Daily Current Affairs 28th October 2025 | Latest News | Download PDF

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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Reserve Bank of India Exempts Special Window for Affordable and Mid-Income Housing Fund from Tightened AIF Regulations

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted an exemption to the Special Window for Affordable and Mid-Income Housing (SWAMIH) Fund from tightened Alternate Investment Fund (AIF) rules.
• SWAMIH Fund, launched in 2019, is a government-backed real estate rescue fund that provides debt financing to revive stalled housing projects in affordable and mid-income segments.
• The fund is managed by SBICAP Ventures, a subsidiary of the State Bank of India (SBI), which is also a major investor in the scheme.
• The RBI’s tightened AIF rules (2024) required banks and NBFCs to raise provisions if they were also lenders to the same projects, aiming to prevent indirect lending and loan ever-greening.
• The norms were partially relaxed in March 2025, but the government sought complete exemption for sovereign-backed funds like SWAMIH, citing their “socio-economic purpose.”
• Under the general AIF framework, a single regulated entity’s exposure is capped at 10% of the fund’s corpus, and combined exposure by all lenders at 20%, but these limits do not apply to SWAMIH.

World Bank Sanctions USD 280 Million Project to Enhance Health and Longevity of 11 Million People in Kerala

• The World Bank has approved a USD 280 million programme to improve life expectancy and quality of life for 11 million elderly and vulnerable people in Kerala.
• The Kerala Health System Improvement Program aims to expand health coverage and build resilient health systems against climate shocks.
• The programme focuses on enhancing digital health systems, including eHealth services, integrated data platforms, and cybersecurity improvements.
• The IBRD loan carries a 25-year maturity with a five-year grace period.
• The initiative targets treatment and support for over 90% of hypertension and diabetes patients through individual electronic tracking systems.

About World Bank:

• Founded Year: 1944
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States
• President: Ajay Banga
• Members:189 countries

RBI FAQs-UDGAM Portal

• UDGAM (Unclaimed Deposits – Gateway to Access inforMation) is an online portal developed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to allow registered users to search unclaimed deposits or accounts across multiple banks in one place in a centralised manner.

Key Highlights :

• As of March 4, 2024, 30 banks have been on-boarded to the UDGAM portal, covering about 90% of unclaimed deposits (in value terms) in the Depositor Education and Awareness (DEA) Fund of the RBI, while the remaining banks are in the process of being added.
• The UDGAM portal covers all unclaimed deposits/accounts that form part of the DEA Fund Scheme, 2014.
• To search for unclaimed deposits, a user must register on the portal using their name and mobile number.
• For individuals, required inputs include the account holder’s name, bank name(s), and any one or more of the following — Permanent Account Number (PAN), Driving Licence Number, Voter ID Number, Passport Number, or Date of Birth.
• For non-individuals, users must provide the entity name, bank name(s), and any one or more of the following — Authorised Signatory Name, PAN, Corporate Identification Number (CIN), or Date of Incorporation.
• If none of these details are available, the address of the account holder or entity may be entered to conduct the search.
• The UDGAM portal does not allow users to claim or settle unclaimed deposits It only enables the search of unclaimed deposits/accounts and provides information on the claim or settlement process of each bank.
• The actual claim must be made directly with the concerned bank, not with the RBI.
• Each unclaimed account or deposit transferred to the DEA Fund is assigned an Unclaimed Deposit Reference Number (UDRN), a unique identifier generated by banks’ Core Banking Solution (CBS).
• The UDRN ensures that neither the account holder nor the bank branch can be identified by any third party, while allowing banks to seamlessly verify and settle claims made by depositors who locate their accounts through the UDGAM portal.
• The UDGAM initiative promotes transparency, accessibility, and customer convenience, helping citizens easily locate and reclaim their unclaimed deposits across multiple banks in India.

RBI FAQs-Savings Bank Deposit Account (BSBDA)

• The Basic Savings Bank Deposit Account (BSBDA) is a type of savings account introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to provide basic banking services to all sections of society as part of the Financial Inclusion initiative.
• It replaced the earlier ‘No-Frills’ accounts in accordance with RBI Circular dated August 22, 2012, and offers minimum common banking facilities to customers.

Key Highlights :

Eligibility and Account Holding

• An individual can hold only one BSBDA in a bank, and cannot have any other savings account in that bank.
• However, the holder may maintain Fixed Deposit or Recurring Deposit accounts in the same bank.
• If a person has an existing savings account, it must be closed within 30 days of opening a BSBDA.
• The BSBDA is available to all individuals, regardless of age, income, or social status, and should be treated as a normal banking service.
• Interest rate is the same as that for normal savings bank deposits.

BSBDA-Small Accounts (Simplified KYC)

• The BSBDA follows standard KYC/AML norms under the PML Act, though accounts may be opened using simplified KYC, in which case they are classified as BSBDA-Small Accounts.
• BSBDA-Small Accounts are subject to specific limits:
  • Total credits not to exceed ₹1 lakh per year.
  • Maximum balance not to exceed ₹50,000 at any time.
  • Total debits (withdrawals/transfers) limited to ₹10,000 per month.
  • Foreign remittances are not permitted until full KYC is completed.
  • Such accounts are valid for 12 months, extendable by another 12 months upon application for an Officially Valid Document (OVD).

Free Services and Withdrawal Limits

• The BSBDA offers free basic services such as cash deposit and withdrawal, receipt/credit of funds via electronic channels, and cheque collection at branches or ATMs.
• There is no requirement for any initial deposit while opening the account.
• A BSBDA holder is entitled to at least four free withdrawals per month, including all forms (ATM, RTGS/NEFT, internet banking, etc.).
• Balance enquiry at ATMs is not counted within the four permitted withdrawals.
• ATM/debit cards must be issued free of cost, and no annual fee should be levied.
• Passbooks must be issued free of charge to BSBDA holders.
• Customers cannot be forced to accept an ATM card; it should be provided only upon request.

Additional Services Clause

• Banks are permitted to offer additional services beyond the minimum facilities, such as cheque book or more than four withdrawals, either free or at reasonable cost.
• However, if such additional facilities are charged, the account ceases to be classified as a BSBDA.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Aurangabad Railway Station Renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Railway Station

• The Aurangabad Railway Station in Maharashtra has been officially renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Railway Station, as per a notification issued by the Central Railway.
• The new station code is CPSN, and it comes under the Nanded Division of South Central Railway.
• The renaming follows the 2022 decision of the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government to rename the city of Aurangabad to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
• The official gazette notification for the renaming was issued on October 15, 2025, by the BJP-led Mahayuti government.

Key Highlights

• The earlier name “Aurangabad” was derived from Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, while the new name honours Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and second ruler of the Maratha Empire.
• The renaming is part of a larger effort to align public places with regional history and Maratha heritage.
• The railway station was originally established in 1900 during the reign of Mir Osman Ali Khan, the 7th Nizam of Hyderabad.
• Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar serves as a major hub for tourism and connectivity in central Maharashtra, located near Ajanta and Ellora Caves, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• The renaming holds cultural, political, and tourism significance – reinforcing Maratha identity, promoting heritage tourism, and aligning infrastructure with regional pride.

About Maharashtra:

• Chief Minister: Devendra Fadnavis
• Capital: Mumbai
• National Parks: Tadoba National Park, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Chandoli National Park, Gugamal National Park, Navegaon National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary, Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Melghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary

RECENT NEWS

• Maharashtra approves labour law changes raising daily work hours, overtime limits, and easing registration norms to attract investment and safeguard workers’ rights.

India to Host Asia Pacific Accident Investigation Group (APAC-AIG) Meeting and Workshop for the First Time

• India will host the Asia Pacific Accident Investigation Group (APAC-AIG) meeting and workshop for the first time from 28 to 31 October 2025, organized by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
• The event will bring together around 90 representatives from International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) member states in the Asia Pacific region, along with experts from global organizations.
• The event will be inaugurated by Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Rammohan Naidu.

Key Highlights

• APAC-AIG is an annual ICAO platform that promotes regional cooperation, sharing of technical expertise, and improvement of aircraft accident/incident investigation capabilities across Asia and the Pacific.
• India hosting the meeting for the first time marks a major milestone in its civil aviation progress.
• The four-day event will include:
• 28–29 October 2025: A two-day technical workshop on investigation processes, use of advanced technologies, reporting mechanisms, and international collaboration protocols.
• 30–31 October 2025: The formal APAC-AIG meeting with high-level discussions on strengthening investigation frameworks, transparency, coordination, and implementing new safety recommendations.
  • Officials from AAIB (India), DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation), ICAO, and other APAC nations will lead and participate in the sessions.
  • Hosting this event reinforces India’s commitment to global aviation safety, enhances its technical leadership in air crash investigation, and opens new avenues for regional cooperation and capacity building in aviation safety.

Government Extends LC75 and BLC Investment Options to Central Government Employees under NPS and UPS

• The Government of India has approved the extension of Life Cycle 75 (LC75) and Balanced Life Cycle (BLC) investment options to central government employees under the National Pension System (NPS) and Unified Pension Scheme (UPS).
• The decision, approved in October 2025, expands investment flexibility and aligns government-employee pension options with those already available to non-government subscribers.
• Under the revised framework, employees can now choose from multiple investment paths:
  • Default Option: As per the investment pattern defined by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
  • Scheme G: 100% investment in government securities (low-risk, fixed-return).
  • LC25: Up to 25% equity allocation, tapering from age 35 to 55.
  • LC50: Up to 50% equity allocation, tapering from age 35 to 55.
  • BLC (Balanced Life Cycle): Modified LC50, where equity tapering begins from age 45, allowing longer participation in equities.
  • LC75 (Life Cycle 75): Aggressive option with up to 75% equity exposure, tapering from age 35 to 55.
• The glide-path mechanism in LC75 and BLC gradually reduces equity exposure as subscribers near retirement, balancing growth and safety of the pension corpus.
• These new options expand the “Auto Choice” portfolio, providing age- or risk-based pre-defined investment strategies for subscribers who prefer not to make manual asset selections.
• The move enhances retirement planning flexibility, allowing employees to:
  • Choose investment paths aligned with personal risk appetite and career stage.
  • Opt for higher equity exposure earlier (LC75) or longer equity participation (BLC).
  • Customise their pension corpus strategy for better long-term returns.
• System-wide, the reform is expected to boost employee engagement with pension planning, align contributions with risk tolerance, and improve retirement outcomes under NPS and UPS.

Uttarakhand to Implement Automated Green Tax on Incoming Vehicles from December 2025

• The Uttarakhand government will introduce a green tax from December 2025 on all vehicles entering the state from outside to promote environmental conservation and pollution control.
• The initiative aims to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem and reduce emissions in key tourist destinations such as Dehradun, Mussoorie, Nainital, and Rishikesh.

Key Highlights

• The tax will be collected through a fully automated digital system using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at 37 state entry points, making Uttarakhand one of the first states to adopt this technology-driven model.
• Green Tax Rates: ₹80 for small private vehicles, ₹250 for small cargo vehicles, ₹140 for buses, and ₹120–₹700 for trucks depending on weight.
• Collection Mechanism: ANPR cameras capture the registration number → data sent to a vendor system → verified with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) database → green tax auto-deducted from the owner’s wallet → credited to the transport department’s account.
• The automated process ensures real-time tax collection, eliminates manual toll booths, and reduces tax evasion.
• Objectives include discouraging unnecessary vehicular entry, reducing emissions, improving air quality, and funding environmental projects under the Clean Uttarakhand Mission.
• Similar green tax models exist in Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Jharkhand, which apply recurring taxes on older vehicles.
• Uttarakhand’s system sets a national benchmark for digital governance, eco-sensitive transport policy, and sustainable tourism management, likely serving as a model for other hill states in India.

About Uttarakhand:

• Chief Minister: Pushkar Singh Dhami
• Capital: Dehradun
• National Parks: Jim Corbett National Park, Nanda Devi National Park, Rajaji National Park, Gangotri National Park, Valley of Flowers National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, Askot Wildlife Sanctuary, Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Govind Wildlife Sanctuary, Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandi Devi Wildlife Sanctuary

RECENT NEWS

• In a key moment for India’s tech leadership, the Uttarakhand AI Impact Summit 2025 was held on October 17 in Dehradun, marking a crucial pre-summit event ahead of the India–AI Impact Summit 2026.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

East Timor Joins Association of Southeast Asian Nations as Its 11th Member Nation

• East Timor (Timor-Leste) officially became the 11th member of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on October 26, 2025, during the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where its flag was raised alongside other member states.
• The membership marks a historic and strategic milestone for East Timor, fulfilling its long-standing goal of regional integration since independence in 2002.
• East Timor’s ASEAN membership followed a 14-year application process, first initiated in the early 2000s.
• President Jose Ramos-Horta, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1996, and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao were instrumental in leading the nation’s independence and ASEAN integration efforts.
• The country was a Portuguese colony for over 300 years, briefly independent in 1975, then occupied by Indonesia for 24 years, and finally gained full independence in 2002.
• Despite its small population (1.4 million) and GDP of $2 billion, East Timor’s inclusion is politically significant for ASEAN, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and democratic values.
• The other member countries of ASEAN are Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

About East Timor (Timor-Leste) :

• President : José Ramos-Horta
• Prime Minister : Xanana Gusmão
• Capital : Dili

UNCTAD16 Launches Sevilla Forum on Debt to Address Deepening Debt Challenges in Developing Nations

• The Sevilla Forum on Debt was launched during UNCTAD16 in Geneva (October 20–23, 2025) by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Spain’s Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo, UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan, and UN DESA Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua.
• The Forum is a Spanish-led initiative supported by UNCTAD and UN DESA, serving as an open platform for dialogue and action on global debt challenges.
• It builds on the outcomes of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) and the Sevilla Commitment, aiming to strengthen development financing and debt governance.
• According to a UNCTAD report, global public debt reached USD 102 trillion in 2024, with developing countries accounting for USD 31 trillion and paying USD 921 billion in interest, while 3.4 billion people live in nations spending more on debt than on health or education.
• UNCTAD Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
• Major UNCTAD Reports: Trade and Development Report, World Investment Report, and The Least Developed Countries Report.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: AWARDS AND HONOURS

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025 Announced by Government of India

• The Government of India has announced the recipients of the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025, the nation’s highest civilian honour for contributions to science, technology, and innovation.
• Instituted to celebrate excellence across diverse scientific fields, the awards aim to promote a culture of research and innovation in India.
• The awards are conferred in four major categories:
  • Vigyan Ratna – For lifetime achievements in science.
  • Vigyan Shri – For exceptional individual contributions.
  • Vigyan Yuva–Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar – For young scientists (below 45 years).
  • Vigyan Team Award – For outstanding collaborative research efforts.
• Vigyan Ratna (Posthumous):
  • Prof. Jayant Vishnu Narlikar – Honoured posthumously for his remarkable contributions to Physics.
• Vigyan Shri Awardees:
  • Dr. Gyanendra Pratap Singh – Agricultural Science
  • Dr. Yusuf Mohammad Seikh – Atomic Energy
  • Dr. K. Thangaraj – Biological Sciences
  • Prof. Pradeep Thalappil – Chemistry
  • Prof. Aniruddha Bhalchandra Pandit – Engineering Sciences
  • Dr. S. Venkata Mohan – Environmental Science
  • Prof. Mahan Mj – Mathematics and Computer Science
  • Shri Jayan N – Space Science and Technology
• Vigyan Yuva–Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Awardees:
  • Dr. Jagdis Gupta Kapuganti, Dr. Satendra Kumar Mangrauthia, Shri Debarka Sengupta, Dr. Deepa Agashe, Dr. Dibyendu Das, Dr. Waliur Rahaman, Prof. Arkaprava Basu, Prof. Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Prof. Shweta Prem Agrawal, Dr. Suresh Kumar, Prof. Amit Kumar Agarwal, Prof. Surhud Shrikant More, Shri Ankur Garg, Prof. Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam.
• Vigyan Team Award:
  • CSIR Aroma Mission Team – Recognised for their exceptional work in agricultural science.
• The awards span 13 scientific domains, including Physics, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Mathematics & Computer Science, Medicine, Engineering, Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, Atomic Energy, Space Science, Technology, and Innovation.
• Nominations for the 2025 edition were accepted via the National Awards Portal from October 4 to November 17, 2024.
• These awards reinforce India’s commitment to scientific excellence and innovation-led development.
• Details of the award ceremony will be announced soon.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND INDEX

Cleanest air quality 2025: World’s top 10 cities with best air quality index

• Air pollution continues to be a major challenge in India, with many northern cities recording “Very Poor” or “Severe” Air Quality Index (AQI) levels, while several southern and northeastern cities maintain relatively clean air.
• The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, NO₂, and CO, where lower values (0–50) indicate “Good” air quality, and higher values reflect greater pollution.
• The Top 10 Cleanest Cities in India (2025) based on AQI are:

1. Pune – AQI 51 (Satisfactory)
2. Mumbai – AQI 60 (Satisfactory)
3. Nashik – AQI 63 (Satisfactory)
4. Ahmedabad – AQI 64 (Satisfactory)
5. Bhopal – AQI 64 (Satisfactory)
6. Pimpri Chinchwad – AQI 66 (Satisfactory)
7. Bhilai – AQI 67 (Satisfactory)
8. Nagpur – AQI 71 (Moderate)
9. Gandhinagar – AQI 74 (Moderate)
10. Indore – AQI 76 (Moderate)

• Pune tops the list with an AQI of 51, benefitting from good wind circulation, green mobility initiatives, and sustainable transport policies.
• Mumbai ranks second due to coastal winds from the Arabian Sea and continuous monitoring by BMC and MPCB.
• Nashik (AQI 63) maintains clean air with low industrial density and active municipal green initiatives.
• Ahmedabad (AQI 64) stands out as an industrial hub that controls emissions effectively through CNG use and pollution norms.
• Bhopal (AQI 64), known as the “City of Lakes,” benefits from natural greenery and balanced urban development.
• Pimpri Chinchwad (AQI 66) showcases controlled industrial emissions through strict regulatory compliance.
• Bhilai (AQI 67) reflects effective modernization of steel plants and adoption of cleaner technologies.
• This ranking highlights India’s growing success in urban air management and sustainability efforts, particularly in western and central regions.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

India Becomes First Non-NATO Nation to Participate in Spain’s Ocean Sky 2025 Air Combat Exercise

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) has become the first non-North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) country to participate in Exercise Ocean Sky 2025, a multinational air combat drill hosted by the Spanish Air Force at Gando Air Base, Canary Islands, from October 20–31, 2025.
• This marks a historic milestone in India’s defence diplomacy, highlighting India’s rise as a credible aerospace power and its growing strategic partnership with Spain and NATO countries.

Key Highlights :

• Exercise Ocean Sky is an annual air combat exercise focused on advanced aerial tactics, joint mission planning, interoperability, and real-time combat training among NATO air forces.
• India’s participation showcases the IAF’s ability to operate with top Western air forces in complex air combat scenarios, strengthening its global operational readiness.
• The exercise enhances IAF’s coalition warfare capabilities, provides exposure to advanced combat tactics, and fosters defence diplomacy by deepening India–Spain defence ties.
• It also promotes interoperability for future joint operations, including humanitarian and disaster relief missions.
• The event follows India’s participation in other major international exercises like Red Flag (US) and Garuda (France), reflecting its expanding global military engagements.
• The exercise coincides with the induction of 16 Airbus C-295 tactical transport aircraft into the IAF, part of a USD 2.5 billion deal for 56 aircraft, with 40 to be manufactured in India by Tata Advanced Systems under the Make in India
• The C-295 aircraft boosts India’s logistics, troop transport, airborne operations, and disaster response capabilities.
• India–Spain defence ties have deepened with key milestones such as the first C-295 handover in 2023 and the 5th Joint Working Group on Defence Cooperation in 2025, focusing on joint projects, aerospace R&D, and indigenous production, further strengthening India’s global defence and aerospace presence.

About NATO :

• Establishment: April 4, 1949.
• Headquarters: Located in Brussels, Belgium.
• Current Secretary General (as of October 2025): Jens Stoltenberg.
• Total Member Countries: 32
• Founding Members: 12

INS Sutlej Concludes 18th India–Mauritius Joint Hydrographic Mission

• On October 26, 2025, the Indian Ministry of Defence announced that INS Sutlej successfully completed a major hydrographic survey with the Mauritius Hydrographic Service, covering about 35,000 sq nautical miles, strengthening India–Mauritius maritime cooperation.
• The mission was conducted under the 2005 MoU on hydrographic cooperation between both nations, marking the 18th joint hydrographic mission and reflecting a long-term strategic partnership.
• INS Sutlej, an advanced hydrographic survey ship, is equipped with multibeam echo sounders, side-scan sonar, and differential GPS for accurate seabed and coastal mapping.
• The survey included a capacity-building component, training six Mauritian officials in modern hydrographic techniques onboard the vessel.
• INS Sutlej also conducted joint EEZ surveillance and anti-piracy patrols with the Mauritius National Coast Guard, enhancing regional maritime security.
• A formal hand-over ceremony was held where the survey fair-sheet was presented to Mauritian authorities in the presence of Minister Shakeel Mohamed and Indian High Commissioner Anurag Srivastava.
• The mission supports India’s MAHASAGAR initiative (Mutual & Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Regions), aligning with its broader Indian Ocean maritime strategy.

Border Roads Organisation’s Project Arunank Marks 18th Raising Day Celebration

• Project Arunank of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 18th Raising Day at Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh on October 24, 2025, marking 17 years of service.
• Since its inception in 2008, Project Arunank has constructed and maintained over 696 km of roads and 18 km of major bridges, ensuring vital connectivity to remote and forward areas.
• A major achievement includes the 278 km Hapoli–Sarli–Huri Road, which was blacktopped for the first time since Independence, and the double-laning of Kimin–Potin Road.

About BRO :

• The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is a road construction executive force that supports the Indian Armed Forces.
• The BRO was formed on 7 May 1960 with the objective of securing India’s borders and developing infrastructure in remote northern and north-eastern regions of the country.

India Announces Tri-Services Military Drill ‘Ex Trishul’ Near Pakistan Border from October 30, 2025

• India issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) alert for a major tri-services military exercise named “Ex Trishul” to be held along the Pakistan border from October 30 to November 10, 2025.
• The designated airspace zone for the exercise is unusually large, with restrictions up to 28,000 feet, as per satellite imagery analyzed by Damien Symon.
• Ex Trishul will involve the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing joint operational capability and inter-service coordination.
• The drill highlights India’s focus on Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) and innovation, in line with PM Modi’s JAI vision — Jointness, Atmanirbharta, Innovation.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Chief Justice of India Gavai Nominates Justice Surya Kant as Next Chief Justice of India

• Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai has recommended Justice Surya Kant, the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, as his successor and the 53rd Chief Justice of India (CJI).
• The recommendation was made on October 27, 2025, following a communication from the Union Government on October 23, 2025, initiating the appointment process.
• Chief Justice Gavai is set to retire on November 23, 2025, and Justice Surya Kant is expected to take oath immediately after his retirement.
• Justice Kant will serve as CJI until February 9, 2027, marking a 14-month tenure.
• He will be the first Chief Justice of India from Haryana

About Justice Surya Kant :

• He became the youngest Advocate General of Haryana on July 7, 2000, and was designated Senior Advocate in March 2001.
• He was elevated as a Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court on January 9, 2004, and later became the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court in October 2018.
• Justice Surya Kant was appointed to the Supreme Court on May 24, 2019, and is due to retire on February 9, 2027.
• He has been part of several landmark Supreme Court judgments, including those related to the abrogation of Article 370, the Electoral Bonds Scheme, the Pegasus spyware case, and the suspension of the sedition law.

Justice Prathiba M. Singh Named Chair of WIPO Advisory Board of Judges for 2025–27, a First for India and Asia

• Justice Prathiba M. Singh of the Delhi High Court has been appointed Chair of the WIPO Advisory Board of Judges for the 2025–27 term, marking a first for India and the Asian region.
• WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization), a UN specialised agency, promotes and protects intellectual property (IP) worldwide; its Advisory Board of Judges guides WIPO’s engagement with judiciaries globally.
• As Chair, Justice Singh will lead international judges in providing guidance and direction on IP-related judicial initiatives.
• She also serves as Co-Chair of the WHO Working Group on Regulatory Considerations on AI in Health.
• Justice Singh was listed among the 50 most influential people in intellectual property globally in 2021 and 2022.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

China’s CR450 Sets New World Record with 453 km/h High-Speed Train Test

• China has achieved a major milestone in rail transport with its CR450 high-speed train, which set a world record speed of 453 km/h during testing, surpassing all existing global high-speed rail records.

Key Highlights :

• The CR450 is designed for the Shanghai–Chengdu corridor and will begin commercial service in 2026 with an operating speed of 400 km/h, making it the fastest passenger train in the world.
• The record-breaking test was conducted under the supervision of the China State Railway Group, where the train accelerated to 350 km/h in just 4 minutes and 40 seconds, about 100 seconds faster than the CR400 Fuxing, China’s earlier flagship model.
• Technological innovations include a 15-metre aerodynamic nose cone (compared to 12.5 metres in older models) that reduces air drag and noise.
• Other features include lightweight composite materials for improved energy efficiency, advanced braking systems, and high-performance traction motors for enhanced safety and stability.
• The CR450’s breakthrough positions China as the global leader in high-speed rail technology, outpacing all international competitors in both speed and acceleration.
• China currently operates the world’s largest high-speed rail network, spanning over 45,000 kilometres, linking nearly all major urban centres.
• The CR450 project is a key component of China’s strategy to reduce long-distance travel times, maintain punctuality and safety, and expand its global influence in rail technology and exports.
• The train’s success reinforces China’s role as a pioneer in ultra-fast rail mobility and supports its broader global infrastructure ambitions under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Anusandhan National Research Foundation,Indian Council of Medical Research, and Gates Foundation Launch MAHA-MedTech Mission to Boost India’s Medical Technology Ecosystem

• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), in collaboration with ICMR and the Gates Foundation, has launched the Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas (MAHA)-Medical Technology (महा MedTech) to strengthen India’s MedTech ecosystem.
• The mission focuses on accelerating indigenous MedTech innovation, reducing import dependence, and ensuring affordable and equitable access to advanced healthcare technologies.
• It will provide milestone-linked funding support ranging from ₹5–25 crore per project, and up to ₹50 crore in exceptional cases, targeting academic institutions, R&D organizations, startups, MSMEs, hospitals, and industry collaborations.
• The key objectives include enhancing public health impact, ensuring affordability, and promoting self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) by encouraging local manufacturing and industry–academia partnerships.
• Additional support mechanisms include Patent Mitra for IP protection, MedTech Mitra for regulatory guidance, and a Clinical Trial Network for validation and mentorship.
• The two-stage application process involves Concept Note submissions (Sept 15–Nov 7, 2025) through the ANRF portal, followed by Full Proposal submissions in December 2025 for shortlisted projects.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

FIFA Announces the FIFA ASEAN Cup at the 47th ASEAN Summit

• FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the launch of the FIFA ASEAN Cup during the 47th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur.
  • The tournament aims to enhance football standards across Southeast Asia and foster regional unity and youth development.
  • The initiative marks a historic collaboration between FIFA and ASEAN, following the success of the FIFA Arab Cup model.

Key Highlights

• The ASEAN Cup will feature national teams from all 11 ASEAN member states, including East Timor, which was formally admitted to ASEAN just before the announcement.
• FIFA and ASEAN signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reaffirming their joint commitment to football development in the region.
• Infantino stated that the tournament will strengthen regional football ecosystems, improve competitiveness, and unite nations through sport.
• FIFA will work with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF), and national football associations of member countries to finalize the structure, format, and schedule.
• The ASEAN Cup will be modeled on the FIFA Arab Cup, providing a platform for competitive exposure and preparation for World Cup and Asian Cup participation.
• The tournament also supports ASEAN’s broader goals of sports diplomacy, infrastructure growth, and inclusive regional engagement.
• The announcement’s timing coincides with East Timor’s entry as ASEAN’s 11th member, symbolizing regional solidarity and expansion.

CURRENT AFAFIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

India Observes Vigilance Awareness Week 2025

• India began observing Vigilance Awareness Week 2025 from 27^thOctober 2025 to 2^rdNovember 2025, with the theme “Vigilance – Our Shared Responsibility.”
• The observance is held annually in the last week of October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (31 October).
• The initiative promotes integrity, accountability, and ethical conduct in public life, involving ministries, departments, PSUs, banks, educational institutions, and civil society.
• The 2025 theme emphasizes that vigilance against corruption is a shared duty, encouraging participation from government officials, corporate employees, students, and citizens.
• The week began with pledge ceremonies across government offices in India; at the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) headquarters, New Delhi, the oath was administered by Central Vigilance Commissioner Praveen Kumar Srivastava and Vigilance Commissioner A. S. Rajeev.
• Public and private institutions conducted seminars, awareness sessions, debates, quizzes, essay competitions, integrity clubs, and grievance redressal camps to promote awareness on vigilance.
• Vigilance is essential for promoting transparency, honesty, and public trust, strengthening governance mechanisms and ensuring fair service delivery.
• The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), established under the CVC Act, 2003, plays a crucial role in advising the government, investigating complaints, and recommending systemic reforms.
• The week coincides with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary, observed as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), honoring his values of integrity and unity.

Daily CA One- Liner: October 28

• The Aurangabad Railway Station in Maharashtra has been officially renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Railway Station, as per a notification issued by the Central Railway
• India will host the Asia Pacific Accident Investigation Group (APAC-AIG) meeting and workshop for the first time from 28 to 31 October 2025, organized by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation
• The Government of India has approved the extension of Life Cycle 75 (LC75) and Balanced Life Cycle (BLC) investment options to central government employees under the National Pension System (NPS) and Unified Pension Scheme
• The Uttarakhand government will introduce a green tax from December 2025 on all vehicles entering the state from outside to promote environmental conservation and pollution control
• The Government of India has announced the recipients of the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025, the nation’s highest civilian honour for contributions to science, technology, and innovation
• Air pollution continues to be a major challenge in India, with many northern cities recording “Very Poor” or “Severe” Air Quality Index (AQI) levels, while several southern and northeastern cities maintain relatively clean air
• FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the launch of the FIFA ASEAN Cup during the 47th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted an exemption to the Special Window for Affordable and Mid-Income Housing (SWAMIH) Fund from tightened Alternate Investment Fund (AIF) rules.
• The World Bank has approved a USD 280 million programme to improve life expectancy and quality of life for 11 million elderly and vulnerable people in Kerala.
• UDGAM (Unclaimed Deposits – Gateway to Access inforMation) is an online portal developed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to allow registered users to search unclaimed deposits or accounts across multiple banks in one place in a centralised manner.
• The Basic Savings Bank Deposit Account (BSBDA) is a type of savings account introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to provide basic banking services to all sections of society as part of the Financial Inclusion initiative.
• East Timor (Timor-Leste) officially became the 11th member of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on October 26, 2025, during the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where its flag was raised alongside other member states.
• The Sevilla Forum on Debt was launched during UNCTAD16 in Geneva (October 20–23, 2025) by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Spain’s Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo, UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan, and UN DESA Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua.
• The Indian Air Force (IAF) has become the first non-North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) country to participate in Exercise Ocean Sky 2025, a multinational air combat drill hosted by the Spanish Air Force at Gando Air Base, Canary Islands, from October 20–31, 2025.
• On October 26, 2025, the Indian Ministry of Defence announced that INS Sutlej successfully completed a major hydrographic survey with the Mauritius Hydrographic Service, covering about 35,000 sq nautical miles, strengthening India–Mauritius maritime cooperation.
• Project Arunank of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 18th Raising Day at Naharlagun, Arunachal Pradesh on October 24, 2025, marking 17 years of service.
• India issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) alert for a major tri-services military exercise named “Ex Trishul” to be held along the Pakistan border from October 30 to November 10, 2025.
• Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai has recommended Justice Surya Kant, the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, as his successor and the 53rd Chief Justice of India (CJI).
• Justice Prathiba M. Singh of the Delhi High Court has been appointed Chair of the WIPO Advisory Board of Judges for the 2025–27 term, marking a first for India and the Asian region.
• China has achieved a major milestone in rail transport with its CR450 high-speed train, which set a world record speed of 453 km/h during testing, surpassing all existing global high-speed rail records.
• The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), in collaboration with ICMR and the Gates Foundation, has launched the Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas (MAHA)-Medical Technology (महा MedTech) to strengthen India’s MedTech ecosystem.
• India began observing Vigilance Awareness Week 2025 from 27^thOctober 2025 to 2^rd November 2025, with the theme “Vigilance – Our Shared Responsibility.”