Amul and IFFCO were recognised among the world’s top two cooperatives by the International Cooperative Alliance.

 

3. Angola Partners with India in Renewable Energy, Wildlife Conservation: Angola has agreed to partner with India in key areas such as renewable energy, wildlife conservation and management, and biofuels, marking major outcomes of President Droupadi Murmu’s state visit — the first-ever by an Indian head of state to the African nation.During the visit, two MoUs were signed — one on fisheries, aquaculture, and marine resources, and another on consular matters — while both nations reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in trade, defence, health, infrastructure, and capacity building.Angola announced its decision to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) and the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA) — two Indian-led global initiatives promoting wildlife conservation and sustainable energy, further strengthening India-Angola strategic ties and India-Africa partnership.

 

4. NHA Renews MoU with DHR and ICMR to Boost Evidence-Based Healthcare and Strengthen Ayushman Bharat Schemes: The National Health Authority (NHA) has renewed its MoU with the Department of Health Research (DHR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to strengthen evidence-based decision-making in healthcare.The renewed partnership aims to optimize healthcare resource allocation, enhance quality standards, and promote data-driven policy formulation across flagship schemes like Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).Originally signed in November 2019, the collaboration has successfully used Health Technology Assessment (HTA) to help NHA in optimising Health Benefit Packages (HBPs) under AB-PMJAY.

 

5. MSSRF’s Fisher Friend Mobile App Wins Tech4Nature Award for Protecting Olive Ridley Turtles and Empowering Coastal Fishers: The Fisher Friend Mobile Application, developed by the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), has won the Tech4Nature Award at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi for protecting endangered Olive Ridley turtles while supporting coastal fishing communities.The app’s No-Fishing Zone Alert system, co-developed with Odisha’s Fisheries Department, uses geolocation and geo-fencing to warn fishers when they approach restricted turtle nesting areas like the Gahirmatha Marine Wildlife Sanctuary, helping prevent accidental violations and protecting livelihoods.Originally created after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami with support from Qualcomm and INCOIS, the app has evolved through 54 updates, now serving over 1.22 lakh users across nine coastal states and one UT, offering real-time information in nine Indian languages on weather, fishing zones, and safety alerts.

 

6. 11 November – National Education Day : National Education Day is observed every year on 11th November to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first Education Minister.Maulana Azad played a vital role in shaping India’s modern education system, including the establishment of IITs, UGC, and AICTE.The day highlights the importance of education in nation-building and promotes literacy, knowledge, and innovation.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. ‘Vibe Coding’ Named Collins Dictionary’s Word of the Year 2025: ‘Vibe coding’, a term coined by Andrej Karpathy, former Director of AI at Tesla and founding engineer at OpenAI, was chosen as the Word of the Year 2025 by the Collins Dictionary.The phrase describes a new way of software development where AI converts natural language into code, making app creation effortless and intuitive.Other trending words in 2025 include ‘glaze’ (to flatter someone excessively) and ‘aura farming’ (creating a charismatic and cool persona intentionally).

 

2. India–Russia nuclear cooperation to deepen at December summit : India and Russia are preparing to strengthen their civil nuclear partnership at the upcoming annual summit, where small and modular reactors (SMRs), fuel-cycle technologies and progress at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP) will dominate discussions. The meeting is expected to chart the next phase of collaboration as both countries expand long-term strategic energy ties. Rosatom’s director general met India’s atomic energy leadership in Mumbai to outline future cooperation areas. Both sides explored opportunities for joint development of SMRs, which promise flexible deployment, lower upfront costs and enhanced safety features. They also discussed advances in the nuclear fuel cycle, including enriched fuel supply, waste management solutions and research-driven collaborations. The Kudankulam plant remains the centrepiece of India–Russia nuclear cooperation. Units 1 and 2 are already operational and supply power to southern India. Unit 3 has reached the pre-commissioning stage, with safety-system testing scheduled as the next milestone. Construction continues at Unit 4, while Units 5 and 6, part of the plant’s third phase, are advancing with installation and equipment deliveries.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. Four Defence PSUs Felicitated with Miniratna Status at DPSU Bhawan Review Meeting: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a comprehensive review meeting of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) at the newly inaugurated DPSU Bhawan, World Trade Centre, New Delhi.During the meeting, four DPSUs — Munitions India Limited (MIL), Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), India Optel Limited (IOL), and Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) — were felicitated for being granted Miniratna (Category-I) status, recognising their growing performance and autonomy.The Miniratna status signifies the government’s recognition of the enhanced efficiency, financial independence, and strategic contribution of these defence entities towards India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.Three major MoUs were exchanged, including a partnership between HAL, BDL, and Yantra India Limited to set up a 10,000-tonne Forging Press facility, and another with MIDHANI to establish a Metal Bank ensuring steady raw material supply for defence production.

 

2. India and Sri Lanka Begin 11th Edition of Joint Military Exercise ‘MITRA SHAKTI-2025’ in Belagavi, Karnataka: The 11th edition of Exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2025 between India and Sri Lanka commenced on November 10, 2025, at the Foreign Training Node, Belagavi (Karnataka), and will continue till November 23, 2025.The Indian contingent includes 170 personnel (mainly from the Rajput Regiment), and the Sri Lankan contingent includes 135 personnel (primarily from the Gajaba Regiment), along with Air Force participation from both sides.The exercise focuses on counter-terrorism operations, sub-conventional warfare under the UN mandate, and interoperability, featuring heliborne drills, drone operations, AMAR, reflex shooting, and casualty evacuation training.

 

3. Nyoma airbase activation boosts India’s Ladakh frontline readiness: India has strengthened its military posture along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China by operationalising the upgraded Nyoma airbase in eastern Ladakh, even as a large integrated Army exercise unfolds in Arunachal Pradesh. Together, these moves underline sustained high readiness along both ends of the frontier amid an unresolved border standoff. Located about 35 km from the LAC at an altitude of 13,710 feet, the Nyoma airbase gives the Indian Air Force a forward hub close to key friction points such as Pangong Tso, Demchok and Depsang. The revamp enables faster induction of troops, weapons and logistics into high-altitude sectors, reducing response time in any contingency. Nyoma will operate alongside Leh, Kargil, Thoise and Daulat Beg Oldie to form a dense network of advanced air assets in Ladakh.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Raahul V.S. Becomes India’s 91st Grandmaster: Raahul V.S., a 21-year-old Indian chess player and former Asian Junior Champion, has become India’s 91st Grandmaster after winning the 6th ASEAN Individual Championship in the Philippines with a round to spare.He had earlier earned his International Master (IM) title in 2021 after securing his IM norms and surpassing the 2400 Elo rating mark.This victory not only confirmed Raahul’s final GM norm but also made him the second Indian Grandmaster within two weeks, following Ilamparthi A.R., who achieved the title on October 30, 2025.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. PETN link in Red Fort blast intensifies security investigation: Investigators probing the explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort are focusing on the suspected use of PETN, a powerful military-grade explosive rarely seen outside high-risk terror operations. The detection of PETN traces has heightened urgency within national security agencies, which are now examining potential supply chains and trafficking routes behind the blast. Initial laboratory assessments suggest the presence of pentaerythritol tetranitrate, a high-velocity nitrate compound often associated with sophisticated explosive devices. Its combination with ammonium nitrate points to a technically assembled charge. PETN’s sensitivity to heat and friction, and its ability to integrate easily into plastic explosives, make it extremely destructive in compact quantities. The suspected use of PETN has raised sharp questions about access to restricted chemicals. PETN is not commercially available in India and is manufactured only under strict licensing for defence purposes. Past seizures in regions such as Jammu and Kashmir and Kerala indicate the existence of covert procurement channels. Agencies are investigating whether a similar network enabled the movement of PETN into the capital.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IFC Invests ₹285 Crore in Axis Max Life Insurance to Boost Solvency and Support India’s ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ Vision: The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, has invested ₹285 crore ($33 million) in Axis Max Life Insurance Limited through long-term subordinated instruments — marking IFC’s first investment in a licensed Indian life insurer.The investment will strengthen Axis Max Life’s solvency margin and support its expansion in the life insurance sector, aligning with India’s goal of achieving “Insurance for All by 2047.”Axis Max Life Insurance, with IFC’s support, aims to enhance financial inclusion, particularly for women, and increase insurance penetration, which declined to 2.8% in FY24, while the company reported a gross written premium of ₹33,223 crore in FY25.

 

2. NPCI Partners with Bahrain’s BENEFIT to Link UPI with Fawri+ for Real-Time Cross-Border Remittances: NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the international arm of NPCI, has partnered with BENEFIT, Bahrain’s leading fintech firm, to enable real-time cross-border remittances between India and Bahrain.The partnership will link India’s UPI with Bahrain’s Electronic Fund Transfer System (EFTS), specifically the Fawri+ service, allowing users in both countries to send and receive money instantly and securely.Established under the guidance of the RBI and the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), the collaboration aims to create a strategic remittance corridor, benefiting Bahrain’s 30% Indian community and enhancing financial connectivity and economic integration between the two nations.

 

3. IN-SPACe and SIDBI Launch ₹1,000 Crore Venture Capital Fund to Boost India’s Private Space Sector: The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) and SIDBI Venture Capital Limited (SVCL) have signed a Contribution Agreement to operationalise a ₹1,000 crore Venture Capital Fund for India’s private space sector, approved by SEBI.The fund will provide early-stage and growth capital to startups working in areas such as launch technologies, satellites, payload systems, in-space services, earth observation, and communication platforms.

Approved by the Union Cabinet in October 2024, the fund will be managed by SVCL, with IN-SPACe Joint Secretary Lochan Sehra highlighting its role in empowering startups to build indigenous technologies and strengthen India’s space ecosystem.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Dr Alexander Smith of Northwestern University to Receive Prestigious 2025 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize: Alexander Smith of Northwestern University, USA, has been selected to receive the 2025 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize for his exceptional contributions to mathematics, particularly in number theory.The $10,000 annual award honors mathematicians under the age of 32 who have made significant contributions in fields influenced by the legendary Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. Smith’s pioneering work combines combinatorics, analytic number theory, and probability, solving several long-standing problems; he earned his PhD from Harvard (2020) and previously held fellowships at MIT and Clay Institute before joining Northwestern University.

 

Daily GK Update- 10th Nov, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Khasi Community Celebrates Shad Nongkrem Festival in Smit: The Khasi community of Meghalaya celebrated the five-day Shad Nongkrem Festival at Smit, expressing gratitude for a bountiful harvest and prosperity. This annual religious and cultural event, one of India’s most distinctive tribal celebrations, attracts both locals and visitors.The festival honours Ka Blei Synshar, the goddess of fertility and prosperity, and is held in Smit, the traditional capital of Hima Khyrim, about 20 km from Shillong. Dr. Balajied Syiem, the Syiem (King) of Hima Khyrim, presided over the Pomblang ceremony, performing rituals and prayers to Lei Shyllong, the deity of Shillong Peak.The highlights include the vibrant Nongkrem dance — women performing ‘Ka Shad Kynthei’ with golden Tiew Lasubon crowns symbolising purity, and men performing ‘Ka Shad Mastieh’ with swords and yak-hair whisks. The festival showcases the Khasi tribe’s matrilineal traditions, spiritual depth, and communal harmony with nature and divinity.

 

2. Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2025 to Celebrate Cultural Unity Between Tamil Nadu and Kashi: Varanasi will host the fourth edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS 4.0) from December 2 to 15, 2025, envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, celebrating the deep-rooted cultural bond between Tamil Nadu and Kashi under the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.The theme “Let us Learn Tamil – Karpom Tamil” highlights India’s linguistic unity, with over 1,400 delegates from Tamil Nadu across seven categories including students, teachers, writers, professionals, women, and spiritual scholars participating in cultural exchange and learning sessions.This year’s key highlights include the valedictory ceremony at Rameswaram on December 15, along with the launch of “Tamil Karpom” (students from North India learning Tamil) and the “Agasthya Expedition” (a cultural journey from Tenkasi to Kashi showcasing Tamil Nadu’s heritage).

 

3. Union Minister Manohar Lal Unveils ₹50 Commemorative Coin to Mark 50 Years of NHPC Limited’s Green Energy Journey: Union Minister Manohar Lal released a ₹50 commemorative coin on 6 November 2025 in New Delhi to mark 50 years of NHPC Limited in the presence of senior officials from the Ministry of Power and NHPC.NHPC Limited, a Navratna hydropower company under the Ministry of Power, celebrates its Golden Jubilee on 7 November 2025, highlighting five decades of contributions to India’s power sector.With an installed capacity of 8,333 MW across 30 power stations and 14 projects (9,704 MW) under construction, NHPC has diversified into solar, wind, and green hydrogen, reaffirming its commitment to 100% green energy and India’s clean power transition.

 

4. PSEB Recommends Deepak Gupta as Next CMD of GAIL India: The Public Enterprise Selection Board (PSEB) has recommended Deepak Gupta, Director (Projects) at GAIL India, as the next Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of the Maharatna company, succeeding Sandeep Kumar Gupta upon his retirement in February next year.Deepak Gupta brings over 35 years of experience in the oil and gas sector, with expertise in project and construction management and business development across the hydrocarbon value chain.

5. Red Fort Blast Rekindles Memories of Delhi’s Past Terror Strikes: A powerful explosion near Red Fort Metro Station on Monday evening has once again plunged Delhi into fear and grief. The blast, which killed eight people and injured 24 others, destroyed several vehicles and sent shockwaves across the city. The explosion occurred during the busy evening rush hour near the iconic Red Fort, a major heritage site and tourist attraction. Emergency teams and local police swiftly cordoned off the area as ambulances ferried the injured to LNJP Hospital. Preliminary reports suggest a high-intensity improvised explosive device was used, though investigations are ongoing. Delhi has endured multiple terror incidents over the past three decades, each leaving deep psychological scars. The 1996 Lajpat Nagar market blast claimed 13 lives, while 2000 saw gunmen open fire inside the Red Fort itself. The 2001 Parliament attack, one of the most shocking in India’s history, targeted the very heart of democracy. Subsequent blasts in 2005 and 2008 struck markets and transport hubs, killing scores and injuring hundreds.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. 10 November – World Science Day for Peace and Development: World Science Day for Peace and Development is observed every year on 10 November to emphasize the vital role of science in society and to promote public engagement in scientific discussions.The day supports the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, stressing the need for strong partnerships between science, policy, and society to achieve global progress.The International Week of Science and Peace was first celebrated in 1986, and the UN General Assembly formally recognized it in 1988 through Resolution 43/61.

 

2. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais Becomes First Woman to Lead UN Tourism: In a landmark achievement for the United Arab Emirates and the global tourism sector, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais has been appointed as the first-ever woman to head UN Tourism. Her appointment was confirmed during the 123rd UN Tourism Executive Council session in Segovia, Spain, following a majority vote. Once formally ratified by the UN General Assembly, she will assume office in January 2026 for a four-year term, marking a major stride toward gender equality in international leadership. Shaikha Al Nowais’s appointment shatters a 50-year precedent since the organisation’s founding in 1975. She will lead the United Nations’ specialised agency responsible for promoting responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. The UAE leadership celebrated the milestone, with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan describing it as proof of the nation’s dedication to women’s empowerment and global cooperation. Al Nowais herself dedicated the achievement to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, calling her “the first and enduring supporter of Emirati women.”

 

3. Novo Nordisk Partners With Emcure to Market Wegovy in India: Danish healthcare major Novo Nordisk has entered into a collaboration with Emcure Pharmaceuticals to market its globally recognised weight-loss and diabetes drug, Wegovy, in India. The injectable semaglutide formulation is expected to strengthen India’s fast-growing obesity and metabolic health market, as demand for effective weight management therapies surges nationwide. Wegovy, an injectable version of semaglutide, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used for chronic weight management and type 2 diabetes control. The drug has gained global popularity for its proven efficacy in aiding weight reduction and improving glycaemic outcomes. Under the new partnership, Emcure will handle the local marketing and distribution of the product, ensuring broader accessibility in the Indian pharmaceutical landscape. The announcement follows closely on the heels of Eli Lilly’s collaboration with Cipla to distribute tirzepatide in India under the brand name “Yurpeak”. Like Wegovy, tirzepatide targets weight management and diabetes and is available in pre-filled, pen-like devices across multiple strengths. Lilly’s Mounjaro, launched earlier in 2025, has already achieved ₹100 crore in sales by October, underscoring the rapid commercial growth of this therapeutic segment.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. HAL Signs $1 Billion Deal with GE for 113 Engines to Power 97 LCA Mk1A Fighters: HAL signs $1 billion contract with GE Aerospace for the supply of 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines and support packages to power the next batch of 97 LCA Mk1A fighters, boosting India’s indigenous fighter jet programme and self-reliance in defence production.The total F404 engines ordered for the LCA Mk1A programme rises to 212, with deliveries under the latest contract scheduled from 2027 to 2032, aligning with HAL’s production timeline and the Indian Air Force’s requirement for 97 aircraft.The new LCA Mk1A aircraft will feature over 64% indigenous content, including UTTAM AESA Radar, Swayam Raksha Kavach electronic warfare suite, and indigenous actuators, reinforcing India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

 

SPORTS 

 

1. Paradeep Phosphates Appoints Rahul Dravid as Brand Ambassador: Paradeep Phosphates Limited (PPL) has appointed Rahul Dravid as its brand ambassador to represent trust, discipline, reliability, and performance across its product range.The collaboration includes two national campaigns — “Kheti ka Game Changer” for Jai Kisaan Navratna Nano Shakti Nano DAP and “NPK and Organic Fertilizers ki Winning Team” for PPL’s NPK and organic fertiliser range.Using cricket analogies, the campaigns reflect Dravid’s mentor-like approach, encouraging farmers to select the right fertilisers for improved productivity and stronger yields.

 

2. Serena Williams Honoured with 2025 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports: Serena Williams was honoured with the 2025 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports in Spain, receiving the accolade from King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, and Princess Leonor, recognising her exceptional contributions to global sport, leadership, and advocacy for equality.The award celebrates Serena’s legendary career as a 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, joining a prestigious list of past recipients including Lindsey Vonn and Pau Gasol, highlighting her influence both on and off the court.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. DGT Partners with Autodesk to Integrate AI and Digital Design Tools in Vocational Training under Skill India Mission: The Directorate General of Training (DGT) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has signed an MoU with Autodesk, a global leader in design and make technology, to upskill trainers and educators in NSTIs and ITIs across India.

The collaboration aims to integrate advanced digital design tools and AI-powered learning into vocational training, aligning India’s workforce with industry needs in architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction.Autodesk will provide its professional-grade software to educators and students in over 14,500 ITIs and 33 NSTIs, promoting large-scale adoption of digital design and manufacturing technologies.The partnership supports the Skill India Mission through joint curriculum development, faculty training, hands-on learning, and globally recognized certification programs, preparing a future-ready skilled workforce.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. ReNew Energy Secures $477 Million ADB Funding for India’s First Round-the-Clock Peak Renewable Energy Project in Andhra Pradesh: ReNew Energy Global has secured a $477 million financing package from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to develop a large-scale wind-solar hybrid clean energy project with battery storage in Andhra Pradesh.The project will integrate 837 MWp of wind and solar capacity with a 415 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), delivering 300 MW of peak power to enhance grid stability and support India’s low-carbon energy transition.This marks ADB’s first financing of a round-the-clock peak renewable energy project, reinforcing ReNew’s partnership with ADB and aligning with the UNFCCC COP28 MoU to accelerate India’s clean energy and grid transformation goals.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Veteran Archaeologist Ravindra Korisettar from Dharwad Honoured with Rajyotsava Award: Veteran archaeologist Ravindra (Ravi) Korisettar from Dharwad has been honoured with the Rajyotsava Award for his outstanding contributions to archaeology and education.He is a UGC Emeritus Fellow in the Department of History and Archaeology at Karnatak University, Dharwad, with a research career spanning over 40 years.Korisettar has published papers in top journals like Science (2007) and PNAS (USA), and led key projects such as the Kashmir Palaeoclimate Project and Geoarchaeology of the Middle Krishna Basin.The 74-year-old scholar has established prehistory museums in Ballari and Dharwad and served on committees related to educational development and university upgradation initiatives in Karnataka.

 

2. Chef Sanjeev Kapoor Named “Top Agri-Food Pioneer” By World Food Prize Foundation: Celebrated chef and Padma Shri awardee Sanjeev Kapoor has been honoured as a Top Agri-Food Pioneer by the World Food Prize Foundation in Des Moines, Iowa.The recognition highlights his contributions to promoting sustainable and healthy eating, supporting Indian agriculture, and using local, nutrient-rich ingredients.The award was presented during the Borlaug Dialogue Week, an annual global event focused on food security, climate resilience, and nutrition.

 

3. Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Honoured with 2025 World Leader for Peace and Security Award: Spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of the Art of Living Foundation, has been honoured with the 2025 World Leader for Peace and Security Award by the Boston Global Forum (BGF) and the AI World Society (AIWS).The award recognises his global humanitarian efforts, including rehabilitating over 8 lakh prisoners, reviving 70+ rivers, and educating 1 lakh children through the Art of Living Foundation.The award was presented by Nguyen Anh Tuan, Co-founder and CEO of the Boston Global Forum, with past recipients including Emmanuel Macron, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Ban Ki-m

 

4. Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan Wins Third Edition of Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award 2025: Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan, an associate professor of materials engineering at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, has been announced as the recipient of the third edition of the Manohar Parrikar Yuva Scientist Award 2025, leading research in computational materials science.The award carries a citation and a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh, the highest in science and technology awards in India, selected from 50 applications with 10 candidates shortlisted for interviews. Gopalakrishnan was chosen after rigorous evaluation by an expert committee chaired by Anil Kakodkar, and the award will be presented at the Manohar Parrikar Vigyan Mahotsav in December 2025.

 

 

Daily GK Update- 9th Nov, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India and UK Unveil IN-UK-STP Dashboard to Deepen Bilateral Science & Technology Cooperation: Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, and Dr David Warren Smith, National Technology Adviser to the UK, jointly unveiled the pilot version of the India–United Kingdom Science and Technology Partnership (IN-UK-STP) Dashboard at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.The dashboard has been jointly developed by the Office of the PSA (India) and the British High Commission in India, reflecting the deepening science and technology collaboration between the two nations.It currently maps 143 bilateral projects jointly supported by Indian and UK stakeholders since 2018, highlighting details like funding value, implementing partners, and funding agencies.

 

2. Telangana Launches Artificial Intelligence Innovation Hub (TAIH) to Become a Global AI Leader by 2035: The Telangana government has launched the Telangana Artificial Intelligence Innovation Hub (TAIH) in Hyderabad, aimed at positioning the State among the top 20 global AI hubs by 2035 and serving as a center for AI-driven innovation, research, and collaboration across sectors.The State has established strategic partnerships with leading institutions like IIIT Hyderabad, BITS Pilani, ISB, NALSAR, IIT Hyderabad, and C-DAC, as well as global tech giants including Google, Microsoft, Infosys, and Amazon to strengthen AI innovation.

 

3. GRAP-3 and the Red Zone: Decoding Delhi’s Air Emergency: Delhi’s air quality slid into the ‘red zone’, with several neighbourhoods touching ‘severe’ levels even as the city’s 24-hour average AQI stood at 361 (‘very poor’). GRAP Stage 3 has not been invoked yet, citing comparatively better November air this year versus 2024 and ongoing coordinated controls. Central Pollution Control Board data placed Delhi as the second most polluted Indian city on the day, with hotspots including Wazirpur (420), Burari (418) and Vivek Vihar (411) logging ‘severe’ readings. Across NCR, Noida (354), Greater Noida (336) and Ghaziabad (339) remained ‘very poor’. Since Diwali, the capital’s AQI has oscillated between ‘poor’ and ‘very poor’, periodically spiking to ‘severe’. The early warning system expects air to stay ‘very poor’ for the next few days. Prolonged exposure at these levels aggravates respiratory and cardiac conditions, especially among children, the elderly and outdoor workers. Authorities advise limiting outdoor activity, masking in peak hours, and using indoor air purification where feasible.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UAE to Establish India House in Abu Dhabi: UAE plans to establish an India House in the capital in the next few years to promote cultural ties, art, student exchanges, and shared history.UAE aims to declare yoga as a competitive sport, reflecting its popularity among the four-million-strong Indian community.The second Joint Steering Committee Meeting of the India-UAE Cultural Council (October 8-9) focused on youth engagement, sports, education, tourism, archival collaboration, and arts/academic exchanges.

 

2. Maldives Becomes World’s First Country to Enforce Generational Tobacco Ban for Those Born After 2007: The Maldives has become the world’s first country to implement a generational tobacco ban, prohibiting the purchase, sale, or use of tobacco products for anyone born on or after January 1, 2007.Under the new law, individuals from the 2007 generation onward will never be legally allowed to buy or use tobacco in the country, marking a permanent generational restriction.This move follows the Maldives’ earlier ban in late 2024 on the import, manufacture, sale, and use of all vaping products, applicable to all age groups.The ban, which came into effect on November 1, 2025, has been hailed by the Ministry of Health as a historic step toward a tobacco-free generation and a major victory for public health protection.

 

3. Indian-Origin Ghazala Hashmi Becomes First Muslim and South Asian American Elected as Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor: Ghazala Hashmi, an Indian-origin American politician, has been elected as Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor, becoming the first Muslim and South Asian American to hold this top political office in the state.The 61-year-old Democrat won with 1,465,634 votes (54.2%), defeating Republican John Reid, who received 1,232,242 votes, with 79% votes counted.

Elected on November 4, 2025, Hashmi was among 30+ Indian-American and South Asian candidates contesting in the 2025 U.S. elections, and she earlier served as the first Muslim and South Asian in the Virginia Senate.

 

4. Zohran Mamdani Makes History as New York City’s First Muslim and South Asian Mayor: Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old Democratic Socialist and former New York State Assembly member from Queens, created history by becoming New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian Mayor, and its youngest since 1917, after winning the election on November 4, 2025.His grassroots campaign, centered on affordability and equality, successfully challenged New York’s wealthy political elite, marking a shift toward people-powered politics.In his victory speech in Brooklyn, Mamdani quoted Jawaharlal Nehru’s “Tryst with Destiny” speech, symbolizing a new political era; he secured over 50% of votes, defeating Andrew Cuomo (40%) and Republican Curtis Sliwa (7%).

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. HAL Signs Deal with GE for Light Combat Aircrafts Mk1A Engines: In a major milestone for India’s aerospace sector, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a $1-billion (₹8,868 crore) contract with General Electric (GE), USA, for the supply of 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines to power the next batch of 97 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A. The agreement marks a decisive step toward enhancing India’s indigenous fighter production capacity under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. The latest contract brings the total number of F404 engines ordered from GE to 212, including 99 engines previously contracted in 2021 for 83 aircraft. The new batch of 113 engines will support production for 97 aircraft, while 32 additional units will cater to testing and operational needs. HAL confirmed that deliveries under this deal will commence in 2027 and continue through 2032, matching the production cycle of the LCA Mk1A fleet.

 

2. US Test-Fires “Minuteman III” Intercontinental Ballistic Missile: The United States has successfully conducted a test launch of its Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, just days after President Donald Trump called for the resumption of America’s nuclear testing programme. The missile, unarmed during the trial, travelled approximately 7,500 kilometres before striking its designated target near the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site in the Marshall Islands. The US Air Force clarified that the test, code-named GT 254, was planned months in advance as part of routine reliability assessments. According to Lt. Col. Karrie Wray, commander of the 576th Flight Test Squadron, the exercise was designed to “verify and validate the ICBM system’s ability to perform its critical mission.” Data collected from such launches ensure the continued accuracy and reliability of the US strategic deterrent. However, the timing of the test — following President Trump’s renewed call for nuclear readiness — has drawn global attention.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. OpenAI Launches ‘IndQA’ Benchmark to Test AI Models on Indian Languages and Cultural Understanding: OpenAI has launched IndQA, a benchmark evaluation designed to test AI models’ linguistic abilities and cultural understanding across 12 Indian languages and 10 domains, developed with inputs from 261 Indian experts, including journalists, linguists, artists, and scholars.The IndQA benchmark contains 2,278 culturally grounded questions spanning topics like architecture, arts, cuisine, history, religion, and sports, written in languages such as Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Marathi, Telugu, Punjabi, and Hinglish, each paired with English translations and expert-reviewed ideal answers.The initiative aims to bridge the gap in local benchmarks for Indic language models, promoting fairness and inclusivity in AI evaluation.

 

2. Ironwood: The AI Chip That Could Redefine Google’s Future: Google has officially unveiled “Ironwood”, its seventh-generation Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), now available to AI developers worldwide. Designed for training and running massive machine-learning models, Ironwood marks Google’s boldest move yet in the battle for AI infrastructure dominance—directly taking aim at Nvidia’s long-standing GPU supremacy. Initially previewed in April 2025, Ironwood represents a leap in Google’s custom silicon innovation. The chip delivers more than four times the performance of its predecessor and can interconnect up to “9,216 TPUs” in a single pod. This architecture allows for seamless parallel processing, virtually eliminating data bottlenecks and enabling developers to train and scale the world’s largest AI models with unprecedented speed and efficiency.

 

3. NASA’s ESCAPADE Twins to Probe How Mars Lost Its Air: NASA’s ESCAPADE mission is sending two identical small satellites—nicknamed Blue and Gold—to unravel how the solar wind stripped Mars of its once-thicker atmosphere. Launched aboard Blue Origin’s New Glenn, the low-cost, tandem spacecraft will build a dynamic 3D picture of the Red Planet’s magnetised environment and upper atmosphere, illuminating climate history and future human mission risks. ESCAPADE focuses on the interface where Mars’ patchy, crustal magnetic fields meet the solar wind. By tracking how charged particles erode atmospheric gases, the mission will quantify present-day atmospheric loss and help reconstruct how Mars moved from a wetter past to a cold desert. Continuous, simultaneous measurements from two craft will capture rapid changes that single probes often miss.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Scapia and Federal Bank Launch Add-on Credit Card Feature: Scapia and Federal Bank introduced an add-on credit card feature, enabling primary cardholders to share credit limits and travel benefits with up to 3 family members (18+), each having independent app access, OTPs, and transaction visibility.Both primary and add-on users can earn/redeem Scapia Coins, enjoy unlimited domestic lounge visits, and no forex fees after meeting spend criteria. The digital onboarding provides instant virtual cards and physical delivery within 5–7 days.The fintech also launched Scapia Store, India’s first travel-focused shopping platform, offering products from brands like Columbia, Daily Objects, Tripole, and Nasher Miles, with 20% back in Scapia Coins and plans to expand to 10,000+ products across 50 subcategories.