Daily GK Update- 28th Nov, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. ICMR Report Warns of Rising Antibiotic Resistance in India: India is witnessing a rapid escalation in antimicrobial resistance, with several common infections becoming increasingly difficult to treat. The ICMR’s Antimicrobial Resistance Research & Surveillance Network report for 2024 reveals widespread failure of routinely prescribed antibiotics against major hospital-acquired pathogens. Analysis of nearly one lakh confirmed infection samples shows that Gram-negative bacteria dominate resistance patterns. E. coli, a frequent cause of urinary, abdominal and bloodstream infections, has shown declining susceptibility to multiple frontline antibiotics. Klebsiella pneumoniae remains resistant to piperacillin-tazobactam in most cases and displays high carbapenem resistance, severely curbing treatment options. Resistance levels in ICUs are particularly concerning. Acinetobacter baumannii demonstrates 91% resistance to meropenem, compelling clinicians to depend on complex or toxic drug regimens. Pseudomonas aeruginosa continues to present rising resistance levels. Overall, drug-resistant Gram-negative organisms account for 72% of bloodstream infections, and many ventilator-associated pneumonias involve pathogens unresponsive to high-end antibiotics.

 

2. India’s Largest MSW–to–CBG in Nagpur is scheduled to become operational by March 2026: Nagpur is set to achieve a national milestone with the upcoming commissioning of India’s largest municipal solid waste-to-compressed biogas plant based on dry anaerobic digestion technology. The project at Bhandewadi is progressing steadily and is expected to be fully operational by March 2026, marking a transformative shift in urban waste management. The plant spans 30 acres of municipal land and has reached cold commissioning despite construction delays caused by an extended monsoon. Authorities have granted a four-month extension, allowing phased hot commissioning to begin soon. The facility represents a key initiative supported by central and state leadership with strong administrative oversight. Developers have built a 1,500 MTPD processing capacity against the mandated 1,000 MTPD, anticipating future waste growth. The dry fermentation technology, proven through an on-site pilot in 2024, allows efficient digestion of India’s mixed waste stream. This design places the plant among the world’s largest dry anaerobic digestion facilities and a first in India at such scale.

 

3. Baba Kalyani Wins Indian of the Year 2025 in Business: Baba Kalyani, chairman and managing director of Bharat Forge, has been honoured with the Indian of the Year 2025 award in the Business category. The recognition celebrates his decisive role in advancing India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing and strengthening the nation’s global industrial presence. Kalyani received the award for his contribution to expanding India’s “Make in India” footprint in the defence sector. Through Bharat Forge and its defence arm, Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited, he has shaped one of the country’s leading private defence ecosystems. His efforts have supported the production and export of advanced artillery systems to international markets. Reflecting on his career, Kalyani highlighted three pivotal turning points: his early years at a military boarding school, formative guidance in the business world, and the landmark policy shift in 2014 that opened defence manufacturing to private industry. A decade later, Indian-made artillery guns reached European buyers, symbolising the impact of these reforms.

 

4. Assam’s Prerona Scheme for Class 10 Students: Assam has introduced a monthly support initiative for Class 10 learners to help them prepare for their board examinations with reduced financial pressure. The scheme offers a steady allowance aimed at strengthening academic focus and ensuring that basic study-related needs are met during the crucial pre-exam period. The Prerona scheme provides a monthly amount of Rs 300 to every Class 10 student in Assam until the completion of the board examinations. The state government intends the assistance to help students purchase essential study materials and maintain minimum nutrition during their preparation phase. The initiative covers all students appearing for the High School Leaving Certificate examinations under the Assam State School Education Board. It further extends to residents of Assam studying in Class 10 in CBSE-affiliated Adarsha Vidyalayas. The assistance is universal and not tied to income criteria, ensuring that every eligible learner receives the same level of support.

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Sirpur Prepares for UNESCO World Heritage Nomination: The archaeological town of Sirpur in Chhattisgarh is undergoing a major transformation as authorities intensify efforts to secure a UNESCO World Heritage tag. A recent joint inspection by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Sirpur Special Area Development Authority has accelerated preparations to enhance visitor experience and protect the site’s cultural value. Sirpur, dating from the 5th to 12th Century, is a multi-religious archaeological landscape featuring Hindu, Buddhist and Jain monuments. Excavations have revealed temples, viharas, palace remains, market complexes and an advanced water-management system. The Lakshmana Temple, Surang Tila complex and several excavated monasteries underline the site’s architectural and spiritual importance. A World Heritage designation recognises locations of exceptional universal value and enhances global visibility. Such a tag helps attract tourism, mobilise conservation funding and strengthen long-term protection efforts. Sirpur’s riverine cultural landscape along the Mahanadi aligns closely with UNESCO’s criteria for combined cultural and natural heritage.

 

2. World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025: The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 in Baku concluded on 28 November with global participation from ministers, policymakers and industry leaders. Held every four years, the conference charted the strategic roadmap for worldwide telecommunications development, drawing more than 2,300 delegates from across regions. India participated under the leadership of the Union Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, who outlined India’s vision on universal connectivity and sustainable digital transformation. India assumed major leadership positions, including Conference Vice-Chair and key roles in coordination, innovation and study group activities. The delegation engaged extensively through bilateral meetings and ministerial dialogues, underscoring India’s global digital partnerships. India contributed substantially to resolutions that aim to expand digital inclusion. Key efforts included extending smart sustainable city concepts to rural regions under Resolution 85 and strengthening innovation ecosystems under Resolutions 89 and 90. These resolutions support emerging technologies, local innovators and meaningful connectivity through capacity-building and public–private collaboration.

 

3. Russia’s President Putin’s India Visit to Advance Strategic Cooperation: Russia’s President Vladimir Putin will arrive in India on 4 December for a two-day state visit that is expected to deepen bilateral cooperation across defence, energy, and geopolitical issues. The annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to reaffirm the long-standing strategic partnership between the two countries. The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that the meeting will allow both leaders to review progress in ongoing collaborations and outline a future vision for the ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership’. Discussions will cover regional and global developments, including areas where both nations maintain close diplomatic engagement. Defence ties are expected to feature prominently. A possible procurement of additional S-400 surface-to-air missile systems is under consideration, signalling New Delhi’s continued interest in advanced air defence technology. These systems gained visibility during India’s recent operational deployments and remain integral to strategic deterrence planning.

 

4. Italy Unveils the Advanced ‘Michelangelo Dome’ Defence System: Italy has introduced the Michelangelo Dome, an advanced multi-domain defence system developed by defence major Leonardo to counter modern threats ranging from missiles and drones to cyber intrusions and space-based attacks. The project represents one of Europe’s most ambitious attempts to build an integrated defence architecture aligned with NATO’s evolving security needs. The system was formally presented in Rome in the presence of defence minister Guido Crosetto and senior military leaders. It marks a major step in Leonardo’s long-term strategy to specialize in next-generation defence technologies, including artificial intelligence, satellite systems, drones and digital infrastructure. The Dome is positioned as a core future asset for Italy and a potential contributor to Europe’s collective defence. Unlike traditional air defence built around a fixed platform, the Dome uses an advanced software layer to integrate data from multiple national and international systems. The architecture, based on NATO standards, blends inputs from sensors, radars, satellites, naval assets and ground interceptors. This enables seamless cooperation between different countries’ equipment, irrespective of manufacturer or origin.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. India Signs ₹7,995 Crore Support Deal for Navy’s Seahawk Fleet: India has concluded a ₹7,995 crore agreement with the United States for a comprehensive follow-on support package for the Navy’s MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. The pact, signed under the US Foreign Military Sales framework, ensures long-term sustainment of the 24 multirole maritime helicopters inducted by India. The agreement provides spares, support equipment, product support, training modules and technical assistance. It also includes repair and replenishment systems for critical components. The MH-60R, built by Lockheed Martin, is an all-weather platform equipped for anti-submarine warfare, surveillance and maritime operations. A key feature of the deal is the establishment of in-country repair and maintenance facilities. These will enable intermediate-level component servicing and periodic inspections within India. The defence ministry noted that this capability will reduce external dependence and reinforce national goals under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

 

2. Western Air Command Holds Commanders’ Conference 2025: The Western Air Command concluded its two-day Commanders’ Conference in New Delhi on 28 November 2025, bringing senior leadership together to review operational readiness and future capability development. The event centred on the theme “विकासशील सक्षम भारतीय वायु सेना” and highlighted the Indian Air Force’s drive toward self-reliance and enhanced preparedness. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh presided over the conference and was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour on arrival. He stressed the need to strengthen air warriors’ training, leadership development and welfare measures. Emphasising morale as an operational asset, he urged adherence to the IAF’s core values of Mission, Integrity and Excellence. The conference included detailed deliberations involving WAC commanders, senior military officials and domain experts. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan called for high professional competence, constant adaptation and tactical innovation to address the evolving security environment. He noted that mental and physical agility remains crucial to sustaining operational capability.

 

3. INS Vikrant Leads India’s Participation at International Fleet Review 2025 in Colombo: India has deployed its first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, alongside the indigenously built frigate INS Udaygiri, to the International Fleet Review 2025 in Colombo. Hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy from 27 to 29 November 2025, the event marks both vessels’ maiden overseas deployment and reinforces India’s maritime partnerships in the Indian Ocean Region. INS Vikrant’s participation reflects India’s growing naval self-reliance and its intent to showcase indigenous capability on a global platform. Its presence at a major multilateral maritime event underlines India’s commitment to cooperative security and regional stability. The deployment also highlights India’s alignment with partner navies in the wider Indian Ocean community. INS Udaygiri, a recently commissioned guided-missile frigate, represents the next phase of India’s naval modernisation. Its inclusion in IFR 2025 demonstrates the maturing capacity of domestic shipyards and the Navy’s balanced force expansion. The frigate’s participation strengthens India’s profile as a rising maritime power with a focus on indigenous production.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha Qualifies for 2026 Australian Open Doubles: Indian tennis player Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha has earned a major breakthrough by qualifying for the 2026 Australian Open men’s doubles main draw. Partnering Thailand’s Pruchya Isaro, he secured the spot after winning the Asia-Pacific Wildcard Playoff in a commanding performance. The Indo-Thai pair delivered consistent results throughout the event, culminating in a straight-sets victory over Japan’s Seita Kusuhara and Katsuki Nakagawa. Their 6-4, 6-3 win in the final secured the coveted wildcard to Melbourne Park, marking a career-defining moment for the Indian player. The qualification marks Poonacha’s first Grand Slam main-draw appearance. The 30-year-old has spent much of his career competing on the ATP Challenger and ITF circuits, where he reached a career-high doubles ranking of world No. 98 and captured six Challenger titles. The opportunity in Australia now places him alongside elite international doubles teams.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. GRAP Stage 3 Revoked in Delhi-NCR as Air Quality Improves: Authorities in Delhi-NCR have lifted stringent Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) following a noticeable improvement in air quality. The decision brings relief to motorists and construction sectors, though several lower-stage measures remain in force to prevent further deterioration. The Commission for Air Quality Management revoked Stage 3 measures after Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI settled at 327, placing it in the ‘Very Poor’ category. While still unhealthy, this level is below the ‘Severe’ threshold of 401–450 that mandates Stage 3 restrictions. The winter-specific GRAP framework categorises pollution response into four stages, from ‘Poor’ to ‘Severe Plus’, triggering different levels of intervention. One of the most significant relaxations is the removal of the ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles. These vehicles may now ply across Delhi-NCR. However, authorities stressed that Stage 1 and Stage 2 measures continue to apply. These include actions against polluting vehicles, bans on open burning, improved waste management, and enhanced road cleaning.

 

2. India Secures Third Place in Asia Power Index 2025: India has ranked third in the Asia Power Index 2025, standing behind the United States and China, according to the latest assessment by Australia’s Lowy Institute. The report highlights India’s rising influence in the region, backed by improvements in economic strength, military capability and diplomatic reach. The seventh edition of the Index evaluates 27 countries and territories across Asia using 131 indicators. These indicators span eight areas, including Military Capability, Economic Capability, Defence Networks, Diplomatic Influence, Cultural Influence, Resilience and Future Resources. The comprehensive approach measures the ability of nations to shape their external environment. India achieved an overall score of 40 out of 100, marking a 2 per cent improvement from previous years. The Index classifies India in the “major power” category for the first time, crediting its strong post-pandemic economic recovery and growing geopolitical relevance. The report notes advancements in international connectivity, leverage and technology as contributing factors to India’s upward trajectory.

 

 

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. IMF Assigns India a ‘C’ Grade for Its GDP and National Accounts Data, the Second-Lowest Rating.: India’s latest annual assessment by the International Monetary Fund places the country’s national accounts statistics in the ‘C’ category, signalling persistent methodological issues ahead of the release of Q2 financial year data on 28 November 2028. The evaluation highlights concerns about base-year relevance, statistical techniques, and discrepancies across GDP measurement approaches. The IMF states that India’s national accounts data are timely and sufficiently frequent but affected by methodological shortcomings. The use of an outdated 2011-12 base year and limited producer price indices continues to constrain data accuracy. These issues affect the interpretation of key indicators such as GDP and GVA. The review notes “sizeable discrepancies” between the production and expenditure approaches to estimating GDP. India principally uses the income approach but publishes expenditure-based estimates as well. Differences in data sources and coverage often lead to gaps between these figures, particularly regarding the informal sector and expenditure mapping.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Chef Vijay Kumar Named Global Indian of the Year 2025: Chef Vijay Kumar has been honoured as the Global Indian of the Year at CNN-News18’s Indian of the Year Awards 2025, marking a defining moment in his rapidly rising international career. The recognition comes shortly after his major win at the James Beard Foundation Awards, where he was declared Best Chef: New York State. Kumar’s journey began in the small farming village of Natham in Tamil Nadu. His culinary philosophy is shaped by childhood memories, firewood cooking, foraged ingredients and family recipes passed down by his mother and grandmother. This deep cultural grounding continues to influence his work in global kitchens. The latest honour places Kumar alongside notable nominees from diverse fields. His recent James Beard victory was hailed as a breakthrough for South Indian cuisine on the global stage. Experts note that his rise follows a lineage of influential Tamil-origin culinary figures, strengthening international appreciation for regional Indian food traditions.

 

2. Vietnamese Film ‘Skin of Youth’ Wins Golden Peacock Award: The 56th International Film Festival of India concluded with a celebration of global storytelling, honouring films that pushed artistic boundaries and amplified diverse voices. The Vietnamese feature “Skin of Youth” claimed the prestigious Golden Peacock Award for Best Film, marking a standout moment at the festival’s closing ceremony. The 56th International Film Festival of India concluded with a celebration of global storytelling, honouring films that pushed artistic boundaries and amplified diverse voices. The Vietnamese feature “Skin of Youth” claimed the prestigious Golden Peacock Award for Best Film, marking a standout moment at the festival’s closing ceremony.Set in 1990s Saigon, “Skin of Youth” follows the tender yet turbulent romance between San, a transgender sex worker aspiring for gender-affirming surgery, and Nam, an underground cage fighter supporting his young son. The film impressed the jury with its emotional depth, striking visuals and fearless portrayal of marginalised lives.

 

Daily GK Update- 27th Nov, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. PM Modi Hoists Saffron Flag Marking Completion of Ayodhya Ram Temple: PM Narendra Modi hoisted the saffron Suryavanshi flag atop the Ayodhya Ram Temple, marking the formal completion of the temple’s construction and symbolising the fulfilment of a 500-year-old resolve.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said that those who sacrificed their lives for the Ram Temple must be at peace today, mentioning leaders like Ashok Singhal ji and Mahant Ramchandra Das ji, whose long-standing efforts finally saw completion.The Ram Temple’s journey—from the Supreme Court’s 2019 verdict to foundation laying in August 2020 and Pran Pratishtha in January 2024—culminated in the final flag-hoisting ceremony, with all major works inside the complex now completed.

 

2. Justice Vikram Nath Appointed Executive Chairman of National Legal Services Authority (NALSA): Justice Vikram Nath has been appointed as the new Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), strengthening India’s efforts to provide accessible and affordable justice to vulnerable and economically weaker sections.He succeeds CJI Surya Kant in this administrative role.NALSA, created under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, plays a crucial role in offering free legal aid, conducting Lok Adalats, and promoting legal literacy, ensuring justice is not limited by financial constraints.With the Chief Justice of India as its Patron-in-Chief, NALSA operates through a wide network of state, district, and local bodies, and Justice Vikram Nath’s leadership is expected to further streamline operations to enhance nationwide legal outreach.

 

3. Sunil Paliwal Appointed New Chairman of Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI): Sunil Paliwal, currently Chairperson of Chennai Port Authority and Kamarajar Port Ltd, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), with his post upgraded to the rank of Secretary to the Government of India.He takes over from Vijay Kumar, who was recently promoted as Shipping Secretary after the retirement of T.K. Ramachandran.A seasoned IAS officer, Paliwal has held key roles in Tamil Nadu, including MD of Chennai Metro Water, Tamil Nadu Road Development Company, and TIDCO—experience that is expected to boost IWAI’s efforts to modernise India’s inland water transport network.

 

4. Ravish Kumar Singh Appointed Deputy Chairman of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA): The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has appointed Ravish Kumar Singh, a 2009-batch IRTS officer, as the Deputy Chairman of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) for a five-year term, with his joining date scheduled on or after December 6.His appointment comes during a leadership transition at JNPA, where IAS officer Gaurav Dayal recently became Chairman, filling the gap left after former Chairman Sanjay Sethi completed his tenure in January 2024.The leadership change aligns with JNPA’s major responsibility of developing the ₹76,220-crore Vadhvan mega greenfield port in Maharashtra, which includes constructing India’s longest-ever port breakwater (10.14 km), crucial for safeguarding the upcoming port’s harbour.

5. 26th November – Constitution Day of India: 26 November is celebrated as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) to commemorate the day when the Constituent Assembly of India adopted the Constitution in 1949.The Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950, but 26 November was chosen to honour Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the drafting committee’s historic contribution.The day promotes constitutional values, citizen duties, and awareness about rights, justice, equality, and liberty enshrined in the Constitution.Government institutions, schools, and organizations observe the day through Preamble reading, seminars, quizzes, and awareness activities across the country.

 

6. 26 November – National Milk Day: National Milk Day is celebrated every year on 26 November in India to honor Dr. Verghese Kurien, the Father of the White Revolution.The day commemorates Dr. Kurien’s birth anniversary, recognizing his role in making India the world’s largest milk producer.Theme 2025 – Let’s Celebrate the Power of DairyIt highlights the success of Operation Flood, the world’s largest dairy development program, which transformed India into a self-sufficient milk nation.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. Malaysia to Ban Social Media Use for Children Under 16 Starting 2026: Malaysia will ban social media use for anyone under the age of 16 starting in 2026, aiming to protect children from online harms such as cyberbullying, financial scams, and child sexual abuse.Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil confirmed the policy and expects technology firms to comply, while the government is reviewing age restriction methods used in countries like Australia.The move aligns Malaysia with global trends on child online safety, following actions by Australia and several European nations, amid rising concerns over social media’s impact on youth mental health and harmful content.

 

2. Oldest San Diego Zoo Resident, 141-Year-Old Galápagos Tortoise Gramma, Dies: Gramma, the oldest resident of the San Diego Zoo, has passed away at an estimated age of 141 years, having been born in her native Galápagos habitat.Galápagos tortoises are known for their exceptional longevity, often living 100+ years in the wild and nearly double in captivity, thanks to better care and protection.The oldest recorded Galápagos tortoise, Harriet, lived to 175 years at the Australia Zoo, having been collected from the islands in 1835 and passing away in 2006.

 

3. Bangladesh Court Sentences Sheikh Hasina To 21 Years In Corruption Cases: A special court in Dhaka has sentenced former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina to a total of 21 years in prison after convicting her in three corruption cases linked to irregularities in land allocation under a major government housing scheme. The verdict marks a significant escalation in the country’s political and legal turmoil following her ouster last year. The Dhaka Special Judge Court-5 sentenced the 78-year-old former premier to seven years in each of the three cases related to the Rajuk New Town Project in Purbachal. The sentences will run consecutively, raising her total jail term to 21 years. The court also imposed fines of Taka one lakh in each case, with additional imprisonment in the event of non-payment. The judgment noted that land was allotted to her without proper procedure and beyond authorised jurisdiction. Hasina’s son Sajib Wajed Joy and daughter Saima Wazed Putul were also convicted, receiving prison terms of five years each alongside monetary fines. Among the 20 additional accused, most received varying sentences, while one junior official was acquitted. Only one defendant appeared in person and was handed a three-year term. The cases stemmed from chargesheets filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission earlier this year, supported by testimony from 29 witnesses.

 

4. Jakarta Becomes World’s Most Populous City In 2025: Jakarta has overtaken Tokyo to become the world’s most populous urban agglomeration, marking a major shift in global demographic patterns. A new UN-backed assessment places the Indonesian capital and its surrounding metropolitan region at 42 million residents, illustrating the accelerating scale of Asian urbanisation. The latest rankings show that nine of the world’s ten most populated cities are now in Asia. Following Jakarta are Dhaka at 37 million and Tokyo at 33 million. Other major Asian centres in the top tier include New Delhi, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Cairo, Manila, Kolkata and Seoul. This concentration reflects rapid economic growth, high-density settlements and long-term demographic momentum across South and Southeast Asia. Urban specialists attribute the rise of these megacities to sustained rural-to-urban migration, expanding employment opportunities, and natural population increase. South Asia and Southeast Asia, in particular, are witnessing record urbanisation rates. Indian cities such as New Delhi and Kolkata continue to absorb millions seeking jobs, services and social mobility, putting their infrastructure under persistent strain.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

DEFENCE

 

1. 19th Edition of Exercise Suryakiran XIX-2025 Begins in Uttarakhand: The 19th edition of Exercise Suryakiran (XIX) 2025 commenced in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, involving 334 personnel each from India (Assam Regiment) and Nepal (Devi Datta Regiment).The exercise focuses on sub-conventional operations under UN Chapter VII, including jungle warfare, counter-terrorism in mountainous terrain, HADR, medical response, environmental conservation, and integrated ground-aviation operations.This edition emphasizes emerging technologies like drones, AI-enabled decision tools, unmanned logistic vehicles, and armoured platforms, aiming to enhance interoperability, refine tactics, and strengthen India-Nepal defence cooperation.

 

2. France Introduces 10-Month Voluntary Military Scheme: France’s decision to introduce a 10-month voluntary military service from next summer has renewed attention on how European nations manage military conscription. With rising security concerns linked to Russia, several countries have retained, reinstated, or adapted military service systems to strengthen defence readiness. A number of European states continue to enforce compulsory service. Denmark recently extended service duration and made it mandatory for women. Finland requires six to 12 months of service for men, and Norway enforces 12 months for both genders. Estonia mandates eight to 11 months for men, while Greece obliges nine to 12 months for men. Cyprus, Austria, and Switzerland also maintain compulsory service for men, with voluntary options for women. Security pressures have prompted some countries to revive conscription. Lithuania reinstated it in 2015 with a lottery-based system. Sweden restored conscription in 2017 for both men and women, with nine to 15 months of service. Latvia reintroduced 11 months of compulsory service in 2023, and Croatia has voted to bring back male conscription from next year.

 

SPORTS

 

1. Rohit Sharma Appointed Ambassador for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026: Rohit Sharma has been appointed the Tournament Ambassador for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.A two-time T20 World Cup winner (2007 & 2024), Rohit played a pivotal role in both campaigns, including unbeaten knocks in the 2007 Super Eights & final, and leading India to the 2024 title as captain.Rohit’s stellar T20I career includes 4231 runs with a strike-rate of 140.89, and standout performances such as 92 off 41 vs Australia and 57 off 39 vs England in the 2024 edition.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Hub71 and UAE–India CEPA Council Sign Pact to Boost Cross-Border Startup Expansion: Hub71 and the UAE–India CEPA Council have signed a strategic partnership to boost cross‑border startup expansion between India and Abu Dhabi, creating a structured pathway for Indian startups to enter, validate and scale up in the UAE.Under the deal, five winning startups from the CEPA Council’s Start‑Up Series will be onboarded into Hub71’s Immersion Programme, giving them tailored market‑entry support, mentorship, and access to Abu Dhabi’s tech ecosystem.From those five, one startup will further be selected for Hub71’s “Access” programme, enabling a soft‑landing in Abu Dhabi with deeper support — regulatory facilitation, investor connections and long‑term growth opportunities.

 

2. Oman Launches OmanSat-1, Its First Communications Satellite, Boosting Digital Independence: Oman launched OmanSat-1, its first communications satellite, marking a national milestone that strengthens digital independence, high-speed secure connectivity, and aligns with Oman Vision 2040 to build a technology-driven economy.The satellite, developed in collaboration with Airbus Defence and Space, operates on the adaptable OneSat platform in the Ka-band, covering Oman, its economic waters, and neighbouring regions in the Middle East, East Africa, and Asia, enhancing regional communication capabilities.The programme, managed by Space Communications Technologies, focuses on digital sovereignty and local expertise, improving internet coverage in remote areas, integrating local SMEs into the supply chain, and collaborating with universities for research and specialised training.

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. CCI Approves ICICI Prudential AMC’s Acquisition of Key ICICI Venture Fund Businesses: CCI has approved ICICI Prudential AMC’s proposal to acquire key business units of ICICI Venture Fund, including management of five SEBI-registered AIFs and the advisory business for an offshore investment fund.ICICI Prudential AMC, a joint venture between ICICI Bank and Prudential Corporation Holdings (UK), is engaged in mutual fund management, PMS, AIF management, and offshore advisory services.CCI also cleared two other major deals: Toyota Asset Preparatory Co. acquiring Toyota Industries Corporation, and Jindal Jhajjar Power Ltd acquiring 100% of Jhajjar Power Ltd, strengthening consolidation in the power and manufacturing sectors.

 

AWARDS AND HONOURS

 

1. Rabih Alameddine Wins 2025 National Book Award for Fiction at 76th Annual Ceremony: Rabih Alameddine’s novel, “The True True Story of Raja the Gullible (and His Mother),” won the 2025 National Book Award for Fiction, blending family comedy with wartime tragedy.Other winners included Omar El Akkad for nonfiction, Patricia Smith for poetry, Daniel Nayeri for young people’s literature, and Gabriela Cabezón Cámara for translated literature, highlighting a diverse range of literary achievements.The 76th National Book Awards ceremony was held at Cipriani Wall Street, Manhattan, attended by hundreds of writers, publishers, editors, and industry professionals, featuring honorary awards for George Saunders and Roxane Gay. The event, often called the “Oscars of book publishing,” included musical performances and a humorous hosting by Jeff Heller, celebrating literary excellence and the contributions of the broader book community.

Daily GK Update- 26th Nov, 2025

 

NATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. UP Retains Top Spot in GI-Tagged Goods with Mathura Zari Poshak and Meerut Bugle: Uttar Pradesh added Mathura zari poshak and Meerut bugle to its list of Geographical Indication (GI) tagged goods, maintaining its lead in India with 79 GI-tagged products, ahead of Tamil Nadu (69).

The zari attire of Mathura, associated with Lord Shri Krishna, represents centuries of traditional craftsmanship. Thousands of artisans, including women, continue this embroidery tradition.The bugle of Meerut, a historical symbol of India’s independence struggle, played a key role in the 1857 revolution and continues to be used in the army, police, and schools. Meerut is globally known for manufacturing bugles, trumpets, and drums.

 

2. Karnataka Minister N S Boseraju unveiled the concept of “Quantum City” at Hesaraghatta: Under the Karnataka Quantum Mission, the state has announced a Rs 1,000 crore investment to build a strong quantum ecosystem, including Quantum Hardware Park, cryogenic testing, quantum cloud clusters, and deep-tech startup zones.The state approved Rs 1,136 crore for establishing the Quantum Supremacy Centre in Bengaluru, supporting quantum chip fabrication and enabling the export of quantum hardware, cloud services, and skilled human resources worldwide.Quantum City will provide end-to-end services from research to commercialisation and has attracted international interest, including plans for the Swiss-Karnataka Quantum Collaboration Centre.

 

3. Pralhad Joshi Inaugurates Pellet Plant, Lays Foundation for K2 Bio Ethanol Project in Haryana’s Rewari: Union Minister Pralhad Joshi inaugurated a pellet plant and laid the foundation of the K2 Bio Ethanol plant in Rewari, Haryana, aiming to boost clean energy production from agricultural residue.The pellet plant will produce 240 tonnes of biomass pellets per day from stubble, supporting India’s E20 Mission and Net Zero 2070 goals, while converting crop waste into ethanol, pellets, and rural employment opportunities.Under the government’s new policy, biomass and MSW co-firing is mandatory for all thermal plants, helping reduce pollution, generate farmer income, and promote the use of agricultural residues like paddy straw, mustard straw, and cotton stalks for clean energy.

 

4. Chitra Talwar to Become Part-Time Chairperson of Jana Small Finance Bank: Mr Ramaseshan, the current Part-Time Chairperson of Jana Small Finance Bank, will retire on 07 February 2026 after completing the maximum permissible tenure of eight years. Mrs. Chitra Talwar will take over as the new Part-Time Chairperson from 08 February 2026 to 30 January 2028.Chitra Talwar, associated with the bank since January 2020 as an Independent Director, brings over 30 years of corporate experience from companies like Britannia and PepsiCo, having worked extensively in India and global markets including New York.

 

5. PM to Unveil Asia’s Tallest Lord Ram Statue in Goa: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Canacona, Goa, to unveil a 77-feet bronze statue of Lord Ram, recognised as the tallest such statue in Asia. The event will take place at the historic Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Mutt as part of its 550-year celebrations, alongside the release of a commemorative postal stamp and coin. The Partagali Mutt is among India’s oldest monastic institutions, known for its spiritual, cultural, and social contributions. It holds a prominent place in the Saraswat and wider Hindu community. The new bronze statue, crafted by renowned sculptor Ram Sutar, aims to highlight the legacy of Lord Ram and strengthen the site’s identity as a pilgrimage destination. The Sardha Panchashatamahotsava will run for 11 days, from November 27 to December 7. The celebrations include religious discourses, cultural programmes, community outreach events, and visits by leaders of several prominent maths. A formal Sneha Patra has been extended to key spiritual heads to mark the historic occasion.

 

INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:

 

1. CBSE’s First International Sahodaya Conference in Dubai: The first International and 31st Annual Conference of Sahodaya School Complexes began at the Grand Hyatt Dubai, marking CBSE’s first major global expansion and bringing together over 1,000 school leaders and educators from worldwide CBSE-affiliated institutions.The two-day event, themed “Rooted in Wisdom, Rising with Vision: Reimagining Education through NEP 2020”, focuses on collaborative learning, holistic education, innovation in teaching, and implementation of NEP 2020 across diverse educational contexts.CBSE Chairperson Rahul Singh announced the introduction of standard and advanced level subjects from Class 9 onwards starting 2026-27 and unveiled the CBSE Global Curriculum 26, aiming to blend international standards with Indian values.

 

2. Shivraj Singh Chouhan Opens 6th International Agronomy Congress in New Delhi: Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the promotion of integrated farming, especially for marginal farmers, and urged agro scientists to prepare a five-year integrated farming plan at the Sixth International Agronomy Congress in New Delhi.He highlighted that 46% of India’s population still depends on agriculture, stressing the need for strong research, data-driven approaches, and crop diversification to strengthen the farming sector.The three-day International Agronomy Congress will include plenary sessions, thematic symposia, keynote lectures, poster presentations, and a Young Scientists’ Conference under the theme “Re-envisioning Agronomy for Smart Agro-Food Systems and Environmental Protection.”

 

3. Oman Unveils Official Rial Symbol to Strengthen Global Financial Identity: The Central Bank of Oman (CBO) unveiled an official symbol for the Omani Rial, aiming to standardise its representation across financial, commercial, and digital platforms while enhancing its global recognition.The symbol reflects Oman’s cultural heritage and economic maturity, linking the nation’s historic trade legacy with modern financial ambitions and signaling stability to international investors.The move aligns with Oman Vision 2040, promoting innovation, modernization, and global financial competitiveness while ensuring clarity and consistency in the Rial’s use across banking systems and economic communications.

 

4. Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi Volcano Erupts After 12,000 Years: Ethiopia’s long-dormant Hayli Gubbi volcano erupted after nearly 12,000 years, sending massive ash plumes across the Red Sea toward Yemen, Oman, India, and Pakistan, and covering nearby Afdera village in ash.Scientists called the eruption highly unusual and understudied, noting magma movement, ground uplift, satellite indicators, and earlier activity from nearby Erta Ale as warning signs, with ash clouds rising up to 14 km into the atmosphere.

 

5. 25 November – International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women: The day is observed annually on 25 November to raise global awareness about the violence faced by women and girls.It marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a worldwide campaign ending on 10 December (Human Rights Day).The United Nations urges governments, organizations, and citizens to work together to prevent, report, and end violence in all forms.

 

OTHER UPDATES:

 

SPORTS

 

1. Sarayu Velpula Becomes India’s 26th Woman Grandmaster: Sarayu Velpula from Warangal, Telangana, became India’s 26th Woman Grandmaster (WGM) after earning her final norm at the First League of Central Serbia 2025, completing a remarkable rise in international chess.She achieved a historic breakthrough at the 2023 Pontevedra Masters, earning WIM, WGM, and IM norms in a single tournament, followed by her second WGM norm at the Paris IdF Masters 2025 before securing the final one in Serbia.

 

2. India Wins Second Consecutive Women’s Kabaddi World Cup After Defeating Chinese Taipei: India clinched its second consecutive Women’s Kabaddi World Cup, defeating Chinese Taipei 35–28 in the final in Dhaka after an unbeaten run through the group stage and a strong 33–21 semifinal win over Iran.Chinese Taipei also entered the final unbeaten, topping Group B and defeating hosts Bangladesh 25–18 in the semifinals, while 11 countries participated in the tournament.

 

3. South Africa Set World Record With 408-Run Win Over India in Guwahati: South Africa registered a historic 408-run victory against India in the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, becoming the first team ever to defeat India by a margin exceeding 400 runs. The emphatic result sealed a 2–0 series sweep and marked one of the most decisive outcomes in Test cricket in recent years. Chasing a formidable 549-run target, India collapsed for 140 on the final day. The result handed India their largest defeat by runs in Test history, surpassing Australia’s previous 342-run record win in Nagpur. The result also marked India’s second consecutive home series whitewash within a year, underlining a period of steep decline in their otherwise dominant home record. Before this downturn, India had suffered only two home series defeats between 2000 and their loss to New Zealand last year. Their back-to-back defeats now mirror setbacks last seen in 1883 and 1984–85. The latest sweep adds to earlier 0–2 and 0–3 home losses against South Africa in 2000 and New Zealand last year.

 

4. Rohit Sharma Reclaims No.1 Spot in ICC ODI Batting Rankings: Rohit Sharma has regained the top position in the ICC ODI batting rankings ahead of India’s ODI series against South Africa. His rise back to No.1 marks a strong return to form and places him above New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, who had briefly overtaken him. The latest rankings also see Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill secure prominent positions as India prepares for a crucial international assignment. Rohit’s resurgence reinforces India’s depth in the 50-over format. Kohli has retained fifth place, maintaining his consistent standing among the world’s leading ODI batters, while Shubman Gill remains at fourth, continuing his reputation as one of the most reliable young performers in the format. Their combined presence strengthens India’s prospects in the upcoming series. Significant updates have emerged across other formats as well. Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza has reached the No.1 T20I all-rounder position for the first time, powered by steady performances in the ongoing tri-series involving Sri Lanka and Pakistan. His recent contribution with both bat and ball has elevated him above Pakistan’s Saim Ayub.

 

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

 

1. Indian Scientists Develop AI Framework for Personalised Cancer Therapy: Indian researchers have unveiled a new artificial intelligence framework capable of transforming cancer diagnosis and treatment by analysing the disease at its molecular level. Developed at the S N Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences in collaboration with Ashoka University, the tool offers a pathway to highly personalised cancer therapies. The framework, named OncoMark, shifts focus from traditional cancer staging to the underlying biological programmes that drive tumour growth. These programmes, known as the hallmarks of cancer, determine how cells become malignant, spread through the body, evade immune responses and resist treatment. By decoding these mechanisms, the system provides deeper insight into why patients with similar stages may experience vastly different outcomes. Researchers examined 3.1 million single cells spanning 14 cancer types. They generated synthetic “pseudo-biopsies” to map hallmark-driven tumour states, allowing the AI model to understand how processes such as metastasis, immune escape and genomic instability interact. This dataset formed the foundation for training OncoMark to recognise distinct molecular patterns across cancers.

 

BANKING AND FINANCE

 

1. Easebuzz Gets RBI Nod to Operate as Full-Service Payment Aggregator: Fintech firm Easebuzz has been authorised by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a full-service payment aggregator (PA), enabling services across online, offline, and cross-border payments.With the approval, Easebuzz can now offer merchants online payment acceptance, in-person payments via PoS and UPI soundbox, and cross-border inward/outward transactions, supporting over 2.5 lakh merchants and processing 3 million transactions daily.The company reported revenue of Rs 656 crore and net profit of Rs 19 crore in FY2024-25, with an annualised Gross Transaction Value (GTV) exceeding $50 billion, reflecting RBI’s support in promoting secure, scalable, and innovative payment solutions in India.

 

2. Government Appoints New Executive Directors at Union Bank, Central Bank of India, and Bank of India: The government appointed new Executive Directors (EDs) at Union Bank of India, Central Bank of India, and Bank of India for a three-year term, as per a notification dated 24 November 2025.Amresh Prasad, former Chief General Manager at PNB, is now ED of Union Bank of India, bringing 32+ years of experience in corporate credit, review & monitoring, and branch/zonal/head office operations.Ratan Kumar has been appointed ED of Central Bank of India, and Pramod Kumar Dwibedi has taken charge as ED of Bank of India, both with over 30–35 years of diverse banking experience across core operations, IT, and administrative roles.