Daily Current Affairs 16th & 17th November 2025 | Latest News | Download PDF

By Ameena Ameena - Nov 17 2025

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Dear Readers, get to know the daily current affairs today covering all the National & International Events provided here in this article. Current Affairs is an important topic in various competitive exams like IBPS/SBI/PO/Clerk and other competitive exams. To score better in this section, be updated with the daily happenings. Check the Daily Current Affairs November 2025 updates here. Revision is very important in remembering current affairs. Candidates after learning the Daily current affairs 16th & 17th November 2025, can test their knowledge by attempting Current Affairs Quiz provided with answers. Daily current affairs 16th & 17th November 2025 covers current affairs from International & National news, Important Days, State News, Banking & Economy, Business News, Appointments & Resignation, Awards & Honour, Books & Authors, Sports News, etc.,

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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Reserve Bank of India Unveils Trade Relief Package to Help Exporters Counter Tariff Pressures

  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced trade relief measures to support exporters facing global trade challenges, tariffs, and financial stress.
  • The measures aim to ease debt-repayment burden and ensure trade competitiveness amid global headwinds and tariff impacts.
  • The guidelines were issued as part of the RBI (Trade Relief Measures) Directions, 2025 and have come into immediate effect.

Key Highlights :

Loan Moratorium and Interest Treatment

  • A loan moratorium is allowed for exporters with standard accounts as of 31 August 2025, covering term-loan repayments due between 1 September and 31 December 2025.
  • Exporters can defer principal and interest on term loans, while interest on working capital loans will accrue on a simple-interest basis without compounding.
  • The accrued interest may be converted into a Funded Interest Term Loan (FITL), repayable by 30 September 2026.

Extension of Credit and Realisation Tenors

  • RBI extended the maximum tenor for pre-shipment and post-shipment export credit from 270 days to 450 days, applicable on credit disbursed till 31 March 2026.
  • The timeline for realisation and repatriation of export proceeds has been extended from 9 months to 15 months.
  • The RBI relaxed FEMA regulations, extending the shipment deadline for advance-payment exports from 1 year to 3 years.

Applicability and Operational Relief

  • The measures apply across sectors including textiles, leather, chemicals, plastics, electrical machinery, and iron & steel.
  • These reliefs are applicable to all regulated entities, including commercial banks, NBFCs, cooperative banks, and All-India Financial Institutions.
  • RBI permitted lenders to recalculate drawing power by reducing margins or reassessing working-capital limits during the relief period.
  • Lenders may liquidate packing credit facilities (sanctioned on or before 31 August 2025) from domestic sale proceeds, alternate export orders, or other legitimate sources if goods could not be shipped.

Banking sector loans rise 11.3% in the October 31,2025 fortnight: RBI data

  • Banking system credit grew 11.3% YoY in the fortnight ending 31 October 2025, slightly lower than the 11.5% YoY growth in the previous fortnight.
  • Deposits increased 9.7% YoY in the same period, compared to 9.5% YoY in the previous fortnight.
  • Banking system credit stood at ₹193.9 trillion and deposits at ₹241.7 trillion as of 31 October 2025.
  • In the fortnight, credit rose by ₹1.78 trillion while deposits increased by ₹2.90 trillion.
  • Banks reported “green shoots” in the economy due to GST rationalisation, income-tax cuts, and RBI rate cuts, supporting improved credit demand for H2 FY26.
  • In H1 FY26, banking system credit growth was 10.4% YoY, while deposit growth was 9.5% YoY.
  • Rating agency ICRA revised its credit growth forecast for FY26 to 10.7%–11.5%, up from 10.4%–11.3%, supported by GST rationalisation and liquidity infusion via CRR cuts.

Samco Mutual Fund launches SAMCO Small Cap Fund, India’s first mutual fund for small-cap companies using a momentum-based strategy

  • Samco Mutual Fund (Samco MF), managed by Samco Asset Management Private Limited, launched the SAMCO Small Cap Fund, India’s first mutual fund scheme specifically targeting small-cap companies using a proprietary momentum-based strategy.
  • The fund’s New Fund Offer (NFO) opens on 14 November 2025 and closes on 28 November 2025.
  • The fund aims to tap into India’s expanding small-cap universe, a key driver of long-term wealth creation and entrepreneurial growth.
  • The fund is benchmarked against the Nifty Smallcap 250 Total Returns Index (TRI).
  • The open-ended equity scheme predominantly invests in small-cap stocks, focusing on companies ranked 251st to 750th by market capitalization.
  • Minimum investment during NFO and ongoing offer is 5,000, with SIP investments starting at Rs.500 per instalment for a minimum of 12 instalments.
  • The fund follows SAMCO’s proprietary C.A.R.E. Momentum Strategy (Cross-sectional, Absolute, Revenue & Earnings Momentum), combining quantitative and fundamental factors to identify companies with superior business and price momentum.
  • Fund Managers: Umeshkumar Mehta, Nirali Bhansali, and Dhawal Dhanani will manage the fund.

About Small-cap companies :

  • Small-cap companies are generally ranked 251st to 750th by market capitalization, valued between USD 300 million and USD 2 billion, or under 5,000 crore in India.
  • They represent high growth potential but carry higher risk and volatility.
  • These companies often operate in niche or fast-growing sectors, may scale to mid-cap or large-cap, but carry higher risk of failure due to limited resources and lower liquidity.

Axis Bank Puts ₹511 Crore Lavasa Corp Debt Up for Sale at ₹80 Crore Reserve Price

  • Axis Bank became the first lender to put its ₹511 crore exposure to Lavasa Corp up for sale at a reserve price of ₹80 crore.
  • The bank invited Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs), NBFCs, and financial institutions, with submissions due by November 18, 2025, and an e-auction scheduled for November 21, 2025.
  • Other lenders are monitoring market interest before making decisions, as optimism about recovery remains very low.
  • Lavasa Corp’s bankruptcy case has been ongoing since 2018, with creditors led by Union Bank of India facing challenges due to environmental clearances and unresolved legal issues.

Union Bank of India Marks 107th Foundation Day at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai

  • Union Bank of India (UBI) celebrated its 107th foundation day at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai, Maharashtra.
  • Union eBiz is a business mobile application for MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and business customers, offering 20+ journeys and 300+ features, including access rights management, collection journeys, bulk payments, and settlements.
  • Union Ease is a retail app recently launched and will be available for use soon.
  • UBI inaugurated 51 new branches virtually across key regions and a Rural Self-Employment Training Institute (RSETI) in Mancherial, Telangana.
  • Union Bank employees contributed ₹21.68 crore to the National Defence Fund (NDF), supporting the country’s armed forces.
  • UBI was registered on November 11, 1919 as a limited company.

About Union Bank of India :

  • On 1st April 2020, Andhra Bank and Corporation Bank were amalgamated into Union Bank of India.
  • Headquarters : Mumbai, Maharashtra.
  • Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) : Asheesh Pandey.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Geographical Indication Tags Awarded to Lepcha Musical Instruments: Tungbuk & Pumtong Pulit

  • The Government of India has granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to two traditional Lepcha musical instruments — Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit.
  • The GI certificates were officially awarded, marking a significant moment for the Lepcha community of Sikkim, known for its rich cultural and musical legacy.
  • Tungbuk is a three-stringed traditional Lepcha instrument used in folk music, storytelling, festivals, and spiritual rituals.
  • Its soft and resonant tones symbolize cultural continuity and ancestral wisdom in Lepcha traditions.
  • Pumtong Pulit is a bamboo wind instrument (flute) whose melodies echo nature.
  • Deeply rooted in Lepcha spirituality, it reflects the community’s harmony with the natural environment and is considered the “voice of the forest.”
  • The GI certificates were handed over during the 1st Tribal Business Conclave in New Delhi, jointly organized by the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, and Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
    • Applicants:
      • Ugen Palzor Lepcha – Tungbuk
      • Namgyal Lepcha – Pumtong Pulit
    • The GI recognition followed two years of focused work led by NABARD, Gangtok, which offered technical guidance, documentation support, and awareness initiatives to ensure successful registration.
    • The Lepcha community acknowledged NABARD’s vital contribution to preserving their traditional cultural heritage.

Odisha’s Sunapur & Puri Beaches Earn Blue Flag Certification for 2025–26

  • Sunapur Beach (Ganjam) and Puri Golden Beach in Odisha have secured the Blue Flag Certification for 2025–26, reaffirming their status among the world’s cleanest and most sustainable beaches.
  • The Blue Flag is an international eco-label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark, based on 33 criteria covering water quality, environmental management, safety standards, and eco-education.

Key Highlights

  • Sunapur Beach received the certification for the 3rd consecutive year, known for its pristine landscape, river-bay confluence, and strong community-led conservation along with regular waste audits, water testing, and cleanup drives.
  • Puri Golden Beach earned the recognition for the 7th time in a row, offering dedicated bathing zones, smart waste disposal systems, and high-level safety measures.
  • For 2025–26, 13 Indian beaches have been included in the Blue Flag list, of which 12 secured full certification, including both Odisha beaches—highlighting India’s growing commitment to sustainable coastal tourism.
  • Local participation, effective waste management, and green tourism infrastructure played a major role in Odisha’s success.
  • Facilities at these beaches include trained lifeguards, paramedics, wheelchair-accessible pathways, zero liquid discharge systems, CCTV surveillance, and environmental education kiosks, ensuring a clean and safe visitor experience.

About Odisha:

  • Chief Minister: Mohan Charan Majhi
  • Governor: Hari Babu Kambhampati
  • Capital: Bhubaneswar
  • National Parks: Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika National Park
  • Wildlife Sanctuaries: Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary

RECENT NEWS

  • In a landmark initiative to blend heritage conservation with modern technology, the Odisha government has announced the creation of a digital library dedicated to preserving rare records of the Jagannath Temple in Puri.

India to Build World’s Deepest Underwater Research Laboratory at 6,000 Metres Depth

  • India has announced plans to build the world’s deepest underwater research laboratory at a depth of 6,000 metres in the Indian Ocean, forming a major milestone under Vision 2047.
  • The project will begin with a 500-metre demonstrator habitat that can host three scientists for over 24 hours to test life-support systems, pressure endurance, and mission logistics.
  • After successful validation, the full-scale 6,000-metre deep-ocean lab—an underwater equivalent of the International Space Station (ISS)—will be constructed, becoming the deepest human-occupied marine research station in history.
  • Key features of the deep-sea habitat include:
    • Pressure-resistant titanium and composite structures to withstand ~600 times atmospheric pressure.
    • 360-degree transparent panels for real-time marine observation.
    • Advanced oxygen regulation, temperature control, and multiple lab compartments.
    • Docking bays for submersibles and supply vessels.
    • Underwater communication using acoustic systems and fibre-optic links.
  • The facility aims to support long-duration research and revolutionize deep-sea exploration capabilities.
  • Major scientific objectives include:
    • Studying deep-ocean biodiversity and rare marine species.
    • Drug discovery from deep-sea microbes and bioactive compounds.
    • Biotechnology applications using extremophiles.
    • Geological studies on tectonic activity, hydrothermal vents, and seabed formations.
    • Research on human physiology under ultra-high-pressure environments.
  • India’s initiative will surpass existing global capabilities—currently, the only operational underwater lab, the Aquarius Reef Base (USA), is situated at just 19 metres
  • The project aligns with the Samudrayaan Mission and the Deep Ocean Mission under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, giving India a decisive edge in marine science, deep-ocean technology, and high-pressure environment research.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

India to Host 20th UNESCO ICH Committee Session at Delhi’s Red Fort from 8–13 December 2025

  • India will host the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) at Delhi’s Red Fort from December 8–13, 2025, with over 1,000 delegates
  • The session will focus on India’s nominations of Deepawali and Chhath Puja, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of India’s ratification of UNESCO’s 2003 Convention (India ratified the convention in September 2005).
  • The session will be chaired by Vishal V. Sharma, India’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO.
  • The World Heritage List recognises monuments, architecture, and sites (tangible heritage), while the Intangible Cultural Heritage List honours festivals, rituals, and community practices representing living traditions.
  • India currently has 15 elements on UNESCO’s Representative List, with the latest addition being the Garba of Gujarat (2023).
  • The Diwali nomination dossier connects the festival with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Egypt Opens Grand Egyptian Museum Near Giza, the World’s Largest Single-Civilisation Museum

  • Egypt inaugurated the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) near the Giza Pyramids, marking the opening of the world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilisation.
  • The GEM houses over 50,000 artefacts, including 5,000 items from King Tutankhamun’s collection, displayed together for the first time.
  • Built at a cost of around USD 1 billion, the museum spans 24,000 sq metres of exhibition space and features a six-story staircase, massive statues, and a triangular glass façade inspired by the pyramids.
  • The project, led by President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, faced delays due to political instability, but is now expected to boost Egypt’s tourism-driven economy.

About Egypt :

  • President : Abdel Fattah el-Sisi
  • Prime Minister : Mostafa Madbouly
  • Capital : Cairo
  • Currency : Egyptian pound

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Walmart’s Doug McMillon to Step Down; John Furner Named New Chief Executive Officer

  • Walmart Inc. announced that Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Doug McMillon will retire on January 31, 2026, after leading the company for over a decade.
  • He will be succeeded by John Furner, the current CEO of Walmart U.S., who will take over as President and CEO of Walmart Inc. from February 1, 2026.
  • Doug McMillon, CEO since February 2014, led Walmart through major changes such as global e-commerce expansion, technology-driven supply chain modernization, and acquisitions including Flipkart and com.
  • McMillon strengthened Walmart’s sustainability and ESG commitments and will continue as advisor until 2027 and remain on the board until the next shareholders’ meeting.
  • John Furner, who started as an hourly store associate in 1993, has held key roles in Merchandising, Operations, Sam’s Club (CEO), and Walmart U.S. (CEO since 2019).
  • Furner is expected to advance Walmart’s focus on omnichannel retail, technology integration, and supply chain resilience amid evolving global retail challenges.

Reserve Bank of India Clears Appointment of S. Krishnan as Part-Time Chairman of J&K Bank (2025–2028)

  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of S. Krishnan as Part-Time Chairman of J&K Bank for the term 13 Nov 2025 to 26 Mar 2028.
  • Krishnan began his banking career with Indian Bank in 1983.
  • He currently serves as an Independent Director on the J&K Bank Board, bringing over 40 years of banking experience.
  • He earlier served as MD & CEO of Punjab & Sind Bank (2020–2022) and MD & CEO of Tamilnad Mercantile Bank (2022–2024).
  • He also held key executive positions as Executive Director at Syndicate Bank and Canara Bank.
  • MD & CEO of J&K Bank : Amitava Chatterjee

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Indian Air Force Joins 8th Edition of Bilateral ‘Garuda 25’ Air Exercise with French Air and Space Force

  • The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in the 8th edition of bilateral air exercise ‘Garuda 25’ with the French Air and Space Force (FASF) at Mont-de-Marsan, France, from 16–27 November 2025.
  • The IAF contingent arrived on 10 November 2025 and participated with Su-30MKI fighter aircraft.
  • C-17 Globemaster III aircraft are providing airlift support during induction and de-induction, while IL-78 air-to-air refuelling tankers are extending the range and endurance of fighters.
  • The exercise features complex simulated air combat scenarios, focusing on air-to-air combat, air defence, and joint strike operations.
  • The exercise aims to refine tactics and procedures in a realistic operational environment, enhancing interoperability between the IAF and FASF.
  • Exercise Garuda 25 promotes professional interaction, exchange of operational knowledge, and sharing of best practices between both Air Forces.
  • Participation highlights the IAF’s commitment to constructive engagement with friendly foreign Air Forces through multilateral exercises to strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation in air operations.
  • The 7th edition of the bilateral air exercise between India and France concluded at Air Force Station, Jodhpur on 12th November 2022.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

Narayana Health enters UK healthcare sector with ₹2,200-crore acquisition of Practice Plus Group Hospitals

  • Narayana Health acquired UK-based Practice Plus Group Hospitals for ₹2,200 crore, marking its entry into the UK healthcare market.
  • The acquisition positions Narayana Health among India’s top three healthcare providers by revenue.
  • Practice Plus Group operates 12 hospitals and surgical centres in the UK, specialising in orthopaedics, ophthalmology, and general surgery, and performs around 80,000 surgeries annually.
  • Narayana Health was founded by Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty and is headquartered in Bengaluru, strengthening its role in the global healthcare landscape.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

17-year-old Kunchala Kaivalya Reddy Chosen as Astronaut Candidate for TSI’s 2025–2029 Astronaut Training Programme

  • 17-year-old Kunchala Kaivalya Reddy from Nidadavole, East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh was selected as an Astronaut Candidate (ASCAN) for the 2025–2029 Astronaut Training Programme of Titans Space Industries (TSI).
  • She is one of 150 candidates shortlisted from applicants representing 36 countries for the programme.
  • The four-year training programme will take place in Florida, USA (2025–2029), with the physical training phase scheduled between 2026–2029.
  • Her training is guided by experts including NASA veteran William McArthur and Brazil’s first astronaut Marcos Pontes.
  • Phase 1 (2026–2027) includes theoretical learning, zero-gravity flights, neutral-buoyancy drills, skydiving, and mountain expeditions.
  • Phase 2 (2027–2029) focuses on space station operations, lunar-surface simulations, and mission-readiness training.
  • After completing the programme, she will qualify for a 2029 space mission that will orbit Earth twice at an altitude of about 300 km, lasting around five hours, including three hours of zero gravity for microgravity experiments.
  • She earlier became the youngest Indian to complete the International Air and Space Programme (2023).
  • As a NASA citizen scientist, she discovered two provisional main-belt asteroids: 2020 PS24 and 2021 CM37.
  • She has received multiple recognitions from ISRO for her achievements.

About Titans Space Industries Inc. (TSI) :

  • Established : 2021
  • Headquarters : Florida, USA,
  • MD & CEO : Neal S. Lachman.

xAI Unveils “Grokipedia”, Elon Musk’s New Wikipedia Rival

  • Elon Musk’s AI firm xAI launched “Grokipedia”, an online encyclopedia positioned as a competitor to Wikipedia, which Musk often criticises for ideological bias.
  • Grokipedia v0.1 went live with 885,000+ articles, compared to 7+ million English articles on Wikipedia; Musk claims Version 1.0 will be “10X better.”
  • Musk stated the platform’s goal is “the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth,” asserting it is already better than Wikipedia.
  • Content is AI-generated, mainly using Grok, xAI’s generative model, unlike Wikipedia’s human-volunteer–based editing model.
  • Musk plans to rebrand Grokipedia as “Encyclopedia Galactica” once its accuracy and quality

Reliance Jio, Google Collaborate to Provide Google AI Pro Plan Free for 18 Months to Subscribers

  • Reliance Jio partnered with Google to offer the Google AI Pro plan free for 18 months to millions of Jio wireless subscribers.
  • The plan includes Gemini LLM models, AI tools for image generation and learning, and 2 TB of cloud storage.
  • Users aged 18–25 get immediate access, with a wider rollout planned for all eligible unlimited 5G plan users.
  • Google Cloud will provide Reliance access to TPUs and AI enterprise products, while Reliance acts as the go-to-market partner for Gemini business subscriptions.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND INDEX

Henley Passport Index 2025 Released: India Slips to 85th Rank

  • The Henley Passport Index 2025, based on IATA data, ranks 199 passports by the number of destinations offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access.
  • India’s passport rank dropped from 80th (2024) to 85th (2025), providing access to 57 countries, reflecting slower progress in bilateral visa agreements and global mobility negotiations.
  • Singapore tops the list for 2025 with access to 193 destinations, followed by South Korea (190) and Japan (189).
  • The Top 10 most powerful passports include:
    • Singapore – 193 destinations
    • South Korea – 190 destinations
    • Japan – 189 destinations
    • European Power Group (Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland) – 187 destinations
    • Austria, Greece, Norway, Portugal, Sweden – 186 destinations
    • Hungary, Malta, New Zealand, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia – 185 destinations
    • Australia, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, UAE, UK – 184 destinations
    • Canada, Latvia – 183 destinations
    • Liechtenstein, Lithuania – 182 destinations
    • Iceland, Malaysia – 181 destinations
  • India’s decline is attributed to limited new visa agreements, slow diplomatic negotiations, and a widening global mobility gap as many countries tighten entry norms.
  • Passport strength matters as it enables ease of global travel, lower costs, fewer bureaucratic hurdles, and reflects a country’s diplomatic influence and global trust.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

2026 FIH Hockey World Cup: Belgium & Netherlands to Co-Host Men’s and Women’s Events

  • The 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup will be jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands from 15–30 August 2026, marking the first time both men’s and women’s tournaments will be held together in a dual-host format.
  • This edition will also feature the first-ever ParaHockey World Cup, making it one of the most inclusive FIH events.
  • Matches will take place at:
    • Belfius Hockey Arena, Wavre (Belgium) – venue for the men’s final
    • Wagener Stadium, Amsterdam (Netherlands) – venue for the women’s final
      Both nations, known for strong hockey traditions, will enjoy significant home support.
  • The tournament will feature 16 men’s teams and 16 women’s teams, divided into four groups each.
  • The top two from every group will move to the second group phase, carrying forward earlier results.
  • This stage will determine semi-finalists and rankings, while non-qualifying teams compete in classification groups.
  • The revamped dual-group format aims to increase competitiveness and maintain excitement throughout.
  • Several teams, including hosts Belgium and the Netherlands, have already secured qualification.
  • Remaining slots will be filled through continental championships and 2026 playoffs, with the official tournament draw scheduled for March 2026.
  • The ParaHockey World Cup will debut alongside the main event, featuring athletes with intellectual disabilities at the same venues.
  • This reflects FIH’s commitment to inclusion, equal opportunity, and global participation in the sport.

Shafali Verma Appointed Brand Ambassador of Haryana State Women’s Commission

  • Shafali Verma, star of India’s 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup victory, has been appointed Brand Ambassador of the Haryana State Women’s Commission.
  • The announcement was made by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in New Delhi.
  • She was honoured with a ₹1.5 crore cash reward, a ceremonial shawl, and a Grade A sports gradation certificate for her outstanding match-winning performance in the World Cup final.
  • Verma, initially brought in as an injury replacement, delivered a remarkable performance in the final, scoring 87 runs and taking 2 wickets, earning the Player of the Final title and helping India defeat South Africa by 52 runs to claim its first-ever Women’s World Cup title.
  • As Brand Ambassador, her role will support:
    • Gender equality initiatives
    • Women’s participation in sports and leadership
    • Awareness on women’s rights and empowerment
    • Inspiring young girls with her success story
  • Her association with the Commission is expected to strengthen outreach programmes focused on women’s welfare, education, safety, and opportunities across Haryana.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Professor Vaidyeswaran Rajaraman, “Pitamaha of Computer Science in India,” passed away at 92 in Bengaluru, Karnataka

  • Professor Vaidyeswaran Rajaraman, known as the “Pitamaha of Computer Science education in India,” passed away at the age of 92 in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

About Vaidyeswaran Rajaraman :

  • He was born on 8 September 1933 in Erode, Tamil Nadu.
  • He joined IIT Kanpur in 1965 and was instrumental in establishing India’s first formal academic programme in Computer Science (CS).
  • In 1987, he proposed the creation of the Master of Computer Applications (MCA) programme to bridge the IT talent gap in India.
  • He served as IBM Professor of Information Technology at JNCASR, Bengaluru from 1994 to 2001.
  • From 1982 to 1994, he was Chairman of the Supercomputer Education and Research Centre (SERC) at IISc Bengaluru, leading the development of indigenous supercomputing and parallel computing capabilities.
  • As a member of Karnataka’s Technical Advisory Panel (1985–2014), he guided key e-governance initiatives like Bhoomi and Kaveri.
  • He authored over 20 textbooks in computer science, published 70+ research papers, and wrote the acclaimed History of Computing in India (1955–2010).
  • He was an elected Fellow of the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), Indian Academy of Sciences (IASc), Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE), and the Computer Society of India (CSI).

Awards :

  • He received the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize (1976), Homi Bhabha Prize, and Om Prakash Bhasin Award.
  • He was conferred with the Padma Bhushan in 1998 for his contributions to science and technology.

Dick Cheney, Former US Vice President, Passed Away at 84

  • Dick Cheney, former United States (US) Vice President, died at age 84 due to pneumonia and cardiac complications.
  • He was considered one of the most powerful and controversial vice presidents in US history.
  • Cheney was a key advocate for the Iraq invasion, shaping major US foreign policy decisions.
  • He served as US Defense Secretary under George H.W. Bush during the Gulf War.
  • He later served as Vice President under George W. Bush, exercising unprecedented influence in the administration.
  • Cheney played a major role in shaping US responses after 9/11, including policies on expanded surveillance, detention, and harsh interrogation methods.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

International Day for Tolerance 2025 – Observed on 16 November

  • International Day for Tolerance 2025 is observed on 16th November, promoting respect, acceptance, and appreciation of the diversity of cultures, expressions, and human identities.
  • The idea of global tolerance gained momentum in 1993, when UNESCO initiated the observance of 1995 as “The Year for Tolerance.”
  • In 1995, UNESCO adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance, defining tolerance as respect, acceptance, and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world’s cultures, forms of expression, and ways of being human.
  • In 1996, the UN General Assembly officially proclaimed 16 November as the International Day for Tolerance, to be celebrated every year.
  • The common theme remains the same every year:
    “Tolerance is respect, acceptance, and appreciation of the rich diversity of our world’s cultures, forms of expression, and ways of being human.”
  • The UN continues to work globally to promote this theme by encouraging dialogue, cultural understanding, peaceful coexistence, and non-discrimination.

International Students’ Day 2025 – Observed on 17 November

  • International Students’ Day 2025 is observed on 17th November.
  • On this day, students across universities worldwide organize events promoting the right to education, student solidarity, and multiculturalism.
  • The origin of this day dates back to Nazi occupation in 1939. When Adolf Hitler came to power, the Third Reich expanded aggressively—annexing Austria (1938) and occupying Czech regions, forcing Slovakia into a satellite state.
  • In 1939, students of the Medical Faculty of Charles University, Prague, gathered to commemorate the formation of an independent Czechoslovak Republic. The Nazis brutally suppressed the event, leading to the death of student Jan Opletal, sparking anti-Nazi demonstrations.
  • On 17 November 1939, the Nazis executed nine student protesters without trial, and over 1,200 students were arrested and sent to concentration camps—only a few survived.
  • International Students’ Day is observed every year on 17 November to honour the courage and sacrifice of student activists during the 1939 Nazi crackdown at the University of Prague.
  • The first formal observance took place in 1941 at the International Students’ Council in London, where students decided to commemorate 17 November annually as International Students’ Day.

National Epilepsy Day 2025 – Observed on 17 November

  • National Epilepsy Day 2025 in India is observed on 17th November to raise awareness about epilepsy, a chronic brain disorder marked by repeated seizures or fits caused by sudden, excessive electrical discharges in brain neurons.
  • The day was first observed by the Epilepsy Foundation of India to reduce epilepsy-related challenges and promote public understanding about the disorder.
  • The Epilepsy Foundation of India is a non-profit charitable organization, founded by Nirmal Surya and headquartered in Mumbai.
  • The foundation supports individuals living with epilepsy and conducts awareness programmes across the country to reduce fear, stigma, and misconceptions associated with the condition.
  • National Epilepsy Day highlights the importance of early diagnosis, medical treatment, and public awareness to improve the quality of life for those affected.

Daily CA One- Liner: November 16 & 17

  • The Government of India has granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to two traditional Lepcha musical instruments — Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit
  • Sunapur Beach (Ganjam) and Puri Golden Beach in Odisha have secured the Blue Flag Certification for 2025–26, reaffirming their status among the world’s cleanest and most sustainable beaches
  • India has announced plans to build the world’s deepest underwater research laboratory at a depth of 6,000 metres in the Indian Ocean, forming a major milestone under Vision 2047
  • The Henley Passport Index 2025, based on IATA data, ranks 199 passports by the number of destinations offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access
  • The 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup will be jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands from 15–30 August 2026, marking the first time both men’s and women’s tournaments will be held together in a dual-host format.
  • Shafali Verma, star of India’s 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup victory, has been appointed Brand Ambassador of the Haryana State Women’s Commission
  • International Day for Tolerance 2025 is observed on 16th November, promoting respect, acceptance, and appreciation of the diversity of cultures, expressions, and human identities.
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced trade relief measures to support exporters facing global trade challenges, tariffs, and financial stress.
  • Banking system credit grew 11.3% YoY in the fortnight ending 31 October 2025, slightly lower than the 11.5% YoY growth in the previous fortnight.
  • Samco Mutual Fund (Samco MF), managed by Samco Asset Management Private Limited, launched the SAMCO Small Cap Fund, India’s first mutual fund scheme specifically targeting small-cap companies using a proprietary momentum-based strategy.
  • Axis Bank became the first lender to put its ₹511 crore exposure to Lavasa Corp up for sale at a reserve price of ₹80 crore.
  • Union Bank of India (UBI) celebrated its 107th foundation day at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai, Maharashtra.
  • India will host the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) at Delhi’s Red Fort from December 8–13, 2025, with over 1,000 delegates
  • Egypt inaugurated the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) near the Giza Pyramids, marking the opening of the world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilisation.
  • Walmart Inc. announced that Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Doug McMillon will retire on January 31, 2026, after leading the company for over a decade.
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of S. Krishnan as Part-Time Chairman of J&K Bank for the term 13 Nov 2025 to 26 Mar 2028.
  • The Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating in the 8th edition of bilateral air exercise ‘Garuda 25’ with the French Air and Space Force (FASF) at Mont-de-Marsan, France, from 16–27 November 2025.
  • Narayana Health acquired UK-based Practice Plus Group Hospitals for ₹2,200 crore, marking its entry into the UK healthcare market.
  • 17-year-old Kunchala Kaivalya Reddy from Nidadavole, East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh was selected as an Astronaut Candidate (ASCAN) for the 2025–2029 Astronaut Training Programme of Titans Space Industries (TSI).
  • Elon Musk’s AI firm xAI launched “Grokipedia”, an online encyclopedia positioned as a competitor to Wikipedia, which Musk often criticises for ideological bias.
  • Reliance Jio partnered with Google to offer the Google AI Pro plan free for 18 months to millions of Jio wireless subscribers.
  • Professor Vaidyeswaran Rajaraman, known as the “Pitamaha of Computer Science education in India,” passed away at the age of 92 in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
  • Dick Cheney, former United States (US) Vice President, died at age 84 due to pneumonia and cardiac complications.
  • International Students’ Day 2025 is observed on 17th November.
  • National Epilepsy Day 2025 in India is observed on 17th November to raise awareness about epilepsy, a chronic brain disorder marked by repeated seizures or fits caused by sudden, excessive electrical discharges in brain neurons

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