15th-17th November 2025

1. MNRE Hosted 3rd International Conference on Green Hydrogen in New Delhi, Delhi
2. GoI Granted GI Tag to Sikkim’s Lepcha Musical Instruments ‘Tungbuk’ and ‘Pumtong Pulit’
3. GOI Withdraws BIS Quality Control Orders for 14 petrochemical products
4. GSH India Signs MoU with IIIT Manipur for Skill Development in Energy Sector
5. Union Minister Rajnath Singh Unveils “My Stamp” dedicated to Rezang La War Memorial
6. C-DOT Signed Agreement with NAM InfoCom for Development of MCX Solution
7. Overview of PM Narendra Modi’s Visit to Bhutan from November 11 to 12, 2025
8. Union MoS Shripad Yesso Naik Launches Global Energy Leaders’ Summit 2025 Logo and Website
9. Union Bank of India celebrates its 107th foundation day in Mumbai
10. SAMCO MF Launches India’s first Momentum based Small Cap Fund
11. S Krishnan Appointed as Part-Time Chairman of J&K Bank
12. Padma Bhushan Awardee Vaidyeswaram Rajaraman, Pioneer of India’s Science and Computer Education Passed Away
13. MeitY Notifies Digital Personal Data Protection Rules, 2025
14. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan Inaugurates 30th CII Partnership Summit from November 14 to 15, 2025, in Visakhapatnam, AP
15. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Inaugurates AI Incubation Centre at DPS in New Delhi, Delhi
16. Overview of President Droupadi’s Visit to Botswana from November 11 to 13, 2025
17. Axis Bank Hosts Multi-City Knowledge Series “EVOLVE” in Kozhikode, Kerala
18. SBI to Discontinue mCASH Facility on OnlineSBI and YONO Lite from December 1, 2025
19. Ind-Ra Projected India’s GDP Growth for Q2 FY26 at 7.2%, Led by Private Consumption
20. Renowned Art Director & Padma Shri Awardee Thota Tharani Conferred with France’s Chevalier Award
21. MoPP&P Extends Mallika Srinivasan’s Tenure as PESB Chairperson Until November 2026
22. DRDO’s NSTL Developed New Generation MP-AUVs for Mine Warfare
23. Overview of 24th Asian Archery Championship 2025 Held in Dhaka, Bangladesh
24. World Usability Day 2025 – November 13
25. National Epilepsy Day 2025
26. International Students’ Day 2025
27. GI Tag Awarded to Traditional Lepcha Musical Instruments
28. Walmart’s Doug McMillon to Retire, John Furner to Take Over
29. Bank Credit Growth Slows to 11.3% While Deposits Rise to 9.7% in October
30. India Emerges as the World’s 6th-Largest Patent Filer
31. India to Build World’s Deepest Underwater Lab at 6,000 Metres
32. Odisha Sets Global Standard as Two Beaches Win Blue Flag Again
33. Veteran Actress Kamini Kaushal Passes Away at 98
34. Henley Passport Index 2025: India Ranks 85th as Singapore Tops the List Again
35. Wholesale Inflation Falls Further into Negative Zone
36. IAF Contingent Arrives in France for Garuda-2025 Air Exercise
37. Ravindra Jadeja Becomes 4th Cricketer in History to Achieve This
38. Sons of the Soil Awards 2025: Honouring Assam’s Excellence
39. Tata Memorial Breakthrough for Bladder Cancer
40. 56th International Film Festival of India 2025
41. Ambaji Marble of Gujarat Receives GI Tag, Gains Global Recognition
42. GCC Approves One-Stop Travel System to Boost Regional Mobility
43. Raulane Festival: A Sacred Tribute to the Winter Fairies of Kinnaur

National News

1. 3rd International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH 2025) in New Delhi

• What:
  • India is expected to command 10 percent of the global green hydrogen demand by 2030, as highlighted by Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy & Power at the 3rd International Conference on Green Hydrogen (ICGH 2025) in New Delhi.
• Why:
  • The aim is to advance India’s energy transition, decarbonise industries, fuel transport, and strengthen India’s position as a key pillar in the global hydrogen value chain.
• Tell me more:
  • India’s installed non-fossil-fuel-based power generation capacity has reached nearly 260 GW, mainly from solar and wind energy.
  • The National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), launched in January 2023, includes incentive schemes worth ₹17,000 crore for green hydrogen production and electrolyser manufacturing.
  • Projects have been awarded for producing 8.62 lakh metric tonnes per annum of green hydrogen and manufacturing 3,000 MW per annum of domestic electrolysers.
  • SECI has secured globally competitive prices for 7.24 lakh MTPA of green ammonia supplied to fertilizer units and 20,000 MTPA green hydrogen supplied to refineries like IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL.

Source: PIB

2. India Withdraws QCO on Polyester Fibre and Yarn

• What:
  • The Government of India has withdrawn the quality-control order (QCO) on polyester fibre and yarn to ease regulatory requirements for the textile and apparel industry.
• Why:
  • The withdrawal aims to reduce supply constraints and compliance costs that were affecting the competitiveness of textile manufacturers.
• Tell me more:
  • The Ministry revoked earlier orders issued under Section 16 of the BIS Act through a notification dated November 12, 2025.
  • The withdrawn QCOs covered key raw materials such as ethylene glycol, terephthalic acid, polyester spun yarn, polyester continuous filament yarn, polyester partially oriented yarn, and polyester industrial yarn.
  • The previous directive had required domestic producers and importers to obtain BIS certification and carry the standard-mark licence before selling products.
  • Industry bodies said the QCOs disrupted raw material availability and increased procedural burdens, especially for small manufacturers dependent on imports.
  • The revocation, along with an export promotion mission, is expected to support textile exporters.

Source: IE

3. PM Modi Attends Global Peace Prayer Festival in Bhutan

• What:
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi met His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan, in Thimphu and attended events marking his 70th birth anniversary.
• Why:
  • The visit aimed to strengthen India-Bhutan friendship, celebrate shared cultural ties, and support Bhutan’s development initiatives for mutual progress.
• Tell me more:
  • PM Modi attended the Kalachakra initiation ceremony at Changlimithang Stadium during the Global Peace Prayer Festival.
  • He highlighted Bhutan’s achievements such as becoming the world’s first carbon-negative country and producing 100% electricity from renewables.

Source: PIB1 PIB2

4. Logo and Website of Global Energy Leaders’ Summit (GELS) 2025 Launched

• What:
  • The Minister of State for Power, Shripad Naik, launched the logo and website of the Global Energy Leaders’ Summit (GELS) 2025 in New Delhi.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to begin national and global dialogue on energy transition and climate leadership.
• Tell me more:
  • GELS 2025 will be held in Puri, Odisha, from 5–7 December 2025 and will be hosted by the Government of Odisha with the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.
  • The theme of GELS 2025 is “Powering India: Sufficiency, Balance, Innovation,” built on four pillars—Energy Access, Efficiency, Sustainability, and Security.
  • The launch event was attended by senior officials including Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister and representatives from IIT Kanpur and the Tony Blair Institute.

Source: PIB

5. Government Notifies Digital Personal Data Protection Rules 2025

• What:
  • The Government of India has notified the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules, 2025, completing the full operationalisation of the DPDP Act, 2023.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to create a simple and citizen-friendly framework for responsible use of digital personal data, and the benefit is stronger privacy protection, clear rights for individuals, and transparent obligations for organisations.
• Tell me more:
  • The DPDP Act, enacted on 11 August 2023, defines duties of Data Fiduciaries and rights of Data Principals using the SARAL design (Simple, Accessible, Rational and Actionable).
  • The Act is guided by seven principles: consent and transparency, purpose limitation, data minimisation, accuracy, storage limitation, security safeguards, and accountability.
  • The DPDP Rules were finalised after public consultations held across major cities with inputs from startups, MSMEs, industry bodies, civil society and government departments.
  • The Rules provide an 18-month phased compliance timeline and require clear, simple, standalone consent notices and Indian-registered Consent Managers.
  • In case of a data breach, Data Fiduciaries must promptly inform affected individuals in plain language with details of risks, actions taken, and assistance contacts.

Source: PIB

6. 30th CII Partnership Summit 2025 Inaugurated in Visakhapatnam

• What:
  • Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the 30th Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Partnership Summit 2025 in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to promote investment and economic cooperation, and the benefit is to create opportunities for global investors and support India’s growth as a major economic and technological hub.
• Tell me more:
  • The two-day summit is organised by CII in partnership with the Government of India and the Andhra Pradesh Government.
  • The Vice President said India is becoming a prosperous nation, on track to become the world’s third-largest economy, and growing as a major startup hub.
  • Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said Andhra Pradesh offers real-time approvals and “speed of doing business,” and has secured USD 20 billion in investments in 17 months, creating 20 lakh jobs.
  • Andhra Pradesh aims for USD 0.5 trillion in investments and 50 lakh jobs, with a long-term goal of USD 1 trillion in the next decade.
  • Union Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted USD 30 billion in semiconductor projects, progress toward 500 GW of green energy, and said the 2047 Swarnandhra Vision will boost Andhra Pradesh’s growth.

Source: NOA

7. AI Innovation and Incubation Centre Launched at DPS RK Puram, Delhi

• What:
  • Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated a first-of-its-kind Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovation and incubation centre at Delhi Public School, RK Puram.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to integrate AI, cloud computing and applied research into school education, and the benefit is to give students access to advanced technologies, mentorship and hands-on learning for inclusive growth.
• Tell me more:
  • The centre has been developed in collaboration with VVDN Technologies and Google Cloud.
  • It will serve as a shared innovation resource for neighbouring and government schools.
  • Technologies available include Google Cloud’s unified AI platforms such as Vertex AI and Gemini Enterprise.
  • VVDN Technologies will provide practical learning tools like humanoid and companion robotics (AIBO, Unitree G1), AR/VR glasses, IoT kits and Raspberry Pi systems.
  • The launch follows the Union Government’s structured four-level AI curriculum for students from Class 6 onwards, covering foundational AI to advanced machine learning and generative AI.
  • Robotics devices like AIBO and Unitree G1 will help students learn emerging technologies.

Source: BS

8. President Murmu Begins First-Ever State Visit to Angola & Botswana

• What:
  • President Droupadi Murmu began a six-day state visit to Angola and Botswana, marking the first visit by an Indian head of state to both countries.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to deepen India’s political, economic, energy, defence and technology partnerships in Africa, and the benefit is stronger cooperation in trade, investment, energy security, and environmental collaboration under India’s Global South outreach.
• Tell me more:
  • The visit is from November 8 to 13 and focuses on expanding ties in agriculture, health, energy, trade, investments, infrastructure, and defence.
  • In Angola, she will meet President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, address Parliament, and attend the 50th Independence Day celebrations.
  • Angola is the current chair of the African Union, and the two nations mark 40 years of diplomatic relations with a strong energy partnership.
  • In Botswana, she will meet President Duma Gideon Boko, address the National Assembly, and discuss cooperation in investment, pharmaceuticals, technology, and renewable energy.
  • The visit will also take forward wildlife collaboration under Project Cheetah, including talks on receiving a new batch of cheetahs from Botswana.

Source: BW HT

9. India Becomes World’s 6th Largest Patent Filer

• What:
  • Dr. Jitendra Singh announced at INNOTECH’25 that India has become the world’s 6th largest patent filer with over 64,000 patents, out of which more than 55% are filed by resident Indian innovators.
• Why:
  • The rise in patent filings shows India’s stronger innovation ecosystem supported by policy reforms, incentives, and an enabling environment that encourages domestic research and high-value patent creation.
• Tell me more:
  • India has moved from Rank 81 to Rank 38 in the Global Innovation Index.
  • Policy support and institutional backing over the past decade helped increase resident patent filings.
  • India achieved major scientific milestones like Chandrayaan-3, the world’s first DNA vaccine developed in India, indigenous antibiotics, and successful gene-therapy trials.
  • INNOTECH’25 highlights private participation, deep-tech entrepreneurship, and cross-sector collaboration, with more than 20 venture capitalists attending.
  • The National Education Policy (NEP 2020) promotes multidisciplinary learning, flexible subject choices, and new career opportunities.

Source: PIB

State News

1. Lepcha Musical Instruments Receive GI Tag

• What:
  • The Tungbuk and Puntong Palit, two ancient Lepcha musical instruments, have been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
• Why:
  • The GI tag aims to give formal recognition to these traditional instruments and support efforts to preserve and revive them.
• Tell me more:
  • The Tungbuk is a three-string instrument, and the Puntong Palit is a bamboo flute.
  • They were registered under the musical instrument category of the Geographical Indication Registry of the Government of India.
  • The certificates were presented at the First Tribal Business Conclave in New Delhi, organised by the Union ministries of culture, tribal affairs, and commerce and industry.
  • Ugen Palzor Lepcha and Namgyal Lepcha from MLAS received the certificates after submitting the GI applications.
  • The project received support from NABARD, Gangtok, and the process took almost three years.

Source: TT

2. ‘My Stamp’ Released to Honour Rezang La Heroes

• What:
  • A special ‘My Stamp’ has been launched to honour the bravery of the 13th Battalion, Kumaon Regiment, who fought in the Battle of Rezang La during the 1962 India-China War.
• Why:
  • The stamp aims to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers ahead of the 63rd anniversary of the historic battle.
• Tell me more:
  • The stamp was unveiled in New Delhi by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the presence of officials and the team of the film 120 Bahadur.
  • The stamp has been issued by the Department of Posts as a customised tribute.
  • Actor Farhan Akhtar, who plays Major Shaitan Singh Bhati in the film, shared moments from the event. The event included the presence of the film team such as Farhan Akhtar, Ritesh Sidhwani, Amit Chandrra, and Arhan Bagati.
  • The film 120 Bahadur is directed by Razneesh ‘Razy’ Ghai and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, and Amit Chandrra.

Source: UNI

3. GI Tag Granted to Lepcha Musical Instruments

• What:
  • The Government of India granted Geographical Indication (GI) registration to two traditional Lepcha musical instruments—Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit.
• Why:
  • The GI tags aim to formally recognise, protect, preserve and revive these traditional Lepcha musical instruments and support artisans.
• Tell me more:
  • Tungbuk is a three-string instrument, and Pumtong Pulit is a bamboo flute used in Lepcha folk music.
  • Both instruments were registered under the Musical Instrument category of the Geographical Indication Registry on 5th November.
  • GI certificates were presented during the 1st Tribal Business Conclave in New Delhi organised by the Ministries of Culture, Tribal Affairs, and Commerce & Industry.
  • Applications were submitted by Ugen Palzor Lepcha (Tungbuk) and Namgyal Lepcha (Pumtong Pulit).
  • NABARD, Gangtok supported the GI filing process for two years.

Source: NOA

4. Odisha Beaches Receive International Blue Flag Certification

• What:
  • Sunapur and Puri beaches in Odisha received the International Blue Flag Certification for 2025–26.
• Why:
  • The certification recognises beaches that meet strict global standards of cleanliness, environmental sustainability, safety, and eco-friendly tourism facilities.
• Tell me more:
  • Sunapur beach earned the award for the third consecutive year, and Puri’s Golden Beach received it for the seventh year in a row.
  • A total of 13 beaches in India were recognised for 2025–26, with 12 fully awarded and one (Eden Beach, Puducherry) conditionally awarded.
  • Sunapur beach, located at the confluence of river Bahuda and Bay of Bengal, stretches 800 metres and includes facilities like specially designed wheelchairs, zero liquid waste discharge, lifeguard towers, trained paramedic staff, and CCTV.

Source: TOI

5. Ambaji Marble Receives GI Tag Recognition

• What:
  • Ambaji Marble from Banaskantha district in north Gujarat has received a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag from the Union government.
• Why:
  • The GI Tag aims to give Ambaji Marble a unique identity and enhance its recognition and value in India and globally.
• Tell me more:
  • The GI registration has been done under the name of Ambaji Marbles Quarry and Factory Association.
  • The Commissioner of Geology and Mining, the Banaskantha Collector, and the Stone Artisan Park Training Institute played key roles in the process.
  • Ambaji Marble is known for its milky white colour, durability and natural beauty.
  • It has been used in constructing the Ambaji temple and many other religious places, memorials and large buildings.
  • The GI certificate is being issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

Source: IE

6. Kinnaur’s Raulane Festival Celebrated in Himachal Pradesh

• What:
  • The Raulane festival is celebrated in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh where two men symbolically act as a groom and bride to represent guiding celestial fairies called Saunis.
• Why:
  • The festival honours the Sauni fairies whom villagers believe protect them during harsh winters and bless the community with safety, warmth and abundance.
• Tell me more:
  • The faces of participants are fully covered with heavy Kinnauri woollens, masks, gloves, jewel-laden shawls and decorated headpieces to resemble ritual figures.
  • The Raula (groom) and Raulane (bride) walk slowly to the Nagin Narayan Temple, a centuries-old temple where they perform a slow devotional dance.
  • Villagers believe the pair becomes a bridge to the Sauni spirits and the dance acts as a silent channel between humans and the divine.
  • The festival uses only traditional wool, natural materials and no plastic decoration, showing the value placed on simplicity and faith.

Source: TOI

International News

1. GCC to Launch One-Stop Regional Travel System

• What:
  • The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has approved a “one-stop” travel system that will begin with the UAE and Bahrain in December 2025 and allow citizens to complete all travel checks at a single checkpoint.
• Why:
  • The initiative aims to make cross-border travel smoother and more efficient and support deeper regional coordination among GCC countries.
• Tell me more:
  • The announcement was made during the 42nd meeting of GCC Interior Ministers in Kuwait City.
  • Under this system, immigration, customs and security checks will be done before departure, and arrivals will be treated like domestic flights.
  • A unified electronic platform will record and share travel-related violations among GCC countries.
  • If the pilot is successful, the system will expand to all six GCC nations — Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and the UAE.
  • The system is expected to reduce airport processing time and strengthen cooperation between immigration and aviation authorities.

Source: TOI

Banking and Economy

1. Union Bank of India Celebrates 107th Foundation Day

• What:
  • Union Bank of India (UBI) celebrated its 107th Foundation Day with events across all offices and branches and launched two new digital initiatives.
• Tell me more:
  • A central function was held at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai, organised by UBI headquarters.
  • Department of Financial Services (DFS) Secretary M. Nagaraju (IAS) attended as the chief guest.
  • Senior leaders present included UBI Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Asheesh Pandey and Executive Directors Nitesh Ranjan, Ramasubramanian S, and Sanjay Rudra.
  • UBI launched the Union E-Biz mobile app for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the Union Ease mobile app for customers.
  • The bank also announced the opening of 51 new branches, including new premises at Podili and Chilakapadu in the Ongole Region.

Source: IE

2. SAMCO Launches India’s First Momentum-Based Small Cap Fund

• What:
  • SAMCO Asset Management launched the SAMCO Small Cap Fund, India’s first momentum-based small-cap fund designed to invest in emerging businesses with strong revenue, earnings, and price momentum.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to capture early-stage growth opportunities in small-cap companies, and the benefit is to help investors participate in long-term wealth creation through a disciplined, momentum-driven investment approach.
• Tell me more:
  • The New Fund Offer (NFO) will open on November 14, 2025, and close on November 28, 2025.
  • It is an open-ended equity scheme that will invest mainly in small-cap stocks ranked 251st to 750th by market capitalisation.
  • The fund uses SAMCO’s proprietary C.A.R.E. Momentum Strategy (Cross-sectional, Absolute, Revenue, and Earnings Momentum), combining quantitative and fundamental factors.
  • The fund is benchmarked against the Nifty Smallcap 250 Total Returns Index (TRI).
  • The fund will be managed by a team led by Umeshkumar Mehta, Chief Investment Officer (CIO).

Source: ET

3. Axis Bank Hosts 10th Edition of Evolve in Kozhikode

• What:
  • Axis Bank organised the 10th edition of Evolve, its multi-city knowledge series for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), in Kozhikode.
• Why:
  • The purpose was to discuss opportunities and challenges for MSMEs in India’s growth journey, and the benefit is helping MSMEs improve efficiency, adopt technology, and expand markets as India moves toward a USD 10 trillion economy.
• Tell me more:
  • The theme of the event was “MSMEs Powering the USD 10 Trillion Economy.”
  • Kozhikode was chosen due to its strong trade, manufacturing, and technology ecosystem.
  • The upcoming Kozhikode–Kannur industrial corridor with ₹2,000 crore investment (FY25–28) is expected to boost regional business and jobs.

Source: HBL

4. SBI to Discontinue mCASH Facility from November 2025

• What:
  • State Bank of India (SBI) will discontinue the mCASH sending and claiming facility on OnlineSBI and YONO Lite after November 30, 2025.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to shift users to more secure and widely used digital payment options, and the benefit is safer and easier fund transfers through platforms like Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Immediate Payment Service (IMPS), National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT), and Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS).
• Tell me more:
  • SBI has advised customers to use UPI, IMPS, NEFT and RTGS for third-party money transfers.
  • mCASH allowed customers to send money without registering a beneficiary by using the recipient’s mobile number or email ID.
  • Recipients claimed funds using the SBI mCASH app or a secure link received by SMS or email with an 8-digit passcode.
  • The mCASH app required users to download it, register an MPIN and log in to claim funds.
  • Customers can perform similar transfers using BHIM SBI Pay, the UPI app of SBI, through options like Virtual Payment Address (VPA), account number and IFSC, or QR code.

Source: ET

5. RBI Reports Credit and Deposit Growth Trends

• What:
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data showed that as of October 31, banks’ annual credit growth stood at 11.3% while deposits grew 9.7%.
• Why:
  • The data highlights the changing gap between credit and deposit growth, indicating how banks are balancing lending and deposit mobilisation.
• Tell me more:
  • The credit–deposit growth gap narrowed to 160 basis points on October 31 from 200 basis points on October 17.
  • A year ago, the gap was only 10 basis points, with credit growth at 11.8% and deposit growth at 11.7%.
  • Demand deposits rose 21% year-on-year to ₹31 lakh crore, compared to a 17% rise a fortnight earlier.
  • Time deposits (fixed deposits) grew 8.3% to ₹211 lakh crore.
  • Banks recorded faster growth in low-cost current and savings deposits during this period.
  • The RBI releases the weekly statistical supplement showing trends in deposits and credit.

Source: ET

6. India’s WPI Falls to 27-Month Low in October 2025

• What:
  • India’s wholesale price index (WPI) inflation fell to -1.21% in October, returning to deflation due to a sharp fall in food prices.
• Why:
  • The decline occurred because food prices dropped by 5%, which pulled down overall wholesale inflation.
• Tell me more:
  • Manufactured products’ inflation eased to 1.54% in October from 2.33% in September.
  • Fuel and power prices declined 2.55%, marking the seventh straight month of deflation in the energy basket.
  • Food deflation was driven by cereals (-1.1%), pulses (-16.5%), vegetables (-35%) and fruits (-7%).
  • Some food categories saw higher inflation, including milk (3.02%) and eggs, meat and fish (1.75%).
  • Prices of some manufactured items rose faster, such as tobacco products (3.18%), textiles (1.91%) and pharmaceuticals (1.88%).
  • Retail inflation fell to 0.25% in October due to a favourable base effect and falling food prices.

Source: BS

Reports and Indices

1. Henley Passport Index 2025

• What:
  • The Henley Passport Index 2025 ranked Singapore first with visa-free access to 193 destinations, while India ranked 85th with access to 57 destinations.
• Why:
  • The rankings highlight global mobility trends and show how international relations, diplomatic strength, and visa agreements affect the travel freedom of each country’s citizens.
• Tell me more:
  • Singapore retained the top rank for the third consecutive year due to strong foreign relations and trade partnerships.
  • South Korea ranked second with 190 visa-free destinations, followed by Japan in third place with 189 destinations.
  • Several European countries dominated the top positions, including Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain and Switzerland at Rank 4 (188 destinations) and Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland and Netherlands at Rank 5 (187 destinations).
  • India ranked 85th, down from 80th in 2024, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 57 destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Bhutan and Mauritius.

Source: Wion

GDP Forecasts

1. Ind-Ra Projects 7.2% GDP Growth in Q2 FY26

• What:
  • India Ratings & Research (Ind-Ra) projected India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to grow 7.2% in the second quarter (July–September) of FY26.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to highlight expected economic performance for the quarter, and the benefit is understanding growth driven by strong private consumption and a resilient services sector despite global uncertainties.
• Tell me more:
  • India’s GDP grew 5.6% in Q2 FY25 and 7.8% in Q1 FY26, the fastest in five quarters.
  • The National Statistical Office (NSO) will release official Q2 FY26 GDP data on November 28.
  • Ind-Ra stated that private consumption rose due to steady real income growth across income groups.
  • Strong services sector performance and favourable base-led growth in goods exports supported GDP from the supply side.
  • Retail inflation eased faster than expected, lifting real wages and boosting demand.

Source: ET

Defence News

1. DRDO Develops New Man-Portable Autonomous Underwater Vehicles

• What:
  • The Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL) of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed new Man-portable Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (MP-AUVs) for mine countermeasure missions.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to enable fast, autonomous and safer detection of underwater mines, and the benefit is reduced operational risk, quicker missions, and lower logistic requirements for naval mine warfare.
• Tell me more:
  • The MP-AUV system includes multiple vehicles equipped with Side Scan Sonar and underwater cameras for real-time detection and classification of mine-like objects.
  • Deep learning algorithms allow autonomous target classification, reducing operator workload and mission time.
  • Underwater acoustic communication enables data exchange among AUVs, improving situational awareness.
  • Field trials at NSTL/Harbour have validated major system parameters and mission objectives.

Source: PIB

2. IAF Joins Garuda 25 Bilateral Air Exercise in France

• What:
  • The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in the 8th edition of the bilateral air exercise Garuda 25 with the French Air and Space Force (FASF) in France from November 16 to 27, 2025.
• Why:
  • The exercise aims to improve tactics, strengthen joint operations, and enhance interoperability between the IAF and the French Air and Space Force.
• Tell me more:
  • The IAF contingent arrived in France on 10 November 2025 with Su-30MKI fighter aircraft.
  • C-17 Globemaster III aircraft are providing airlift support during induction and de-induction.
  • IL-78 air-to-air refuelling tankers are supporting extended range and endurance of participating fighters.
  • Su-30MKI aircraft will train with French multirole fighters in complex scenarios such as air-to-air combat, air defence, and joint strike missions.
  • The 2025 edition is being held at Mont-de-Marsan, France.

Source: PIB

Science and Technology

1. C-DOT Signs Agreement to Develop MCX System

• What:
  • C-DOT has signed an agreement with NAM InfoCom Private Ltd. to jointly develop a Mission Critical Communication System (MCX) solution.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to build a fully indigenous MCX solution, and the benefit is to provide secure, reliable, real-time communication for public safety, disaster management, law enforcement, and emergency response.
• Tell me more:
  • The partnership is part of C-DOT’s MCX Alliance, which includes 10 organisations, mainly startups, working on the MCX ecosystem.
  • The MCX system follows 3GPP standards and supports Mission Critical Push-to-Talk, Data, and Video services with secure, low-latency communication over 4G and 5G networks.
  • The MC Video solution by NAM InfoCom will enhance the existing MCX system by ensuring seamless integration and interoperability.
  • C-DOT will offer telecom R&D expertise, while NAM InfoCom will provide system integration, deployment, and customisation support.
  • The project is fully funded under the C-DOT Collaborative Research Programme (CCRP).

Source: PIB

2. India Plans Deepest Underwater Research Laboratory

• What:
  • India announced a plan to build the world’s deepest underwater laboratory at a depth of 6,000 metres in the Indian Ocean.
• Why:
  • The project aims to advance deep-ocean science by enabling long-duration stays, advanced experiments, and direct monitoring of deep-sea regions under India’s Vision 2047.
• Tell me more:
  • The first step will be a demonstrator module at 500 metres where three scientists can stay for over 24 hours.
  • The station will include life-support systems, transparent panels for 360-degree visibility, research instruments, and a docking system for deep-sea vehicles.
  • Researchers will study biodiversity, collect chemical and geological samples, and test human response to high-pressure environments.
  • The design will resemble an underwater version of the International Space Station with oxygen regulation, temperature control, and routine travel capability.
  • Construction challenges include extreme water pressure 600 times higher than the surface, requiring titanium alloys, carbon composites, acoustic communication, and fibre-optic links.

Source: N18

3. India-Led Study Shows Radiotherapy Cuts Bladder Cancer Recurrence

• What:
  • An India-led study has shown for the first time that radiation therapy after bladder cancer surgery safely reduces the risk of relapse.
• Why:
  • The aim is to lower painful pelvic cancer recurrences after surgery, especially for high-risk bladder cancer patients.
• Tell me more:
  • The study was selected for the plenary session of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), the world’s largest radiation oncology conference.
  • The Bladder Adjuvant Radiotherapy (BART) trial is the world’s largest randomised trial on the role of radiation therapy after bladder removal surgery.
  • Over 150 patients across four Indian cancer centres were enrolled between 2016 and 2024, and results showed fewer local relapses without extra side effects.
  • Modern radiation techniques used in the study helped protect surrounding organs, making the treatment safe.
  • The trial showed consistent 12–15% improvement in disease-free, cancer-specific and overall survival with radiotherapy.

Source: IE

Awards

1. Thota Tharani Receives France’s Chevalier Award

• What:
  • The French government conferred the Chevalier Award on renowned art director Thota Tharani.
• Why:
  • The purpose is to honour his outstanding contribution to art and cinema, and the benefit is international recognition of his creative work and long career.
• Tell me more:
  • The award will be presented on November 13 at Alliance Française in Chennai by the French Ambassador.
  • The ceremony will also include the inauguration of Thota Tharani’s art exhibition.
  • He studied at the Government Fine Arts College in Chennai and the Royal College of Art in London.
  • His career includes two National Film Awards, two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, three Nandi Awards, and one Kerala State Film Award.
  • He received the Padma Shri in 2001 and has worked on major films including Nayakan, Thalapathi, Indian, Sivaji, Dasavatharam, and Ponniyin Selvan I and II.
  • Past Indian recipients of the Chevalier Award include Sivaji Ganesan, Balamuralikrishna, Kamal Haasan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Kalki Koechlin.

Source: IE

2. Highlights from the 16th Governors Awards Ceremony

• What:
  • The 16th Governors Awards of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences were held, where several Hollywood actors attended and Debbie Allen received an Honorary Oscar.
• Why:
  • The event recognised outstanding contributions to cinema and celebrated artists being honoured or considered for Academy Award nominations.
• Tell me more:
  • Tom Cruise posed with his Honorary Oscar during the ceremony.
  • Debbie Allen received the Honorary Oscar Award, presented by Cynthia Erivo.

Source: HT Academy

3. Sons of the Soil Emerging Achievers Award Presented in Assam

• What:
  • The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) conferred the ‘Sons of the Soil Emerging Achievers Award’ to five young talents from Assam at the 5th Biennial Son of the Soil Awards Assam 2025 hosted by Care Luit.
• Why:
  • The award aims to recognise young achievers from Assam for excellence, dedication and innovation in their fields and to inspire the youth of the region.
• Tell me more:

Source: PIB

4. International Film Festival of India 2025

• What:
  • IFFI 2025 (International Film Festival of India 2025) will be held in Goa from 20–28 November with 240 films from 81 countries and Japan as the Country of Focus, Spain as the Partner Country, and Australia as the Spotlight Country.
• Why:
  • The festival aims to promote global cultural exchange, support creative talent, and strengthen India’s position as a major international platform for cinema.
• Tell me more:
  • The festival is South Asia’s only FIAPF-accredited competitive film festival since 1952 and is jointly organised by NFDC, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, and Entertainment Society of Goa.
  • IFFI 2025 will feature 240+ films including 13 world premieres, 5 international premieres and 44 Asian premieres, selected from 2,314 submissions across 127 countries.
  • Key programmes include curated sections such as Docu-Montage, Mission Life, Experimental Films, Restored Classics and UNICEF, along with nine competitive and curated segments.
  • Special tributes will mark centenaries of Guru Dutt, Raj Khosla, Ritwik Ghatak, P. Bhanumathi, Bhupen Hazarika and Salil Chowdhury, and Rajinikanth will be honoured for completing 50 years in cinema.
  • The WAVES Film Bazaar (20–24 November) will host co-production markets, pitching sessions and global industry participation, while the debut IFFIESTA will present four days of music and cultural performances.

Source: PIB

Important Days

1. World Usability Day 2025 – November 13

• Theme: Emerging Technologies and Human Experience

Source: WUD

2. National Epilepsy Day 2025 – November 17

• National Epilepsy Day was initiated by the Epilepsy Foundation of India under Dr. Nirmal Surya.
• Epilepsy is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain leading to recurrent seizures.

Source: BS

3. International Students’ Day 2025 – November 17

Source: N18

Sports

1. Bangladesh to Host 24th Asian Archery Championships

• What:
  • Bangladesh won the bid to host the 24th Asian Archery Championships in 2025 after securing 14–10 votes at the World Archery Asia Congress in Bangkok.
• Tell me more:
  • The voting took place between Bangladesh and China, the two countries that applied to host the event.
  • A total of 24 Asian member countries participated in the World Archery Asia Congress.

Source: DD

Memorandum of Understanding

1. IIIT-Manipur Signs MoU with GSH India

• What:
  • IIIT-Manipur and GSH India Private Ltd. have signed an MoU to collaborate in facility management, IoT, sustainability, and smart building systems.
• Why:
  • The purpose of the MoU is to bridge the industry–academia gap through joint research, internships, training, and skill development programs.
• Tell me more:
  • The MoU was signed at the Sustainable Energy Forum 2025 held in Chennai and organised by GSH India, a 100% arm of GSH Group UK.
  • Both organisations will share resources, co-develop projects, and promote innovation in sustainable and technology-driven facility management solutions.
  • An all-in-one mobile app owned by GSH was launched during the event.
  • Girish Palwe from the Tamil Nadu Climate Change Mission highlighted that Tamil Nadu is the first State to have a mission dedicated to climate change.
  • He also said that students are being exposed to clean energy practices through the green school program.

Source: TH

Appointments

1. S Krishnan Appointed as Part-Time Chairman of J&K Bank

• His appointment is effective from November 13, 2025 till March 26, 2028.
• Krishnan, currently an independent director on the board of Srinagar-headquartered bank, served as MD & CEO of state-owned Punjab & Sind Bank.

Source: ET

2. Mallika Srinivasan Gets Second Extension as PESB Chairperson

• What:
  • The central government approved a second one-year extension for Mallika Srinivasan as Chairperson of the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB).
• Tell me more:
  • The extension is valid from November 19, 2025, to November 18, 2026.
  • This is her second consecutive extension, following the first granted in November 2024.
  • She was the first private-sector specialist to head PESB, with an initial term of three years or until age 65.
  • Mallika Srinivasan also serves as Chairperson and Managing Director of Tractors and Farm Equipment Ltd (TAFE).

Source: IM

3. Walmart Announces New CEO

• Walmart Inc. announced that CEO Doug McMillon will retire on January 31, 2026, and John Furner will take over as the new CEO from February 1, 2026.
• John Furner, currently CEO of Walmart U.S., has also been inducted into Walmart’s Board of Directors.

Source: ET

Miscellaneous

1. Computer Science Pioneer V. Rajaraman Passes Away

• What:
  • Prof. Vaidyeswaran Rajaraman, a pioneer of computer science education in India, passed away at the age of 92.
• Why:
  • The news is significant because he established India’s first professional computer science course and shaped generations of students who contributed to India’s digital and scientific growth.
• Tell me more:
  • He started the first academic computer science course at the MTech level at IIT Kanpur in 1965. He later helped start a doctoral programme and, in 1978, a BTech in computer science at IIT Kanpur.
  • He was born in Erode, Tamil Nadu, in 1933 and graduated in physics from St. Stephen’s College in 1952.
  • He earned a diploma in electrical communication engineering from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in 1955 and completed his PhD at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
  • He was honoured with the Bhatnagar Prize and received the Padma Bhushan in 1998.

Source: IE

2. Veteran Actress Kamini Kaushal Passes Away at 98

• Veteran Bollywood actress Kamini Kaushal passed away at the age of 98 due to age-related health complications.

Source: ET

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