29th-30th November 2025
SIM Linking Cybersecurity, Mann Ki Baat 128, World AIDS Day India, Solo Atlantic Flight, China Arctic Express, GIFT City IP Hub, Sipan Garg THDC, Animal Husbandry Growth, India Afghanistan Aid, ICAI Guinness Record, Jay Shah Award, India Forex Reserves, Putin India Summit, Asia Power Index, MH60R Navy Deal, International Jaguar Day, India Fiscal Deficit, Operation Sagar Bandhu, Temasek Piyush Gupta, India GDP Q2, Rama Statue Goa, Deepti Sharma WPL, Jitendra Singh DWR, RailTel Nokia Network, India Afghanistan Chamber, IIT Madras VTMS, 1 Bio Facility, 3-in-1 Account Launch, Nepal New Currency, Mahavatar Narsimha Oscars, World Bank Donohoe, Palestinian Solidarity Day, National Newborn Week, Aviation Safety Week, Sagarmanthan Dialogue, Maritime India Summit, Green Maritime Day, Maritime Connectivity UNESCAP, Maritime CEO Forum, QUAD Ports Conference, Maritime Investment Plan, Green Tug Programme, SCI Fleet Expansion, DCI New Dredgers, Bharat Shipping Line, Maritime Achievers Awards, Green Digital Sea Corridor
- SIM-linking made mandatory for messaging apps as DoT tightens cybersecurity norms
- Key highlights of PM Modi’s 128th Mann Ki Baat
- India’s ongoing efforts and future roadmap on World AIDS Day
- First woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean
- China’s Arctic Express route opens and why India must strengthen maritime corridors
- GIFT City’s goal to become India’s “Guernsey” by on-shoring intellectual property
- Sipan Garg takes additional charge as CMD of THDC India Ltd
- India’s animal husbandry sector records growth in milk, eggs, meat, and wool
- India delivers 73 tonnes of medicines and vaccines to support Afghanistan’s healthcare
- ICAI sets Guinness World Record for largest career advice programme in a day
- Jay Shah honoured as “Indian of the Year”
- India’s forex reserves fall by $4.47 billion to $688.1 billion
- Vladimir Putin’s India visit for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit
- India rises to third place in the Asia Power Index
- India signs ₹7,900 crore deal with US for MH-60R Navy helicopter support
- International Jaguar Day celebrates the guardian of the Americas’ forests
- India’s fiscal deficit reaches 52.6% of FY26 target due to higher capital expenditure
- Operation Sagar Bandhu — India’s aid mission to Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah
- Temasek appoints former DBS CEO Piyush Gupta as India Chairman
- India’s Q2 FY26 GDP grows 8.2% driven by strong industry and services
- PM Modi unveils 77-ft statue of Rama and inaugurates Ramayana Theme Park in Goa
- Deepti Sharma becomes costliest pick at WPL 2026 auction
- Union MoS Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurates two DWRs, a solar power system, and a meteorological museum
- RailTel signs agreement with Nokia to modernize its NLD and optical transport network across India
- India and Afghanistan plan to create a bilateral joint chamber of commerce and industry
- IIT Madras deploys India’s first indigenous VTMS for ports in Kerala
- Telangana launches India’s first bioprocess design and scale-up facility ‘1 Bio’ in Genome Valley, Hyderabad
- Utkarsh SFBL and Axis Securities launch a 3-in-1 account
- Nepal releases NPR 100 currency note featuring three Indian territories: Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura
- India’s ‘Mahavatar Narsimha’ enters the Oscars 2026 race for Best Animated Feature Film
- World Bank Group appoints Paschal Donohoe as MD and CKO
- International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People 2025
- National Newborn Week 2025
- AAI’s Aviation Safety Awareness Week 2025
- 2nd Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue
- Global Maritime India Summit 2025
- Green Maritime Day (GMD) 2025
- UNESCAP Asia-Pacific Regional Dialogue on Sustainable Maritime Connectivity
- Global Maritime CEO Forum
- QUAD Ports of the Future Partnership Conference
- India unveiled a Rs.2.2 lakh crore (≈ USD 26 billion) investment plan involving 437 new vessel orders, aimed at boosting India’s maritime strength and global competitiveness
- GoI launched the Green Tug Programme, aimed at deploying 100 eco-friendly tugs by 2040
- Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) unveiled plans to expand its fleet to 216 vessels by 2047
- Dredging Corporation of India (DCI) announced the acquisition of 11 new dredgers
- GoI launched the “Bharat Container Shipping Line”
- Maritime Excellence Achievers Awards 2025
- An MoU was signed between Government of India (GoI) and the Netherlands to establish a Green and Digital Sea Corridor, connecting selected Indian ports with the Port of Rotterdam
Table of Content
National News
- WhatsApp Must Link to Active SIM Card for Use in India
- What:
- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued Telecommunication Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2025, mandating all WhatsApp accounts to remain linked to an active SIM card at all times.
- Why:
- The government aims to reduce online fraud, impersonation, and spam by making it harder for cybercriminals to operate anonymously.
- Tell me more:
- WhatsApp is now classified as a Telecommunication Identifier User Entity (TIUE), requiring compliance with telecom-like cybersecurity rules.
- WhatsApp and similar apps like Telegram, Signal, and Snapchat have 90 days to implement continuous SIM verification.
- Web versions of WhatsApp will automatically log out users every six hours, requiring QR code re-authentication.
- Persistent SIM verification stops WhatsApp from working if the SIM is removed, replaced, or deactivated.
- These rules help trace fraudulent communications and combat scams exploiting inactive or international SIM cards.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) called the mobile number the most updated and monitored identity in India. - India introduced video KYC and facial recognition systems in 2023 to reduce identity fraud, but fraud remains a challenge. |
Source: IT
- PM Modi Highlights November Achievements in 128th Mann Ki Baat
- What:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted major national developments and achievements of November in the 128th edition of monthly ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio address on Sunday.
- Why:
- ‘Mann Ki Baat’ serves as a platform to bring public contributions and collective effort into focus.
- Tell me more:
- Programme held in Parliament’s Central Hall on Constitution Day.
- Nationwide celebrations launched marking 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram.
- World’s largest LEAP engine Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility inaugurated in Hyderabad.
- INS Mahe inducted into Indian Navy.
- Skyroot Aerospace’s Infinity Campus inaugurated as step for private space ecosystem.
- India recorded all-time high food grain production of 357 million tonnes, up 100 million tonnes over last decade.
- India selected to host Commonwealth Games.
Source: DD
- Putin To Visit India For 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit
- What:
- Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on December 4-5 for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit to hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Why:
- The visit aims to review progress in bilateral relations and strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.
- Tell me more:
- President Droupadi Murmu will host a banquet in honour of Putin.
- Ahead of the visit, discussions include defence cooperation, local currency trade, energy cooperation amid Western sanctions.
- India may procure additional S-400 missile systems and possibly discuss Su-57 fighter jet purchase.
- Russia offered additional crude oil discounts after declining purchases due to US sanctions.
- 22 annual India-Russia summits have been held alternating between the two countries.
- Last Russian presidential visit to India was in 2021; PM Modi visited Moscow in 2024.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - The Kremlin is the fortified complex in Moscow that serves as the official residence of the President of Russia, not a parliament, though some government offices are located there. |
- India-Afghanistan Agree on Joint Chamber of Commerce
- What:
- India and Afghanistan decided to depute commercial representatives at embassies and institutionalise joint chamber of commerce and industry during Afghan Minister Alhaj Nooruddin Azizi’s visit from November 19-25.
- Why:
- Visit reflects commitment to deepen bilateral trade, economy, investments, and bring sustainable benefits to people of both countries.
- Tell me more:
- Announced air freight corridors on Kabul-Delhi and Kabul-Amritsar routes.
- Reactivated India-Afghanistan Joint Working Group on Trade, Commerce and Investment.
- Afghanistan offered five-year tax exemption to Indian investors in gold mining.
- Azizi visited India International Trade Fair (IITF 2025) and met export councils for agriculture, textiles, pharma supply.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - This decision follows Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi's October visit. - India upgraded technical mission in Kabul to full embassy. |
Source: BS
State News
- PM Modi Unveils 77-Foot Bronze Statue of Lord Rama in Goa
- What:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a 77-foot bronze statue of Lord Rama at Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math in Goa during its 550th anniversary celebrations.
- Why:
- The event celebrated the Math’s Sardha Panchashatamanotsava, marking 550 years of its historic legacy.
- Tell me more:
- Modi also inaugurated the Ramayana Theme Park Garden at the Math premises.
- He released a commemorative coin and special postal stamp.
Source: TOI
- IIT Madras Deploys India’s First Indigenous Vessel Traffic Management System in Kerala
- What:
- Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) developed and deployed India’s first indigenous Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) for ports through National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC).
- Why:
- System determines vessel positions, provides meteorological hazard warnings, and manages traffic within ports or waterways as per Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoSPW) requirements.
- Tell me more:
- Shipping Ministry sanctioned ₹10 crore in 2020 to IIT Madras for development.
- Centre gains full strategic control over source code and databases.
- Boosts indigenisation in Indian maritime sector and reduces import dependency.
- Deployed at Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) in Kerala, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - Two other Western Coast ports in discussions for deployment. |
Source: HBL
- “1 Bio”: India’s First Single-use Bioprocess Design Facility Launched in Hyderabad
- What:
- The state government inaugurated 1 Bio, India’s first single-use bioprocess design and scale-up facility, at Genome Valley in Hyderabad.
- Why:
- The facility aims to provide affordable, predictable scale-up infrastructure to speed up development timelines for biologics and next-generation therapeutics.
- Tell me more:
- Developed under public-private partnership; government supported infrastructure worth Rs 150 crore, Thermo Fisher invested Rs 90 crore.
- Expected to attract Rs 500 crore private investment and create over 500 specialised jobs.
- Offers end-to-end process development, pilot-scale validation, bioreactors up to 500 litres, advanced upstream/downstream systems, dedicated analytical suite, and R&D labs.
- Located on two-acre campus at Genome Valley with plug-and-play labs, innovation suites, and bioprocess training.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - Developed by Telangana Lifesciences with Department of Biotechnology and Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation. |
Source: IE
International News
- China Launches World’s First Arctic Express Route
- What:
- Ningbo-Zhoushan Port in Zhejiang Province of China launched the world’s first China-Europe Arctic Express in September using vessel “Istanbul Bridge” from Beiyi Container Terminal to Felixstowe, UK, achieving 18-day transit.
- Why:
- The route realizes “Polar Silk Road” vision by reducing shipping times, speeding supply chains, cutting inventory needs by 40%, lowering costs, minimizing risks, and reducing carbon emissions by 50%.
- Tell me more:
- Northern Sea Route (NSR) along Russia’s Arctic coast reduces East Asia-Europe distance from 21,000 km via Suez to 12,800 km, saving 10-15 days.
- North West Passage (NWP) across Canada’s Arctic Archipelago shortens East Asia-Western Europe to 13,600 km versus 24,000 km via Panama Canal.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
|
- Arctic Council established 1996 by Ottawa Declaration with 8 members: US, Canada, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia; India permanent observer since 2013. - China’s Polar Silk Road joint with Russia launched 2018; calls itself “Near-Arctic State”; Arctic Yellow River Station built 2004; research institute in Shanghai. - India’s Himadri station in Svalbard since 2008; IndARC observatory 2014; Arctic policy March 2022 titled “India and the Arctic: Building a Partnership for Sustainable Development”. - India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) launched 2023 reduces transit by 40%; International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) since 2000 cuts costs $2,500 per 15 tonnes. - Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor proposed 2019 shortens time from 40 to 24 days via Bay of Bengal, Malacca Strait, South China Sea. |
Source: FP
- India Launches Operation Sagar Bandhu for Cyclone-Hit Sri Lanka
- What:
- India airlifted 21 tonnes of relief material, over 80 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel and eight tonnes of equipment to Colombo for Cyclone Ditwah relief under Operation Sagar Bandhu.
- Why:
- Cyclone Ditwah caused devastation with 123 deaths, 130 missing, over 200,000 affected from 61,000 families, floods, landslides destroying 15,000 homes and displacing 44,000.
- Tell me more:
- Indian Air Force used one C-130 and one IL-76 aircraft from Hindon Air Base carrying food items, sanitary supplies, critical relief stores.
- C-130 reached Bandaranaike International Airport at 1.30 am received by Indian High Commission and Sri Lanka Air Force officials.
- Navy’s INS Vikrant and INS Udaigiri delivered first tranche of supplies on Friday.
- NDRF deployed 80 rescuers and four search dogs with inflatable boats, hydraulic tools, communication gear, first-aid kits.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - 35% of Sri Lanka without electricity affecting 7 million consumers; further heavy rain over 200 mm expected. - Kandy reported over 50 fatalities; Badulla saw dozens dead or missing from landslides. - NDRF pre-positioned 14 teams in Tamil Nadu districts and additional teams for Puducherry and Chennai. - Operation reaffirms India's Neighbourhood First policy as region's first responder. |
Source: ET
- Nepal Issues NPR 100 Note with Disputed Territories Map
- What:
- Nepal issued new NPR 100 banknote featuring updated map including disputed Indian territories of Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani, now in circulation.
- Why:
- Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) designed note with refined security and identification elements to enhance authenticity and usability.
- Tell me more:
- Nepal incorporated disputed areas via constitutional amendment on May 20, 2020.
- India rejected Nepal’s objection to India-China border trade resumption through Lipulekh Pass in August.
- Under Nepal Rastra Bank Act, NRB designs notes but design changes need government approval.
Source: TP
Banking and Economy
- GIFT City Boosts IP Rights Jurisdiction Like Guernsey
- What:
- GIFT City in Gujarat sets up expert committee to create competitive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) regime attracting domestic and global registrations.
- Why:
- To reduce outflow of Indian-owned intellectual property to foreign jurisdictions by providing attractive hosting options.
- Tell me more:
- International Financial Services Authority (IFSCA) Chairperson K Rajaraman leads the initiative inspired by Guernsey model.
- Guernsey in English Channel outside UK and EU offers flexible laws for trademarks, copyrights, patents, design rights, and image rights register.
- Worldwide IP earnings from royalty and dividends reached $501 billion in 2023; India’s share only 0.5 percent with adverse outward royalty flow.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - GIFT IFSC can offer single-window advisory for patent, trademark, design, copyright registration and global prosecution strategies. - Challenges include coordination with national IP offices, clear regulations on jurisdiction, enforcement, and building technical expertise. - Successful model needs regulatory depth for IP valuation, financing, licensing, securitisation, insolvency protection, and cross-border enforceability. - Guernsey is a British Crown dependency and the second-largest island in the Channel Islands, located in the English Channel between England and France. |
Source: HBL
- India’s Forex Reserves Drop to $688.104 Billion
- What:
- India’s forex reserves declined $4.472 billion to $688.104 billion for week ended November 21 due to steep decrease in gold reserves value.
- Why:
- Reserves had increased $5.543 billion to $692.576 billion in previous reporting week.
- Tell me more:
- Foreign currency assets decreased $1.69 billion to $560.6 billion, including effects of non-US currencies like euro, pound, yen appreciation or depreciation.
- Gold reserves value fell $2.675 billion to $104.182 billion.
- Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) decreased $84 million to $18.566 billion.
- Reserve position with IMF fell $23 million to $4.757 billion.
Source: BS
- India’s Fiscal Deficit Widens to 52.6% of FY26 Target
- What:
- India’s fiscal deficit from April to October widened to ₹8.25 lakh crore, about 52.6% of annual target, due to decline in net tax receipts and surge in capital expenditure.
- Why:
- Net tax receipts stood at ₹12.74 lakh crore versus ₹13.05 lakh crore last year while capital expenditure climbed to ₹6.18 lakh crore from ₹4.7 lakh crore.
- Tell me more:
- Capital expenditure contracted 28% in October compared to same month last year.
- Revenue expenditure includes ₹6.73 lakh crore on interest payments and ₹2.46 lakh crore on major subsidies.
- Direct tax collections grew 4% with 6.9% rise in income tax and 5.2% in corporate tax; indirect tax including GST up 2.6%.
- Non-tax revenue climbed to ₹4.89 lakh crore from ₹4 lakh crore a year ago.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - GST rate rationalisation reduced taxes on 99% of goods and services plus income tax incentives for middle class affected collections. - ICRA expects gross tax revenues to undershoot budgeted ₹42.7 lakh crore by ₹1.2-1.5 lakh crore but non-tax revenue to overshoot by ₹50,000 crore from central bank surplus. - Revenue needs 22% growth from November to March to meet budgeted target; Centre aims to stick to 4.4% fiscal deficit for FY26 versus 4.8% last year. |
Source: ET
- Nokia Upgrades RailTel’s DWDM National Long-Distance Network
- What:
- Nokia and partners upgraded RailTel’s Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) national long-distance (NLD) network, deployed Carrier-Grade Network Address Translation (CG-NAT) and metro optical transport network across India.
- Why:
- Upgrades meet growing demand for high-speed, resilient connectivity, improve operational efficiency, and reduce costs using existing infrastructure.
- Tell me more:
- Nokia’s 1830 Photonic Service Switch (PSS) and advanced transponder technology increase transport capacity and cost per bit.
- Introduces high-capacity Lambda transmission and express traffic lanes between cities.
- Nokia’s 7750 Service Router (SR) with Broadband Network Gateway (BNG) and CG-NAT supports enterprise-grade traffic and internal ISP services.
Source: ET
- Utkarsh SFB Partners Axis Securities For 3-in-1 Account
- What:
- Utkarsh Small Finance Bank (Utkarsh SFBL) partnered with Axis Securities to launch 3-in-1 account integrating savings account, demat, and trading services.
- Why:
- Partnership provides single platform for banking and investing through multiple channels like branches, Internet Banking, Mobile Banking, and assisted services.
- Tell me more:
- Axis Securities offers technology-led trading platforms, research insights, and flexible brokerage plans.
- Utkarsh SFBL serves underserved segments with micro-banking loans, MSME loans, housing loans, loans against property.
- Bank supports digital account opening via tablet-based Digi On-Boarding model.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - Utkarsh SFBL MD & CEO Govind Singh - Axis Securities MD & CEO Prashant Haridasan |
Source: CNBC
Reports and Indices
- Oz Think Tank’s Asia Power Index 2025
- What:
- India secured third position in Asia Power Index 2025 due to economic growth and military capability demonstrated in Operation Sindoor.
- Why:
- Lowy Institute’s annual index measures resources and influence to rank relative power of states across Asia.
- Tell me more:
- US scored 80.5 points and China 73.7 points ahead of India; Japan ranked fourth with 38.8 points.
- India’s overall power score crossed 40 points threshold for ‘major power’ classification.
- India ranked third in economic capability and future resources, overtaking Japan in economic capability.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - India was middle power in Asia Power Index-2024 with 38.1 score. - India's economic and military capabilities increased; inward investment raised economic relationships rank to ninth. - Gaps remain between India's ambition and influence limits, particularly relative to China. |
Source: TOI
GDP Forecasts
- India’s Economy Grows with 8.2% Real GDP in Q2 FY 2025-26
- What:
- India’s real GDP grew by 8.2% in the second quarter (Q2) and 8% in the first half (H1) of FY 2025-26, driven by strong performance across sectors.
- Why:
- The growth reflects effective policymaking, structural reforms, rising domestic demand, moderating inflation, and higher labour force participation.
- Tell me more:
- Primary sector grew 3.1%, secondary sector 8.1%, tertiary sector 9.2% in Q2 FY26.
- Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation eased to 0.25% in October 2025, lowest in current series, supported by decline in food prices and GST rate cuts.
- Industrial Production Index (IIP) grew 4% year-on-year in September 2025, led by manufacturing growth of 4.8%.
- Labour Force Participation Rate rose to 55.4% in October 2025; unemployment steady at 5.2%.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - Growth in manufacturing driven by basic metals (12.3%), electrical equipment (28.7%), motor vehicles (14.6%). - GST collections rose 4.6% in October 2025; reforms reduced rates on key sectors boosting consumption. - Export sector grew 4.84% in April-October 2025, with strong merchandise and services exports. - Government programs like Production Linked Incentive (PLI), Skill India, and PMKVY support manufacturing, skills, and employment. |
Source: PIB
Defence News
- India Signs MH-60R Helicopter Sustainment Deal with US
- Defence Ministry signed Letters of Offer and Acceptance (LOAs) with United States worth more than ₹7,900 Crore for sustainment support of Indian Navy’s MH-60R helicopters under Foreign Military Sales programme.
- The sustainment package enhances operational readiness and maintainability of MH-60R helicopters while aligning with Aatmanirbhar Bharat by promoting indigenous services.
Source: NOA
- India Maritime Week 2025 Held at NESCO Exhibition Centre, Mumbai from October 27-31
- What:
- The second edition of Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue started in Mumbai, focusing on the blue economy, maritime logistics, ports, shipping, and ocean economy from October 27 to 29.
- Why:
- To promote international partnerships and investments during India Maritime Week (IMW) and support global cooperation on sustainable ocean growth.
- Tell me more:
- It is co-hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) as part of IMW (October 27-31).
- Over 250 participants from 65 countries, including ministers, former heads of state, officials, industry leaders, and scholars, are participating.
- Partners include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, the Gates Foundation, DP World, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), and the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Five thematic pillars guide the discussions: rethinking ocean economy; new materials and markets; liberal fleets; blue cities paradigm; and tech frontiers.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - The Global Maritime India Summit was also held during the summit and Green Maritime Day 2025 was a part of the India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025, held on October 28, 2025. - The Global Maritime CEO Forum was also organised alongside the IMW. - The 2025 Asia-Pacific Regional Dialogue on Sustainable Maritime Connectivity was held in Mumbai and online from October 28 to 29, 2025.
- The focus is on South and South-West Asia subregion and integration of landlocked countries with broader maritime connectivity. - ESCAP's Regional Action Programme for Sustainable Transport Development (2022–2026) drives these Regional Dialogues. |
Source: ANI UN IMW
- India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai from October 27 to October 31, 2025
- What:
- Maharashtra signed Rs 55,719 crore MoUs including shipbuilding facilities by Candela Technology, Chowgule & Company, and Synergy Shipbuilders during India Maritime Week 2025.
- Tell me more:
- Over 600 MoUs worth more than Rs 12 lakh crores were signed, with 30% for port development, 20% sustainability, 20% shipping/shipbuilding, 20% port-led industrialisation, 10% trade partnerships.
- Under Rs 2.23 lakh crore MoUs, 437 ships will be built including for Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Bharat Containers, green tugs, oil/gas carriers, dredging vessels.
- Green Tug Programme launched for 100 eco-friendly tugs by 2040 with Rs 12,000 crore investment.
- Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) plans fleet expansion to 216 vessels by 2047 with Rs 1 lakh crore investment, adding 10 million Gross Tonnage (GT).
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - Nitesh Rane is Maharashtra's port development and maritime minister. - Facilities include Candela for passenger ships, Echandia Marine battery assembly for green ships, IIT Bombay for ship design/training, Goa Shipyard setup. - Adani, JSW for Dighi/Jaigad ports; Boskalis, Lai Investment, Wan Hai interested in Vadhvan terminals with Rs 70,000 crore. - Abu Dhabi Ports Group MoU for up to USD 2 billion in shipbuilding, ship-breaking, water transport, ports, sports. - Oil and Gas PSUs launched 59 shipbuilding orders worth Rs 47,800 crore; Dredging Corporation of India (DCI) to add 11 dredgers. |
Source: TOI
- India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai from October 27 to October 31, 2025
- What:
- The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways received India’s third Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC) named ‘Shivalik’ under the Indian flag at Visakhapatnam Port.
- Why:
- To mark a milestone in India’s maritime resurgence and energy security under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and strengthen self-reliance in shipping.
- Tell me more:
- ‘Shivalik’ is an 82,000 CBM VLGC, built in South Korea, with advanced maritime engineering, and completed its maiden voyage carrying LPG from UAE to India.
- The vessel strengthens India’s energy connectivity with the Arabian Gulf and ensures secure LPG transport for Indian Oil Corporation Ltd.
- Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) plans to expand its fleet to 216 vessels by 2047, investing ₹1 Lakh Crore and adding 10 million Gross Tonnage (GT).
- The government has launched a ₹69,725 crore package for shipbuilding and modernization, including financial schemes supporting Indian shipyards till 2036.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - ‘Shivalik’ joins SCI’s fleet along with ‘Sahyadri’ and ‘Anandamayi’ as VLGCs. - SCI currently has 58 vessels totaling 5.26 million Dead Weight Tonnage (DWT) across various categories. - Financial incentives like the Shipbuilding Development Scheme (₹19,989 crore) and Maritime Development Fund (₹25,000 crore) have been introduced to boost competitiveness. - Bharat Container Shipping Line (BCSL) represents Shipping Corporation of India's (SCI) plan to enter container shipping, enhancing India's export-import efficiency and global competitiveness. - Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Global Maritime CEO Forum during India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai. |
Source: PIB
- India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai from October 27 to October 31, 2025
- What:
- India Maritime Week 2025 witnessed landmark agreements, MoUs, and collaborations led by Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW).
- Tell me more:
| Party 1 | Party 2 | Purpose of MoU |
|---|---|---|
| India | Netherlands | Maritime Cooperation and Letter of Intent for Green & Digital Sea Corridor, covering clean fuels (hydrogen, ammonia, methanol), digital operations, and decarbonisation, connecting Indian ports with the Port of Rotterdam. |
| Invest International (Netherlands) | Indian Bank & ICICI Bank | Maritime financing collaborations. |
| Dutch Climate Fund | Indian counterpart (Maritime Development Fund) | Cooperation for Maritime Development Fund. |
| MARIN (Netherlands) | National Centre of Excellence for Green Ports and Shipping (India) | Collaboration on green ports and green shipping initiatives. |
| Port of Rotterdam | Deendayal Port Authority | Cooperation in port operations and development. |
| Adani Ports, JSW Infrastructure, Chowgule & Co., Synergy Shipbuilders, Goa Shipyard, Abu Dhabi Ports Group, Echandia Marine AB | Government of India | MoUs worth ₹55,000 crore for ports, shipyards, skills, and green shipbuilding. |
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - KPMG launched Dutch-funded study "Indian Ports: Enabling Smart and Sustainable Port Development" on port infrastructure opportunities. - Shri Nitin Gadkari addressed ship financing session, highlighted USD 1 trillion maritime potential, TOT, InvITs, PPPs, released CMEG (RIS) – India Maritime Report 2025-26. - Goa session by Mormugao Port Authority with Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant launched Goa Maritime Vision Document, MoUs worth ₹3,525 crore in LNG/solar, ₹6,163 crore in port projects. - State sessions held on Gujarat, Maharashtra, Odisha, Andaman & Nicobar Islands showcasing maritime growth opportunities. |
Source: PIB
- India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai from October 27 to October 31, 2025
- Maritime Excellence Awards were presented.
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Maritime Learning & Development Excellence | Anglo-Eastern Ship Management Ltd. |
| Maritime Learning & Development Excellence | Training Ship Rahaman |
| Maritime Safety Excellence Award | Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata |
| Port of the Year | Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) |
| Port of the Year – Special Recognition | Kamarajar Port Limited |
| Rising Maritime Professional of the Year | Nandakumar Subramanian Kalaimani – Anna University |
| Ship Design Innovation of the Year | SEDS – SEDS7500MPV – HYBRID |
| Ship Operator of the Year | The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. |
| Digital Transformation in Maritime | Blurgs AI |
| Maritime Board Excellence Award – Special Recognition | Maharashtra Maritime Board |
| Outstanding Crew Welfare Initiative | Maersk Fleet Management and Technology India Private Limited |
| Ship Repair Company of the Year | Chowgule Lavgan Shiprepair Pvt. Ltd. |
| Maritime Board Excellence Award (Special Recognition) | Maharashtra Maritime Board |
| Outstanding Crew Welfare Initiative | Maersk Fleet Management and Technology India Private Limited |
| Ship Repair Company of the Year | Chowgule Lavgan Shiprepair Pvt. Ltd. |
| Women Leadership in Maritime | Kanak Kewalramani – Knowledge Marine & Engineering Works Limited |
| Shipping Line of the Year | NYK India Pvt Ltd as agents of NYK |
| Outstanding Maritime Infrastructure Support | Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Ltd |
| Sustainable Maritime Initiative of the Year | Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata |
| Shipbuilding Company of the Year | Hindustan Shipyard Limited |
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) called the mobile number the most updated and monitored identity in India. - India introduced video KYC and facial recognition systems in 2023 to reduce identity fraud, but fraud remains a challenge. |
Source: GOV
Science and Technology
- IMD Launches Two Doppler Radars, Solar System, and Museum
- What:
- Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated two Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs) in Raipur and Mangaluru, Solar Power System at Mausam Bhawan, and Meteorological Museum for India Meteorological Department (IMD).
- Why:
- Initiatives advance Mission Mausam to triple radar network from 47 to nearly 150 by 2027 for better weather prediction and disaster preparedness.
- Tell me more:
- Raipur radar at Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya covers 250 km across Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, East Uttar Pradesh; detects monsoon systems, heavy rain, thunderstorms.
- Mangaluru radar at IMD office covers 250 km across Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, Lakshadweep; monitors cyclones, squalls, first IMD radar in Karnataka.
- Both radars indigenously developed under Make in India.
- Solar system is 771 kWp with 1,315 panels by NBCC, exceeds IMD needs for net-zero goals under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - IMD reached 126 radars already, over 50% coverage; plans urban radars in Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata and phased-array for Himalayan states. - Museum showcases 150-year IMD history with instruments, radar, satellite components, audio-visual learning for students. |
Source: PIB
Agriculture and Rural Development
- India’s Milk Production Hits 248 Million Tonnes in 2024-25
- What:
- Total milk production estimated at nearly 248 million tonnes (MT) during 2024-25, up 3.7% from 239 million tonnes in 2023-24, as per Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics (BAHS) 2025 released on National Milk Day.
- Why:
- BAHS 2025 based on Integrated Sample Survey from March 1, 2024 to February 28, 2025 provides data on Major Livestock Products (MLPs) like milk, eggs, meat, wool for research and policy formulation.
- Tell me more:
- Survey Information (BAHS 2025)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Survey Basis | Integrated Sample Survey |
| Survey Period | March 1, 2024 – February 28, 2025 |
| Provides Data On | Milk, Eggs, Meat, Wool (Major Livestock Products) |
- Total Milk Production in India (2023–24 vs 2024–25)
| Year | Milk Production (Million Tonnes) | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024–25 | 248 MT (grown from 239 MT in 2023-4) | 3.7% |
- Per Capita Milk Availability
| Year | Per Capita Availability (gm/day) |
|---|---|
| 2014–15 | 319 gm/day |
| 2024–25 | 485 gm/day |
- Top Milk-Producing States (2024–25)
| State | Share of Total Production (%) |
|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 15.6% |
| Rajasthan | 14.8% |
| Madhya Pradesh | 9.1% |
| Gujarat | 7.7% |
| Maharashtra | 6.7% |
| Combined Contribution | Over 54% |
- Growth by Type of Milk Source (2024–25)
| Category | Growth (%) |
|---|---|
| Exotic Crossbred Cattle | ~5% |
| Indigenous Nondescript Cattle | 3.5% |
| Buffalo | 2.4% |
- Total Egg Production (2014–15 vs 2024–25)
| Year | Egg Production | Growth (%) | Per Capita Availability (per annum) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024–25 | 149 billion | 4.5% | 106 (grown from 62 in 2014-15) |
- Top Egg-Producing States (2024–25)
| State | Share (%) |
|---|---|
| Andhra Pradesh | 18.3% |
| Tamil Nadu | 15.6% |
| Telangana | 13% |
| West Bengal | 10.7% |
| Karnataka | 6.7% |
| Combined Contribution | Over 64% |
- Total Meat Production (2023–24 vs 2024–25)
| Year | Meat Production (Million Tonnes) | Growth (%) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024–25 | 10.5 million tonnes | 2.5% | 5.1 million tonnes from poultry (≈50%) |
- Top Meat-Producing States (2024–25)
| State | Share (%) |
|---|---|
| West Bengal | 12.4% |
| Uttar Pradesh | 12.2% |
| Maharashtra | 11.5% |
| Andhra Pradesh | 10.8% |
| Telangana | 10.5% |
| Combined Contribution | Over 57% |
- Wool Production (2023–24 vs 2024–25)
| Year | Wool Production (Million kg) | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024–25 | 34.5 million kg | 2.6% |
- Top Wool-Producing States (2024–25)
| State | Share (%) |
|---|---|
| Rajasthan | 47.8% |
| Jammu & Kashmir | 23% |
| Gujarat | 6.2% |
| Maharashtra | 4.7% |
| Himachal Pradesh | 4.3% |
| Combined Contribution | 86% |
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - India remains largest milk producer worldwide. - India remains the second largest egg producer globally. - India is the fourth largest meat producer in the world during 2024-25. |
Source: TOI
Awards
- ICAI Sets Guinness Record for Largest Career Advice Session
- What:
- Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) set Guinness World Record for largest career advice programme in single day in Mumbai with over 7,400 participants.
- Tell me more:
- ‘Career in Accounting and Finance for Youth (CAFY 4.0) & Super Mega Career Counselling Programme’ held on Thursday.
- Pan-India total participants exceeded 1.3 lakh.
- Eligible record count achieved: 6,166 students for ‘Largest careers advice lesson’.
- ICAI President Charanjot Singh Nanda highlighted proud moment of reaching over 6,166 students in one session.
Source: TW
- Jay Shah Receives Outstanding Cricket Achievement Award
- What:
- International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah received ‘Outstanding Achievement Award For Contributions To Indian Cricket’ at CNN-News18 Indian of the Year Awards 2025.
- Why:
- Award recognizes contributions to Indian cricket including pay parity for women players and launching Women’s Premier League (WPL).
- Tell me more:
- Achievements include strengthening domestic structure, achieving pay parity, launching WPL, selling media rights for Rs 50,000 crore without controversy.
- India won ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 at DY Patil Stadium avenging loss to Australia in Cape Town February 2023.
Source: MoC
- Mahavatar Narsimha Enters 98th Oscars Animated Feature Race
- What:
- India’s ‘Mahavatar Narsimha’ mythological animated film entered the 98th Academy Awards race for Best Animated Feature Film among 35 eligible features.
- Why:
- Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) released list of animated films under consideration; final five nominees determined by Animation Branch voting.
- Tell me more:
- Competes with ‘KPop Demon Hunter’, ‘Zootopia 2’, ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle’.
- Directed by Ashwin Kumar, produced by Shilpaa Dhawan under Hombale Films.
- First instalment in planned seven-part Mahavatar Cinematic Universe based on Lord Vishnu’s ten avatars.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - Films must fulfil qualifying release and rules to advance; Academy members outside Animation Branch can opt-in after viewing requirement. - Mahavatar Narsimha is also eligible for other categories including Best Picture and International Feature Film. |
Source: IE
Important Days
- World AIDS Day – December 1
- Theme: “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response”
| Initiative / Scheme of Govt. of India | Date of Launch & Achievements |
|---|---|
| National AIDS and STD Control Programme (Initial Phase) | 1985–1991 – Focused on identifying HIV cases, ensuring safe blood transfusion, and generating early awareness. |
| National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) | Established in 1992 – Coordinated India’s multi-sectoral national HIV response and decentralised programme implementation over time. |
| NACP I | 1992–1999 – Launched India’s first comprehensive HIV/AIDS control programme; helped slow the spread of HIV and reduce morbidity and mortality. |
| NACP II | 1999–2006 – Reduced spread of HIV and strengthened long-term national capacity to respond to the epidemic. |
| NACP III | 2007–2012 – Aimed to halt and reverse the HIV epidemic; scaled prevention among HRGs; integrated prevention, care, support & treatment; created DAPCUs for district-level coordination and stigma reporting. |
| NACP IV | 2012–2017 – Focused on accelerating epidemic reversal; targeted 50% reduction in new infections (from 2007 baseline); expanded comprehensive care, support, and treatment for PLHIV. |
| NACP IV Extension | 2017–2021 – Advanced the goal of Ending AIDS by 2030; strengthened prevention, ART access, and monitoring. |
| HIV/AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act | 2017 – Prohibited discrimination, ensured confidentiality, mandated informed consent, and protected rights of PLHIV. |
| Mission Sampark | Launched during NACP IV Extension (2017–2021) – Re-engaged people living with HIV (PLHIV) who were lost to follow-up and brought them back to ART through community-based tracing. |
| ‘Test and Treat’ Policy | Introduced during NACP IV Extension – Enabled immediate ART initiation for all diagnosed HIV-positive individuals. |
| Routine Universal Viral Load Monitoring | Introduced during NACP IV Extension – Ensured better treatment monitoring and improved treatment outcomes. |
| NACP V | 2021–2026 – Central Sector Scheme with ₹15,471.94 crore outlay; aims to help achieve SDG 3.3 (Ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030) through strengthened prevention, testing, and treatment. |
| Targeted Intervention Projects | 1587 Projects as of October 2025 – Ensured equitable access to prevention, testing, treatment, and care for High-Risk Groups. |
| Appointment of Ombudsmen | Under 2017 Act; appointed in 34 States/UTs – Address complaints related to discrimination against PLHIV and safeguard rights. |
| Publications | The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare released the UNAIDS Estimates 2025, the Sankalak 7th Edition, and the India HIV Estimates 2025. |
Source: WHO PIB
- International Jaguar Day 2025 – November 29
- International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People 2025 – November 29
- National Newborn Week 2025 – November 15-21
- Theme: Newborn Safety: Every touch, Every time, Every Baby
Source: GOV
- AAI’s Aviation Safety Awareness Week 2025 – November 24–28
- All AAI operational units follow Safety Management System (SMS) principles for continuous hazard identification, risk assessment, and mitigation.
- Aligns with DGCA’s National Aviation Safety Plan (NASP) 2024-2028 using real-time surveillance and predictive analytics.
- NASP 2024-2028 provides strategic direction for aviation safety management in India, with 5 national goals:
- Goal 1: Achieve continuous reduction of operational safety risks.
- Goal 2: Strengthen safety oversight capabilities.
- Goal 3: Implement an effective State Safety Programme.
- Goal 4: Increase collaboration at the international level.
- Goal 5: Expand the use of industry programmes and safety information-sharing networks by service providers.
- Goal 6: Focus on appropriate infrastructure to support safe operations, aligned with the Global Air Navigation Plan. In the Indian aviation context, this corresponds to the National Air Navigation Plan, which is addressed separately.
Sports
- Deepti Sharma Sold for Record Rs 3.2 Crore in WPL 2025 Auction
- What:
- UP Warriorz used Right-to-Match (RTM) card to buy back Deepti Sharma for Rs 3.2 crore, making her joint second-most expensive player in Women’s Premier League (WPL) history at New Delhi mega auction.
- Tell me more:
- Amelia Kerr became costliest overseas player at Rs 3 crore, returning to Mumbai Indians.
- UP Warriorz picked Meg Lanning for Rs 1.9 crore and retained Sophie Ecclestone.
- Shree Charani earned Rs 1.3 crore from Delhi Capitals.
- Alyssa Healy went unsold; other top overseas picks included Sophie Devine, Phoebe Litchfield, Laura Wolvaardt.
- Rs 3.2 crore price levels Deepti with Ashleigh Gardner and Nat Sciver-Brunt, behind only Smriti Mandhana.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - WPL Season 4 starts January 9, final on February 5. |
Source: TOI
Appointments
- Sipan Kumar Garg Assumes CMD Charge at THDC India
- Sipan Kumar Garg assumed charge as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), THDC India, in addition to his current role as Director Finance.
- Incorporated in July 1988 as Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Limited, it focuses on the Tehri Hydro Power Complex and other hydro initiatives.
- Now a subsidiary of NTPC Limited since 2019 with 74.496% equity, it holds Mini Ratna Category-I status.
Source: HBL
- Temasek Appoints Piyush Gupta as India Chairman
- What:
- Singapore’s Temasek fund appointed Piyush Gupta as chairman, Temasek India, effective 1 December in advisory capacity.
- Tell me more:
- Piyush Gupta served as CEO of DBS Group from 2009 to 2025.
- Currently Deputy Chairman of Keppel, Chairman of Singapore Management University Board of Trustees, and Chairman of Mandai Park Holdings Board.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - Temasek's India portfolio exposure reached $50 billion in FY25, up from $37 billion in FY24. - Global net portfolio value stood at $324 billion as of 31 March 2025. - Fund invested over $3 billion in India last year including VFS Global and Haldiram’s. |
Source: ET
- World Bank Appoints Paschal Donohoe As Managing Director
- What:
- World Bank Group appointed Paschal Donohoe as Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer starting November 24.
- Tell me more:
- Donohoe served as Ireland’s Finance Minister since January 2025 and was President of the Eurogroup (2020-2023).
- He previously worked nearly a decade at Procter & Gamble.
- He will oversee the “Knowledge Bank” shaping research, development solutions, and policy advice for member countries.
- Donohoe will engage governments, civil society, foundations and philanthropic groups.
| Knowledge Nuggets |
|---|
| - He holds awards like European of the Year and French Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur. - World Bank President Ajay Banga praised Donohoe’s policy expertise and private sector familiarity. |
Source: ET
Miscellaneous
- First Woman to Fly Solo Across the Atlantic Ocean
- The first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean was Amelia Earhart in 1932. She disappeared over the Pacific Ocean while attempting to become the first female pilot to circumnavigate the world.
Source: NASM
- India Sends 73 Tonnes of Medicines and Vaccines to Support Afghanistan’s Healthcare
Source: NOA
About Anuj Jindal
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Anuj Jindal, the founder, is an ex-manager from SBI, with an M.Com from Delhi School of Economics. He also has a JRF in Commerce & Management and NET in HRM, along with more than 5 years of experience in the field of Education.
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