Current Affairs

Cabinet approves Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Rabi Crops for Marketing Season 2026-27

On 1 October 2025, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved an increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all mandated Rabi crops for the Marketing Season 2026–27 to ensure remunerative prices for farmers.

  • The highest MSP hike was for safflower (+₹600/qtl), followed by lentil/masur (+₹300/qtl).
  • Increases for other crops: rapeseed & mustard (+₹250/qtl), gram (+₹225/qtl), barley (+₹170/qtl), and wheat (+₹160/qtl).
  • Final MSPs (per quintal) are: wheat ₹2,585, barley ₹2,150, gram ₹5,875, lentil ₹7,000, rapeseed & mustard ₹6,200, and safflower ₹6,540.
  • The increase aligns with the Union Budget 2018-19 promise to set MSPs at least 1.5 times the all-India weighted average cost of production.
  • Margins over cost of production: wheat (109%), rapeseed & mustard (93%), lentil (89%), gram (59%), barley (58%), and safflower (50%).

US 20-Point Peace Plan for Gaza

The US Peace Plan for Gaza, proposed by President Donald Trump in September 2025, aims to end the Israel-Hamas conflict through a 20-point framework.

Key provisions include an immediate ceasefire, hostage exchange, Gaza’s demilitarization, and governance by a technocratic Palestinian committee under international oversight.

Hamas is excluded from future rule, and reconstruction—estimated at $200 billion—will involve global partners like India. An international peacekeeping force will ensure security. Hamas has 3–4 days to accept; rejection may trigger full US support for Israeli military action.

Shirish Chandra Murmu Appointed as RBI Deputy Governor

The government has appointed Shirish Chandra Murmu as the new Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a three-year tenure starting on or after 9 October 2025.

He replaces M Rajeshwar Rao, whose extended term ends on 8 October 2025. Murmu, currently an Executive Director at RBI overseeing the Department of Supervision, will join the team of four deputy governors alongside T Rabi Sankar, Swaminathan J, and Poonam Gupta.

As per the RBI Act, 1934, the RBI must have four deputy governors: two from within RBI, one from commercial banking, and one economist for monetary policy.

India & Bhutan to Launch First Cross-Border Rail Projects

On 29 September 2025, India and Bhutan agreed to establish their first-ever cross-border railway projects, with a total investment of ₹4,033 crore, fully funded by India.

The projects include the 69 km Kokrajhar–Gelephu line costing ₹3,456 crore and the 20 km Banarhat–Samtse line costing ₹577 crore. The rail links will connect Bhutanese cities Gelephu and Samtse to India’s railway network at Kokrajhar (Assam) and Banarhat (West Bengal).

The initiative follows an MoU signed during PM Modi’s visit to Bhutan last year. Officials emphasized that the projects reflect the deep trust, cultural ties, and developmental partnership between India and Bhutan, with India being Bhutan’s largest trading partner and key contributor to its modernization.

ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 begins on 30 September 2025 with India facing Sri Lanka at Guwahati. This is the 13th edition of the tournament, featuring 8 teams — Australia, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

A total of 28 league matches will be played in a round-robin format across four venues in India and one in Colombo. The high-profile India vs Pakistan clash is scheduled for 5 October in Colombo.

The top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals. Australia, with seven titles, are the most successful team, followed by England (four) and New Zealand (one). India aims to win their first ICC title.

India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Added to UNESCO List

On 27 September 2025, India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh was included in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves during the 37th Session of the ICC-MAB. With this, India now has 13 biosphere reserves in the global network, highlighting its commitment to biodiversity and sustainable development.

Additionally, India designated two new Ramsar sites in Bihar—Gokul Jalashay (Buxar, 448 ha) and Udaipur Jheel (West Champaran, 319 ha). This raised India’s total Ramsar sites to 93, covering 13.6 lakh hectares, strengthening wetland conservation and climate resilience.

India Wins Asia Cup Title 2025

On 29 September 2025, India defeated Pakistan by five wickets at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium to win their record ninth Asia Cup title. Chasing 147, Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 69 off 53 balls anchored India’s innings after an early collapse at 20/3. Key partnerships with Sanju Samson and Shivam Dube sealed the win with two balls to spare.

India maintained a perfect record against Pakistan in the tournament, beating them thrice (group stage, Super Four, and final). Pakistan, despite a strong opening stand, were bowled out for 146.

Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana – Bihar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi & CM Nitish Kumar on 26 September 2025 launched Bihar’s Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana.

  • Budget: ₹7,500 crore
  • Beneficiaries: 75 lakh women (₹10,000 each in Phase 1, via DBT)
  • Further Support: Up to ₹2 lakh for successful enterprises
  • Sectors Supported: Agriculture, animal husbandry, tailoring, weaving, handicrafts, etc.

Training & Support:

  • SHG resource persons to train and mentor women
  • Development of Gramin Haat Bazaars for product sales

Eligibility:

  • Women 18–60 years, residents of Bihar
  • Not an income tax payer or government employee (self/husband)

MiG-21 Bids Final Farewell

On 26 September 2025, the Indian Air Force retired the MiG-21 after six decades of service, marking the end of an era. The farewell ceremony at Chandigarh Air Base was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, CDS General Anil Chauhan, and IAF Chief Air Marshal AP Singh.

Highlights included:

  • Ceremonial flypast and aerial combat display with Jaguars.
  • Akash Ganga paratroopers saluting from 8,000 feet.
  • Historical note: The MiG-21 was first inducted in 1963, led by Wing Commander Dilbagh Singh in Chandigarh.

Defence Minister praised the aircraft for its decisive role in multiple operations, calling it a legendary chapter in India’s air power.

Ladakh Protests Turn Violent Over Statehood Demand

On 24 September 2025, peaceful protests in Leh demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule inclusion for Ladakh escalated into violence. The agitation, led jointly by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), saw clashes with police, leaving 4 dead and over 80 injured, including security personnel. Curfew and prohibitory orders were imposed.

The movement, described by activist Sonam Wangchuk as a “Gen-Z revolution,” is fuelled by concerns over unemployment, lack of representation, and ecological threats. Protesters seek statehood, constitutional safeguards for tribal rights, and protection of Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem.

While the Union government accused Wangchuk of inciting unrest, opposition parties backed the protesters. The crisis highlights tensions over identity, governance, and sustainability in post-Article 370 Ladakh.

UAE Unveils Sovereign Mobility Cloud & Dubai Autonomous Zone

Event: Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport 24–25 Sept 2025.

Sovereign Mobility Cloud:

  • Launched by the UAE, enabled by Core42’s Sovereign Public Cloud and powered by Microsoft Azure.
  • Provides secure digital infrastructure for autonomous mobility.
  • Ensures data sovereignty (all data hosted in UAE under national rules).
  • Supports HD mapping, telematics, fleet ops, traffic management, digital twins.
  • Backed by Space42 for pilot deployment & commercial rollout.
  • Builds on success of TXAI driverless service (600,000 km, 20,000 passenger trips).

Dubai Autonomous Zone (DAZ):

15-km dedicated corridor for driverless vehicles & marine transport.

  • Operational: Early 2026.
  • Coverage: Al Jaddaf Metro – Dubai Creek Harbour – Dubai Festival City.
  • Autonomous transport options: Driverless Metro, RoboTaxis, RoboBuses, shuttles, delivery bots, road sweepers, autonomous abras.
  • RoboTaxi trials by end of 2025, goal: 1,000 vehicles by 2028.
  • Collaboration: Uber + RTA + WeRide for autonomous cars.
  • Safety focus: 50+ vehicles testing in Jumeirah for real-world data.
  • Benefits: shorter travel, cost reduction, app-based booking (2026), accessibility for elderly/disabled, lower emissions.

Extension of General Anil Chauhan as Chief of Defence Staff

On 24 September 2025, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the extension of service of General Anil Chauhan as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Secretary, Department of Military Affairs, up to 30 May 2026 or until further orders.

General Anil Chauhan was originally appointed as CDS on 28 September 2022.

He is a decorated officer, honored with Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal for his exemplary service to the Indian Army.

Cabinet Approves Expansion of Medical Seats

On 24 September 2025, the Union Cabinet approved the third phase of a centrally sponsored scheme to add 5,023 MBBS seats and 5,000 PG seats in existing government medical colleges and institutes. With a total cost of ₹15,034 crore (₹10,303 crore central share & ₹4,731 crore state share) over 2025–29, the move aims to:

  • Boost availability of doctors and specialists
  • Introduce new medical specialities
  • Improve opportunities for students
  • Enhance quality of medical education to global standards

World Food India 2025 from 25–28 September 2025

World Food India 2025, organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, is being held from 25–28 September 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The 4th edition of this global summit aims to position India as the “Food Basket of the World”, attract investment, strengthen farm-to-fork linkages, support micro-enterprises, and promote sustainable, nutrition-focused technologies.

Over 90 countries, including partner nations New Zealand and Saudi Arabia, and focus countries like Japan, UAE, Vietnam, and Russia, are participating. The event features 2,000+ exhibitors, 150+ international delegates, and 100,000+ visitors.

71st National Film Awards 2023

On 23 September 2025, President Droupadi Murmu presented the 71st National Film Awards for the year 2023 in New Delhi.

  • Dadasaheb Phalke Award: Mohanlal (for his legendary contribution to Indian cinema).
  • Best Feature Film: 12th Fail (Hindi).
  • Best Hindi Feature Film: Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery.
  • Best Actor: Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan) and Vikrant Massey (12th Fail).
  • Best Actress: Rani Mukerji (Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway).
  • Best Director: Sudipto Sen (The Kerala Story).
  • Best Popular Film: Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.
  • Best Female Playback Singer: Shilpa Rao (Jawan).
  • Best Male Playback Singer: PVNS Rohit (Baby – Telugu).
  • Best Non-Feature Film: Mau: The Spirit Dreams of Cheraw (Mizo).

Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest govt-funded health assurance scheme, completes 7 years

On 23 September 2025, Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana completed seven years since its launch in 2018 from Ranchi. It is the world’s largest government-funded health assurance scheme, covering over 55 crore beneficiaries and providing ₹5 lakh annual health cover per family. So far, the scheme has enabled 10.3 crore hospital admissions worth ₹1.48 lakh crore in cashless treatment.

The beneficiary base has expanded to 12 crore families, including ASHA and anganwadi workers (2024), senior citizens above 70 (2024) through the Ayushman Vay Vandana Card, and nearly 1 crore gig/platform workers. With 1.8 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs across India, the scheme has strengthened universal health coverage.

India’s first overseas defence manufacturing facility inaugurated in Morocco

On 23 September 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Moroccan counterpart Abdelatif Loudyi inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s (TASL) defence manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Morocco.

The plant, Morocco’s largest defence unit and the first by an Indian private company in Africa, will produce Wheeled Armoured Platforms jointly developed by TASL and DRDO for the Royal Moroccan Army, with deliveries starting next month. Singh highlighted the project as a symbol of the India–Morocco strategic partnership, aligned with Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and a hub for exports to Africa and Europe, generating jobs and boosting defence technology collaboration.

High-level Debate of 80th Session of UN General Assembly

The High-Level Debate of the 80th UNGA session began on 23 Sept 2025 in New York.

Theme: “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights”.

Focus Issues: Ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine, and increasing Western recognition of Palestinian statehood.

India’s Representation: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.

Speaking Order:

  • Brazil opened the debate (tradition).
  • United States followed as host nation, with President Trump delivering the keynote.
  • Palestine’s Mahmoud Abbas addressed via video conference.
  • Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu to speak on Friday.
  • Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky to take part in debate & bilateral talks.
  • Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa addressed the Assembly — first Syrian head of state to do so since 1967.

GST Bachat Utsav 2025 – Next-Gen GST Reforms

On 22 September 2025, India launched Next Generation GST reforms, simplifying the tax system with just two slabs (5% & 18%). GST was reduced on 370+ items, including essentials like food, medicines, toiletries, and stationery. Many life-saving drugs are now GST-free or taxed at 5%. FMCG brands like Amul and Mother Dairy announced price cuts.

The reforms aim to reduce household expenses, boost savings, support MSMEs, and spur investment. PM Modi called it a “double bonanza” with GST cuts and income tax relief (zero tax up to ₹12 lakh), projecting savings of up to ₹2.5 lakh crore for citizens.

The GST Bachat Utsav, launched on the first day of Navratri, is being celebrated nationwide as a festival of savings and economic empowerment.

10th National Ayurveda Day 2025 Celebrated at AIIA Goa

The 10th National Ayurveda Day was celebrated on 23 September 2025 at AIIA Goa, inaugurated by Union Minister Prataprao Jadhav. The theme is “Ayurveda for People, Ayurveda for Planet”, highlighting health and sustainability.

Key highlights include the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Awards, launch of the DRAVYA Portal, Desh ka Swasthya Parikshan campaign, new healthcare facilities at AIIA Goa, MoUs for research and collaborations, and release of major publications like Ayurveda for Sports Medicine and Ayurveda Insight for Restful Sleep.

The celebration integrates awards, research, innovation, and public outreach to strengthen Ayurveda’s role in modern healthcare.

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal Honoured with Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023

Malayalam superstar Mohanlal received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023, India’s highest cinematic honour, at the 71st National Film Awards on 23 September 2025. With a career spanning over 400 films across multiple languages, he is celebrated for iconic roles in Kireedam, Bharatham, Manichithrathazhu, Vanaprastham, and Drishyam.

A five-time National Award winner and recipient of the Padma Shri (2001) and Padma Bhushan (2019), Mohanlal is admired for his versatility and cultural impact. Leaders and celebrities, including PM Narendra Modi and Amitabh Bachchan, hailed the award as a fitting tribute to his unmatched contribution to Indian cinema.

UK, Canada, and Australia Recognize State of Palestine

On 21 September 2025, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia formally recognized the State of Palestine, marking a historic diplomatic shift. Canada became the first G7 nation to do so, followed by the UK and Australia.

Leaders emphasized the move as a step toward reviving hope for a two-state solution, strengthening peaceful Palestinian leadership, and promoting stability in the Middle East. France, Belgium, and other nations are also expected to follow during the upcoming UN General Assembly.

H-1B Visa Fee Hike: $100,000 for New Petitions

On September 20, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation introducing a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa petitions filed from outside the United States.

Key Points

  • Effective from: September 21, 2025, 12:01 AM EDT.
  • Applies to: Only new H-1B petitions from outside the U.S.
  • Exemptions: Existing holders, renewals, and cases deemed in national interest.
  • Rationale: To curb system abuse and attract only “extraordinary talent.”

Impact

  • Employers: Sharp rise in costs → shift toward local hiring.
  • Workers: Entry barrier for junior/mid-level professionals; travel concerns for dependents.
  • Indian IT firms: Nasscom warns of disruption; firms may accelerate local recruitment.

Praveer Ranjan Appointed DG of CISF, Praveen Kumar to Lead ITBP

Praveer Ranjan (1993-batch IPS, AGMUT cadre) appointed Director General of CISF.

  • Takes charge on 1 Oct 2025, succeeding Rajwinder Singh Bhatti (retiring 30 Sep 2025).
  • Tenure till 31 Jul 2029.
  • CISF protects airports, nuclear plants, and key govt. installations.

Praveen Kumar (1993-batch IPS, West Bengal cadre) appointed Director General of ITBP.

  • Takes charge on 1 Oct 2025, succeeding Rahul Rasgotra (retiring 30 Sep 2025).
  • Tenure till 30 Sep 2030.
  • ITBP guards the India-China border in Himalayan terrain.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Pays Tribute on 1965 War Diamond Jubilee

On 19 September 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh interacted with veterans and families of soldiers as the Army marked 60 years of the 1965 India-Pakistan War at South Block, Delhi. He saluted the courage of troops and the nation’s unity, recalling the Battle of Asal Uttar and the sacrifice of CQMH Abdul Hamid, Param Vir Chakra awardee.

Singh praised the leadership of PM Lal Bahadur Shastri and said India’s victories, including recent Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam terror attack, show the nation’s growing strength. He assured continued focus on soldier welfare, modernisation, and training. The event featured Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi, veterans, gallantry awardees, and a documentary on key battles like Asal Uttar, Akhnoor, and Khem Karan.

International Day of Peace 2025

The International Day of Peace is observed annually on 21 September, established by the United Nations in 1981 to promote global harmony, dialogue, and nonviolence.

The 2025 theme is “Act Now for a Peaceful World”, highlighting the urgent need for concrete actions to end conflicts, tackle injustice, address climate challenges, and reduce inequality.

Seven Indian Natural Sites Added to UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List

Seven natural heritage sites — including the Deccan Traps (Maharashtra), Meghalaya’s cave systems, and Varkala cliffs (Kerala) — have been added to UNESCO’s Tentative List, raising India’s tally to 69 sites. With this, India now has 49 cultural, 17 natural, and 3 mixed properties under UNESCO’s consideration.

Other newly listed sites include St Mary’s Island (Karnataka), Naga Hill Ophiolite (Nagaland), Erra Matti Dibbalu (Andhra Pradesh), and Tirumala Hills (Andhra Pradesh). The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) submitted the nominations. Entry into the tentative list is the first step toward securing full World Heritage Site status.

DoP and BSNL Partner to Expand Mobile Connectivity Through Post Offices

On 17 September 2025, the Department of Posts (DoP) and BSNL signed an MoU in New Delhi to expand mobile connectivity across India. Under the agreement, over 1.65 lakh Post Offices will serve as Points of Sale for BSNL SIM cards and recharges, making telecom services more accessible, especially in rural and remote areas.

The initiative, already successful in Assam, aims to bridge the digital divide, promote Digital India, and support financial inclusion. DoP will onboard customers and handle transactions, while BSNL will provide SIM stock and training. The partnership is valid for one year (renewable) with strict monitoring, cybersecurity, and data privacy measures.

India Participates in Russia-Led Zapad-2025 Military Exercise

In September 2025, India participated in the Zapad-2025 military exercise with Russia and Belarus at the Mulino Training Ground, Nizhny Novgorod.

The large-scale drills involved over 100,000 troops, 333 aircraft, and 247 naval vessels across 41 sites. India sent 65 personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, led by the Kumaon Regiment.

The exercise focused on joint tactical drills, counter-terrorism operations, and interoperability. Other participants included Iran, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Congo, and Mali.

Apollo Tyres Becomes Lead Sponsor of BCCI Team India

On 16 September 2025, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a 2.5-year partnership with Apollo Tyres as the new lead sponsor of India’s men’s and women’s cricket teams, replacing Dream11. The deal, running until March 2028, will feature the Apollo Tyres logo on Team India jerseys across all formats.

This is Apollo Tyres’ first entry into Indian cricket, marking a strategic move to align with the nation’s most popular sport. BCCI officials hailed the partnership as a reflection of Indian cricket’s global brand value, while Apollo Tyres called it a matter of national pride and a boost to consumer trust.

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