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National Current Affairs of India, Important for competitive Exams.

India Achieves 50% Non-Fossil Power Capacity Target Five Years Ahead of 2030 Deadline

India has achieved a major clean energy milestone by installing 50% of its total power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, reaching its Panchamrit target five years ahead of the 2030 deadline. As per data tabled in the Lok Sabha on 8 December 2025, India’s total installed power capacity stood at 485 GW as of 30 June 2025, out of which 243 GW came from non-fossil sources. The Standing Committee on Energy praised the MNRE, Ministry of Power, and stakeholders for this progress.

India has already installed 116 GW of solar capacity and aims to reach 292 GW by 2030 as part of its larger 500 GW non-fossil power target. To achieve this, around 176 GW of new solar capacity must be added in the next five years. Currently, 128 GW is under implementation, while 62 GW is in the tendering stage.

However, the Committee highlighted key challenges such as land acquisition delays, grid connectivity issues, inadequate energy storage, and the need to strengthen domestic manufacturing. Land requirements are particularly critical, as 4–7 acres are needed per MW of solar power, and India may need 1.4–2 million hectares of land for long-term solar expansion. This could lead to conflicts with agriculture and ecologically sensitive areas. The Committee urged strict adherence to the planned energy transition roadmap to sustain progress.

Q. In December 2025, India achieved which Panchamrit clean energy milestone ahead of the 2030 target?
A. 40% power capacity from non-fossil sources
B. 45% power capacity from renewable sources
C. 50% power capacity from non-fossil sources
D. 60% power capacity from renewable sources
✅ Answer: C. 50% power capacity from non-fossil sources
India has achieved a major clean energy milestone by installing 50% of its total power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, reaching its Panchamrit target five years ahead of the 2030 deadline.

Q. According to MNRE data (June 2025), what were India’s total installed power capacity and non-fossil capacity respectively?
A. 450 GW and 210 GW
B. 485 GW and 243 GW
C. 500 GW and 260 GW
D. 470 GW and 235 GW
✅ Answer: B. 485 GW and 243 GW
India’s total installed power capacity stood at 485 GW as of 30 June 2025, out of which 243 GW came from non-fossil sources.

Armed Forces Flag Day Observed on December 7 to Honour India’s Defence Personnel

Armed Forces Flag Day is observed annually on December 7 in India to honour the sacrifice, courage, and service of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Established in 1949, the day was instituted to create awareness and raise funds for the welfare of ex-servicemen, war widows, and their dependents through the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF).

On this day, citizens contribute voluntarily and receive small flags or stickers as a symbol of solidarity with the armed forces. The observance reflects national gratitude, unity, and responsibility toward those who protect the nation.

India–Malaysia Begin 5th Edition of ‘Harimau Shakti’ Joint Military Exercise in Rajasthan

India and Malaysia commenced the fifth edition of the joint military exercise ‘Harimau Shakti’ on 5 December 2025 at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan, which will continue till 18 December. The exercise focuses on enhancing interoperability in sub-conventional operations under the UN Chapter VII mandate.

The Indian Army is represented mainly by the Dogra Regiment, while Malaysia is represented by the 25th Battalion of the Royal Malaysian Army. Training includes counter-terrorism operations, cordon-and-search drills, search-and-destroy missions, heliborne operations, martial arts, combat reflex shooting, and yoga. Both sides will also rehearse helipad security and casualty evacuation in hostile environments. The exercise aims to improve joint operational readiness, reduce risks, and strengthen defence cooperation and bilateral ties between India and Malaysia.

PMO Renamed and Shifted to New ‘Sewa Tirth’ Complex Under Central Vista Project

India’s Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is being relocated from the historic South Block to a newly built complex named Sewa Tirth, marking a symbolic shift in governance from “power” (satta) to “service” (seva).

The move is part of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project.

🏛 New Sewa Tirth Complex

The new Executive Enclave will have three main blocks:

  • Sewa Tirth-1: Prime Minister’s Office
  • Sewa Tirth-2: Cabinet Secretariat
  • Sewa Tirth-3: Office of the National Security Advisor (NSA)

Located near Vayu Bhawan, the complex features modern infrastructure, advanced security systems, and sustainable design.

🌐 Meaning & Symbolism

  • “Sewa Tirth” means a pilgrimage of service, emphasizing duty, humility, and citizen-centric governance.
  • Reflects a broader government effort to rename institutions—e.g., Raj Bhavan → Lok Bhavan, Raj Niwas → Lok Niwas.

Border Security Force (BSF) 61st Raising Day (1 December 2025)

The Border Security Force (BSF) celebrated its 61st Raising Day on 1 December 2025, marking six decades since its formation in 1965 after the Indo-Pak war. Over the years, BSF has grown into the world’s largest border-guarding force, responsible for securing India’s borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, and supporting security along the Myanmar frontier and coastal areas.

BSF plays a crucial role in preventing infiltration, smuggling, and cross-border crimes, along with participating in counter-insurgency operations in Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast. The force is also known for its contributions in humanitarian relief, disaster management, and UN peacekeeping missions.

Indian Navy Commissions India’s first Indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Vessel ‘INS Mahe’

On 24 November 2025, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Mahe, the first vessel of the Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, the vessel has over 80% indigenous content under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The ship will operate as a “Silent Hunter” on the Western Seaboard to strengthen coastal security.

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi attended the ceremony as chief guest and highlighted the importance of jointness and synergy among the armed forces for national security.

India–UK joint military exercise “Ajeya Warrior” from 17-30 November at Bikaner

The 8th edition of the India–UK joint military exercise “Ajeya Warrior” began on 17 November 2025 at the Mahajan Field Firing Range, Bikaner, and will continue until 30 November. A total of 240 soldiers from both countries are participating, including troops from India’s Sikh Regiment.

Colonel Neeraj Beniwal stated that the main focus is on counter-terrorism operations in urban environments, conducted under a United Nations mandate. The exercise aims to promote the exchange of combat skills and operational experience and strengthen the capability of both armies to work together in complex scenarios.

India–France Air Drill Garuda-2025 Begins at Mont-de-Marsan

An Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent has arrived at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base, France to participate in the bilateral air exercise Garuda-2025, scheduled from 16 to 27 November. The exercise reflects the strong strategic partnership between India and France in defence and security.

It will involve IAF’s Su-30 MKI aircraft operating with French Rafale fighters in a simulated combat environment, aimed at enhancing interoperability, sharing best practices, and strengthening defence cooperation between the two air forces.

44th IITF 2025 Begins at Bharat Mandapam

The 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF) began on 14 November 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, with the theme “Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat.” It was inaugurated by Jitin Prasada, who highlighted the fair’s role in India’s growth and Aatmanirbhar vision.

UP, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Bihar are Partner States, while Jharkhand is the Focus State. Around 30 states/UTs, 60+ ministries, and 12 countries (including UAE, China, Iran, South Korea, Egypt) are participating.

The fair promotes major B2B and B2C trade opportunities. Business days are 14–18 November, and it opens to the public from 19 November. Tickets range from ₹80–₹500, with free entry for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Entry is allowed until 5:30 pm, and tickets are available via ITPO website, Delhi Metro stations, and the Saarthi app.

Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2025 between India and Sri Lanka

The 11th edition of the Joint Military Exercise MITRA SHAKTI-2025 between India and Sri Lanka is being held at the Foreign Training Node in Belagavi, Karnataka from 10 to 23 November 2025.

The exercise highlights the strong defence cooperation, interoperability, and mutual trust between the two nations. It includes joint training on fieldcraft, counter-drone techniques, movement in built-up areas, cordon and search operations, and the use of new-generation equipment.

Both armies are also practising village reconnaissance using UAVs, drone-assisted searches, civic-action measures, weapons training, simulator firing, live firing, and conducting discussions to enhance tactical understanding and coordination.

Exercise Malabar 2025: Quad naval exercise from November 10–18, 2025

Exercise Malabar 2025 is a major Quad naval exercise held from November 10–18, 2025, near Guam in the West Pacific, involving India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. The drill focuses on strengthening interoperability, regional security, and joint operational readiness among the four nations.

The exercise featured two phases — Harbour Phase (Nov 10–12) and Sea Phase (Nov 13–17) — and included advanced naval platforms such as India’s INS Sahyadri and Australia’s HMAS Ballarat with a P-8A Poseidon aircraft.

Started in 1992 as a bilateral India–US exercise, Malabar expanded to include Japan in 2015 and Australia in 2020, evolving into a key Quad maritime cooperation platform. It reflects the nations’ shared commitment to freedom of navigation, regional stability, and a rules-based Indo-Pacific order.

Car explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station

A powerful car explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station on November 10, 2025, claimed eight lives and injured over two dozen people, prompting a national investigation under anti-terror laws.

The blast occurred around 7:15 PM near Gate No. 1, involving a Hyundai i20 with a Haryana number plate. Authorities suspect an IED or CNG cylinder explosion.

The case has been registered under the UAPA and Explosives Act, with three suspects from Pulwama detained and the car owner questioned. CCTV footage captured a lone suspect near the car shortly before the explosion.

Home Minister Amit Shah ordered a detailed probe, while PM Narendra Modi reviewed the security situation. A high alert was issued across Delhi and major cities, with intensified checks at metro stations, hotels, and public areas.

India’s Unemployment Rate Falls to 5.2% in Q2 2025

India’s unemployment rate dropped to 5.2% in the July–September 2025 quarter, improving from 5.4% in the previous quarter, according to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

  • Rural unemployment: 4.4%
  • Urban unemployment: 6.9%

The female labour force participation rate also saw a slight rise — from 33.4% to 33.7% — indicating gradual progress in women’s workforce involvement.

The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) among individuals aged 15 years and above increased marginally to 55.1%, reflecting a steady expansion in employment opportunities and economic activity.

150 Years of “Vande Mataram” (1875–2025)

India has launched a year-long national celebration (Nov 7, 2025–Nov 7, 2026) to mark 150 years of “Vande Mataram”, the national song composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1875. The celebration began in New Delhi, with the Prime Minister unveiling a commemorative coin and stamp.

Events include mass singing, cultural programs at historic sites, and educational outreach to highlight the song’s historical and patriotic significance.

“Vande Mataram,” first featured in Anandamath, became a symbol of unity and resistance during India’s freedom struggle, embraced by leaders like Rabindranath Tagore and Subhas Chandra Bose. Declared the national song in 1950, it continues to inspire national pride and unity across generations.

President Droupadi Murmu Becomes First Indian President to Fly in Rafale Fighter Jet

On 29 October 2025, President Droupadi Murmu undertook a 25-minute sortie in a Rafale fighter jet from Ambala Air Force Station, Haryana, piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani. The aircraft flew at an altitude of about 15,000 feet, covering nearly 200 km at a speed of 700 km/h before safely returning to base.

President Murmu became the first Indian President to fly in two IAF fighter aircraft, having earlier flown in a Sukhoi-30 MKI in 2023. She described the experience as unforgettable.

8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) – Overview and Key Details

The 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC) was officially constituted in January 2025 to revise salaries, pensions, and service conditions of over 50 lakh Central Government employees and 70 lakh pensioners. Its recommendations are expected to be implemented from January 1, 2026.

🏛️ About the Central Pay Commission

The Central Pay Commission is a periodic body established by the Government of India to review and recommend changes in pay, allowances, and pensions of Central Government employees, defence personnel, and pensioners.
It is typically formed every 10 years — the 7th CPC was implemented in 2016.

📅 Key Details of the 8th CPC

  • Announced: January 2025
  • Terms of Reference Approved: October 2025
  • Chairperson: Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai (Former Supreme Court Judge)
  • Members:
    • Pulak Ghosh (IIM Bangalore) – Part-Time Member
    • Pankaj Jain (Petroleum Secretary) – Member-Secretary
  • Report Submission Timeline: Within 18 months
  • Implementation Date: Likely from January 1, 2026

🎯 Scope and Objectives

The 8th CPC will examine and recommend changes related to:

  • Pay structure and allowances of government employees
  • Pension and retirement benefits
  • Service conditions and career progression
  • Impact on state finances (as many states adopt CPC guidelines)
  • Fiscal prudence to balance welfare and budgetary sustainability

👥 Beneficiaries

  • Central Government employees (Groups A, B, C)
  • Defence personnel
  • Pensioners
  • Employees of autonomous bodies following CPC norms

HAL and Russia’s UAC to Co-produce SJ-100 Passenger Aircraft in India

On 28 October 2025, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC-UAC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Moscow to jointly produce the SJ-100 civil commuter aircraft in India.

The SJ-100 is a twin-engine, narrow-body passenger aircraft already in service with over 16 airlines worldwide, with more than 200 units produced globally.

This collaboration builds on the long-standing India–Russia aerospace partnership and aims to meet India’s rising demand for regional jets, projected to exceed 200 aircraft in the next decade, plus another 350 for the Indian Ocean region and nearby tourist destinations.

This marks the first complete passenger aircraft production in India since the AVRO HS-748 programme (1961–1988). The SJ-100, to be built for India’s domestic market, will enhance short-haul air connectivity under the UDAN regional connectivity scheme.

Special Intensive Revision of Electoral Rolls to Cover 12 States and UTs

The second phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls will be conducted in 12 States and Union Territories, with the final voter list to be published on February 7, 2026.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, in a briefing on October 27, 2025, announced that the revision will cover about 51 crore voters across Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Goa, Kerala, Puducherry, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep.

The process includes:

  • Printing and training (Oct 27 – Nov 3, 2025)
  • Enumeration phase (till Dec 4, 2025)
  • Draft rolls publication (Dec 9, 2025)
  • Claims and objections (Dec 9, 2025 – Jan 8, 2026)
  • Verification and hearings (till Jan 31, 2026)

Voter lists in these areas are now frozen, and Booth Level Officers will distribute Unique Enumeration Forms to registered voters. Voters whose names appeared on the 2003 rolls will not need to submit additional documents.

Police Commemoration Day on October 21: Remembering the Heroes of Hot Springs (1959)

Police Commemoration Day is observed every year on October 21 to honor the supreme sacrifices made by police personnel in the line of duty. The day originated from the 1959 Hot Springs incident in Ladakh, where ten CRPF jawans were martyred after being ambushed by Chinese troops.

The main ceremony takes place at the National Police Memorial (NPM) in New Delhi, featuring the Wall of Valour, a central sculpture, and a museum dedicated to police history.

In 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the national tribute, with state-level parades, exhibitions, and outreach programs organized across India to honor fallen heroes. Police units also engaged with schools and communities to spread awareness about the courage and service of the force.

Rajnath Singh Unveils First Tejas LCA Mk1A Fighter Jet at HAL Nashik

On 17 October 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the first Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter jet from HAL’s new Nashik production line and inaugurated a second production line for the HTT-40 trainer aircraft.

Rajnath Singh noted that before 2014, around 65–70% of defence equipment was imported, but now about 65% is produced domestically. He praised HAL Nashik for its six-decade contribution to strengthening India’s defence manufacturing.

The Tejas LCA Mk1A is an advanced, 4.5-generation, multi-role fighter jet designed to replace the MiG-21s, featuring improved avionics, air-to-air refuelling, and capabilities for air defence, ground attack, and maritime strike missions.

Q. Which organization developed the Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter jet?
A) DRDO
B) ISRO
C) Bharat Dynamics Limited
D) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)

Ans: D) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)

61 Senior Naxal Cadres, Including Polit Bureau Member, Surrender in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra

On October 15, 2025, in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, 61 senior Naxal cadres, including Polit Bureau Member Mallujola Venugopal Rao alias Bhupati, surrendered before the Gadchiroli Police in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The surrendered group, with a collective bounty of ₹6 crore, included top ranks such as divisional and area committee members.

CM Fadnavis called it the biggest Naxal surrender in Maharashtra’s history, symbolizing the success of efforts led by the Prime Minister and Home Minister against Maoist insurgency. He welcomed the cadres into the mainstream by presenting them a copy of the Indian Constitution, assuring jobs and rehabilitation support.

The CM also stated that North Gadchiroli is now largely Naxal-free and announced a ₹1 crore reward for the Gadchiroli Police for their success in anti-Naxal operations.

Defence Ministry signs ₹659 Crore Deal for Advanced Night Sight for SIG716 Assault Rifle

On October 15, 2025, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a ₹659.47 crore contract to equip the Indian Army’s SIG716 assault rifles with advanced night sights, greatly enhancing night combat capability.

The indigenous upgrade, under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, was awarded to a consortium of MKU Limited and Medbit Technologies, ensuring over 51% local content. The new sights allow accurate targeting up to 500 metres in starlight, boosting operational readiness in border and counter-insurgency operations.

India and Indonesia Conduct 5th Edition of Naval Exercise ‘Samudra Shakti’ at Visakhapatnam

The Indian Navy and the Indonesian Navy are conducting the 5th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise “Samudra Shakti” from October 14 to 17 at Visakhapatnam. The exercise aims to strengthen maritime cooperation and interoperability between the two navies.

INS Kavaratti, an anti-submarine warfare corvette, and KRI John Lie, an Indonesian corvette with a helicopter, are participating. The event includes a harbour phase with professional exchanges, yoga, and sports, and a sea phase involving advanced naval drills like helicopter manoeuvres, air defence, weapon firing, and Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations to boost tactical coordination and joint operational skills.

India–South Korea Hold First-Ever Naval Bilateral Exercise at Busan

The first-ever India–South Korea naval bilateral exercise began on 13 October 2025 at Busan Naval Base, marking a significant step in the growing strategic partnership between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN). The INS Sahyadri, a Shivalik-class stealth frigate built in India under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, participated alongside ROKS Gyeongnam.

The exercise includes harbour and sea phases focusing on interoperability, mutual understanding, and tactical coordination. Activities during the harbour phase include professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, and sports events, while the sea phase features complex joint manoeuvres and operational drills.

RPF Recruitment to Be Held Annually by SSC, Announces Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw

On 13 October 2025, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Railway Protection Force (RPF) recruitment will now be conducted annually by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). Speaking at the 41st Raising Day of the RPF in Valsad, Gujarat, he also unveiled modernization plans, including VHF sets, digital, and drone training for RPF personnel.

Highlighting Indian Railways’ progress, he stated that 35,000 km of new tracks have been built, 99% electrification achieved, and 7,300 stations are under redevelopment, with 110 completed.

India–Australia joint military exercise AUSTRAHIND in Perth from 13–26 October 2025

The fourth edition of India–Australia joint military exercise AUSTRAHIND 2025 began in Perth, Australia, on 13 October 2025. The exercise, running till 26 October, involves 120 Indian Army personnel, led by a Battalion of Gorkha Rifles.

It aims to enhance defence cooperation, improve interoperability, and exchange tactics and techniques for sub-conventional warfare in urban and semi-urban terrain. The focus is on joint company-level operations in open and semi-desert areas, including joint planning, tactical drills, and special arms skills. The exercise will help both armies hone operational capabilities, integrate emerging technologies, and strengthen mutual camaraderie.

Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) Inauguration

On October 8, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), marking a major milestone in India’s aviation infrastructure. Built at Ulwe, Navi Mumbai, with an investment of ₹19,650 crore, the project is developed under a PPP model by Adani Airports Holdings Ltd (74%) and CIDCO (26%).

Phase 1 of NMIA can handle 20 million passengers and 0.8 million metric tonnes of cargo annually, supporting up to 380 flights per day. The lotus-inspired design by Zaha Hadid Architects features advanced sustainability elements like 47 MW solar power, Sustainable Aviation Fuel storage, and electric mobility solutions.

NMIA offers multimodal connectivity through road, rail, metro, and water taxi links, and includes an Automated People Mover (APM) for terminal transfers. It will operate alongside Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), making Mumbai India’s first dual-airport city.

UIDAI Waives Aadhaar Biometric Update Charges for Children Aged 5–17 Years

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has waived Aadhaar biometric update charges for children aged 5 to 17 years for one year, effective from 1 October 2025. This move will benefit around six crore children across India.

Aadhaar enrollment for children below five years requires only basic demographic details (name, photo, date of birth, gender, and address) since biometrics are not taken at that age. The first mandatory biometric update is done when a child turns five, and the second at fifteen. These updates, now free for the 5–7 and 15–17 age groups, would otherwise cost ₹125 per update.

Exercise KONKAN-2025 – Strengthening India-UK Naval Partnership

The India-UK naval exercise KONKAN-2025 began on 5 October 2025 off India’s western coast, strengthening maritime cooperation under the India-UK Vision 2035. Conducted in two phases till 12 October, it includes harbour activities like professional exchanges and sea drills on anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare.

The exercise features INS Vikrant from India and the UK Carrier Strike Group (HMS Prince of Wales), with participation from Norway and Japan. Afterward, the UK group will hold a joint drill with the Indian Air Force on 14 October 2025.

SSC Introduces Major Reforms for Transparent & Fair Examinations

On 3 October 2025, The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has announced significant reforms to make its recruitment exams more transparent, secure, and candidate-friendly.

Transparency: Candidates can now view their question papers, responses, and correct answers. Selected past papers will also be published as official sample sets. Restrictions apply only during ongoing multi-shift exams.

Candidate Welfare: Fee for challenging questions has been reduced from ₹100 to ₹50. A grievance redressal portal has been launched alongside a toll-free helpline.

Fairness in Evaluation: Introduction of equi-percentile normalization to remove variations across exam shifts.

Security Measures: Aadhaar-based authentication to prevent impersonation, digital vault for secure paper transmission, and IT agency support to prevent hacking.

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