Daily Current Affairs Digest: November 23, 2025

Daily Current Affairs Digest: November 23, 2025

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India and Italy Unveil Joint Initiative to Combat Terror Financing

On the sidelines of the G20 Summit in South Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni adopted a ‘Joint Initiative to Counter Financing of Terrorism.’ This bilateral move reinforces the resolve of both nations to dismantle the financial networks that sustain terrorist activities.

The initiative aims to deepen cooperation in intelligence sharing and regulatory frameworks to prevent the use of both formal and informal financial systems by terror entities.

For competitive exam aspirants, this development highlights India’s consistent diplomatic push for a ‘zero-tolerance’ approach towards terrorism on global platforms.

It also underscores the growing strategic partnership between New Delhi and Rome, expanding beyond trade and defense into critical security domains. This initiative aligns with global standards set by bodies like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

PM Modi Concludes G20 Summit in South Africa; Focuses on ‘One Future’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded his engagements at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. During the summit, India championed the concerns of the Global South, emphasizing the ‘One Future’ vision.

The Prime Minister held crucial bilateral meetings with leaders from the UK, Japan, Italy, and Brazil, discussing trade, technology, and sustainable development.

This summit is significant as it marks the first G20 gathering on African soil, reinforcing the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member—a move India strongly advocated for during its own presidency.

Aspirants should note the continuity of agenda from the Delhi Declaration to the Johannesburg Declaration, particularly regarding climate finance and digital public infrastructure.

Nitish Kumar Sworn in as Bihar Chief Minister for Record 10th Time

JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar has taken the oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar for a record 10th time, following political realignments in the state. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior NDA leaders.

The new cabinet formation includes Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha as Deputy Chief Ministers, signaling a consolidated NDA front ahead of future electoral battles.

From a polity perspective, this event is crucial for understanding the dynamics of coalition politics and the constitutional provisions regarding the appointment of the Chief Minister (Article 164).

The frequent changes in leadership configurations in Bihar also provide a case study on political stability and the role of the Governor in state administration.

Tejas Fighter Jet Crash in Dubai Raises Export and Safety Concerns

An Indian Air Force (IAF) Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) crashed during an air show in Dubai, resulting in the tragic death of Wing Commander Namansh Syal.

The incident occurred during a demonstration flight intended to showcase the indigenous fighter’s capabilities to international buyers. The IAF has ordered a Court of Inquiry (CoI) to determine the cause of the accident.

This incident is significant for the Defence and Science & Technology sections of exams.

While the Tejas Mark-1A is a cornerstone of India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ in defense, this crash could temporarily impact its export potential, particularly as countries like Argentina and Egypt have shown interest.

The investigation’s outcome will be critical for the program’s future credibility.

Supreme Court Releases Handbook to Curb Casteist Language in Administration

The Supreme Court of India has released a report and handbook directing the abandonment of colonial and casteist job titles in the administrative and judicial lexicon.

Terms such as ‘Halalkhor’, ‘Basta Bardhar’, and ‘Scavenger’ are to be replaced with dignified terminology. The Court emphasized that administrative language must reflect the constitutional ethos of equality and dignity.

This move connects to Article 17 (Abolition of Untouchability) and Article 21 (Right to Dignity) of the Constitution. For aspirants, this represents a significant step in judicial activism aimed at social reform.

It highlights the judiciary’s role in cleansing the administrative system of regressive nomenclature that perpetuates social hierarchies.

Manipur Government Proposes Removal of ‘Any Kuki Tribes’ from ST List

The Manipur state government has requested the Centre to remove the category ‘Any Kuki Tribes’ from the state’s Scheduled Tribes (ST) list. This proposal comes amidst ongoing ethnic tensions in the region.

The state argues that the vague definition allows for the inclusion of illegal immigrants from neighboring Myanmar into the ST category, altering the demographic balance.

This development is highly relevant for the ‘Social Justice’ and ‘Internal Security’ sections of the UPSC syllabus.

It touches upon the sensitive issue of reservation criteria, the definition of indigenous tribes, and the socio-political impact of cross-border migration in the Northeast. The final decision rests with the Parliament, which has the power to amend ST lists.

ISRO Successfully Tests Gaganyaan Mission’s CE-20 Cryogenic Engine

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted an engine restart test on the CE-20 cryogenic engine, which will power the LVM3 launch vehicle for the Gaganyaan mission.

The test validates the engine’s reliability and its capability to handle the specific requirements of India’s first human spaceflight program.

Science and Technology aspirants must track the progress of the Gaganyaan mission. The CE-20 engine is the first indigenous cryogenic engine to feature a gas-generator cycle.

Its successful testing brings India closer to sending astronauts into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), demonstrating growing self-reliance in critical space technologies.

COP30 Summit Concludes with Limited Progress on Fossil Fuel Phase-out

The COP30 climate summit in Brazil has concluded with a draft agreement that observers note is weak on fossil fuel phase-out commitments.

While discussions on climate finance made some headway, the developed world’s reluctance to provide substantial funding for adaptation and mitigation in developing nations remains a sticking point.

India reiterated that it cannot be expected to fill the gap left by historical polluters.

For the Environment section, understanding the concept of ‘Common But Differentiated Responsibilities’ (CBDR) is key. The outcome of COP30 highlights the ongoing tussle between the Global North and South regarding climate justice and financial accountability.

The failure to secure firm timelines for ending fossil fuel use poses challenges for global temperature targets.

NIA Arrests Gangster Anmol Bishnoi After Deportation

Gangster Anmol Bishnoi, a key accused in the Baba Siddique murder case and various transnational criminal activities, has been arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) following his deportation to India.

His arrest is seen as a major success for Indian security agencies in dismantling organized crime syndicates operating from abroad.

This event is significant for ‘Internal Security’ studies, specifically the nexus between organized crime and terrorism. It also highlights the effectiveness of international legal cooperation, extradition treaties, and deportation mechanisms (Red Corner Notices) in bringing fugitives to justice.

Centre to Raise Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of Sugar

The Central Government is set to increase the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of sugar by nearly 23% to ₹38 per kg, the first such hike in seven years.

This decision aims to improve the liquidity of sugar mills, enabling them to clear pending arrears to sugarcane farmers. Concurrently, ethanol procurement prices may also see a revision.

In the Economy section, this relates to agricultural pricing policies and the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) system for sugarcane.

A higher MSP supports the financial health of the sugar industry and promotes the Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP), which is crucial for India’s energy security and reducing crude oil imports.

India and Israel Initiate Talks for Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has concluded a visit to Israel, announcing the commencement of formal negotiations for an India-Israel Free Trade Agreement. The proposed pact may be implemented in phases to deliver early benefits.

Discussions also covered cooperation in startups, innovation, and water technologies.

Bilateral trade agreements are a core part of the International Relations syllabus. An FTA with Israel would likely boost trade in diamonds, defense equipment, and high-tech agricultural solutions.

It signifies a deepening of the strategic partnership, moving beyond defense into broader economic collaboration.

RBI to Interlink UPI with European Instant Payment Systems

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced plans to interlink India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with the European Union’s instant payment systems.

This move is part of a broader strategy to internationalize UPI, facilitating easier cross-border remittances and payments for travelers.

This development is crucial for the ‘Economy’ and ‘Science & Technology’ sections. It showcases India’s leadership in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Successful integration would reduce the cost of remittances and decrease reliance on traditional SWIFT-based banking channels for retail transactions.

Supreme Court Clarifies Scope of Judicial Review on Governor’s Assent to Bills

In response to a Presidential Reference, the Supreme Court has indicated that Governors cannot sit on Bills endlessly. Justice Gavai stated that while the court relaxed timelines, it balanced this by asserting that indefinite delays are impermissible.

The Kerala government is considering legal action if bills are delayed beyond a ‘reasonable time’.

This is a critical topic for Indian Polity (Federalism and Office of Governor). Aspirants should understand Article 200 of the Constitution, which deals with the Governor’s powers to assent, withhold assent, or reserve a bill for the President.

The friction between elected state governments and appointed Governors is a recurring theme in current affairs.

Labour Codes Implementation: Centre Focuses on Nation-Building Reforms

Union Minister Bandaru Dattatreya has termed the four new Labour Codes as ‘nation-building reforms’ aimed at improving worker welfare and ease of doing business.

The codes streamline multiple central labor laws into four categories: Wages, Industrial Relations, Social Security, and Occupational Safety. However, implementation remains pending as several states are yet to frame rules.

For Economy and Social Justice, the Labour Codes represent a massive structural reform. They aim to universalize minimum wages and social security while providing flexibility to industries in hiring and firing.

The delay in implementation highlights the challenges of ‘Concurrent List’ subjects where both Centre and States must align.

Study Finds Uranium Contamination in Bihar’s Groundwater and Breastmilk

A new scientific study has detected uranium traces in breastmilk in several districts of Bihar, linking it to environmental exposure.

While experts urge caution against panic, noting that benefits of breastfeeding outweigh risks, the findings point to severe groundwater contamination issues in the region.

This story intersects Environment, Health, and Geography. Uranium contamination in groundwater is a growing concern in Indian states like Punjab and Bihar due to geogenic factors and over-extraction of water.

It poses long-term public health risks, necessitating urgent water treatment and management policies.

US Approves Sale of Javelin and Excalibur Weapon Systems to India

The United States has cleared the sale of Javelin anti-tank missiles and Excalibur artillery shells to India. This defense acquisition is aimed at bolstering India’s deterrence capabilities along its northern and western borders.

The deal reflects the growing defense interoperability between India and the US.

From a Defence and IR perspective, this reinforces the status of the US as a key defense partner for India.

The acquisition of precision-guided munitions like Excalibur enhances the lethality of India’s existing artillery assets (like the M777 howitzers), which is critical for mountain warfare scenarios.

Red Fort Blast Probe Reveals Transnational Terror Links

Investigations into the Red Fort blast case and related terror modules in J&K have revealed links to foreign handlers. The NIA and SIA have conducted raids on locations linked to terror financing and recruitment.

Evidence suggests the use of encrypted apps to share bomb-making videos and coordinate attacks.

This highlights the evolving nature of ‘Cyber-Terrorism’ and ‘Hybrid Warfare.’ For Internal Security exams, the focus is on how radicalization is conducted online and the challenges intelligence agencies face in monitoring encrypted communications (Dark Web/Telegram) used by non-state actors.

India Proposes Trilateral Technology Alliance with Canada and Australia

At the G20 Summit, PM Modi proposed a new trilateral technology and innovation partnership involving India, Canada, and Australia. The alliance aims to foster cooperation in emerging technologies, critical minerals, and renewable energy sectors.

This is significant for IR as it demonstrates India’s ‘Minilateralism’ strategy—forming small, issue-based groups to bypass gridlocks in larger multilateral forums. Cooperation on critical minerals is particularly vital for India’s transition to electric vehicles and clean energy.

SEBI Warns Investors Against Unregulated Digital Gold Products

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has issued a warning against investing in digital gold products offered by unregulated entities.

The regulator emphasized that such products lack the safety mechanisms of SEBI-regulated assets and advised investors to use registered intermediaries.

This is a key topic for Financial Awareness. It touches upon consumer protection and the regulatory grey area surrounding digital assets. Aspirants should distinguish between Sovereign Gold Bonds (government-backed) and private digital gold schemes which carry counterparty risks.

Government Plans New Export Promotion Mission for MSMEs

The Centre is finalizing an ‘Export Promotion Mission’ to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The mission proposes an interest subvention scheme capped at ₹50 lakh per exporter to enhance competitiveness in global markets amidst slowing demand and rising tariffs.

MSMEs contribute significantly to India’s GDP and exports. This scheme is relevant for the Economy syllabus under ‘Industrial Policy’ and ‘Foreign Trade’. It aims to address the credit gap and high cost of capital that hinders small exporters.

Adani Group Acquires Jaiprakash Associates in Insolvency Process

The Adani Group has won the approval of lenders to acquire the debt-laden Jaiprakash Associates. The acquisition, valued at over ₹14,000 crore, was finalized through the insolvency resolution process, strengthening the group’s footprint in the cement and infrastructure sectors.

This story illustrates the working of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). For exam aspirants, the IBC is a landmark economic reform aimed at resolving stressed assets and cleaning up bank balance sheets.

The consolidation in the cement sector also has implications for infrastructure development costs.

Kerala High Court Caps Sabarimala Pilgrims to Ensure Safety

The Kerala High Court has capped the number of daily pilgrims to the Sabarimala temple at 75,000 to prevent overcrowding and ensure safety. This judicial intervention comes after reports of stampede-like situations and infrastructure strain.

This falls under ‘Judicial Intervention in Religious Management’ and ‘Disaster Management’. It highlights the balance courts attempt to strike between the right to worship and the state’s duty to ensure public safety and order.

Global Hunger and Nigeria Kidnappings Discussed at G20

While the G20 declaration focused on economic issues, the sidelines were dominated by concerns over security in Africa, particularly the abduction of 50 school children in Nigeria.

Leaders discussed the need for a coordinated global response to protect vulnerable populations in conflict zones.

This highlights the security challenges in the Global South, a priority area for India’s foreign policy. The instability in regions like West Africa impacts global energy security and requires attention under international humanitarian law.

Rajnath Singh Remarks on ‘Sindh’ and Akhand Bharat Concept

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, referring to the national anthem, remarked that ‘Sindh may return to India someday’ due to cultural affinities.

He cited a Supreme Court ruling regarding the retention of the word ‘Sindh’ in the anthem to emphasize the region’s historical connection to India.

While largely rhetorical, such statements from high offices impact diplomatic relations with Pakistan. For aspirants, the cultural history of undivided India and the post-partition geopolitical reality are relevant context for India-Pakistan relations.

Bill to Hike FDI in Insurance Sector to 100% Likely in Winter Session

The government is reportedly planning to introduce a bill in the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament to increase the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the insurance sector to 100%.

This follows the previous hike from 49% to 74% and aims to attract more long-term capital.

FDI policy is a staple Economy topic. Increasing FDI in insurance is expected to increase insurance penetration (currently low in India), bring in global best practices, and improve the solvency ratio of insurers.

However, it also raises debates about foreign control over domestic savings.

India’s Q2 GDP Growth Projected at 7% for FY26

Reports project India’s GDP growth to sustain a robust 7% in the second quarter of FY26. Despite global headwinds, domestic demand and government capex are driving growth, leading global investment banks like Goldman Sachs to upgrade India to ‘Overweight’.

Macroeconomic indicators are essential for Banking and Civil Services exams. Sustained growth amidst a global slowdown positions India as a ‘bright spot’, attracting Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI). Understanding the components of GDP (Consumption, Investment, Government Spending, Net Exports) is crucial.

Civil Nuclear Sector Bill Listed for Parliament Winter Session

A bill related to the civil nuclear sector is among ten new legislations listed for the Winter Session.

The bill aims to facilitate private sector participation in small modular reactors (SMRs) and other nuclear technologies to boost India’s clean energy capacity.

This connects Energy Security and Climate Change. Opening the nuclear sector (traditionally a state monopoly) to private players is a major policy shift. SMRs are seen as a viable solution for decarbonizing heavy industries.

Severe Air Pollution in Delhi Prompts Supreme Court Scrutiny

With Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) remaining in the ‘severe’ category, the Supreme Court has criticized the lack of effective enforcement of pollution control measures. The court questioned the delay in implementing GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) stages.

Environmental Governance is a high-priority topic. The role of bodies like the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the efficacy of GRAP, and the issue of stubble burning are recurring themes in exams concerning urbanization and environmental federalism.

India and UK Discuss Double Contributions Convention (DCC)

India and the UK are negotiating a Double Contributions Convention (DCC) alongside the Free Trade Agreement.

The DCC aims to exempt Indian professionals working in the UK for short periods from contributing to the UK’s social security scheme, provided they are contributing in India.

This is a major demand from India in FTA talks (Movement of Natural Persons - Mode 4 of services trade). It prevents dual taxation of income for Indian IT professionals and increases the cost-competitiveness of Indian service exports.

Assam Government Consensus on Clause 6 of Assam Accord

The Assam government has claimed consensus on implementing most recommendations regarding Clause 6 of the Assam Accord. This clause promises constitutional, legislative, and administrative safeguards to protect the cultural and linguistic identity of the Assamese people.

This is a critical topic for Polity and History. The Assam Accord (1985) ended the anti-foreigner agitation. Implementing Clause 6 has been contentious due to the difficulty in defining ‘Assamese people’.

It has implications for the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) debates.

Private PSLV Launch Likely by Early 2026

India’s first privately built Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is expected to launch by early 2026. This follows the transfer of technology from ISRO to a consortium of private companies (HAL-L&T), marking the privatization of operational launch vehicles.

Space reforms are a key part of the Science & Technology syllabus. The formation of NSIL (NewSpace India Limited) and IN-SPACe has facilitated private sector entry, allowing ISRO to focus on R&D and deep space missions.

Government to Launch ‘Greenvironment’ Water Efficiency Initiative

In response to the growing water crisis in urban centers like Bengaluru, a new initiative titled ‘Greenvironment’ is being highlighted to promote real-time water monitoring and conservation in industries and housing societies.

Water management is a critical part of General Studies (Geography and Governance). Technologies like IoT (Internet of Things) for water metering help in auditing usage and reducing wastage, aligning with the Jal Jeevan Mission’s goals.

MHA Approves Premature Repatriation of Senior IPS Officer in Security Shuffle

The Ministry of Home Affairs has approved the repatriation of senior IPS officers to their parent cadres and appointed the CISF as the new safety regulator for 250 Indian seaports.

This move aims to standardize security protocols across India’s maritime infrastructure.

This relates to Internal Security and Infrastructure. Seaports are critical assets vulnerable to terrorism and smuggling. Entrusting CISF (which guards airports and nuclear plants) with port security signifies a move towards a unified industrial security command.

Israel-Hezbollah Conflict Escalates with Strike on Beirut

The conflict in West Asia has escalated with Israel conducting its first airstrike on Beirut in months, targeting a top Hezbollah commander. The strike threatens to widen the war, drawing in regional actors and impacting global oil prices.

International Relations aspirants must track the Abraham Accords vs. the current conflict. A regional war impacts India’s energy security (oil imports) and the safety of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf region.

Russia-Ukraine Peace Plan Tensions Rise at G20

Tensions regarding the Russia-Ukraine war surfaced at the G20, with European leaders pushing back against a proposed peace plan that might require Ukraine to cede territory. The final declaration struggled to find consensus language on the conflict.

Geopolitics of the G20 is important. India’s role as a bridge-builder was tested. The war’s impact on food and fertilizer supply chains directly affects the Indian economy.

Tripura Government Announces Upgrade of Colleges to Universities

The Tripura state government has announced plans to upgrade two colleges into state universities and fill hundreds of academic vacancies. This is part of a push to improve higher education infrastructure in the Northeast.

Education Policy is a social sector topic. Decentralizing higher education and creating universities in remote areas aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 goals of increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER).

Scientists Link Lithium-Rich Red Giant Stars to Helium Abundance

A study by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) has traced a link between Lithium-rich red giant stars and enhanced Helium abundance. This discovery challenges traditional stellar evolution theories and helps understand nucleosynthesis in the universe.

Deep space science questions appear in the Science & Technology section (UPSC Prelims). Understanding stellar lifecycles and the formation of elements (nucleosynthesis) is fundamental physics.

US Tech Majors Oppose Spectrum Allocation to Indian Telcos

US technology giants are opposing the demand of Indian telecom operators to allocate the 6 GHz spectrum band for 5G mobile services. They argue this band should be reserved for Wi-Fi services to support unlicensed technologies.

Spectrum management is a key Telecommunications policy issue. The debate is between licensed use (5G telcos) and unlicensed use (Wi-Fi). The decision will impact the quality of 5G services and the proliferation of Wi-Fi 6E technologies in India.

IMD Forecasts Depression in Bay of Bengal; Cyclone Watch for Tamil Nadu

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a depression forming over the Bay of Bengal, which may intensify into a cyclone by November 26. While no heavy rainfall warnings are issued yet for Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu is on alert.

Disaster Management aspirants should note the naming conventions of cyclones (managed by WMO/ESCAP) and the conditions favorable for cyclogenesis in the Bay of Bengal during the North-East Monsoon season.

National Energy Conservation Awards: BEE Gears Up for 35th Edition

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is preparing for the 35th National Energy Conservation Awards. The awards recognize industries and establishments that have taken significant steps to reduce energy consumption.

Energy Conservation is part of the Environment syllabus. BEE, a statutory body under the Ministry of Power, enforces the Energy Conservation Act. Programs like PAT (Perform, Achieve, and Trade) are central to India’s energy efficiency targets.

Bangladesh Seeks Extradition of Sheikh Hasina from India

The interim government of Bangladesh has formally requested the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina following an arrest warrant by their International Crimes Tribunal. Dhaka has sent a diplomatic note to New Delhi.

This presents a diplomatic dilemma for India. India has an extradition treaty with Bangladesh, but political asylum/shelter is often granted on discretionary grounds. This event tests the resilience of India-Bangladesh ties post-regime change.

Western Ghats Conservation: Centre Rejects Quarry Proposals

In a boost to environmental conservation, the Central Government has rejected proposals for new stone quarries in the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats. This decision aligns with the need to protect the biodiversity hotspot from extractive industries.

The Western Ghats ecology is a frequent exam topic (Gadgil Committee vs. Kasturirangan Committee reports). The tension between development (mining/quarrying) and conservation in Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ) is a key policy debate.

BRICS Presidency: India to Follow G20 Model of Decentralized Meetings

For its upcoming BRICS Presidency, India plans to adopt the ‘G20 model’ by hosting meetings across all states and Union Territories. This strategy aims to showcase India’s diversity and infrastructure to delegates from the expanded BRICS grouping.

This relates to ‘Soft Power’ diplomacy. Decentralizing summits helps in tourism promotion and infrastructure development in tier-2 cities, a strategy successfully employed during India’s G20 Presidency.

SIT Arrests CPM Leader in Sabarimala Gold Theft Case

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested a local political leader in connection with the theft of gold artefacts from the Sabarimala temple. The case involves the disappearance of gold-plated panels and has sparked political controversy in Kerala.

While a criminal case, it highlights the issue of ‘Temple Management’ and the role of Devaswom Boards (state-controlled bodies managing temples), which is a subject of legal and political debate regarding state control over religious institutions.