Daily Current Affairs 20th December 2025 | Latest News | Download PDF

By Ameena Ameena - Dec 20 2025

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 December 2025 updates here. Revision is very important in remembering current affairs. Candidates after learning the Daily current affairs 20th December 2025, can test their knowledge by attempting Current Affairs Quiz provided with answers. Daily current affairs 20th December 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

Parliament Passes Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha Bill, Permits 100% FDI in Insurance Companies

  • The Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025 was passed by Parliament on 17 December 2025.
  • The Bill amends three major insurance laws:
  • the Insurance Act, 1938
  • the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) Act, 1956
  • the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) Act, 1999.

Key Highlights :

  • A key provision allows up to 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in insurance companies, opening the sector to greater foreign participation (increased from the previous 74% limit).
  • Higher FDI limits are expected to support capital augmentation, advanced technology adoption, global best practices, and employment generation.
  • Increased competition in the insurance sector is expected to improve efficiency, product quality, and customer services, potentially leading to lower premiums.
  • The Bill promotes Ease of Doing Business for insurance intermediaries by introducing one-time licensing (perpetual registration).
  • It provides for suspension of licence instead of immediate cancellation, ensuring regulatory flexibility.
  • For insurers, the threshold for seeking prior regulatory approval for transfer of share capital has been increased from 1% to 5%.
  • The Net Owned Fund (NOF) requirement for Foreign Reinsurance Branches has been significantly reduced from ₹5,000 crore to ₹1,000 crore.
  • Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has been granted greater autonomy to open Zonal Offices within India without prior government approval.
  • LIC has also been allowed to align its foreign offices with the laws and regulations of host countries.
  • To protect policyholders’ interests, a Policyholders’ Education and Protection Fund will be established to spread insurance awareness.
  • Policyholders’ data must now be collected and protected in line with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023.
  • Regulatory governance is strengthened by introducing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for regulation-making and mandating a consultative process.
  • IRDAI has been empowered to disgorge wrongful gains from insurers and intermediaries, similar to SEBI’s powers.
  • Penalties have been rationalised, and clear factors for the imposition of penalties have been introduced to ensure accountability.
  • The reforms aim to expand insurance coverage to individuals, households, and enterprises, deepen insurance penetration, and improve regulatory oversight.
  • These measures are expected to strengthen the Indian insurance sector and enhance the financial resilience of the Indian economy.

About Ministry of Finance :

  • Cabinet Minister : Nirmala Sitharaman
  • Minister of State : Pankaj Choudhary

Google Pay, Axis Bank Launch UPI-Enabled RuPay Co-Branded Credit Card

  • Google Pay partnered with Axis Bank Limited to launch the ‘Google Pay Flex Axis Bank Credit Card’, a UPI-enabled co-branded credit card on the RuPay network.
  • The card is the first product under “Flex by Google Pay”, an initiative aimed at making credit simpler and more accessible in India.
  • It enables users to make payments at millions of offline merchants and online platforms directly using the Google Pay app via QR code scanning.
  • The card is embedded within Google Pay, allowing users to apply digitally at zero cost, with no physical paperwork, and start transactions instantly upon approval.
  • Axis Bank is responsible for card issuance and underwriting, while Google Pay provides the digital payment experience and interface.
  • The card is designed to integrate credit with everyday UPI transactions, enhancing digital payment convenience for small-ticket daily spends.
  • Users earn reward points called “Start”, where 1 Start point = ₹1, which are instantly redeemable on eligible transactions within the app.
  • The card offers flexible repayment options, allowing users to convert outstanding bills into Equated Monthly Instalments (EMIs) directly through the Google Pay app.
  • Customers can manage the credit card digitally, including blocking/unblocking the card, setting transaction limits, and resetting the PIN within the app.

About Axis Bank Limited :

  • Headquarters : Mumbai.
  • Axis Bank CEO & MD: Amitabh Chaudhry.

Bank of Baroda Underwrites $500 Million, 5-Year Foreign Currency Loan for OVL Overseas IFSC Limited

  • Bank of Baroda (BoB) has underwritten a $500 million, 5-year foreign currency term loan for OVL Overseas IFSC Limited (OOIL).
  • OOIL is a wholly owned subsidiary of ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL) and is registered in GIFT City.
  • Bank of Baroda acted as the Sole Mandated Lead Arranger (SMLA) for the loan, showcasing its strength in syndicated foreign currency lending.
  • The transaction highlights the growing maturity of GIFT City as a hub for cross-border and offshore financing.
  • The drawdown ceremony for the term loan was held at Bank of Baroda IFSC Banking Unit (IBU), GIFT City, in the presence of senior officials from BoB and OVL.
  • The IFSC Banking Unit (IBU) at GIFT City is a critical pillar of BoB’s international footprint and is its third-largest branch outside India, with a diversified portfolio covering syndicated credit, retail banking, and trade finance.

About Bank of Baroda :

  • It is an Indian public sector bank headquartered in Vadodara, Gujarat.
  • MD & CEO : Debadatta Chand

Securities and Exchange Board of India Clears Regulatory Reforms at 212th Board Meeting to Simplify Rules and Cut Transaction Costs

  • The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) approved a series of regulatory reforms at its 212th Board Meeting held in Mumbai, Maharashtra, to simplify regulations, reduce transaction costs, and enhance cost transparency.
  • SEBI approved replacing the SEBI (Stock Brokers) Regulations, 1992 with the SEBI (Stock Brokers) Regulations, 2025, to remove redundant provisions and improve ease of compliance.

Key Highlights :

  • In cash market transactions, the brokerage cap (net of statutory levies) has been reduced from 8.59 basis points (bps) to 6 bps, while statutory levies will now be charged separately.
  • In derivative transactions, the brokerage cap (net of statutory levies) has been reduced from 89 bps to 2 bps.
  • The additional 5 bps brokerage previously allowed for schemes with exit loads as a transitory measure has been removed.
  • The expense ratio framework has been revised and renamed as Base Expense Ratio (BER), which will exclude all statutory levies.
  • Statutory and regulatory levies such as STT (Securities Transaction Tax), CTT (Commodity Transaction Tax), GST, Stamp Duty, SEBI Fees, and Exchange Fees will now be charged on actuals, over and above the permissible brokerage limits.
  • The Total Expense Ratio (TER) will now comprise BER + brokerage + regulatory levies + statutory levies.
  • Stock exchanges have been designated as first-line regulators for stockbrokers, requiring brokers to report non-compliance and submit financial statements directly to the exchanges.
  • SEBI approved that pledged shares will be treated as locked-in for the prescribed period, even if depositories cannot technically impose a lock-in due to a pledge.
  • Upon invocation of a pledge, the shares transferred to the pledgee will remain locked-in for the remaining period; after release, they will continue to be locked-in with the pledger.
  • For unclaimed amounts, issuers of non-convertible securities will now transfer funds to IEPF / IPEF only once after 7 years from maturity, replacing the previous requirement of multiple transfers.
  • SEBI approved the new SEBI (Mutual Funds) Regulations, 2026, replacing the 1996 regulations, to ensure greater clarity, better readability, and improved structural coherence.
  • Credit Rating Agencies (CRAs) are now allowed to rate instruments regulated by other Financial Sector Regulators (FSRs), even if specific rating guidelines are not issued by those regulators.
  • The threshold for High Value Debt Listed Entities (HVDLE) has been significantly increased from ₹1,000 crore to ₹5,000 crore.

About SEBI :

  • It was constituted as a non-statutory body on 12 April 1988 and attained statutory status in 1992 under the SEBI Act.
  • Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra.
  • Chairman: Tuhin Kanta Pandey

Reserve Bank of India Imposes Restrictions on Gauhati Cooperative Urban Bank Over Weak Financial Health

  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed restrictions on The Gauhati Cooperative Urban Bank due to its weak financial and liquidity position.
  • Under RBI directions, customers can withdraw a maximum of ₹35,000 from their accounts during the restriction period.
  • The restrictions came into force after business hours on Tuesday (December 17, 2025) and will remain valid for six months, subject to review.
  • The bank is prohibited from granting or renewing loans, making investments, incurring liabilities, or making payments without prior RBI approval.
  • Depositors are protected under deposit insurance, and eligible customers can claim up to ₹5 lakh from the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC).
  • The Gauhati Cooperative Urban Bank Ltd was established in 1965.

Reserve Bank of India Grants Payment Aggregator Approval to Paytm Payments Services for Offline and Cross-Border Transactions

  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) authorized Paytm Payments Services Limited (PPSL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of One 97 Communications Limited, to operate as a Payment Aggregator (PA) for offline (physical) payments and cross-border transactions.
  • The authorization allows PPSL to facilitate physical merchant transactions through Point-of-Sale (PoS) devices, such as Card Machines and Soundboxes.

Key Highlights :

  • PPSL is also permitted to aggregate inward and outward cross-border payments in strict compliance with the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999.
  • With this approval, PPSL now holds a comprehensive Payment Aggregator licence covering online, offline, and cross-border payment segments.
  • The expanded licence enables end-to-end payment services for merchants across both domestic and international markets, removing the need for third-party rails.
  • Compliance conditions require PPSL to commence its cross-border operations within six months of the authorization date.
  • PPSL must adhere to strictly prescribed transaction limits (such as the ₹25 lakh cap for certain cross-border payouts), net worth requirements (minimum ₹15 crore, rising to ₹25 crore), and regulatory reporting norms.
  • A critical security mandate requires that any unusual or adverse incidents must be reported to the RBI within six hours.
  • The authorization supports Paytm’s domestic and global expansion, enables direct control over merchant infrastructure, and significantly reduces dependence on third-party payment aggregators, which is expected to improve operating margins.

Airtel Payments Bank, NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited Enable EV Wallet Recharges via Bharat Connect

  • Airtel Payments Bank partnered with NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited (NBBL), a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), to enable Electric Vehicle (EV) wallet recharges through Bharat Connect.
  • Bharat Connect is the new name of the Bharat BillPay System (BBPS), operated by NBBL.
  • The initiative allows users to recharge EV wallets directly via the Airtel Thanks app.
  • The EV wallet recharge facility is powered by BBPS, ensuring instant, secure, and reliable
  • The partnership enables interoperable EV wallet recharges across multiple EV charging service providers.
  • It offers a single, unified payment platform, reducing fragmentation across EV charging networks.
  • The initiative enhances convenience and seamless digital payments for EV users.
  • NBBL ensures standardised, secure, and interoperable bill payment infrastructure through Bharat Connect.
  • The partnership expands BBPS coverage from traditional utility payments to modern services like EV charging.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

India Emerges as World’s Largest Hub for Active Users of Artificial Intelligence Applications: Bank of America Securities Report

  • According to the latest report by Bank of America Securities (BofA), India has emerged as the largest global hub for active users of Artificial Intelligence applications, leading the world in both Daily Active Users (DAUs) and Monthly Active Users (MAUs).
  • India accounts for a significant share of global users of major Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Model platforms such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and Perplexity, making it the largest market globally by active user base.
  • The report attributes India’s leadership in Artificial Intelligence application usage to widespread smartphone penetration, affordable mobile data tariffs, a young and tech-savvy population, and the increasing adoption of Artificial Intelligence tools for education, productivity, coding, and content creation.
  • Bank of America Securities highlighted that the rapid growth in Artificial Intelligence usage presents a major opportunity for the Indian telecom sector, with operators expected to benefit from rising data demand.
  • Leading telecom companies such as Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel are expected to expand support and integration of Artificial Intelligence-driven services to unlock new revenue streams.
  • The report identified key monetisation avenues for telecom operators, including higher mobile data consumption, improvement in Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), and upselling of value-added services.
  • Artificial Intelligence applications, particularly generative Artificial Intelligence platforms, are highly data-intensive, requiring continuous cloud connectivity, real-time processing, and multimedia interactions, leading to increased per-user data usage.
  • Bank of America Securities expects this trend to boost per-user data consumption, support premium or Artificial Intelligence-focused data plans, and drive sustained growth in Average Revenue Per User, strengthening the profitability of Indian telecom operators.

India’s Labour Market Performance in November 2025 (Periodic Labour Force Survey)

  • India’s labour market showed continued improvement in November 2025, as per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
  • The survey indicated an increase in the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) and Worker Population Ratio (WPR), while the Unemployment Rate (UR) declined to its lowest level since April 2025.
  • PLFS is the primary official source of employment and unemployment data in India and provides estimates of Labour Force Participation Rate, Worker Population Ratio, and Unemployment Rate.
  • From January 2025, the PLFS methodology was modified to provide monthly and quarterly labour market estimates based on the Current Weekly Status approach.
  • The November 2025 bulletin is the eighth release, covering the period from April 2025 to November 2025.
  • The overall Labour Force Participation Rate in November 2025 stood at 55.8%, the highest since April 2025.
  • The rural Labour Force Participation Rate increased to 58.6%, while the urban Labour Force Participation Rate slightly moderated to 50.4%, indicating stronger participation in rural areas.
  • Female labour force participation improved significantly, with the overall female Labour Force Participation Rate rising from 32.0% in June 2025 to 35.1% in November 2025.
  • The rural female Labour Force Participation Rate increased sharply to 39.7%, while the urban female Labour Force Participation Rate remained broadly stable at around 25.5%, reflecting progress towards inclusive growth and gender equality.
  • The Worker Population Ratio increased to 53.2% in November 2025 from 52.5% in October 2025.
  • The rural Worker Population Ratio rose to 56.3%, while the urban Worker Population Ratio remained largely stable.
  • The overall female Worker Population Ratio improved to 33.4%, with a notable rise in the rural female Worker Population Ratio to 38.4%, suggesting higher employment, particularly among rural women.
  • The Unemployment Rate declined to 4.7% in November 2025 from 5.2% in October 2025, marking the lowest level since April 2025.
  • The rural Unemployment Rate fell to 3.9%, while the urban Unemployment Rate stood at 6.5%, indicating improved labour absorption across regions.
  • The decline in unemployment was broad-based across gender and rural–urban areas, with the female Unemployment Rate falling to 4.8% and the male Unemployment Rate declining to 4.6%, highlighting overall strengthening of the labour market.

Parliament Clears SHANTI Bill 2025 to Reform Nuclear Governance

  • Parliament has passed the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025, with the Rajya Sabha approving it, completing the legislative process after earlier approval by the Lok Sabha.
  • The Bill introduces major reforms in India’s nuclear governance framework, with the most significant change being the grant of statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).
  • Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh stated that the Bill consolidates and rationalises provisions of the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, while aligning India’s nuclear regime with modern technological and energy requirements.
  • The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board has been made a statutory regulator, strengthening its legal authority, independence, and oversight role.
  • The Bill introduces an enhanced nuclear safety framework, including mandatory inspections during construction and operation, five-year licence renewals, and alignment with International Atomic Energy Agency norms.
  • It formally recognises advanced reactor technologies, including Small Modular Reactors and Bharat Small Reactors, as safe and flexible clean energy options.
  • The definition of nuclear damage has been expanded to include environmental damage, in addition to human injury and property loss.
  • Addressing safety and sovereignty concerns, the government reiterated that nuclear plants are located away from major seismic zones.
  • Radiation levels at facilities such as Kudankulam, Kalpakkam, Tarapur, and Rawatbhata remain well below global safety limits, with no scientific evidence linking Indian nuclear plants to carcinogenic risks.
  • The Bill introduces graded liability caps to encourage smaller investors, while ensuring full compensation through government-backed mechanisms if damages exceed operator liability.
  • Judicial oversight remains intact, with the establishment of an Atomic Energy Redressal Commission to enable faster dispute resolution.
  • Limited private sector participation is allowed in exploration activities, while uranium mining, spent fuel, fissile material, and heavy water remain under strict government control.
  • Cyber security measures have been strengthened through encryption, security audits, malware filtering, and multi-layered digital safeguards.
  • The government outlined India’s nuclear energy capacity roadmap:
    • 9 gigawatt currently
    • 22 gigawatt by 2032
    • 47 gigawatt by 2037
    • 67 gigawatt by 2042
    • 100 gigawatt by 2047
  • Nuclear energy is expected to play a key role in clean energy transition, while supporting artificial intelligence–driven growth, digital infrastructure expansion, and long-term energy security.

Odisha to Host Regional Artificial Intelligence Impact Conference 2025

  • The Odisha Government will host the Regional Artificial Intelligence Impact Conference from 19 to 20 December 2025, positioning the state as an emerging contributor to artificial intelligence–driven governance and public service delivery in India.
  • A curtain-raiser event was organised by the Electronics and Information Technology Department, outlining Odisha’s artificial intelligence vision, policy roadmap, and ongoing real-world applications.
  • The state aims to develop a comprehensive artificial intelligence innovation ecosystem supported by strong governance, advanced digital capabilities, and long-term policy certainty.
  • The conference forms part of the national build-up towards the India Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit, scheduled for February 2026.
  • Regional Artificial Intelligence Impact Summits are planned across eight states, including Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Meghalaya, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha.
  • It was noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has envisioned Odisha as a major artificial intelligence hub in the country.
  • The conference is guided by the principle of the “Three Ps – Planet, People, and Progress”, focusing on sustainability, inclusive growth, and sector-specific artificial intelligence applications in governance.

RECENT NEWS

  • In a proud moment for eco-tourism in India, Odisha’s Sunapur and Puri beaches have once again achieved the prestigious Blue Flag Certification for the year 2025–26. This international honour reaffirms their position among the cleanest and most environmentally sustainable beaches globally.

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

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

India, Oman Ink Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)

  • India and Oman signed the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
  • The agreement was signed by Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal and Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry & Investment Promotion E. Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef.

Key Highlights :

  • The CEPA marks a major milestone in India’s strategic engagement with the Gulf region.
  • The agreement unlocks export opportunities for India’s labour-intensive sectuors including textiles, leather, footwear, gems & jewellery, engineering products, plastics, furniture, agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and automobiles.
  • Zero-duty access is granted on 98.08% of Oman’s tariff lines, covering 99.38% of India’s exports by value.
  • This is the second Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed by India in the last six months, after the United Kingdom.
  • Oman has offered ambitious services commitments, covering 127 sub-sectors including Computer Related Services, Business Services, Professional Services, Audio-visual Services, R&D, Education, and Health Services.
  • The agreement provides enhanced mobility for Indian professionals, including Intra-Corporate Transferees, Contractual Service Suppliers, Business Visitors, and Independent Professionals.
  • Liberalised entry and stay are allowed for professionals in accountancy, taxation, architecture, medical, and allied sectors.
  • The CEPA permits 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for Indian companies in major services sectors (Mode 3).
  • Provisions have been made for future negotiations on social security coverage of workers upon implementation of Oman’s contributory social security system.
  • Oman has made a first-ever commitment on Traditional Medicine across all modes, creating opportunities for India’s AYUSH and wellness sectors and promoting medical value travel.
  • The agreement facilitates fast-tracking of marketing authorizations for pharmaceutical products approved by USFDA, EMA, UKMHRA, and accepts GMP inspection documents, reducing time and cost for Indian exporters.
  • Nearly 7 lakh Indian nationals reside in Oman, with over 6,000 Indian enterprises operating across sectors, contributing to Oman’s economy.
  • Bilateral trade between India and Oman stands at over USD 10 billion and is expected to expand significantly under CEPA, generating employment and strengthening supply chains.
  • CEPA secures unprecedented tariff concessions, including full tariff elimination for all major labour-intensive sectors, with immediate elimination on 97.96% of tariff lines.
  • India has kept sensitive products, including agricultural products, gold, silver, jewellery, footwear, sports goods, and some base metals, in the exclusion category to safeguard national interests.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

Singapore’s Changi Airport Named World’s Best International Airport 2025

  • Singapore’s Changi Airport has been named the World’s Best International Airport for 2025 at the Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025.
  • The recognition was based on global reader voting, highlighting Changi Airport’s excellence in overall travel experience, passenger comfort, and world-class facilities.
  • The award was announced during the 14th edition of Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards, which honour excellence across the travel and hospitality sector.
  • Winners are selected through an online reader-voting process, making the outcome a direct reflection of traveller preferences and real-world experiences.
  • Changi Airport emerged at the top among global airports, reaffirming sustained passenger trust and satisfaction.
  • The recognition highlights Changi’s ability to combine operational efficiency, innovation, aesthetics, and passenger-centric services.
  • The airport is renowned for its sky-lit terminals, open spaces, indoor gardens, and art installations, creating a relaxing travel environment.
  • Iconic attractions include the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, butterfly gardens, and immersive leisure zones, transforming long layovers into memorable experiences.
  • Changi Airport places strong emphasis on passenger well-being, offering transit hotels, sleeping pods, and rest zones.
  • Seamless immigration and security processes, clear terminal layouts, and smooth passenger flow reduce stress and waiting times, even during peak hours.
  • The airport provides a wide range of dining options, from local Singaporean cuisine to global food brands, along with premium shopping and duty-free outlets.
  • By blending leisure, culture, and retail, Changi Airport has positioned itself as a destination in itself, rather than just a transit hub.

Air India Wins Best Domestic Airline Award at Travel + Leisure India and South Asia’s Best Awards 2025

  • India’s national carrier Air India has won the Best Domestic Airline title at the Travel + Leisure India and South Asia’s Best Awards 2025, marking its second consecutive win.
  • The recognition comes during Air India’s major transformation phase, focusing on fleet renewal, service quality, and enhanced customer experience.
  • The Travel + Leisure India and South Asia Awards are organised by Travel + Leisure India and South Asia and are completely reader-voted, unlike jury-based awards.
  • Votes are cast by travellers based on actual travel experiences, with key evaluation parameters including service quality, comfort, reliability, and overall travel experience.
  • The award therefore directly reflects passenger trust and preference.
  • The win highlights rising expectations of Indian travellers and validates Air India’s efforts toward improved onboard comfort, consistent service delivery, and better operational reliability.
  • It also strengthens Air India’s credibility in the domestic aviation market.
  • According to Air India, the award reflects strong customer confidence in its domestic services.
  • The contribution of frontline staff, cabin crew, and ground operations teams was emphasised as central to delivering consistent passenger experiences.
  • Rajesh Dogra, Chief Customer Experience Officer of Air India, stated that winning the award for the second year consecutively underlines the airline’s commitment to building a world-class travel experience.
  • The award coincides with a critical phase of Air India’s transformation after its return to the Tata Group.
  • The airline is making significant investments in infrastructure, service quality, and brand repositioning.
  • A key pillar of this transformation is fleet modernisation, with Air India placing orders for 570 new aircraft, one of the largest aircraft orders in global aviation history.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Conferred Oman’s Highest National Honour

  • Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been conferred Oman’s highest civilian honour, the First Class of the Order of Oman, during his official visit to Muscat, marking another major milestone in India’s diplomatic outreach.
  • With this recognition, PM Modi has now received 29 top foreign State honours, reflecting India’s rising global stature and his personal international influence.
  • The honour was presented during the final leg of PM Modi’s three-nation foreign tour.
  • The Order of Oman is the highest civilian award of the Sultanate of Oman.
  • It has earlier been awarded to globally renowned leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Queen Elizabeth II, Queen Máxima, Emperor Akihito of Japan, and King Abdullah of Jordan, highlighting the prestige of the award.
  • PM Modi’s inclusion in this list underlines the strength, depth, and maturity of India–Oman bilateral relations.
  • PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome by Sultan Haitham bin Tarik at the Al Baraka Palace in Muscat.
  • The two leaders held comprehensive bilateral discussions covering defence, security, trade, investment, energy, agriculture, technology, culture, and people-to-people ties.
  • The visit reflected mutual respect and long-standing historical ties between India and Oman, rooted in trade, cultural exchanges, and the Indian diaspora.
  • A key outcome of the visit was the signing of the India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
  • According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the CEPA is expected to increase bilateral trade, boost investments, strengthen supply chains, promote economic diversification, and generate employment opportunities in both countries.
  • The agreement also includes provisions to promote AYUSH products and traditional Indian medicine, providing a fresh boost to India’s cultural and economic exports.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

India–Saudi Arabia Sign Bilateral Visa Waiver Agreement

  • India and Saudi Arabia have signed a bilateral visa waiver agreement to simplify and facilitate official travel between the two countries.
  • The agreement was signed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
  • On behalf of India, it was signed by Suhel Ajaz Khan, Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia, while Abdulmajeed bin Rashed Alsmari, Deputy Minister for Protocol Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented Saudi Arabia.
  • Under the agreement, both countries will grant mutual exemption from short-stay visa requirements.
  • The exemption applies only to holders of diplomatic, special, and official passports of India and Saudi Arabia.
  • The agreement does not apply to ordinary passport holders and is limited strictly to official travel, not long-term stays.
  • The main objective of the agreement is to reduce procedural delays and ensure smoother movement of government officials involved in bilateral engagements.
  • According to the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the visa waiver will help strengthen cooperation under the India–Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council.
  • Easier official travel is expected to enhance coordination, speed up decision-making, and promote frequent high-level interactions.
  • The agreement supports the expanding scope of India–Saudi Arabia relations, covering diplomacy, trade, energy, security, and people-to-people ties.

India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) Signed

  • India and Oman have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a major milestone in India’s economic engagement with the Gulf region and reinforcing its strategy of forging high-quality trade agreements with non-competing economies.
  • The agreement was signed in the presence of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, highlighting its strategic and political significance.
  • The CEPA was formally signed by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal and Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion H.E. Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef.
  • This is Oman’s first bilateral trade agreement since its Free Trade Agreement with the United States of America in 2006.
  • It is India’s second Free Trade Agreement in the last six months, following the agreement with the United Kingdom.
  • Current bilateral trade exceeds United States Dollar 10 billion, with substantial scope for further expansion.
  • Under the agreement, India gains unprecedented market access for goods, with zero-duty access on 98.08 per cent of Oman’s tariff lines, covering 99.38 per cent of India’s exports by value, and immediate tariff elimination on 97.96 per cent of tariff lines.
  • Major beneficiary sectors include textiles, leather and footwear, gems and jewellery, engineering products, plastics, furniture, agricultural products, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, and automobiles, expected to generate employment and empower Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, artisans, and women-led enterprises.
  • India has offered tariff liberalisation on 77.79 per cent of tariff lines, covering 94.81 per cent of imports from Oman by value, while protecting sensitive sectors through exclusion lists and Tariff Rate Quotas.
  • Excluded sectors include dairy, tea, coffee, rubber, tobacco, gold and silver bullion, jewellery, footwear, sports goods, and metal scraps.
  • Oman has made its first-ever comprehensive services commitments, covering 127 sub-sectors, including computer-related services, business and professional services, audio-visual services, research and development services, education, and health services.
  • This opens high-value opportunities for Indian service providers in a market where India currently accounts for only 5.31 per cent of Oman’s services imports.
  • For the first time, Oman has offered extensive Mode 4 commitments to enhance mobility of Indian professionals, including increasing the quota for intra-corporate transferees from 20 per cent to 50 per cent, and extending the stay of contractual service suppliers from 90 days to 2 years, with further extensions possible.
  • Liberalised entry has been provided for professionals in accountancy, taxation, architecture, and medical and allied sectors.
  • Oman has allowed 100 per cent Foreign Direct Investment for Indian companies in major services sectors, enabling expansion through commercial presence.
  • The agreement includes landmark provisions, such as the first-ever commitment on traditional medicine across all modes, boosting AYUSH and wellness sectors and promoting medical value travel.
  • It provides for fast-tracking of pharmaceutical approvals through recognition of approvals by United States Food and Drug Administration, European Medicines Agency, and United Kingdom Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, along with acceptance of Good Manufacturing Practices inspection documents.
  • Mutual recognition arrangements have been included for Halal certification and India’s National Programme for Organic Production certification, along with provisions to address non-tariff barriers.
  • Strategically, the CEPA strengthens India’s economic footprint in the Gulf region, enhances exports, employment, and supply chain resilience, positions Oman as a hub for India’s access to the Middle East and Africa, and reinforces India’s commitment to inclusive growth while safeguarding sensitive domestic sectors.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Second Edition of India–UAE Exercise DESERT CYCLONE-II Starts in United Arab Emirates

  • The 2nd edition of the joint military exercise “DESERT CYCLONE-II” between the Indian Army (IA) and the UAE Land Forces commenced at Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, and will continue till 30 December 2025.
  • The two-week long exercise aims to enhance interoperability and strengthen bilateral defence cooperation through joint training in urban environments.
  • The exercise focuses on sub-conventional operations under a United Nations (UN) mandate, preparing both forces for peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and stability operations.
  • The Indian contingent comprises 45 personnel, primarily from a battalion of The Mechanised Infantry Regiment.
  • The UAE Land Forces contingent includes 53 personnel from the 53rd Mechanised Infantry Battalion.
  • Planned activities include fighting in built-in areas (FIBUA), heliborne operations, and detailed joint mission planning.
  • The exercise incorporates Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and counter-UAS techniques for operations in urban terrain.
  • DESERT CYCLONE-II reflects the strengthening strategic partnership between India and the UAE and is expected to boost military-to-military relations.
  • The exercise reaffirms the shared commitment of both nations to regional peace, security, and stability.
  • The 1st edition (DESERT CYCLONE-I) was hosted by India at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges (MFFR), Rajasthan, in January 2024.
  • The exercise follows recent high-level defence engagements, including visits by the UAE Land Forces Commander (27–28 October 2025) and the UAE Presidential Guard Commander (15–19 December 2025).

About United Arab Emirates (UAE):

  • President : Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
  • Capital : Abu Dhabi
  • Currency : UAE Dirham (AED).

Indian Air Force Hosts 3rd Edition of AviaIndra Air Exercise with Russia

  • Exercise AviaIndra-2025 is the 3rd edition of the bilateral air exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Russian Federation Aerospace Force (RFASF).
  • The exercise is scheduled from 15–22 December 2025 and is being conducted in New Delhi, Delhi.
  • Objective: To enhance bilateral defence cooperation, improve mutual operational understanding, and strengthen aerospace operational synergy.
  • Strategic Significance: Reflects the long-standing, trust-based India–Russia defence partnership and continued military engagement.
  • Participating Aircraft/Assets:
  • Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft
  • LCA Tejas (indigenous Light Combat Aircraft)
  • IL-78 aerial refuellers
  • Mi-17 helicopters
  • Operational Activities: Include air superiority missions, coordinated aerial manoeuvres, joint tactical planning, and the exchange of best practices.
  • Technology Emphasis: Focus on cooperation in niche military technologies and indigenous defence capability development under the Make in India
  • Exercise Background: AviaIndra was launched in 2014 as a biennial India–Russia air exercise focusing on joint flying operations and operational coordination.
  • Previous Editions: Conducted in 2014 and 2018, each in two phases—Phase-I in Russia and Phase-II in India.
  • Disruptions: The exercise was suspended during COVID-19 (2020–21) and later paused due to the Russia–Ukraine conflict (2022–24).

Indian Army Receives Final Batch of AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters from Boeing

  • The Indian Army (IA) received the final batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing (USA) at Hindon Air Force Station, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
  • With this delivery, all six AH-64E Apaches under the India–USA defence deal have been received, making the Army Aviation Corps’ Apache fleet fully operational.
  • The final three helicopters were airlifted by an Antonov An-124 aircraft for assembly and inspections in India.
  • The AH-64E Apache is a multi-role attack helicopter capable of precision strikes and all-weather, day-and-night operations.
  • Its weapon systems include Hellfire missiles, 70 mm Hydra rockets, Stinger missiles, and a 30 mm chain gun.
  • The helicopter is equipped with a 360-degree Longbow radar and an advanced electro-optical targeting system.
  • The inducted AH-64E Version 6 features enhanced sensors and avionics, improved weapons integration, and network-centric warfare capability.
  • The platform is designed for multi-domain and joint operations in contested battle environments.
  • The helicopters will be deployed at Jodhpur, Rajasthan, under the newly raised 451 Army Aviation Squadron.
  • The squadron will operate in the western sector, including desert and high-threat operational areas.
  • The AH-64E Apache contract between India and the USA was signed in February 2020.
  • The first batch of three helicopters was delivered in July 2025.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Appointments Committee of the Cabinet Clears Second Term Extension of Ashwini Tewari as State Bank of India Managing Director Till 2027

  • The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the re-appointment of Ashwini Kumar Tewari as Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI).
  • The second extension is for a two-year term from 27 January 2026 to 31 December 2027.
  • Ashwini Kumar Tewari was initially appointed as SBI MD in January 2021 and received his first extension in 2024.
  • With this reappointment, SBI now has all four Managing Directors in place.
  • The current SBI MDs are Ashwini Kumar Tewari, Rana Ashutosh Kumar Singh, Rama Mohan Rao Amara, and Ravi Ranjan.
  • Ashwini Kumar Tewari began his banking career in 1991 as a Probationary Officer (PO) with SBI.
  • He has over 30 years of experience in State Bank of India, handling diverse leadership roles.
  • His key roles include Deputy General Manager (Operations & Information Technology), Head of International Banking Group, Mumbai, and Country Head of SBI USA.
  • He has also held senior leadership positions across East Asia, strengthening SBI’s international operations.
  • Prior to becoming SBI Managing Director, he served as MD & CEO of SBI Cards & Payment Services.

Shashwat Sharma to Take Over as Airtel India MD & CEO from January 2026 for Five-Year Term

  • Shashwat Sharma, currently Chief Operating Officer (COO) and CEO-designate, will become Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of Airtel India from 1 January 2026 for a five-year term, subject to shareholder approval.
  • Sharma will also be designated as a Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) of Bharti Airtel.
  • Gopal Vittal, currently Vice Chairman & MD, has been appointed Executive Vice Chairman and whole-time director from 1 January 2026 for a five-year term, subject to shareholder approval.
  • Soumen Ray (referred to as Somen Ray), the current Chief Financial Officer (CFO), has been appointed Group Chief Financial Officer.
  • Akhil Garg will assume the role of CFO for Airtel India.
  • The board approved changes in the compliance function, appointing Rohit Krishan Puri as Company Secretary and Compliance Officer effective 1 January 2026.
  • Pankaj Tewari will continue as Group Company Secretary, providing leadership and oversight at the group level.
  • The appointments were approved by Bharti Airtel’s Board on 18 December 2025, based on recommendations from the HR and Nomination Committee.
  • Gopal Vittal played a key role in leading Airtel through major challenges, including the entry of Reliance Jio in 2016, which reshaped India’s telecom sector.

About Bharti Airtel Limited :

  • It is an Indian multinational telecommunications company headquartered in New Delhi, operating in 18 countries across South Asia, Africa, and the Channel Islands.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Apple Launches Open-Source AI Model SHARP to Convert 2D Photos into Photorealistic 3D Scenes

  • Apple has released a new open-source AI model called SHARP, which can convert a single 2D photograph into a photorealistic 3D scene.
  • The model is detailed in the research paper titled “Sharp Monocular View Synthesis in Less Than a Second” and is publicly available on GitHub.
  • SHARP reconstructs a realistic 3D representation of a scene from just one image, allowing the scene to be viewed from slightly different angles while maintaining scale and depth consistency.
  • The model works by creating a lightweight 3D representation, which can be rendered in real-time from nearby viewpoints without generating a new image each time.
  • SHARP uses a 3D Gaussian representation, where millions of tiny points of colour and light combine to form a smooth and realistic 3D scene.
  • This approach produces smooth parallax effects, similar to natural head movement when viewing a real object.
  • Unlike earlier methods requiring multiple photos and slow per-scene optimisation, SHARP predicts the entire 3D structure from a single image in less than a second on a standard GPU.
  • The model complements Apple’s Spatial photos and depth effect features available on newer iPhone models like the iPhone 15 Pro and later.
  • By releasing SHARP as open-source, Apple enables researchers and developers to experiment and extend the model beyond its original scope.
  • Key advantages of SHARP include speed, ease of use, single-image 3D reconstruction, and the ability to generate realistic depth and parallax effects.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Jammu and Kashmir Hosts First-Ever International Indian Style Wrestling (Dangal) and Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir Title 2025

  • Jammu and Kashmir is hosting its first-ever International Indian Style Wrestling (Dangal) along with the Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir Title 2025 at Maulana Azad Stadium, Jammu, marking a major milestone for traditional sports in the Union Territory.
  • The mega event is one of the largest wrestling championships ever organised in Jammu and Kashmir, featuring over 100 national and international wrestlers.
  • The event is being held from 12 noon, with free entry for spectators, and includes open-category bouts and high-intensity competitive matches among elite wrestlers.
  • The championship features professional wrestlers from India, Iran, and other international wrestling nations, highlighting global participation and cultural exchange while providing international exposure to local wrestlers.
  • A key highlight of the event is the introduction of the Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir Title 2025, aimed at recognising excellence in traditional Indian wrestling.
  • The title is open to wrestlers above 85 kilograms, with the winner receiving ₹50,000 along with traditional Gurj (Gadda) and Patta, the runner-up ₹30,000, third place ₹20,000, and fourth place ₹15,000.
  • The championship is organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council with objectives to revive and promote traditional Dangal wrestling, encourage fitness and sportsmanship, strengthen unity and cultural pride, and provide a global platform for local talent.
  • The International Dangal event is expected to attract large crowds, boost sports tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, inspire youth to take up wrestling and physical fitness, and showcase the region’s rich wrestling heritage.
  • Indian Style Wrestling (Dangal) is one of India’s oldest sporting traditions, and hosting an international-level event reinforces its relevance in modern times while preserving cultural roots, making the event significant from both sports and cultural perspectives.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Pulitzer Prize–Winning Journalist Peter Arnett Passed away at 91 in California

  • Peter Arnett, a Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist, passed away at the age of 91 in California, United States of America (USA) on 17 December 2025.

About Peter Arnett :

  • He was born on 13 November 1934 in New Zealand.
  • He won the Pulitzer Prize (1966) for International Reporting for his Vietnam War coverage with The Associated Press (AP).
  • Peter Arnett was widely known for his frontline war reporting, covering major global conflicts over several decades.
  • He joined the Associated Press (AP) in 1961 and reported extensively from Indonesia and the Vietnam War (1962–1975).
  • In 1981, he joined CNN, where he gained global recognition for live reporting from Baghdad during the 1991 Gulf War.
  • He later covered the Second Gulf War (2003), further cementing his reputation as a conflict-zone correspondent.
  • Between 2007 and 2014, he served as a journalism faculty member at Shantou University, China.
  • He retired in 2014 and settled in Fountain Valley, California, USA.
  • His memoir, “Live From the Battlefield: From Vietnam to Baghdad, 35 Years in the World’s War Zones” (1995), chronicles 35 years of war reporting across global conflict zones.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

International Human Solidarity Day 2025 Observed on 20 December

  • International Human Solidarity Day 2025 is observed on 20 December to promote the spirit of solidarity, unity, and collective responsibility among nations and people.
  • The day is celebrated to raise awareness about the need for governments to honour their commitments to international agreements aimed at peace, development, and social justice.
  • It highlights the principle of “Unity in Diversity”, emphasising cooperation among different cultures, societies, and nations to address global challenges.
  • On 22 December 2005, the United Nations General Assembly recognised solidarity as one of the fundamental and enduring values of the twenty-first century by adopting Resolution 60/209.
  • As part of this initiative, the World Solidarity Fund was created to support efforts aimed at ending poverty and promoting social development, particularly in developing countries.
  • The declaration of International Human Solidarity Day helped propagate the idea that global problems such as poverty, inequality, and exclusion require shared responsibility and collective action by the international community.

Daily CA One- Liner: 20th December

  • According to the latest report by Bank of America Securities (BofA), India has emerged as the largest global hub for active users of Artificial Intelligence applications, leading the world in both Daily Active Users (DAUs) and Monthly Active Users
  • India’s labour market showed continued improvement in November 2025, as per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
  • Parliament has passed the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025, with the Rajya Sabha approving it, completing the legislative process after earlier approval by the Lok Sabha
  • The Odisha Government will host the Regional Artificial Intelligence Impact Conference from 19 to 20 December 2025, positioning the state as an emerging contributor to artificial intelligence–driven governance and public service delivery in India
  • Singapore’s Changi Airport has been named the World’s Best International Airport for 2025 at the Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025
  • India’s national carrier Air India has won the Best Domestic Airline title at the Travel + Leisure India and South Asia’s Best Awards 2025, marking its second consecutive win
  • Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been conferred Oman’s highest civilian honour, the First Class of the Order of Oman, during his official visit to Muscat, marking another major milestone in India’s diplomatic outreach
  • India and Saudi Arabia have signed a bilateral visa waiver agreement to simplify and facilitate official travel between the two countries
  • India and Oman have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a major milestone in India’s economic engagement with the Gulf region and reinforcing its strategy of forging high-quality trade agreements with non-competing economies
  • Jammu and Kashmir is hosting its first-ever International Indian Style Wrestling (Dangal) along with the Rustam-e-Jammu Kashmir Title 2025 at Maulana Azad Stadium, Jammu, marking a major milestone for traditional sports in the Union Territory.
  • The Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Bill, 2025 was passed by Parliament on 17 December 2025.
  • Google Pay partnered with Axis Bank Limited to launch the ‘Google Pay Flex Axis Bank Credit Card’, a UPI-enabled co-branded credit card on the RuPay network.
  • Bank of Baroda (BoB) has underwritten a $500 million, 5-year foreign currency term loan for OVL Overseas IFSC Limited (OOIL).
  • The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) approved a series of regulatory reforms at its 212th Board Meeting held in Mumbai, Maharashtra, to simplify regulations, reduce transaction costs, and enhance cost transparency.
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed restrictions on The Gauhati Cooperative Urban Bank due to its weak financial and liquidity position.
  • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) authorized Paytm Payments Services Limited (PPSL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of One 97 Communications Limited, to operate as a Payment Aggregator (PA) for offline (physical) payments and cross-border transactions.
  • Airtel Payments Bank partnered with NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited (NBBL), a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), to enable Electric Vehicle (EV) wallet recharges through Bharat Connect.
  • The 2nd edition of the joint military exercise “DESERT CYCLONE-II” between the Indian Army (IA) and the UAE Land Forces commenced at Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, and will continue till 30 December 2025.
  • Exercise AviaIndra-2025 is the 3rd edition of the bilateral air exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Russian Federation Aerospace Force (RFASF).
  • The Indian Army (IA) received the final batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing (USA) at Hindon Air Force Station, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
  • The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the re-appointment of Ashwini Kumar Tewari as Managing Director (MD) of State Bank of India (SBI).
  • Shashwat Sharma, currently Chief Operating Officer (COO) and CEO-designate, will become Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of Airtel India from 1 January 2026 for a five-year term, subject to shareholder approval.
  • Apple has released a new open-source AI model called SHARP, which can convert a single 2D photograph into a photorealistic 3D scene.
  • Peter Arnett, a Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist, passed away at the age of 91 in California, United States of America (USA) on 17 December 2025.
  • International Human Solidarity Day 2025 is observed on 20 December to promote the spirit of solidarity, unity, and collective responsibility among nations and people

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