Daily Current Affairs 02nd & 03rd November 2025 | Latest News | Download PDF

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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

India’s Goods and Services Tax Collections Rise 4.6% to ₹1.96 Lakh Crore in October

• India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections rose to ₹1.96 lakh crore in October 2025, marking a 4.6% year-on-year increase, though it was the slowest growth in 52 months.
• Despite slower growth, it was a five-month high in collections, with ₹1.89 lakh crore collected in September 2025.

Key Highlights :

• October 2025 marked the tenth consecutive month of GST revenues above ₹1.8 lakh crore, showing strong consumption and compliance.
• The growth rate slowed from 9.1% in September to 4.6% in October, largely due to recent GST rate restructuring.
• In August 2025, the government removed 12% and 28% GST slabs, moving 90% of goods to lower tax rates, simplifying the structure but temporarily moderating revenues.
• Net GST collections increased 0.6% to ₹1.69 lakh crore, while domestic revenues remained largely unchanged year-on-year.
• Net customs collections rose 2.5% to ₹37,210 crore, and refunds increased sharply — 26.5% (domestic) and 55.3% (customs) — reflecting faster claim clearance and better tax administration.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) expects GST rate cuts to boost consumption and investment, supporting economic recovery.
• The RBI revised India’s GDP growth forecast to 6.8% (from 6.5%), and the IMF raised its estimate to 6.6%, showing growing optimism about India’s economy.
• Stable GST inflows and tax rationalisation are expected to support fiscal stability and long-term growth.

Securities and Exchange Board of India  Revises Eligibility Norms for Derivatives on Non-Benchmark Indices to Curb Concentration Risk

• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has directed stock exchanges to adopt revised eligibility norms for derivatives on non-benchmark indices (like Bank Nifty, Bankex, and Fin Nifty) to reduce index concentration risk.
• The new norms require an index to have at least 14 constituents, with the top stock’s weight capped at 20% and the combined weight of the top three stocks capped at 45%.
• All constituent stocks must have descending weights, ensuring a balanced representation within the index.
• Rebalancing deadlines:
• Bankex (BSE) and Fin Nifty (NSE) — by December 31, 2025.
• Bank Nifty (NSE) — in phases until March 31, 2026 for smoother fund transition.
• Exchanges and clearing corporations must update systems, notify market participants, and amend rules and bye-laws to implement SEBI’s new norms effectively.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Inaugurates Newly Constructed CGST Bhawan in Ghaziabad

• Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the newly constructed Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Bhawan at Rani Jhansi Marg, Ghaziabad.
• The ₹116-crore complex brings together the CGST Ghaziabad Commissionerate, CGST Audit Commissionerate, CGST Appeals Commissionerate, and Pay & Accounts Office under one roof to ensure administrative synergy and operational efficiency.
• The new state-of-the-art green building has two basements and seven floors spread across 21 acres, with parking space for nearly 300 vehicles.
• It features eco-friendly systems such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting, and has received the GRIHA Five-Star Award for sustainable design.
• The building includes GST Sewa Kendra, Taxpayers’ Lounge, and Digital Kiosks, reflecting modern, citizen-oriented administration.
• The new CGST Bhawan as a symbol of modern India’s commitment to good governance, where infrastructure meets innovation and efficiency aligns with empathy.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Lucknow Recognised as UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially recognised Lucknow as part of its Creative Cities Network (UCCN) under the “City of Gastronomy” category.
  • This recognition celebrates the city’s centuries-old culinary heritage, rooted in Awadhi cuisine and the region’s Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb, symbolising the harmonious blend of Hindu and Muslim cultures.
  • The announcement was made during the 43rd UNESCO General Conference held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
  • This marks a historic milestone for Lucknow and strengthens India’s cultural diplomacy by placing the city among the world’s leading gastronomic destinations.
• The Directorate of Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh, prepared the nomination dossier, which was submitted to the Ministry of Culture on 31st January 2025.
  • India officially nominated Lucknow for the “City of Gastronomy” title on 3rd March 2025.
  • The dossier showcased the city’s culinary diversity, innovation, and sustainable food traditions, reflecting a joint effort by the state government, local chefs, artisans, and heritage experts to promote Lucknow’s food legacy globally.
• Lucknow’s selection is deeply inspired by its royal Awadhi cuisine, known for timeless recipes and refined culinary techniques.
  • The nomination featured traditional delicacies such as Galouti Kebab, Tunday Kebab, Nihari-Kulcha, Puri-Kachori, Tokri Chaat, Malai Gilori, and Makhan Malai, representing the city’s composite culinary identity.
• The UNESCO “City of Gastronomy” tag will:

• Promote sustainable and cultural tourism.
• Support local chefs, artisans, and small food enterprises.
• Help preserve traditional cooking practices.
• Enhance India’s global culinary image and soft power diplomacy.
• Encourage innovation and collaboration with other UNESCO Creative Cities.

• This achievement reinforces India’s global standing as a hub of diverse and sustainable culinary traditions, bridging heritage and innovation.

Other Indian Cities in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)

• With Lucknow’s inclusion, India now has nine cities in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, and Lucknow becomes India’s second City of Gastronomy after Hyderabad.
• The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), established in 2004, promotes cities that use culture, creativity, and innovation as key elements for sustainable urban development.
  • It covers fields such as Music, Film, Literature, Design, Gastronomy, Crafts and Folk Art, and Media Arts, comprising over 350 cities across 100+ countries.
  • The network encourages international cooperation, knowledge sharing, and policy innovation for culturally driven economic growth.

RECENT NEWS

• In a major leap toward strategic material independence, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Titanium and Superalloy Materials Plant at the Strategic Materials Technology Complex of PTC Industries in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

About Uttar Pradesh:

• Chief Minister: Yogi Adityanath
• Governor: Anandiben Patel
• Capital: Lucknow
• National Parks: Dudhwa National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary, Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary (Shahid Chandra Shekhar Azad Bird Sanctuary), Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranipur Wildlife

State Formation Day 2025 – Karnataka, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh Celebrate Their Foundation Day on November 1

• Every year on November 1, five Indian states — Karnataka, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh — celebrate their State Formation Day, marking their establishment and progress as individual states.
• The day celebrates each state’s unique culture, unity, development, and pride, with citizens participating in parades, cultural programs, and official ceremonies.
• Karnataka observes Kannada Rajyotsava, marking the formation of the state in 1956. The Kannada-speaking regions were merged to form the state of Mysore, later renamed Karnataka in 1973. The day is celebrated with flag hoisting, parades, and the presentation of Rajyotsava Awards to individuals for excellence in various fields.
• Kerala celebrates Kerala Piravi Dinam (“Birth of Kerala”) on November 1, commemorating the merger of Malabar, Cochin, and Travancore in 1956 to form Kerala. Known for its backwaters, greenery, and Ayurvedic traditions, the state celebrates with traditional attire, cultural performances, and regional pride.
• Chhattisgarh was formed on November 1, 2000, after being separated from Madhya Pradesh. Known for its tribal culture, natural beauty, temples, and mineral wealth, Chhattisgarh celebrates the day with folk music, dance, and cultural events across its 27 districts and five divisions — Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Bastar, and Surguja.
• Haryana, created on November 1, 1966, after its separation from Punjab, is known as the “Land of Courage and Prosperity.” Historically significant for Kurukshetra and the battles of Panipat, Haryana today is one of India’s most industrialized and prosperous states, contributing to the Green Revolution and housing major IT and business hubs like Gurugram.
• Madhya Pradesh, formed on November 1, 1956, is called the “Heart of India” due to its central location. It is India’s second-largest state by area and the sixth-largest by population, with 51 districts and 10 divisions. The state is known for its rich cultural heritage, UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Khajuraho Temples, and national parks such as Kanha and Bandhavgarh.

National Marine Fisheries Census (MFC) 2025 Launched as India’s First Fully Digitised Fisheries Census

• The Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, launched the household enumeration phase of the National Marine Fisheries Census (MFC) 2025 at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) – Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi.
• The MFC 2025 marks a historic milestone as India’s first fully digitised fisheries census, integrating modern technology and real-time monitoring to gather accurate data from marine fishing communities nationwide.
• The 45-day enumeration exercise will be conducted from 3rd November to 18th December 2025, covering:

• Over 1.2 million fisher households
• Around 4,000 marine fishing villages
• Across nine coastal States and four Union Territories

• Thousands of trained field personnel will ensure comprehensive and precise data collection from the grassroots level.
• The Minister highlighted the importance of registering all fishermen and fish workers on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) — a mandatory requirement to avail benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY).
• The 2025 census introduces a fully digital data collection system through two mobile applications — VyAS Bharat and VyAS Sutra, developed by CMFRI, enabling:

• Real-time data collection
• Geo-referencing of fishing villages
• Instant verification and centralised monitoring

• The Department of Fisheries (DoF) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying is coordinating the census as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
• The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) serves as the nodal agency, while the Fishery Survey of India (FSI) acts as the operational partner.

RECENT NEWS

• Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying  Dr. L Murugan has recently said that India stands third in the world in terms of fish production. India is the 3rd largest fish producing and 2nd largest aquaculture nation in the world after China.

About Kerala:

• Chief Minister: Pinarayi Vijayan
• Governor: Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
• Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
• National Parks: Eravikulam National Park, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Silent Valley National Park, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Chilika Lake Wildlife Sanctuary

Eklavya Model Residential Schools to Celebrate Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada (1st–15th November 2025) Honouring Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s 150th Birth Anniversary

• The Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) under the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), Ministry of Tribal Affairs, will observe Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada from 1st to 15th November 2025.
• The celebrations will culminate with Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas on 15th November 2025, commemorating the 150th Birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the legendary tribal freedom fighter and revered leader.
• The initiative aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, emphasizing the importance of honouring India’s tribal heroes and empowering tribal youth through education, cultural awareness, and heritage promotion.
• The Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada aims to:

• Celebrate the legacy and contributions of tribal freedom fighters.
• Inspire students through tribal art, culture, and heritage.
• Promote unity, pride, and cultural awareness among tribal communities.
• Encourage creativity and participation among tribal students across India.

• The celebrations will culminate on 15th November 2025 with the grand observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, paying tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, popularly known as “Dharti Aaba” (Father of the Earth), who led a valiant struggle against British colonial rule and fought for tribal rights and dignity.
• The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, manages the EMRS network, providing quality education, holistic development, and cultural preservation for tribal children.
• Through initiatives like Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada, NESTS seeks to instill pride, identity, and empowerment among tribal students, aligning with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Lucknow Named UNESCO Creative City for Its Rich and Diverse Culinary Heritage

• Lucknow has been officially designated as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Creative City of Gastronomy at the 43rd UNESCO General Conference held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, recognizing its rich and diverse culinary heritage rooted in Awadhi cuisine and Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb.
• With this recognition, Lucknow becomes the second Indian city after Hyderabad to receive the City of Gastronomy tag and joins a global network of 70 gastronomy cities worldwide.

Key Highlights :

• UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay announced the inclusion of 58 new cities into the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), which now comprises 408 cities across more than 100 countries.
• The Directorate of Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh, prepared the nomination dossier, which was submitted to the Ministry of Culture on 31 January 2025; India officially nominated Lucknow for the tag on 3 March 2025.
• The recognition celebrates Lucknow’s traditional dishes, including Galouti Kebab, Tunday Kebab, Nihari-Kulcha, Puri-Kachori, Tokri Chaat, Malai Gilori, and Makhan Malai, representing the city’s royal culinary heritage and composite culture.
• The ‘City of Gastronomy’ title will help promote sustainable and cultural tourism, support local food businesses, preserve traditional recipes, and strengthen India’s cultural diplomacy and soft power
• The title also encourages knowledge exchange and innovation with other UNESCO Creative Cities, reinforcing India’s image as a global culinary hub.
• With Lucknow’s inclusion, India now has 9 cities in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) — Jaipur (Crafts and Folk Art, 2015), Varanasi (Music, 2015), Chennai (Music, 2017), Mumbai (Film, 2019), Hyderabad (Gastronomy, 2019), Srinagar (Crafts and Folk Art, 2021), Gwalior (Music, 2023), Kozhikode (Literature, 2023), and Lucknow (Gastronomy, 2025).

About UCCN :

• The UCCN, established in 2004, promotes cities that use culture, creativity, and innovation as drivers of sustainable urban development, covering seven fields — Music, Film, Literature, Design, Gastronomy, Crafts and Folk Art, and Media Arts.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

Sahitya Akademi Releases Hindi Translation of Lithuanian Novel “The Last Day” as “Antim Din”

• Sahitya Akademi, under the Ministry of Culture, released the Hindi translation of the acclaimed Lithuanian novel “The Last Day”, titled “Antim Din”, at Rabindra Bhawan, New Delhi, in collaboration with the Embassy of Lithuania.
• The 250-page novel, originally written by Lithuanian-Ukrainian author Jaroslavas Melnikas, has been translated into Hindi by Dr. Poonam Tiwari to make the work accessible to Indian readers.

Key Highlights

• The release marks a major milestone in Indo-Lithuanian cultural and literary relations, strengthening mutual understanding through global literature.
• Jaroslavas Melnikas, known for his existential and philosophical writings, explores themes of human identity, change, and cultural transformation in the novel, prompting deep reflection on life and society.
• This Hindi translation represents the first-ever translation of a Lithuanian fiction work into Hindi, marking a significant achievement for both nations in cross-cultural literary collaboration.
• The launch event was attended by literary figures, diplomats, and scholars. Sahitya Akademi President Madhav Kaushik described it as a historic occasion for Hindi literature, emphasizing the Akademi’s goal to bring world literature closer to Indian readers by overcoming linguistic barriers.
• The event underscored the growing cultural partnership between India and Lithuania, highlighting how literature serves as a bridge between nations and fosters creative and intellectual exchange.
• Through this initiative, the Sahitya Akademi continues to promote global literary harmony, encouraging translations of international works into Indian languages to inspire readers to explore diverse cultures, perspectives, and shared human experiences.

Union Health Ministry Achieves Three Guinness World Records under ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan’

• The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has created history by achieving three Guinness World Records™ titles under the nationwide ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan (SNSPA)’ campaign, showcasing India’s global leadership in preventive, digital, and women-centric healthcare.
• The campaign was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 17th September to 2nd October 2025, coinciding with the observance of Poshan Maah (Nutrition Month).

Key Highlights

• Guinness World Records Titles Achieved:
  • Most people to register for a healthcare platform in one month – 3,21,49,711 (over 3.21 crore)
  • Most people to sign up for a breast cancer screening online in one week – 9,94,349 (over 9.94 lakh)
  • Most people to sign up for vital signs screening online in one week (state level) – 1,25,406 (over 1.25 lakh)
• The Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan focuses on improving the health and nutrition of women, adolescent girls, and children, promoting early detection of diseases, and ensuring access to essential health services while empowering families through awareness and healthy lifestyle practices.
• The campaign achieved record-breaking national participation, including:
  • 19.7 lakh health camps organized across India
  • Over 11 crore footfalls recorded across healthcare platforms
  • Participation from 20+ ministries and departments
  • Collaboration with medical colleges, private institutions, Members of Parliament (MPs), Members of Legislative Assemblies (MLAs), and local bodies
• Community engagement was extensive, with participation from:
  • 5 lakh Panchayati Raj representatives
  • 1.14 crore students
  • 94 lakh Self-Help Group (SHG) members
  • 5 lakh community organization members
• The campaign led to significant health outcomes, including:
  • 1.78 crore hypertension screenings
  • 1.73 crore diabetes screenings
  • 69.5 lakh oral cancer screenings
  • 62.6 lakh antenatal care check-ups
  • 1.43 crore vaccination doses administered
  • 1.51 crore anaemia tests conducted
  • 85.9 lakh women screened for Tuberculosis (TB)
  • 10.2 lakh people screened for sickle cell disease
  • 2.14 crore individuals participated in counselling and wellness sessions
  • 2.68 lakh Nikshay Mitra volunteers registered
• Through a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society approach, the Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan has emerged as one of the largest community health initiatives globally, reinforcing India’s commitment to inclusive and preventive healthcare.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Raj Kumar Arora Assumes Charge as Financial Advisor (Defence Services)

• Shri Raj Kumar Arora, a 1990-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS), assumed charge as Financial Advisor (Defence Services) [FADS] on November 1, 2025.
• He has extensive experience in defence acquisition, financial policy, accounting, audit, budgeting, and personnel management.
• Before this appointment, he served as the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA).
• He has also held key posts including Additional Secretary, Union Public Service Commission (UPSC); Finance Manager (Air) in the Acquisition Wing, Ministry of Defence; and Director, Ministry of Finance.
• Shri Arora also served as Member (Finance) in the erstwhile Ordnance Factory Board and as Integrated Financial Advisor in various Commands and field offices of the Defence Accounts Department.

Dr. Deepak Mittal Assumes Charge as India’s Ambassador-Designate to the United Arab Emirates

• Dr. Deepak Mittal has assumed charge as Ambassador-Designate of India to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on October 30, 2025.
• He is a 1998-batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer with over two decades of diplomatic experience across key global postings.
• Mittal has served in Indian missions in Egypt, Israel, and Bangladesh, and was also the Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City.
• He previously served as India’s Ambassador to Qatar, where he played a key role in strengthening bilateral relations.
• At the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), he has held important positions, including head of the Consular Affairs Division and desk in charge of India’s relations with Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran.
• Mittal has also served in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) twice — first as Director and later as Additional Secretary, contributing to India’s foreign policy and strategic affairs.

Vishvajit Sahay Assumes Charge as Controller General of Defence Accounts

• Shri Vishvajit Sahay, a 1990-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS), assumed charge as the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) on November 01, 2025.
• He brings over three decades of experience in defence finance and public administration.
• He has served as Additional Secretary and Financial Adviser in the Department of Science and Technology.
• He also held the position of Joint Secretary in the Department of Heavy Industry.
• He worked as Finance Manager (Acquisition Wing) in the Ministry of Defence.
• Within the Defence Accounts Department, he has served as Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions), Prayagraj, Joint CGDA, and Special CGDA.
• He has represented India at international training forums including Cambridge University, UK, and the George C. Marshall European Centre for Security Studies, Germany.

Wildlife Trust of India Founder Vivek Menon Elected Chair of IUCN Species Survival Commission

• Vivek Menon, founder of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), has been elected as the new Chair of the Species Survival Commission (SSC) of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
• He is the first Asian ever to hold this prestigious global conservation position.
• The announcement was made during the IUCN World Congress held in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
• The Species Survival Commission (SSC) is one of IUCN’s six expert commissions, responsible for advising on biodiversity and species conservation.
• The SSC and its specialist groups maintain the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the world’s most authoritative inventory on the extinction risk of species.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

India to Host Historic Maritime Convergence Featuring International Fleet Review 2026, MILAN 2026, and Indian Ocean Naval Symposium Chiefs’ Conclave

• India will host three major international maritime events simultaneously, the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, Exercise MILAN 2026, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs — at Visakhapatnam from 15–25 February 2026, marking a historic first for the nation.
• The events will realize Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s MAHASAGAR vision — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — extending the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) philosophy to a global maritime framework.
• The Presidential Fleet Review will showcase India’s indigenous naval strength, featuring platforms like INS Vikrant, Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, Nilgiri-class stealth frigates, and Arnala-class ASW corvettes, underscoring India’s rise as a ‘Builder’s Navy’.

Key Highlights :

• Exercise MILAN 2026 will include Sea and Harbour Phases, focusing on interoperability, anti-submarine warfare, air defence, and search-and-rescue operations, along with an International City Parade at RK Beach involving the Indian Navy, Army, and Air Force.
• The International Maritime Seminar will convene strategists, defence officials, academics, and industry experts to deliberate on maritime cooperation, technology, and HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief).
• During the IONS Conclave of Chiefs, India will assume IONS Chairmanship (2025–2027) for the second time, engaging 25 member navies, 9 observers, and special invitee nations to strengthen maritime security, disaster response, and information sharing.
• The 2026 convergence highlights India’s commitment to free, open, and inclusive seas, aligned with key frameworks such as MAHASAGAR, the Act East Policy, IONS, and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).
• Visakhapatnam, home to the Eastern Naval Command, will serve as the host city for the global maritime gathering, symbolizing India’s position as a Preferred Security Partner and hub of maritime diplomacy.
• Background:
• IFR began in 2001 (Mumbai) and reached global prominence in 2016 (Visakhapatnam).
• Exercise MILAN, launched in 1995 at Port Blair, has evolved into a major multilateral naval exercise with wide global participation.
• India’s IONS Chairmanship reinforces its leadership in regional maritime cooperation.

Raksha Mantri and US Defence Secretary Hold Bilateral Meeting on Sidelines of 12th ADMM-Plus in Kuala Lumpur

• India and the United States signed the Framework for the US–India Major Defence Partnership 2025 in Kuala Lumpur during a bilateral meeting between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).
• The 10-year framework aims to provide a unified vision and policy direction to deepen bilateral defence cooperation, marking a new phase in strategic ties between India and the US.
• Rajnath Singh emphasized that the agreement signifies growing strategic convergence and will strengthen cooperation for a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
• The new framework builds upon previous key defence pacts, including:
• LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement) – signed in 2016
• COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) – signed in 2018
• BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement) – signed in 2020
• The agreement marks a continuation and expansion of the India–US strategic defence partnership, despite recent tariff-related tensions between the two countries.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

China Launches Shenzhou-21 Mission Carrying Youngest Astronaut and Lab Mice to Tiangong Space Station

• China successfully launched the Shenzhou-21 spacecraft from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in the Gobi Desert, marking a major milestone in its growing space programme.
• The spacecraft was launched aboard a Long March-2F rocket and will dock with the Tiangong Space Station within hours of launch.
• The crew members include Commander Zhang Lu, Engineer Wu Fei, and Specialist Zhang Hongzhang, who will stay in orbit for six months to conduct scientific research and maintenance work.

Key Highlights :

• Wu Fei (32 years old) became China’s youngest astronaut in space, representing the new generation of space explorers and highlighting China’s focus on training young talent for future lunar and planetary missions.
• The mission carries four laboratory mice (two male and two female) for China’s first in-orbit biological experiment involving rodents, to study microgravity’s effects on the body and reproduction of mammals—vital for long-duration space travel.
• Astronauts will also perform spacewalks, install anti-debris shields, and engage in science outreach activities to inspire Chinese students.
• The mission aligns with President Xi Jinping’s “space dream”, aimed at making China a global space power and preparing for a crewed Moon mission by 2030.
• China has achieved major milestones including the Chang’e-4 lunar far-side landing (2019) and the Mars rover deployment (2021), with the Tiangong Space Station (completed in 2022) serving as a permanent orbital base.
• Since being excluded from the International Space Station (ISS) in 2011, China has built an independent space platform and developed space cooperation with countries like Pakistan.
• The Shenzhou-21 mission reinforces China’s scientific capability, technological advancement, and growing role in global space exploration.

Tata and Airbus to Establish H125 Helicopter Assembly Line in Karnataka’s Vemagal; First India-Made H125 Expected by Early 2027

• Vemagal in Kolar district, Karnataka has been selected as the site for the Final Assembly Line (FAL) of Airbus’s H125 helicopter, to be established by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) — marking India’s first private-sector helicopter manufacturing line.
• The project was announced during French President Emmanuel Macron’s 2024 Republic Day visit, highlighting India–France defence cooperation and boosting India’s aircraft manufacturing ecosystem.
• The H125 helicopter, primarily a civil helicopter, will also have a military variant (H125M) for the Indian Armed Forces, aimed at replacing aging Cheetah and Chetak helicopters with higher levels of indigenisation.
• The first Made-in-India H125 is expected to be delivered by early 2027, with the facility catering to both domestic and regional markets.
• The “Made in India” H125 will expand civil and para-public helicopter use in emergency medical services, disaster response, law enforcement, and tourism, supporting India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) vision.

Pravaig Unveils ‘VEER’, India’s First All-Electric Military Vehicle for Defence Use

• India has taken a major step toward self-reliance in defence technology with the development of the Pravaig VEER EV, an all-electric military vehicle created by Pravaig Dynamics, a Bengaluru-based company.

Key Highlights :

• The Pravaig VEER EV is designed for the Indian Armed Forces and combines stealth capabilities, high terrain mobility, and quick field-repair readiness, making it ideal for modern military operations.
• It is engineered for stealth missions and performs effectively across deserts, mountains, and forests, showcasing its all-terrain capability.
• The VEER EV recently won the iDEX (Innovation for Defence Excellence) Award, a recognition for groundbreaking indigenous defence innovation by the Government of India.
• The vehicle’s successful military trials confirm its readiness for real-world deployment, advancing the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) by reducing dependence on imported defence equipment.
• The VEER EV operates silently with low noise and heat output, enabling covert and undetectable missions in hostile environments.
• Its quick field-repair capability allows soldiers to maintain mission continuity even during complex operations.
• The vehicle is fully indigenously developed, reflecting a significant role of private firms in military research and development, and supporting the Make in India mission.
• The VEER EV enhances tactical superiority by providing a stealthy, fast-deploying electric platform suitable for asymmetric warfare, where speed and surprise are critical.
• It offers cost and energy efficiency, reducing fuel dependency, operational expenses, and maintenance needs, vital for sustained defence missions.
• The VEER EV is expected to enter full-scale deployment within 12 to 24 months, supported by the government’s defence innovation policies and recognition through awards.

All India Council for Technical Education Partners with IBM to Launch National Artificial Intelligence Lab in New Delhi

• The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has partnered with IBM to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab at its headquarters.
• The initiative aims to provide students and faculty across India’s technical education ecosystem with training and exposure in emerging technologies.
• The AI Lab will act as a central hub for upskilling in AI, data science, and related domains, focusing on hands-on learning and certification.
• The collaboration seeks to equip thousands of students and teachers with practical AI competencies, building a future-ready workforce for India.
• Managing Director, IBM India & South Asia : Sandip Patel

CURRENT AFFAIRS : ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

International Holding Company Seeks Competition Commission of India Approval to Acquire 43.46% Stake in Sammaan Capital for USD 1 Billion

• Abu Dhabi-based International Holding Company (IHC) has sought approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to acquire a 46% stake in Sammaan Capital for USD 1 billion (around ₹8,850 crore).
• The investment will be made through IHC’s affiliate, Avenir Investment RSC Ltd, marking a major strategic move by IHC into India’s financial services sector.
• The proposed transaction involves the acquisition of shares of Sammaan Capital Ltd by Avenir Investment RSC Ltd.
• This deal represents the largest-ever primary capital infusion by an investor in an Indian non-banking financial company (NBFC).
• Sammaan Capital, formerly known as Indiabulls Housing Finance, is an RBI-registered non-deposit-taking NBFC classified as an Investment and Credit Company (Upper Layer).
• The company will raise funds through the issue of preferential shares to Avenir Investment RSC Ltd.
• CEO and Managing Director of Sammaan Capital : Gagan Banga

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

Reliance Industries Limited and Google Partner to Transform India’s Artificial Intelligence Landscape

• Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and Google have announced a strategic partnership to strengthen India’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem by focusing on accessibility, local language development, and national AI infrastructure.
• The partnership supports India’s vision of “AI for All”, ensuring the benefits of AI reach every citizen and sector of society.

Key Highlights

• Under this initiative, Jio users aged 18 to 25 years will receive 18 months of free access to Google Gemini Pro, an advanced AI platform worth ₹35,100 per user, empowering young Indians to explore AI in their daily lives.
• This initiative mirrors Reliance’s earlier efforts in democratizing internet and smartphone access, now extended to making AI tools more inclusive and affordable.
• Reliance and Google will develop AI models tailored for Indian languages and dialects, addressing language barriers and ensuring AI tools are accessible to users across linguistic backgrounds.
• For businesses, the partnership will introduce the Gemini Enterprise Suite, featuring ready-to-use AI agents for sectors such as retail, finance, and manufacturing. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will benefit from these tools without needing heavy investments in hardware or expert manpower.
• The collaboration between Reliance Cloud and Google Cloud will simplify AI adoption for enterprises and startups, fostering innovation and efficiency in operations.
• As part of the alliance, Google will deploy Tensor Processing Units (TPUs) within Reliance’s cloud infrastructure in India to build domestic AI compute capacity. These data centers will be partially powered by Reliance’s green energy, promoting sustainable and energy-efficient AI growth.
• The initiative also aligns with India’s goal of data sovereignty, reducing reliance on foreign AI infrastructures and ensuring local data security and self-reliance.
• The infrastructure will support startups, universities, and research institutions, encouraging innovation and collaboration in AI research and development.
• Experts view this partnership as a potential turning point for India’s digital economy, expected to create new job opportunities, enhance AI-based skill development, and support small business innovation.
• The collaboration reflects a broader public-private cooperation model essential for building national AI capabilities and positioning India as a global leader in emerging technologies.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

Tamil Nadu’s Ilamparthi AR Becomes India’s 90th Chess Grandmaster

• 16-year-old Ilamparthi AR from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has become India’s 90th Grandmaster (GM) after securing his final GM norm at the Bijeljina Open held in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Born in 2009, Ilamparthi is a student of Velammal School, an institution renowned for nurturing top chess talents such as D. Gukesh and R. Praggnanandhaa.
  • He trains under Grandmaster Shyam Sundar M, who has played a key role in shaping his career.
• Ilamparthi achieved his:

• First GM norm at the Ha Noi Tournament (Vietnam, December 2023).
• Second GM norm at the Singapore International Open (2024).
• Crossed 2500 Elo rating during the Rilton Cup (2024–25).
• Final GM norm at the Bijeljina Open (Bosnia), completing the requirements for the Grandmaster title, the highest title in chess.

• His success showcases Tamil Nadu’s strong chess ecosystem, supported by dedicated schools, academies, and mentorship programs that continue to produce world-class players.
• In 2022, Dutch Grandmaster Anish Giri donated his Death Match prize money to support Ilamparthi’s training, recognising his early potential and talent.
• With Ilamparthi’s achievement, Tamil Nadu reaffirms its position as the chess powerhouse of India, having produced multiple GMs and international champions who have elevated India’s status in the global chess arena.
• His achievement serves as an inspiration for young chess aspirants, strengthening India’s pursuit of becoming a dominant force in world chess.

FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 Trophy Renamed as Viswanathan Anand Cup

• In a historic moment for Indian sports, the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 trophy has been officially renamed as the Viswanathan Anand Cup, honouring India’s first Grandmaster and five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand for his extraordinary contribution to global chess.
• The announcement was made during a ceremony held in Panjim, Goa, attended by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, and FIDE (International Chess Federation) President Arkady Dvorkovich.

Key Highlights

• The FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 will feature top international chess players, with key Indian participants including D. Gukesh and R. Praggnanandhaa, who will represent India at the global level.
• Notably, Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura have opted out of the tournament this year.
• Divya Deshmukh, the reigning World Women’s Chess Cup Champion, conducted the official draw of lots for the event.
• The tournament will host 206 players from 80 countries, competing in eight knockout rounds of classical games.
• Viswanathan Anand, popularly known as the “Tiger of Madras”, became India’s first Grandmaster in 1988 and went on to win five World Chess Championships, inspiring a new generation of Indian chess prodigies including Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Nihal Sarin.
• The renaming of the trophy to the Viswanathan Anand Cup serves as a global tribute to Anand’s legacy and his pivotal role in establishing India as a powerhouse in world chess.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

TTK Prestige Chairman Emeritus T. T. Jagannathan Passed Away

• TTK Prestige announced the passing of its Chairman Emeritus, T. T. Jagannathan, on October 9, 2025, marking a major loss for the company.
• T. Jagannathan personally held 42,41,868 equity shares (3.10%) of TTK Prestige and had a 3% partnership share in M/s T. T. Krishnamachari & Co., which owns 60.44% of the company.
• A veteran industrialist, T.T. Jagannathan played a pivotal role in transforming TTK Prestige into one of India’s leading kitchen and home appliance brands.

Daily CA One- Liner: 2^nd & 3^rd November

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially recognised Lucknow as part of its Creative Cities Network (UCCN) under the “City of Gastronomy” category
• Every year on November 1, five Indian states — Karnataka, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh — celebrate their State Formation Day, marking their establishment and progress as individual states.
• The Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian, launched the household enumeration phase of the National Marine Fisheries Census (MFC) 2025 at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) – Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi.
• The Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) under the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), Ministry of Tribal Affairs, will observe Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada from 1st to 15th November 2025
• Sahitya Akademi, under the Ministry of Culture, released the Hindi translation of the acclaimed Lithuanian novel “The Last Day”, titled “Antim Din”, at Rabindra Bhawan, New Delhi, in collaboration with the Embassy of Lithuania
• The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has created history by achieving three Guinness World Records™ titles under the nationwide ‘Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan (SNSPA)’ campaign, showcasing India’s global leadership in preventive, digital, and women-centric healthcare.
• Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and Google have announced a strategic partnership to strengthen India’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem by focusing on accessibility, local language development, and national AI infrastructure
• 16-year-old Ilamparthi AR from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has become India’s 90th Grandmaster (GM) after securing his final GM norm at the Bijeljina Open held in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• In a historic moment for Indian sports, the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 trophy has been officially renamed as the Viswanathan Anand Cup, honouring India’s first Grandmaster and five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand for his extraordinary contribution to global chess.
• India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections rose to ₹1.96 lakh crore in October 2025, marking a 4.6% year-on-year increase, though it was the slowest growth in 52 months.
• The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has directed stock exchanges to adopt revised eligibility norms for derivatives on non-benchmark indices (like Bank Nifty, Bankex, and Fin Nifty) to reduce index concentration risk.
• Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the newly constructed Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Bhawan at Rani Jhansi Marg, Ghaziabad.
• Lucknow has been officially designated as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Creative City of Gastronomy at the 43rd UNESCO General Conference held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, recognizing its rich and diverse culinary heritage rooted in Awadhi cuisine and Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb.
• Shri Raj Kumar Arora, a 1990-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS), assumed charge as Financial Advisor (Defence Services) [FADS] on November 1, 2025.
• Dr.Deepak Mittal has assumed charge as Ambassador-Designate of India to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on October 30, 2025.
• Shri Vishvajit Sahay, a 1990-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS), assumed charge as the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) on November 01, 2025.
• Vivek Menon, founder of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), has been elected as the new Chair of the Species Survival Commission (SSC) of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
• India will host three major international maritime events simultaneously, the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, Exercise MILAN 2026, and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs — at Visakhapatnam from 15–25 February 2026, marking a historic first for the nation.
• India and the United States signed the Framework for the US–India Major Defence Partnership 2025 in Kuala Lumpur during a bilateral meeting between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).
• China successfully launched the Shenzhou-21 spacecraft from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in the Gobi Desert, marking a major milestone in its growing space programme.
• Vemagal in Kolar district, Karnataka has been selected as the site for the Final Assembly Line (FAL) of Airbus’s H125 helicopter, to be established by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) — marking India’s first private-sector helicopter manufacturing line.
• India has taken a major step toward self-reliance in defence technology with the development of the Pravaig VEER EV, an all-electric military vehicle created by Pravaig Dynamics, a Bengaluru-based company.
• The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has partnered with IBM to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab at its headquarters.
• Abu Dhabi-based International Holding Company (IHC) has sought approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to acquire a 43.46% stake in Sammaan Capital for USD 1 billion (around ₹8,850 crore).
• TTK Prestige announced the passing of its Chairman Emeritus, T. T. Jagannathan, on October 9, 2025, marking a major loss for the company.

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