19th November 2025

1. Digital Redressal: Government’s E-Jagriti portal resolves over 1.27 lakh cases: MoCAFPD
2. India merchandise and services exports rise 4.84% to USD491.8 billion in April–October: MoCI
3. RBL Bank Launched LUMIERE & NOVA Credit Cards in Premium Segment
4. Master Capital Services Received SEBI’s Approval for MF Sponsorship
5. South Indian Bank Launched SIB HER Account for Women in Kerala
6. PayU Receives RBI Approval to Operate as Multi-Mode PA
7. SBI Report: India’s GDP Growth at 7.5% in Q2 FY26
8. Karnataka Introduced KEO, Low-Cost, AI-ready Computer
9. Former Murugappa Group Chairman ‘Arunachalam Vellayan’ Passed Away
10. International Day for Tolerance 2025 – November 16
11. India to Host Global Big Cats Summit in New Delhi in 2026
12. Google Launches Gemini 3: The Most Intelligent AI Model Yet
13. India Re-Elected to Codex Executive Committee
14. QS World University Sustainability Rankings 2026
15. World Toilet Day 2025
16. International Men’s Day
17. International Crimes Tribunal
18. Oscar Piastri Receives Australia’s Prestigious Don Award for Exceptional 2025 F1 Season
19. Indian Army & IAF to Induct 16 Indigenous Laser-Based Drone Defence Systems

National News

1. Government’s E-Jagriti Platform Resolves 1.3 Lakh Consumer Complaints

• What:
  • The government’s e-Jagriti digital consumer grievance platform has handled nearly 1.30 lakh cases since January, with over 2 lakh users, including non-resident Indians (NRIs), registering on it.
• Why:
  • To provide efficient and inclusive consumer justice by enabling easier grievance redressal for domestic and overseas consumers.
• Tell me more:
  • As of 13 November, 1,27,058 cases were disposed of, showing the platform’s efficiency in consumer redressal across India.
  • NRIs can file complaints remotely using OTP-based registration, online payments, digital document uploads, and virtual hearings; 466 complaints were filed by NRIs this year.
  • Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra are the top states in e-Jagriti adoption with 14,758, 14,050, and 12,484 cases respectively.
  • The platform consolidates older systems, offers multilingual support, chatbot assistance, voice-to-text tools for visually impaired and elderly users, and ensures security with end-to-end encryption.
  • Disposal rates improved sharply in 2025, with more cases resolved than filed in recent months, accompanied by extensive SMS and email notifications to users.

Source: TOI

State News

1. Karnataka Launches Low-Cost AI-Ready KEO Computer

• What:
  • Karnataka has launched KEO, a low-cost, AI-ready personal computer developed by the state’s electronics and IT department and KEONICS (Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited).
• Why:
  • To bridge the digital divide by providing affordable computers to students and households and enable wider access to online learning and digital work.
• Tell me more:
  • Computer ownership in India is below 10% and 15% in Karnataka, and over 60% of Indian students were unable to join online learning due to lack of devices.
  • KEO is a compact RISC-V–based device built on an open-source chip and Linux OS, offering 4G, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB-A, USB-C, HDMI and audio support with preloaded tools for learning, coding and productivity.
  • The device includes an on-device AI core and comes with BUDDH, an AI agent trained on the Karnataka DSERT syllabus to assist students even in low-connectivity areas.
  • KEO will be deployed across schools, universities, small businesses, government offices and homes to support digital learning, skilling and entrepreneurship.
  • The device will be formally unveiled by the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at the Bengaluru Tech Summit and displayed throughout the event.

Source: BS

International News

1. IBCA Highlights Importance of Big Cat Protection at COP30

• What:
  • The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) stressed at COP30 that protecting big cats like tigers and snow leopards is central to climate action.
• Why:
  • To show that apex predators help maintain ecosystems that absorb carbon, regulate water and withstand climate shocks.
• Tell me more:
  • IBCA held its first assembly in 2025 in New Delhi, where Bhupendra Yadav was chosen to lead the alliance.
  • The alliance includes 15 members, 2 observers and represents 95 countries with big cat ranges.
  • Countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Peru and Ecuador have agreed to join but are yet to sign the formal agreement.
  • IBCA helps big cat countries collaborate by sharing resources, knowledge and conservation strategies, and has facilitated bilateral agreements like the 2022 India–Cambodia tiger translocation plan.
  • At COP30, Yadav urged more countries to join IBCA to support wildlife protection, ecological habitats, local communities and strong ecosystems.

Source: TP

2. Bangladesh Tribunal Sentences Former PM Sheikh Hasina to Death

• What:
  • Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT-BD) sentenced former prime minister Sheikh Hasina to death for alleged crimes against humanity during the 2024 student-led agitation.
• Why:
  • To hold Hasina and her aides accountable for killings and actions taken against protesters during the student uprising of July–August 2024.
• Tell me more:
  • Muhammad Yunus heads the interim government after Hasina was ousted on August 5 and has banned the Awami League’s activities.
  • The interim government plans to hold elections in February, with Hasina’s party barred from participating.
  • The International Crimes Tribunal – Bangladesh (ICT-BD) is a domestic court set up by the Bangladesh government.

Source: IE

Banking and Economy

1. India’s Trade Performance for April–October 2025

• What:
  • India’s total exports and imports for April–October 2025 were estimated at US$ 491.80 billion and US$ 569.95 billion respectively.
• Tell me more:
  • Merchandise exports during April–October 2025 were US$ 254.25 billion compared to US$ 252.66 billion during April–October 2024, while merchandise imports were US$ 451.08 billion compared to US$ 424.06 billion.
  • Merchandise trade deficit during April–October 2025 rose to US$ 196.82 billion from US$ 171.40 billion in April–October 2024.
  • Services exports during April–October 2025 were US$ 237.55 billion compared to US$ 216.45 billion, and services imports were US$ 118.87 billion compared to US$ 114.96 billion.
  • The services trade surplus for April–October 2025 was US$ 118.68 billion compared to US$ 101.49 billion in April–October 2024.
  • Non-petroleum and non-gems & jewellery exports during April–October 2025 were US$ 203.40 billion compared to US$ 194.41 billion, and similar imports were US$ 286.28 billion compared to US$ 264.56 billion.

Source: PIB

2. RBL Bank Launches Two Premium Credit Cards

• What:
  • RBL Bank has launched two premium credit cards, LUMIERE and NOVA, marking its entry into the high-end credit card segment.
• Why:
  • To tap into India’s growing base of high-net-worth and affluent consumers seeking luxury-focused and lifestyle-driven financial products.
• Tell me more:
  • LUMIERE is an invitation-only 18-gram metal card priced at ₹50,000 annually and offers select airport services, curated experiences, and partner-linked memberships.
  • The card is designed for customers who want consolidated travel and lifestyle benefits and prefer premium metal formats.
  • NOVA is a metal card priced at ₹12,500 annually and offers higher rewards on flights, hotels, restaurant savings, and golf access through partner platforms.
  • NOVA targets customers who frequently spend on travel and urban lifestyle categories where accelerated rewards are common.
  • Visa supports both cards on its Infinite platform as part of its partnership with RBL Bank.

Source: CNBC

3. Master Capital Services Gets SEBI Nod to Sponsor Mutual Fund

• What:
  • Master Capital Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Master Trust, has received in-principle approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to sponsor a mutual fund.
• Why:
  • To set up an Asset Management Company (AMC) and launch mutual fund schemes after completing SEBI’s final registration requirements.
• Tell me more:
  • The mutual fund will offer equity, hybrid and multi-asset schemes designed for different investor types.
  • Master Trust applied for the mutual fund licence in July through Master Capital Services Limited.
  • The new business will strengthen Master Trust’s existing investment services, which follow a technology-oriented strategy.
  • India’s mutual fund industry has crossed Rs 70 trillion in assets under management, showing strong sector growth.

Source: ET

4. South Indian Bank Launches Premium Women’s Savings Account

• What:
  • South Indian Bank has launched a premium savings account for women called the SIB HER Account.
• Why:
  • To strengthen its retail franchise by offering a product that combines banking benefits with lifestyle and insurance features for women.
• Tell me more:
  • The account offers higher savings interest through an auto-sweep facility on balances above ₹1 lakh, unlimited ATM withdrawals and complimentary airport lounge access.
  • It includes free air accident insurance of ₹1 crore, personal accident cover of ₹1 lakh and discounted cancer care insurance of up to ₹25 lakh.
  • Women customers can receive concessions on retail loans such as housing, vehicle and business loans.
  • The account is available to domestic and Non-Resident Indian (NRI) customers and allows adding up to three free family accounts with a 50% waiver on locker rentals.
  • The account requires a monthly balance of ₹50,000, which is waived if customers maintain a fixed deposit of ₹1 lakh or spend ₹50,000 through their debit card in the previous month.

Source: CNBC

5. RBI Grants PayU Authorisation as Payment Aggregator

• PayU has received integrated authorisation from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to operate as a Payment Aggregator under the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act.
• To allow PayU to manage payment acceptance, settlement and cross-border solutions for merchants across different channels.

Source: TH

6. Google Unveils Its Most-Advanced AI Model Gemini 3

• What:
  • Google has launched Gemini 3, its latest and most-advanced artificial intelligence model for multimodal understanding.
• Why:
  • To strengthen Google’s position in the global AI race by offering a powerful model that can directly compete with OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
• Tell me more:
  • Google has integrated Gemini 3 into Google Search from day one through an “AI mode” toggle with no separate app needed.
  • Google claims Gemini 3 is more advanced in coding, creativity and versatility compared to earlier versions.

Source: TOI

Reports and Indices

1. QS Releases Sustainability Rankings 2026 Featuring 103 Indian Universities

• What:
  • QS Quacquarelli Symonds released the QS World University Rankings for Sustainability 2026, with India featuring 103 universities.
• Why:
  • To assess global universities on environmental and social sustainability through indicators such as environmental impact, social impact and governance.
• Tell me more:
  • India ranked fourth in the number of institutions listed, behind the United States, China and the United Kingdom, with IIT Delhi being the top-performing Indian institution at rank 205.
  • This year’s rankings cover nearly 2,000 institutions from over 100 locations, with Lund University in Sweden taking the top global position.
  • India matched China and the Netherlands with 12 universities in the top 500, and had 26 debut entries—the second highest after China.
  • Across India’s 103 institutions, 30 saw rankings fall, 32 improved and 15 remained unchanged, while nine of the top 15 Indian universities dropped in position compared to last year.
  • Indian institutions performed strongly in environmental education, with nine scoring above 84, whereas social impact indicators such as equality recorded relatively lower scores.

Source: IT QS

GDP Forecasts

1. SBI Estimates 7.5% GDP Growth in Q2 FY26

• What:
  • A State Bank of India (SBI) research report stated that India’s economy likely expanded by around 7.5% in the second quarter of FY26.
• Why:
  • To highlight the impact of stronger investment activity, improving rural demand and the effects of Goods and Services Tax (GST) rationalisation on economic growth.
• Tell me more:
  • Most states are expected to record positive GST gains due to peak festive demand, reduced GST rates and better compliance.
  • Consumption growth in September and October 2025 was the first visible sign of the impact of GST changes.
  • Piyush Goyal said India aims to remain the fastest-growing large economy for the next 20 years.

Source: TOI

Defence News

1. Indian Forces to Induct 16 Laser-Based Anti-Drone Systems

• What:
  • India is set to place orders for 16 indigenous Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDS) (Mark 2) capable of hitting enemy drones at 2 km using a 10-kilowatt laser.
• Why:
  • To strengthen the Indian Army and Indian Air Force’s ability to counter increasing enemy drone threats seen during recent conflicts.
• Tell me more:
  • The new Mark 2 system doubles the engagement range from 1 km to 2 km compared to the earlier version.
  • DRDO has test-fired a direct energy weapon system that can target at 5 km and aims to achieve this range using a 30-kilowatt laser.
  • India showcased its ability to shoot down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles and swarm drones using a 30-kilowatt laser system for the first time in April.
  • A DRDO lab, CHESS, conducted a successful field demonstration of the vehicle-mounted laser weapon DEM WLK-II(A) at Kurnool, disabling UAVs and swarm drones.
  • India joined the US, China and Russia in demonstrating laser-based counter-drone capability.

Source: ANI

Awards

1. Oscar Piastri Wins Australia’s Don Award

• What:
  • Oscar Piastri received Australia’s highest sports honour, The Don Award, after a strong 2025 Formula One season.
• Why:
  • To recognise his outstanding performance, professionalism and rising impact on the world motorsport stage.
• Tell me more:
  • Piastri achieved seven Grand Prix wins in 2025 across China, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Miami, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands.
  • He secured 14 podium finishes, five pole positions and 366 Championship points, placing second in the drivers’ standings, 24 points behind Lando Norris with three races left.

Source: TOI

Important Days

1. International Day for Tolerance 2025 – November 16
2. World Toilet Day 2025 – November 19
3. International Men’s Day – November 19

• Theme: Celebrating men and boys

Source: BS

Appointments

1. India Re-Elected to Codex Executive Committee for Asia

• What:
  • India has been re-elected to the Codex Executive Committee for the Asia region at the 48th Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC48).
• Why:
  • To continue contributing to global food standards and strengthen collaboration in food safety and quality.
• Tell me more:
  • The Indian delegation at CAC48 in Rome was led by Rajit Punhani, Chief Executive Officer of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
  • India highlighted the need to update and develop databases on food additives, pesticide residues, veterinary drugs, methods of analysis and contaminants in food.
  • India supported using modern technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to improve Codex operations, especially for document translation.
  • The re-election confirms India’s leadership role in the committee until the end of CAC50 in 2027.

Source: NOA

Miscellaneous

1. Murugappa Group Leader Arunachalam Vellayan Passes Away

• What:
  • Arunachalam Vellayan, Chairman Emeritus of Coromandel International and former Executive Chairman of the Murugappa Group, passed away at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness.
• Tell me more:
  • He stepped down as chairman and non-executive director of the Murugappa Group in April 2024 after his son Arun Vellayan became Executive Chairman.
  • He was conferred honorary Doctor of Science degrees by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and Aston University.

Source: IE

Start Quiz of 20th November 2025 on Mobile

Start Quiz of 20th November 2025 on Desktop