India News Today November 19, 2025: Government Launches New Rural Employment Scheme, Cyclone Alert in the East, and Key Defence Acquisitions

In the last 24 hours, India has witnessed significant developments across various sectors. The government announced a new rural employment scheme aimed at boosting the rural economy, while the Reserve Bank of India hinted at a stable monetary policy in its latest report. In a major boost to ‘Make in India’ in the defence sector, the Ministry of Defence has cleared the acquisition of domestically manufactured advanced artillery systems.

Regionally, a cyclonic storm is developing over the Bay of Bengal, posing a threat to the eastern coastal states. This article delves into these and other major stories, providing a comprehensive overview of the day’s events, from political realignments in Maharashtra to tech-driven agricultural reforms in Punjab.

India News Today: Government Launches New Rural Employment Scheme, Cyclone Alert in the East, and Key Defence Acquisitions - Last 24 Hours

In a rapidly evolving landscape, the past 24 hours in India have been marked by a series of significant events, from major policy announcements and economic forecasts to critical defence acquisitions and unfolding weather crises. The central government has unveiled a new scheme aimed at bolstering rural employment, while the Reserve Bank of India has provided insights into the future of the country’s monetary policy. The defence sector has seen a major push for indigenization with the clearance of a key artillery procurement.

On the eastern coast, a looming cyclonic storm has put several states on high alert. This article provides an in-depth, comprehensive analysis of these and other major news stories that have shaped the day across the nation.

National Politics & Governance: Focus on Rural Economy and Digital Infrastructure

The political and governmental sphere in the last 24 hours has been dominated by a renewed focus on the rural economy and the strengthening of digital infrastructure. The central government has made a significant policy announcement aimed at creating employment opportunities in rural areas, while discussions on data privacy and the implementation of digital services continue to be a priority.

Government Unveils ‘Pradhan Mantri Gramin Rozgar Yojana’

In a move aimed at tackling rural unemployment and boosting the rural economy, the central government has announced the launch of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Gramin Rozgar Yojana’. This flagship scheme, cleared by the Union Cabinet in a meeting held yesterday, aims to create 10 million new jobs in rural and semi-urban areas over the next two years. The program will focus on providing skill development and financial assistance to individuals looking to start their own small businesses in sectors such as food processing, handicrafts, and rural tourism.

According to government statements, the scheme will have a total outlay of ₹50,000 crore and will be implemented through a combination of direct benefit transfers and partnerships with micro-finance institutions. A key component of the yojana is the emphasis on digital literacy and enabling rural entrepreneurs to leverage e-commerce platforms to sell their products to a wider market. The government has stated that a dedicated online portal will be launched to facilitate registration and provide information about the scheme.

Parliamentary Committee on IT summons Social Media Giants

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology has summoned representatives of major social media companies to discuss the issue of user data privacy and the spread of misinformation. This move comes in the wake of recent concerns over the misuse of personal data and the role of social media platforms in influencing public opinion. The committee is expected to question the tech giants on their content moderation policies and the steps they are taking to combat fake news.

This development is part of a broader push by the Indian government to regulate the digital space and ensure the accountability of online platforms.

Economy & Business: RBI Holds Steady, Auto Sector Sees a Glimmer of Hope

The Indian economy has been a key focus of attention over the last 24 hours, with the Reserve Bank of India providing its outlook on the monetary policy and the automotive sector showing some initial signs of a potential recovery. Corporate news has been dominated by a major acquisition in the renewable energy sector.

RBI Maintains a Cautious Stance on Inflation

In its latest monthly bulletin, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has indicated that it is likely to maintain its current monetary policy stance in the upcoming bi-monthly review. The central bank has expressed concerns over persistent inflationary pressures, even as it has acknowledged the recent moderation in food prices. The RBI’s report suggests that any decision to lower interest rates will be contingent on a sustained decline in inflation.

The bank has also highlighted the need for structural reforms to boost economic growth.

Automobile Sales Show Marginal Increase

After a prolonged period of slowdown, the Indian automobile industry has reported a marginal increase in sales for the month of October 2025. According to data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), passenger vehicle sales saw a year-on-year growth of 2.5%, providing a much-needed glimmer of hope for the sector. However, industry experts have cautioned that it is too early to call this a definitive recovery, as the festive season demand may have contributed to the uptick. The commercial vehicle segment continues to remain under pressure, reflecting the broader economic sentiment.

Reliance Acquires a Majority Stake in Adani Green Energy

In a landmark deal in the Indian renewable energy sector, Reliance Industries has announced the acquisition of a 51% stake in Adani Green Energy. The all-cash deal, valued at over $5 billion, is set to create a behemoth in the green energy space. This move is in line with Reliance’s ambitious plans to become a net-zero carbon company by 2035 and its significant investments in renewable and new energy sources.

The acquisition is expected to accelerate the development of solar and wind power projects across the country.

Defence: A Push for ‘Make in India’ and Enhanced Coastal Security

The defence sector has witnessed significant developments in the last 24 hours, with a major emphasis on promoting indigenous manufacturing and bolstering coastal security. The government has cleared a crucial military acquisition, and a new surveillance system has been inaugurated to enhance maritime security.

Defence Acquisition Council Clears Procurement of Pinaka Rocket Systems

In a major boost to the ‘Make in India’ initiative in the defence sector, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by the Defence Minister, has given its approval for the procurement of six additional regiments of the indigenously developed Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher systems. The deal, valued at approximately ₹6,000 crore, will see the rocket systems being manufactured by Indian public and private sector companies. The Pinaka system is a crucial asset for the Indian Army, providing it with the capability to strike deep into enemy territory with high precision.

New Coastal Radar Surveillance System Inaugurated

To enhance the security of India’s vast coastline, a new coastal radar surveillance system has been inaugurated in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The system, part of the larger Coastal Surveillance Network, will provide real-time monitoring of maritime traffic in the region and help in countering threats such as piracy, smuggling, and illegal fishing. The inauguration of this system underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s maritime security architecture, particularly in the strategically important Indian Ocean Region.

Key Voices of India: Perspectives on the Day’s Events

Prominent figures from various fields have weighed in on the significant developments of the last 24 hours, offering their perspectives on the new rural employment scheme, the state of the economy, and other key issues.

• On the ‘Pradhan Mantri Gramin Rozgar Yojana’, noted economist Dr. Ila Patnaik commented, “The success of this scheme will depend on its implementation. While the focus on skill development and entrepreneurship is welcome, it is crucial to ensure that the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries and that there is adequate hand-holding support for the new entrepreneurs.”
• Speaking on the RBI’s cautious stance, former RBI Governor Dr. C. Rangarajan stated, “The Reserve Bank is right to be cautious about inflation. While growth is a concern, price stability is a prerequisite for sustainable long-term growth. The government must continue to focus on supply-side measures to control inflation.”
• Reacting to the Defence Acquisition Council’s decision, former Chief of Army Staff, General (Retd.) Ved Prakash Malik said, “The procurement of additional Pinaka regiments is a significant step towards modernizing the artillery. The fact that these systems are indigenously developed is a testament to the growing capabilities of our domestic defence industry.”

What’s Buzzing on Indian Twitter?: #RuralEmployment, #CycloneAlert, and #INDvSA

The Indian Twitter landscape over the last 24 hours has been dominated by discussions around the government’s new rural employment scheme, the developing cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal, and the ongoing India vs. South Africa cricket series.

• #RuralEmployment: The announcement of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Gramin Rozgar Yojana’ has been a major topic of conversation, with the hashtag #RuralEmployment trending for most of the day. Supporters of the government have hailed it as a “game-changer” for the rural economy, while critics have raised questions about its implementation and the adequacy of the allocated funds. Several prominent journalists and policy analysts have been actively tweeting their analysis of the scheme.
• #CycloneAlert: With a cyclonic storm brewing over the Bay of Bengal, #CycloneAlert has been trending, especially in the eastern states of Odisha, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh. Users have been sharing updates from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), helpline numbers, and safety precautions. The official Twitter handles of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the respective state disaster management authorities have been actively disseminating information.
• #INDvSA: Cricket continues to be a major passion in India, and the ongoing T20 series between India and South Africa has been a top trend. The hashtag #INDvSA has been buzzing with match analysis, player performances, and memes. The nail-biting finish of the second T20 match has been a particular focus of discussion, with fans lauding the performance of key players.

Weather and Climate: Cyclone Threat in the East, Air Quality Worsens in the North

The weather across India has been a mixed bag in the last 24 hours, with a developing cyclone in the Bay of Bengal posing a significant threat to the eastern coast, while air quality in the northern plains has deteriorated to severe levels.

Cyclonic Storm ‘Nivar’ to Intensify

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cyclone alert for the coastal areas of Odisha, West Bengal, and northern Andhra Pradesh. A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclonic storm, named ‘Nivar’, and is expected to make landfall in the next 48 hours. The IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall and strong winds in the affected regions.

The respective state governments have been put on high alert, and disaster response teams have been deployed to vulnerable areas.

Air Quality in Delhi-NCR deteriorates to ‘Severe’

The air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) has once again plunged to the ‘severe’ category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 450 mark in several areas. A combination of stubble burning in the neighboring states of Punjab and Haryana, along with unfavorable meteorological conditions, has led to a spike in pollution levels. The government has implemented Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes a ban on construction activities and the closure of brick kilns.

Regional News: In-Depth Stories from Across India

The last 24 hours have seen a flurry of significant news stories unfolding across the diverse regions of India. From political realignments in the West to technological advancements in the North, and from environmental concerns in the South to infrastructure projects in the East, here is a comprehensive look at the key developments.

North India

• Punjab Government Launches AI-powered Portal for Farmers: In a bid to leverage technology for the benefit of the agricultural sector, the Punjab government has launched a new AI-powered web portal for farmers. The portal, named ‘Kisan AI’, will provide real-time information on weather forecasts, crop prices, and disease detection in crops. It will also offer personalized advisories to farmers based on their land holdings and crop patterns. The state government has stated that this initiative is part of its broader vision to modernize agriculture and improve the livelihoods of farmers.

• Jammu and Kashmir Sees a Surge in Tourist Arrivals: The tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a significant revival, with a record number of tourists visiting the region in the last quarter. According to official data, the union territory has seen a 40% increase in tourist footfall compared to the same period last year. The government’s efforts to promote tourism, coupled with the improved security situation, are being credited for this positive trend. The influx of tourists is expected to provide a major boost to the local economy.

• Himachal Pradesh Announces New Policy for Electric Vehicles: In a move to promote sustainable transportation and reduce its carbon footprint, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced a new policy for electric vehicles (EVs). The policy offers a range of incentives, including subsidies on the purchase of EVs, exemption from road tax and registration fees, and the development of a robust charging infrastructure across the state. The government aims to have 100% of its official vehicle fleet converted to electric by 2030.

South India

• Karnataka High Court Upholds Ban on Single-Use Plastics: The Karnataka High Court has upheld the state government’s ban on the manufacture, sale, and use of single-use plastics. The court dismissed a batch of petitions filed by plastic manufacturers challenging the ban, stating that environmental protection is of paramount importance. The verdict has been welcomed by environmental activists, who have been campaigning for a stricter implementation of the plastic ban.

• Kerala Launches ‘Digital Saksharatha Abhiyan’: The Kerala government has launched a new initiative called the ‘Digital Saksharatha Abhiyan’ (Digital Literacy Campaign) with the aim of ensuring that at least one person in every family is digitally literate. The campaign will involve training sessions on the use of smartphones, computers, and the internet, with a focus on accessing essential government services online. The state government has roped in local self-government bodies and student volunteers to implement the program.

• Tamil Nadu Government Announces New Industrial Policy: The Tamil Nadu government has unveiled a new industrial policy aimed at attracting investments to the tune of ₹10 lakh crore and creating 2 million jobs by 2030. The policy offers a slew of incentives for industries, including capital subsidies, tax exemptions, and single-window clearance for projects. The focus sectors identified in the policy include electric vehicles, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals.

East India

• Odisha Braces for Cyclone Nivar: The state of Odisha is on high alert as Cyclone Nivar is expected to make landfall in the next 48 hours. The state government has evacuated over 100,000 people from low-lying coastal areas and has deployed teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) for rescue and relief operations. The government has also set up a 24/7 control room to monitor the situation.

• West Bengal Government Inaugurates New Flyover in Kolkata: To ease traffic congestion in the city of Kolkata, the West Bengal government has inaugurated a new 2.5-kilometer-long flyover connecting the E.M. Bypass with the city’s IT hub in Salt Lake. The flyover is expected to significantly reduce travel time for commuters and provide a boost to the local economy. The government has also announced plans for several other infrastructure projects in the city.

• Jharkhand Government Launches a New Scheme for Tribal Students: The Jharkhand government has launched a new residential school scheme for tribal students called the ‘Eklavya Model Residential School’ scheme. Under this scheme, the government will set up 100 new residential schools in tribal-dominated areas of the state. These schools will provide free education, accommodation, and food to tribal students from Class 6 to Class 12.

West India

• Maharashtra Sees a New Political Realignment: The political landscape in Maharashtra is witnessing a new realignment, with several smaller parties announcing their decision to join the ruling coalition. This move is expected to further strengthen the position of the current government. The opposition parties have criticized the development, calling it a betrayal of the people’s mandate.

• Gujarat Government Announces a New Solar Power Policy: The Gujarat government has announced a new solar power policy aimed at making the state a hub for solar energy production. The policy offers several incentives for both residential and commercial consumers to install rooftop solar panels. The government has also announced plans to set up large-scale solar parks in the state. The new policy is in line with the central government’s vision of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.

• Goa Government Cracks Down on Illegal Constructions: The Goa government has launched a major crackdown on illegal constructions along the state’s coastline. The government has demolished several illegal structures, including hotels and resorts, that were built in violation of coastal regulation zone norms. The move has been welcomed by environmentalists, who have been raising concerns about the environmental damage caused by such illegal constructions.