Daily Current Affairs Digest: November 22, 2025

Daily Current Affairs Digest: November 22, 2025

Government Moves to Enforce Four Labour Codes to Modernize Workforce Regulations

The Central Government has signaled the enforcement of four new Labour Codes: the Code on Wages, the Industrial Relations Code, the Code on Social Security, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code.

These codes aim to consolidate 29 obsolete central labour laws into four simplified legislations.

The move is designed to improve the ‘ease of doing business’ by simplifying compliance for industries while ostensibly expanding social security to the unorganized sector and gig workers.

From an exam perspective, this is a critical topic under Economy and Social Justice.

The codes introduce significant changes, such as allowing flexibility in hiring and firing for firms with up to 300 workers (Industrial Relations Code) and altering the definition of ‘wages,’ which may increase PF contributions but reduce take-home pay.

Opposition parties and trade unions have criticized the move, fearing a ‘trade union-free atmosphere’ and dilution of worker rights.

Aspirants should understand the balance between labor market flexibility and social security nets.

PM Modi Attends G20 Summit in South Africa; Proposes Anti-Terror Initiatives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in South Africa for the G20 Summit, marking the first time the summit is being held on African soil.

The PM has proposed four key initiatives, prominently including a global framework to counter the ‘drug-terror nexus.’ This aligns with India’s consistent stand on ‘zero tolerance’ towards terrorism and the funding networks that support it.

The summit also focuses on the inclusion of the African Union, a process India championed during its own presidency.

This event highlights the growing influence of the Global South in multilateral forums. The summit provides a platform for the ‘Troika’ (India, Brazil, and South Africa) to coordinate on developmental agendas independent of Western dominance.

For aspirants, the focus should be on the G20’s evolving role from crisis management to long-term development and India’s strategic ‘One Future’ vision.

Nitish Kumar Takes Oath as Bihar CM for Record 10th Time Amid Cabinet Reshuffle

JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for a record 10th time, following a new coalition arrangement within the NDA.

The cabinet formation saw the allocation of the Home portfolio to Samrat Choudhary, while the CM retained General Administration. This event underscores the volatile nature of coalition politics in Indian states and the recurrent application of the anti-defection law’s nuances.

For competitive exams, this development is relevant to State Polity and the role of the Governor in government formation. It raises questions about political stability and the effectiveness of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution in curbing frequent floor-crossing.

The allocation of portfolios also highlights the internal power-sharing dynamics essential for coalition survival.

IAF Tejas Fighter Jet Crashes During Dubai Air Show; Pilot Fatalities Reported

An Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) crashed during a low-altitude maneuver at the Dubai Air Show, resulting in the tragic death of the pilot.

The Tejas, a 4.5-generation indigenous fighter, has been a flagship of India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ in defense. The crash occurred during an international display intended to showcase the aircraft’s capabilities to potential export partners.

This incident is significant for Science and Technology and Defense relations.

While accidents are inherent risks in aviation, a crash at a high-profile international venue could temporarily impact the export potential of the Tejas Mk1A to interested nations like Argentina and the Philippines.

Aspirants should track the subsequent Court of Inquiry findings and the resilience of India’s indigenous defense manufacturing program.

India and US Finalize $93 Million Deal for Javelin and Excalibur Systems

The United States has approved a potential $93 million foreign military sale to India, including Javelin anti-tank missile systems and Excalibur artillery ammunition.

This acquisition is aimed at bolstering the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC). The Excalibur shells provide precision-strike capabilities for 155mm artillery.

This deal signifies the deepening India-US Major Defense Partnership and India’s strategic shift to diversify its arms imports away from Russian dependency.

For IR and Security aspirants, this highlights the ‘interoperability’ focus between Indian and US forces and the strategic balancing act India maintains between its traditional partner Russia and the West.

Parliament Winter Session: Bill to Open Civil Nuclear Sector to Private Players

The government is set to introduce a landmark Bill in the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament to open the civil nuclear energy sector to private players.

Currently, nuclear power generation is the exclusive domain of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). The proposed amendment aims to accelerate the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and achieve India’s net-zero targets.

This is a major policy shift relevant to Energy Security and Economy. Privatization could bring in much-needed capital and technology to a sector that has seen slow growth due to funding constraints and international liability issues.

Aspirants should understand the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, and the implications of allowing private sector entry into a sensitive strategic sector.

Government to Revamp GDP Series with 2022-23 as New Base Year

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is in the process of launching a new GDP series with 2022-23 as the base year, replacing the current 2011-12 base.

The revision aims to capture structural changes in the economy, such as the rise of the digital economy and the gig sector, which are not adequately reflected in the old series.

The new series will use more granular data from the GST Network and MCA21 database.

Base year revision is a standard statistical practice to ensure economic data remains relevant.

For Economy aspirants, understanding the concept of ‘Base Year,’ ‘Real vs. Nominal GDP,’ and the impact of such revisions on fiscal deficit and growth calculations is crucial.

A newer base year typically expands the size of the economy but may alter growth rates.

Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Voter Rolls Sparks Controversy in West Bengal

The Election Commission of India’s ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has triggered a political standoff in West Bengal.

Critics and the ruling state party allege that the exercise is a prelude to the National Register of Citizens (NRC), potentially disenfranchising voters.

Conversely, the BJP supports the move to weed out ‘infiltrators.’ The stress of the exercise has also led to protests by Booth Level Officers (BLOs).

This issue connects to the Constitutional mandate of the Election Commission (Article 324) to maintain accurate voter lists. It also touches upon the sensitive issue of citizenship and federal friction between the Centre (ECI) and State governments.

Aspirants should study the Representation of the People Acts (1950 and 1951) regarding voter registration and disqualification.

Colombo Security Conclave: NSAs Discuss Maritime Safety and Counter-Terrorism

National Security Advisers (NSAs) from India, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and the Maldives met for the 7th Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) to enhance maritime safety and counter-terrorism cooperation.

The conclave focuses on four pillars: maritime safety, counter-terrorism, combating trafficking, and cyber security. Bangladesh and Seychelles participated as observers.

The CSC is pivotal for India’s ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine. It represents a mini-lateral approach to Indian Ocean security, countering the growing Chinese naval presence.

For IR aspirants, the significance lies in India’s role as a ‘net security provider’ in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Great Nicobar Project: NGT Reserves Order on Clearance Challenge

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has reserved its order on petitions challenging the environmental and forest clearances granted to the mega infrastructure project in Great Nicobar Island. The project includes a trans-shipment port, an international airport, and a township.

Concerns have been raised regarding the destruction of rainforests and the impact on the indigenous Shompen and Nicobarese tribes.

This story sits at the intersection of Environment vs. Development. The project is strategically vital for countering maritime threats in the Malacca Strait but poses severe ecological risks.

Aspirants should be familiar with the EIA process, the role of the NGT, and the constitutional protections for Scheduled Tribes in island territories.

PM Fasal Bima Yojana Expanded to Cover Wild Animal Attacks

In a significant relief to farmers, the government has announced that the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) will now cover crop losses due to wild animal attacks starting from the 2026 Kharif season.

This addresses a long-standing demand from farmers in states like Kerala and Karnataka, where human-wildlife conflict causes substantial agricultural loss.

This update is relevant for Agriculture and Disaster Management. It marks an evolution of the crop insurance scheme to include ‘preventable’ but ‘uncontrollable’ risks.

Aspirants should review the operational guidelines of PMFBY and the broader issue of human-wildlife conflict management in India.

Punjab Political Parties Oppose Central Bill on Chandigarh Administration

Congress, AAP, and Akali Dal have united to oppose a proposed Constitutional amendment Bill that they claim aims to alter the administrative status of Chandigarh, potentially strengthening Central control.

The parties view this as an infringement on Punjab’s claim over the capital city, a dispute dating back to the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966.

This is a classic Federalism issue. Chandigarh’s unique status as a Union Territory serving as the capital for two states is a source of perpetual tension.

Aspirants need to understand the constitutional provisions regarding Union Territories and the history of the Punjab-Haryana border dispute.

RBI Pursues Interlinking of UPI with European Payment Systems

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is actively negotiating to interlink India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with the European instant payment systems. This follows successful linkages with Singapore’s PayNow and systems in the UAE.

The move aims to facilitate cross-border remittances and reduce transaction costs for the Indian diaspora and travelers.

This development highlights India’s leadership in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). It is a key component of the ‘internationalization of the Rupee’ and financial diplomacy.

For Economy aspirants, the focus is on how fintech innovations are being leveraged for soft power and economic integration.

High Court Caps Sabarimala Pilgrims at 75,000 Daily to Ensure Safety

The Kerala High Court has directed that the number of pilgrims to the Sabarimala temple be capped at 75,000 per day during the Mandala-Makaravilakku season.

The decision comes amid concerns over crowd management, sanitation, and the ecological fragility of the Periyar Tiger Reserve where the shrine is located.

This judicial intervention illustrates the tension between the Right to Freedom of Religion (Article 25) and the state’s duty to ensure public order and environmental protection.

It is a relevant case study for Ethics and Governance papers regarding crowd management in religious tourism.

Maoist Leader Madvi Hidma Reported Killed in Operation; Blow to LWE

Top Maoist leader Madvi Hidma, allegedly the mastermind behind several deadly attacks on security forces, has been reported killed in an encounter.

While legal bodies demand a probe alleging a ‘fake encounter,’ security agencies term it a major success in the fight against Left Wing Extremism (LWE) in the Bastar region.

LWE is a core topic in Internal Security. The neutralization of top leadership often disrupts the command-and-control structure of insurgent groups. Aspirants should study the government’s multi-pronged strategy (SAMADHAN) against Naxalism and the human rights debates surrounding counter-insurgency operations.

ISRO Successfully Tests CE-20 Cryogenic Engine for Gaganyaan Mission

ISRO has successfully conducted an engine restart test on the CE-20 cryogenic engine, which will power the upper stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle for the Gaganyaan mission.

The ability to restart the engine in space is crucial for precise orbital injection and maneuvering during the manned mission.

This is a technical milestone for India’s Space Program. The Gaganyaan mission aims to demonstrate human spaceflight capability.

Understanding the difference between solid, liquid, and cryogenic stages, and the significance of ‘human-rating’ launch vehicles, is essential for Science & Tech papers.

Centre Likely to Introduce Bill to Hike FDI in Insurance to 100%

Reports indicate the government plans to introduce a bill in the Winter Session to increase the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%.

The move aims to attract long-term capital, improve insurance penetration (which remains low in India), and bring in global best practices.

This falls under Economic Liberalization. While it promises capital inflow, critics argue it may expose the domestic financial sector to global volatility and reduce domestic control over long-term savings.

Aspirants should analyze the pros and cons of 100% FDI in sensitive financial sectors.

India’s Exports to China Rise Despite Global Trade Tensions

Despite geopolitical tensions and US tariffs, India’s exports to China have grown for seven consecutive months in FY26. Major drivers include petroleum products and marine goods.

This anomaly highlights the complex economic interdependence between the two Asian giants, even as military standoffs continue.

This scenario is relevant for Trade and IR. It illustrates the decoupling vs. de-risking debate. While India seeks to reduce import dependence on China (Atmanirbhar Bharat), export markets in China remain vital for certain Indian sectors.

This nuance is critical for analyzing India-China relations beyond the border dispute.

SEBI Warns Against Unregulated Digital Gold Products

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued a warning to investors against dealing in unregulated ‘digital gold’ products.

The regulator clarified that such products do not fall under its purview and lack the safety nets associated with regulated financial instruments like Gold ETFs or Sovereign Gold Bonds.

This is a topic of Financial Awareness and Consumer Protection. The rise of fintech has created ‘regulatory grey areas.’ Aspirants should distinguish between physical gold, digital gold (unregulated), and regulated gold instruments (SGBs, ETFs) for the Economy section.

India and Russia Hold Strategic Consultations Ahead of Annual Summit

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to finalize the agenda for the upcoming India-Russia Annual Summit.

The talks covered bilateral trade, payment mechanisms in the face of sanctions, and defense cooperation, reinforcing the ‘special and privileged strategic partnership.’

Russia remains a critical partner for India’s energy and defense needs. The meeting gains significance amidst the Ukraine war and Russia’s growing proximity to China.

Aspirants should analyze how India maintains its strategic autonomy by balancing ties with both Russia and the West (Quad).

White Collar Terror Module Busted in J&K; Focus on Terror Financing

J&K Police’s State Investigation Agency (SIA) has arrested individuals linked to a ‘white collar’ terror module.

These networks operate under the guise of legitimate professions to fund and facilitate terror activities, marking a shift from overt violence to covert logistical support.

This represents the changing face of terrorism in Kashmir, often termed ‘hybrid terrorism’ or ‘overground workers (OGWs).’ The crackdown on terror financing is a key component of the government’s zero-tolerance policy.

This is relevant for Internal Security and the role of agencies like NIA and SIA.

Transgender Candidates Contest Kerala Local Body Polls in Historic First

In a progressive move for social inclusion, nominations of transgender candidates for women’s wards in the Kerala local body polls have been accepted.

Candidates fielded by the UDF are contesting in Thiruvananthapuram and Alappuzha, utilizing the reservation quotas meant for women.

This is a significant development in Social Justice and Indian Society. It reflects the operationalization of the NALSA judgment (2014) which recognized the third gender.

It raises interesting constitutional questions regarding the interpretation of gender-based reservations in local governance (73rd/74th Amendments).

IndiGo to Enter BSE Sensex; Tata Motors Dropped in Reconstitution

In a major reconstitution of the BSE Sensex, InterGlobe Aviation (IndiGo) is set to replace Tata Motors. This change reflects the shifting sectoral weights in the Indian economy, with the aviation sector gaining prominence.

The inclusion in the benchmark index is expected to drive passive inflows into the stock.

For Economy aspirants, understanding Stock Market Indices (Sensex/Nifty), how they are calculated (free-float market capitalization), and what their composition represents about the broader economy is important.

CJI Highlights 90,000 Pending Cases; Prioritizes Arrears Reduction

The Chief Justice of India (CJI) has identified the clearance of over 90,000 pending cases in the Supreme Court as a top priority.

The plan involves identifying core cases and constituting Constitution Benches to settle questions of law that affect thousands of connected cases.

Judicial Pendency is a chronic issue in Indian Governance. The CJI’s strategy focuses on ‘grouping of cases’ to clear backlogs efficiently.

Aspirants should study the reasons for judicial delays (vacancies, frequent adjournments) and proposed solutions (AI integration, tribunals, National Court Management Systems).

Assam Issues Deportation Orders Under 1950 Act; First Such Use

In a rare application of the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950, the Assam government has issued orders to five individuals to leave India within 24 hours.

This marks a shift towards stricter enforcement of existing laws to tackle illegal migration, a sensitive socio-political issue in the state.

This topic connects to the Assam Accord, Clause 6, and the NRC.

Understanding the legal framework for citizenship and the specific laws applicable to Assam (like the 1950 Act vs. the Foreigners Act, 1946) is crucial for the Polity and Internal Security sections.

COP30 Draft Agreement on Climate Finance Released Amidst Venue Fire

A draft agreement on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) for climate finance has been released at the COP30 summit in Brazil, even as a fire disrupted proceedings.

The draft exposes deep divides between developed and developing nations regarding the quantum of funding and the ‘phase-out’ vs. ‘phase-down’ of fossil fuels.

Environment aspirants must track the NCQG negotiations, which aim to replace the $100 billion annual target. The stance of India regarding ‘common but differentiated responsibilities’ (CBDR) and the demand for grant-based (not loan-based) finance is central to these talks.

Adani Group Faces Scrutiny Over Bribery Allegations and US Indictment

The Adani Group is facing intense scrutiny following allegations of bribery and a US court indictment related to renewable energy contracts.

The controversy has led to significant volatility in Adani stocks and political demands for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe.

While specific corporate scandals are less asked, the broader implications for Corporate Governance, the role of rating agencies, and the impact of foreign legal actions on Indian conglomerates (extraterritorial jurisdiction) are relevant.

It also touches on the integrity of India’s renewable energy tendering processes.

Byju’s Founder Ordered to Pay $1 Billion by US Court

A US court has ordered Byju’s founder Byju Raveendran to pay over $1 billion following a default ruling. This marks a deepening crisis for what was once India’s most valuable startup.

The ruling highlights the risks associated with aggressive debt-fueled expansion and governance lapses in the startup ecosystem.

This is a case study for the Indian Economy section regarding the Startup Ecosystem, Venture Capital, and Corporate Insolvency. It underscores the importance of financial due diligence and the fragility of valuations in the digital economy.

SIA Raids Kashmir Times Office; Editors Claim Attempt to Silence Press

The State Investigation Agency (SIA) conducted raids at the office of Kashmir Times, seizing electronic devices. Authorities claim the probe is linked to ‘extremist links,’ while the editors describe it as an assault on press freedom.

This follows a pattern of crackdown on media entities in the region.

This topic relates to Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 19) vs. National Security.

Aspirants should analyze the role of a free press in a democracy and the state’s power to restrict it under reasonable restrictions (Article 19(2)) in conflict zones.

Tripura: Tension Simmers Between BJP and Ally Tipra Motha

Political tension has erupted between the ruling BJP and its ally Tipra Motha in Tripura, leading to incidents of violence.

Tipra Motha, led by Pradyot Debbarma, champions the demand for ‘Greater Tipraland’ for indigenous communities, a demand that creates friction with the non-tribal population.

Regionalism and Ethnicity in the North East are key UPSC topics. The demand for separate states (Article 2/3) based on ethnic identity often clashes with the administrative unity of existing states.

Understanding the Sixth Schedule and the autonomous district councils (ADCs) is vital here.

G20: India Proposes Global Framework to Counter Drug-Terror Nexus

At the G20 Summit, PM Modi pitched a specific initiative to counter the convergence of drug trafficking and terrorism. This ‘narco-terrorism’ is a major security threat for India, particularly from the ‘Golden Crescent’ (Afghanistan-Pakistan-Iran) and ‘Golden Triangle’ (SE Asia).

Internal Security aspirants should note the link between organized crime and terrorism. Drug money is a primary source of terror financing. India’s push for a global framework acknowledges that this is a trans-national crime requiring multilateral cooperation.

Supreme Court Collegium Data Reveals Focus on Diversity in Appointments

The CJI has released data showing that recent High Court judge appointments have prioritized gender, caste, and minority representation.

This move towards transparency aims to counter criticism regarding the opacity of the Collegium system and the lack of social diversity in the higher judiciary.

This relates to the ongoing debate on Judicial Appointments (NJAC vs. Collegium). The focus on ‘diversity’ suggests the judiciary is responding to calls for it to be more representative of Indian society, a key aspect of social justice.

IMEC Corridor to Boost Israel-India Economic Ties

Israeli Minister Nir Barkat has stated that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) will end Israel’s economic isolation and position the Haifa port as a key gateway.

The corridor, announced at the previous G20, aims to link India to Europe via the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel.

IMEC is a strategic counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). For IR aspirants, it represents India’s geo-economic strategy to bypass Pakistan for connectivity to the West and deepen ties with the Arab world and Israel simultaneously.

First Private PSLV Launch Likely in Early 2026

The production of the first privately built Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is nearing completion, with a launch expected in early 2026.

This is part of the space sector reforms managed by NSIL (NewSpace India Limited) to transfer operational launch vehicles to the industry.

This marks the maturity of Space Sector Reforms in India. Moving routine launches to the private sector allows ISRO to focus on R&D and deep space missions. It is a prime example of public-private partnership (PPP) in high-tech sectors.

Health Ministry Issues Advisory on ‘Brain-Eating Amoeba’ for Pilgrims

The Karnataka government has issued an advisory for Sabarimala pilgrims regarding Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), caused by the ‘brain-eating amoeba’ Naegleria fowleri. The infection is often contracted from contaminated warm freshwater bodies.

Public Health and Diseases are standard Science topics. Aspirants should know the transmission vector (water entering the nose), the rarity but high fatality of the disease, and the importance of sanitation in mass gatherings.

Afghanistan Offers Tax Sops to Woo Indian Investors

The Taliban-led administration in Afghanistan is courting Indian investment in mining, agriculture, and IT by offering tax breaks and reopening air cargo routes.

This indicates a pragmatic shift in the regime’s approach, valuing economic stability over isolation, and India’s cautious re-engagement.

This illustrates India’s ‘people-centric’ approach to Afghanistan. Despite not recognizing the Taliban regime officially, India maintains a technical presence to safeguard its strategic investments and historical goodwill. It is a complex IR balancing act.

Consumer Panel Orders Compensation for Faulty Service; Highlights Consumer Rights

A consumer panel has ordered compensation for a faulty air conditioner, reinforcing the accountability of manufacturers. While a local incident, it highlights the efficacy of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, which empowers consumers against product liability and service deficiencies.

Governance aspirants should note the three-tier quasi-judicial machinery (District, State, National commissions) established for consumer dispute redressal and the concept of ‘Product Liability’ introduced in the 2019 Act.

SEBI Introduces New Retail Algo Trading Framework

SEBI has released a circular detailing a new framework for retail algorithmic trading. The regulations aim to standardize the APIs offered by brokers and prevent the mis-selling of ‘guaranteed return’ algo strategies to unsuspecting retail investors.

This is a regulatory measure to ensure Financial Stability. As retail participation in complex trading grows, the regulator is stepping in to curb systemic risks and protect small investors from technological asymmetries.

Navy Arrests Two for Espionage; Pakistan Link Suspected

Two individuals have been arrested for leaking sensitive information about a Naval shipyard to Pakistan-based handlers. The espionage racket involved the use of social media traps (honey-trapping) and crypto-currency payments. Counter-intelligence is a vital part of National Security.

The case highlights the vulnerability of defense personnel and critical infrastructure to cyber-espionage and social engineering. It underscores the need for stricter cyber hygiene protocols in the armed forces.