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.

 

Daily GK Update- 8th Nov, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi Inaugurates 150th Anniversary Celebrations of National Song “Vande Mataram” in New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the year-long commemoration of 150 years of India’s national song, “Vande Mataram,” in New Delhi and released a commemorative stamp and coin to mark the historic occasion.The celebrations will include mass singing of the full version of “Vande Mataram” across the country with public participation, honoring the song written by Bankimchandra Chatterji in 1875 as part of his novel Anandamath.

 

2. 7 November – Infant Protection Day: Infant Protection Day is observed every year on 7th November to raise awareness about the importance of protecting infants from preventable diseases, malnutrition, and early childhood mortality.The day emphasises the need for proper healthcare, immunisation, nutrition, and hygiene to ensure a healthy start for every newborn.In India, various government initiatives such as Mission Indradhanush, POSHAN Abhiyaan, and Janani Suraksha Yojana contribute significantly to improving infant health and protection.

 

3. 7 November – National Cancer Awareness Day: National Cancer Awareness Day is observed every year on 7th November in India to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment.The day was first announced by the Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan in 2014, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Marie Curie, whose research on radioactivity led to significant advancements in cancer treatment.The main objective of this observance is to encourage people to undergo regular screenings and self-examinations for early diagnosis, as early detection greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Ranks 3rd Globally with 65 Clean Energy Industrial Projects: India ranks 3rd globally with 65 clean energy industrial projects, following China and the US, covering sectors like chemicals, steel, cement, aluminium, and aviation.These projects are mainly concentrated in Odisha, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan, reflecting regional industrial participation in green transition.The data comes from a COP28-linked Industrial Transition Accelerator (ITA) report, co-chaired by Sultan Al Jaber, Simon Stiell, and Michael R. Bloomberg, aimed at driving decarbonisation in heavy industries and transport, which account for one-third of global emissions.

 

2. 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.

 

3. India to Host International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH 2025) at Bharat Mandapam: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) will host the International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH 2025) on November 11–12, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, to promote collaboration and innovation under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM).The conference will feature participation from key Union Ministers — Pralhad Joshi, Hardeep Singh Puri, and Jitendra Singh — along with global organisations like IRENA, Hydrogen Europe, and H2 Global Foundation to discuss infrastructure, financing, and technology localisation.MNRE Secretary Santosh Kumar Sarangi highlighted that ICGH 2025 aims to align efforts of government, industry, and research to accelerate India’s transition to clean, affordable, and domestically produced green hydrogen energy.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. Indian Navy to Commission ‘Ikshak’ — Indigenous Survey Vessel Strengthening Hydrographic Excellence and Maritime Safety: The Indian Navy is set to commission ‘Ikshak’, the third vessel of the Survey Vessel (Large) [SVL] class and the first to be based at the Southern Naval Command, in a ceremony at Naval Base, Kochi, in the presence of Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff.Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd., Kolkata, Ikshak reflects India’s growing shipbuilding self-reliance, featuring over 80% indigenous content under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, with contributions from Indian MSMEs.The name ‘Ikshak’, meaning ‘Guide’ in Sanskrit, symbolizes the ship’s mission of conducting coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys to enhance maritime safety and navigation accuracy across India’s waters.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. 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.

 

2. Google Launches ‘Project Suncatcher’ to Build Solar-Powered AI Data Centres in Space by 2027: Google has unveiled Project Suncatcher, a futuristic research initiative to launch AI chips into space using solar-powered satellites, aiming to scale AI data processing beyond Earth.The project addresses the environmental challenges posed by AI data centers on Earth, such as high water and electricity consumption, making space a sustainable alternative for AI computation.In collaboration with Planet, Google plans to launch prototype satellites by 2027, marking a major step toward space-based AI infrastructure.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. SBI to Divest 6.3% Stake in SBI Funds Management via IPO: The State Bank of India (SBI) will divest 3.20 crore shares (6.30%) of its stake in SBI Funds Management Ltd (SBIFML) via an Initial Public Offering (IPO), alongside Amundi India Holding, which will sell 1.88 crore shares (3.70%), jointly offering 10.0013% equity to the public, expected to be completed in 2026.This IPO marks SBI’s third subsidiary to go public after SBI Cards and SBI Life Insurance.Established in 1987, SBIFML is India’s largest asset management company with a 15.55% market share, managing ₹11.99 trillion in QAAUM (Q2 FY2025-26) and ₹16.32 trillion in alternate assets as of September 30, 2025.

 

2. 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.

 

Daily GK Update- 7th Nov, 2025

 NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. NITI Aayog Launches ‘Reimagining Agriculture’ Roadmap to Drive Frontier Tech-Led Transformation in Farming: NITI Aayog’s Frontier Tech Hub launched a roadmap titled “Reimagining Agriculture: A Roadmap for Frontier Technology Led Transformation” in Gandhinagar, outlining a vision to leverage advanced technologies to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.The roadmap emphasizes frontier technologies such as climate-resilient seeds, digital twins, precision agriculture, and Agentic AI, offering tailored solutions by classifying farmers into Aspiring, Transitioning, and Advanced categories.Developed with partners like BCG, Google, and CII, the roadmap aims to boost agricultural resilience, inclusive rural prosperity, and strengthen India’s global competitiveness in agri-tech innovation, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

 

2. Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy Launches Third Round (PLI 1.2) of Specialty Steel Incentive Scheme: Union Minister D. Kumaraswamy launched the third round (PLI 1.2) of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Specialty Steel, aiming to boost investment, employment, and production in India’s advanced steel sector.The scheme has already attracted ₹43,874 crore in committed investments, created 30,760 jobs, and is expected to produce 14.3 million tonnes of specialty steel across key categories.The third round focuses on new-age and high-end products like super alloys, CRGO, stainless steel long and flat products, titanium alloys, and coated steels, to make India a global hub for specialty steel under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.Incentives ranging from 4% to 15% of incremental sales will be provided for up to five years (FY 2025–26 to FY 2029–30), with revised base year 2024–25, covering 22 sub-categories across five target segments.

 

3. National Biodiversity Authority disburses Rs 3 crore to Red Sanders farmers in Andhra Pradesh: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) released Rs 3 crore to 198 farmers cultivating Red Sanders in Andhra Pradesh, along with an academic beneficiary from Andhra University, under the Access and Benefit-Sharing mechanism of the Biological Diversity Act.The disbursement was facilitated through the Andhra Pradesh State Biodiversity Board as part of NBA’s efforts to promote equitable benefit-sharing and sustainable use of India’s biological resources.The payment covers farmers from 48 villages across Chittoor, Nellore, Tirupati, and Cuddapah districts, who are cultivating and conserving Red Sanders (Pterocarpus santalinus), a rare and endemic tree species of southern India.

 

4. Asirvad Microfinance Appoints Gerard Pasangha as Co-CEO: Asirvad Microfinance Ltd, a subsidiary of Manappuram Finance Limited, has appointed Gerard David Manoj Pasangha as its Co-Chief Executive Officer (Co-CEO) to lead the company’s growth and innovation strategies.Based in Valapad, Kerala, Pasangha will focus on expansion, operational excellence, and innovation in Asirvad’s financial products and services.With over 30 years of experience in financial services, he has previously held senior roles at IIFL Samasta, ING Life India, and Bharat Financial Inclusion Ltd, where he contributed significantly to digital transformation and inclusive finance.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. India Exports First Fortified Rice Kernel from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica: India exported its first Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) consignment from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica, marking a significant step in linking the country’s nutrition programme with global markets.This initiative aligns with the ‘Kuposhan Mukt Bharat’ programme under Poshan Abhiyan, connecting domestic nutrition improvement efforts with international trade and creating new opportunities for Chhattisgarh’s farmers and exporters.Fortified Rice Kernel is enriched with essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, highlighting India’s technical capabilities in food fortification and its contribution to global food security.

 

2. Amul bags ICA top cooperative ranking globally: Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd (GCMMF), marketing dairy products under the Amul brand, has been ranked as the world’s top cooperative based on GDP per capita performance by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) World Cooperative Monitor 2025.The recognition highlights Amul’s cooperative model that empowers millions of dairy farmers, promoting inclusive growth, social equity, and sustainable rural development across India.Along with Amul, India’s IFFCO (Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited) also ranks among the top cooperatives globally, demonstrating India’s resilience and leadership in the cooperative sector through sustainable practices, farmer empowerment, and technological innovation.The World Cooperative Monitor 2025 underscores that cooperatives like Amul and IFFCO drive equitable growth and resilience, showing that collective effort is a powerful tool for socio-economic transformation from local villages to the global stage.

 

3. India Withdraws from Ayni Airbase in Tajikistan, Ending Its Only Overseas Military Presence: India has fully withdrawn from the Ayni airbase in Tajikistan, ending its only overseas military presence after the lapse of a bilateral agreement for joint operation with Tajikistan around four years ago.The Congress termed the withdrawal a “setback” to India’s strategic diplomacy, with Jairam Ramesh noting that Ayni, established in the early 2000s, was crucial to New Delhi’s regional influence and strategic outreach in Central Asia.The Ayni base, located 10 km from Dushanbe, had been upgraded by India with enhanced runways, fuel depots, and air traffic control systems, and was last used in 2021 to evacuate Indians from Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover.

 

4. COP30 Unveils ‘Baku to Belem Roadmap’ to Mobilize $1.3 Trillion Annually for Climate Action by 2035: The COP30 Presidency released the ‘Baku to Belem Roadmap to 1.3 Trillion’, a global plan to mobilize $1.3 trillion annually by 2035 to support developing nations in tackling climate change and transitioning to cleaner economies.The roadmap builds on the COP29 Baku agreement, urging all stakeholders — governments, banks, and businesses — to work together in directing large-scale, low-cost finance toward renewable energy, adaptation, and post-disaster rebuilding.The plan emphasizes affordable and accessible climate finance, calling for tripling of UN climate fund disbursements by 2030, lowering borrowing costs, and aligning multilateral banks, private investors, and concessional funds to achieve equitable and effective climate action.

 

5. 6 November – International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict: The United Nations observes November 6 every year as the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict.The day highlights the impact of wars and armed conflicts on the environment, such as deforestation, pollution, and destruction of ecosystems.It was established by the UN General Assembly in 2001, acknowledging that environmental damage during conflicts can last for decades.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

DEFENCE

 

1. 17th India-Israel Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation Held in Tel Aviv: The 17th India-Israel Joint Working Group (JWG) on Defence Cooperation was held in Tel Aviv, co-chaired by Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and Israeli DG Maj Gen (Res) Amir Baram.During the meeting, an MoU on Defence Cooperation was signed to provide a unified vision and strengthen defence collaboration between India and Israel.The MoU identifies key areas of cooperation including strategic dialogues, training, defence industrial collaboration, R&D, technological innovation, AI, and cybersecurity, enabling technology sharing, co-development, and co-production.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

2. Chandigarh Tops India’s Services-Driven Economy with 88.8% GVA Share;: Chandigarh recorded the highest share of services in Gross Value Added (GVA) at 88.8% in 2023–24, followed by Delhi (84.1%), according to NITI Aayog’s report “India’s Services Sector: Insights from GVA trends”.At the national level, the services sector contributed 54.5% to India’s GVA, showing a strong correlation between high per capita income and services orientation among states/UTs.Karnataka (62.3%), Kerala (61.5%), and Telangana (60.3%) lead among states, with real estate and professional services being major contributors; Bihar (58%) also shows a surprisingly high services share despite low income.Chhattisgarh (33.9%), Odisha (38.2%), and Madhya Pradesh (38.8%) have the lowest services share due to mining and industrial dominance, while NITI Aayog urges investment in digital infrastructure, skills, and e-governance to boost service-led growth.

 

3. DGCA Proposes 48-Hour Free Cancellation Window and Stricter Refund Rules to Protect Air Passengers’ Rights: The DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) has proposed allowing passengers to cancel or amend flight tickets within 48 hours of booking without extra charges, under new draft rules aimed at improving refund norms.Airlines will be responsible for ensuring refunds within 21 working days, even if tickets are booked through travel agents or online portals, as agents act as their official representatives.Under the proposal, airlines must also allow name corrections within 24 hours of booking (for direct bookings on airline websites) without additional fees, and provide a ‘Look-in option’ for 48 hours to modify or cancel tickets without penalties.The new draft rules also suggest refunds or credit shells for cancellations due to medical emergencies, and the DGCA has invited public feedback on the draft CAR till November 30, 2025.

 

4. Top IITs rank slip as universities from China, Singapore surge ahead: QS Asia Rankings 2026: Nine of the top 10 Indian institutions, including seven IITs, saw a decline in their ranks in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026, as universities from China, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Malaysia outperformed them.IIT Delhi remained India’s top-ranked institution but fell to 59th place from 44th last year, marking its lowest rank in the past few years.IIT Bombay witnessed the sharpest drop, slipping 23 positions to rank 71 in 2026, after consistently being among India’s best-ranked institutes from 2021 to 2024.Chandigarh University was the only Indian university among the top 10 to improve its rank, rising to 109th from 120 last year.Indian institutions performed well in academic and employer reputation but lagged behind peers in citations per paper, faculty-student ratio, and internationalisation metrics like student and faculty diversity.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Sunil Kant Munjal Conferred France’s Knight of the National Order of Merit: Mr Sunil Kant Munjal, Chairman of Hero Enterprise and Founder of Serendipity Arts Foundation, was awarded the Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Mérite (Knight of the National Order of Merit) by the Ambassador of France, recognising his contributions to civil society, education, innovation, and arts accessibility.Over the past decade, Mr. Munjal has fostered cross-cultural artistic dialogues through the Serendipity Arts Festival, transforming art into a participatory public experience and positioning the Foundation as a major cultural force in South Asia.