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.

Current Affairs MCQs : Dated – 23 September 2025

Q. When is the 10th National Ayurveda Day being celebrated?
a) 21 September 2025
b) 22 September 2025
c) 23 September 2025
d) 24 September 2025

Show Answer
Answer: c) 23 September 2025

Q. Under the new GST reforms, implemented from 22 September 2025, how many main tax slabs are there?
a) 3 (5%, 12%, 18%)
b) 4 (5%, 12%, 18%, 28%)
c) 2 (5% and 18%)
d) Only 1 (5%)

Show Answer
Answer: c) 2 (5% and 18%)

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.

Current Affairs MCQs : Dated – 22 September 2025

Q. Which three countries formally recognized the State of Palestine on 21 September 2025?
a) UK, Canada, Australia
b) UK, France, Germany
c) Canada, USA, Australia
d) UK, Israel, Belgium

Show Answer
Ans: a) UK, Canada, Australia

Q. Who was honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023?
a) Mammootty
b) Mohanlal
c) Rajinikanth
d) Kamal Haasan

Show Answer
Answer: b) Mohanlal
Malayalam superstar Mohanlal received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023, India’s highest cinematic honour, at the 71st National Film Awards on 23 September 2025.

Q. What is the H-1B visa, for which the fee was hiked to $100,000 in September 2025?
A) A tourist visa for short-term visits to the U.S.
B) A work visa for skilled foreign professionals in specialized fields
C) A student visa for higher education in the U.S.
D) A permanent residency card (Green Card)

Show Answer
Answer: B) A work visa for skilled foreign professionals in specialized fields

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.

Current Affairs MCQs : Dated – 20 September 2025

Q. What is the theme of the International Day of Peace 2025, observed on 21 September 2025?
a) Building Bridges for Peace
b) Act Now for a Peaceful World
c) Climate Action for Peace
d) Youth for Harmony

Show Answer
Ans: b) Act Now for a Peaceful World

Q. The Indian Army commemorated the diamond jubilee of which war in September 2025?
a) Kargil War
b) 1971 India-Pakistan War
c) 1965 India-Pakistan War
d) World War II

Show Answer
Answer: c) 1965 India-Pakistan War

Q. Who has been appointed as the new Director General of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in September 2025?
a) Rahul Rasgotra
b) Praveer Ranjan
c) Praveen Kumar
d) Rajwinder Singh Bhatti

Show Answer
Answer: b) Praveer Ranjan

Q. Which paramilitary force does Praveen Kumar take charge of from October 2025?
a) CRPF
b) BSF
c) ITBP
d) CISF

Show Answer
Answer: c) ITBP

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.

Current Affairs MCQs : Dated – 18 September 2025

Q. Which countries, besides India, participated in Zapad-2025, held in September 2025?
a) Iran, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Congo, Mali
b) China, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan
c) USA, UK, France, Germany
d) Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand

Show Answer
Answer: a) Iran, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Congo, Mali

Q. In September 2025, the Department of Posts (DoP) and BSNL signed an MoU to expand mobile connectivity across India. How will this be achieved?
a) By setting up new telecom towers in rural areas
b) By using Post Offices as points of sale for BSNL SIM cards and recharge services
c) By launching a joint 5G network across the country
d) By providing free internet connections through postmen

Show Answer
Answer: b) By using Post Offices as points of sale for BSNL SIM cards and recharge services

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.

Current Affairs MCQs : Dated – 17 September 2025

Q. What was the main reason for strained India–U.S. trade ties in 2025 ?
a) Dispute over IT services
b) 50% tariffs on Indian goods linked to Russian crude imports
c) Ban on agricultural exports
d) Intellectual property disputes

Show Answer
Answer: b) 50% tariffs on Indian goods linked to Russian crude imports

Q. Who has been announced as the new lead sponsor of Team India in September 2025?
a) Dream11
b) Apollo Tyres
c) BYJU’S
d) Paytm

Show Answer
Answer: b) Apollo Tyres

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.

India–U.S. Bilateral Trade Pact Talks Resume

On 16 September 2025, India and the U.S. held high-level talks in New Delhi to push forward a long-awaited bilateral trade agreement. The meeting, led by Brendan Lynch (U.S.) and Rajesh Agrawal (India), comes after strained ties over the 50% U.S. tariffs on Indian goods linked to Russian crude imports.

Both sides agreed to intensify efforts, with weekly virtual discussions paving the way for the sixth formal negotiation round. Leaders Donald Trump and Narendra Modi expressed optimism, aiming to finalize the first phase of the pact by Fall 2025, covering tariffs, market access, agriculture, dairy, and MSMEs.

Current Affairs MCQs : Dated – 16 September 2025

Q. Who won the gold medal in the 48 kg and 57 kg categories at the World Boxing Championships 2025?
a) Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain
b) Minakshi Hooda and Jaismine Lamboria
c) Mary Kom and Saweety Boora
d) Nitu Ghanghas and Sarita Devi

Show Answer
Answer: b) Minakshi Hooda and Jaismine Lamboria

Q. Where was India’s first bamboo-based bio-refinery inaugurated by PM Modi in September 2025?
a) Dibrugarh, Assam
b) Numaligarh, Golaghat district, Assam
c) Guwahati, Assam
d) Silchar, Assam

Show Answer
Answer: b) Numaligarh, Golaghat district, Assam

Q. What is the minimum attendance required by CBSE to be eligible for Class 10 and 12 board exams from 2025 onwards?
a) 60%
b) 65%
c) 70%
d) 75%

Show Answer
Answer: d) 75%

CBSE’s New Rules for Class 10 & 12 Board Exams

On 15 September 2025, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced new guidelines for board exams:

Attendance Rule:

  • 75% attendance is mandatory to appear in Class 10 & 12 board exams.
  • Attendance will be directly linked to internal assessment.
  • Students failing to meet this requirement will not be allowed to sit for exams.

Additional Subjects:

  • Class 10: Students may opt for two additional subjects (besides five compulsory).
  • Class 12: Students may opt for one additional subject.
  • These subjects must be studied over two academic years.

Restrictions on Schools:

  • Schools cannot offer subjects without trained teachers, labs, or board approval.
  • Students cannot take such subjects as main or additional papers.

Compartment/Essential Repeat Students: Students in these categories for additional subjects may reappear as private candidates.

India’s First Bamboo-Based Bio-Refinery in Assam

On 14 September 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first bamboo-based bio-refinery at Numaligarh Refinery, Golaghat district, Assam. Developed by Assam Bio-Ethanol Private Limited (ABEL) — a joint venture of NRL, Finland’s Fortum, and Chempolis OY — the ₹5,000 crore project is the world’s first zero-waste bioethanol plant using bamboo.

  • Annual Production Capacity: 48,900 MT ethanol, 11,000 TPA acetic acid, 19,000 TPA furfural, 31,000 MT food-grade CO₂.
  • Technology: 2G bio-refining using enzymatic hydrolysis & fermentation.
  • Green Energy: Generates 25 MW of electricity.
  • Economic Impact: Boost of ₹200 crore annually to Assam’s rural economy; support for 50,000+ bamboo farmers; thousands of jobs.
  • Significance: Strengthens ethanol blending program, reduces crude oil imports, and promotes bamboo cultivation after its reclassification from tree to grass.

Minakshi Hooda, Jaismine Lamboria Clinch Gold at World Boxing Championships 2025

On 14 September 2025, Minakshi Hooda (48 kg) and Jaismine Lamboria (57 kg) won gold medals at the World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England.

  • Minakshi defeated Nazym Kyzaibay.
  • Jaismine outclassed Julia Szeremeta, Paris Olympics silver medallist.

With these wins, they joined the elite group of Indian world champions like Mary Kom, Nikhat Zareen, Sarita Devi, Lovlina Borgohain, and others.

👉 India finished with four medals, its best-ever tally in an overseas edition of the tournament.

Current Affairs MCQs : Dated – 15 September 2025

Q. On 14 September, in which year did the Constituent Assembly adopt Hindi in Devanagari script as the official language of India?
a) 1947
b) 1948
c) 1949
d) 1950

Show Answer
Answer: c) 1949

Q. On which date is the International Day of Democracy observed every year?
a) 14 September
b) 15 September
c) 16 September
d) 10 December

Show Answer
Answer: b) 15 September

Q. India defeated Pakistan by 7 wickets in Dubai in the Asia Cup 2025 on 14 September 2025. Who was awarded Player of the Match?
a) Hardik Pandya
b) Shaheen Afridi
c) Kuldeep Yadav
d) Suryakumar Yadav

Show Answer
Answer: c) Kuldeep Yadav

Asia Cup 2025: India Defeats Pakistan by 7 Wickets in Dubai

Asia Cup 2025 (14 September, Dubai): India defeated Pakistan by 7 wickets in a Group A clash. Pakistan, restricted to 127/9 in 20 overs, saw a late cameo from Shaheen Afridi (33 off 16)* after early blows by Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah. Spinners Kuldeep Yadav (3/18) and Axar Patel dominated the middle overs.

Chasing, India reached 131/3 in 15.5 overs, with Abhishek Sharma (31 off 13) providing a quick start and Suryakumar Yadav (47 off 37)* guiding the innings. SKY sealed victory with a six, earning India a comfortable win. Kuldeep Yadav was named Player of the Match.

International Day of Democracy (15 September 2025)

International Day of Democracy (15 September 2025) marks the 18th global observance of people-powered governance, emphasizing the importance of free expression, participation, and inclusion. UN Secretary-General António Guterres praised citizens worldwide for defending democracy amid challenges like disinformation and shrinking civic space.

A special UN event themed “From Voice to Action” celebrated 20 years of the UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF), which has supported over 1,000 initiatives to strengthen civil society, gender equality, transparency, and the rule of law. The day highlights democracy as a force for hope, dignity, cooperation, and peace.

Hindi Diwas (14 September) – Celebrating India’s Official Language

Hindi Diwas (14 September) marks the day in 1949 when the Constituent Assembly adopted Hindi in Devanagari script as India’s official language.

It celebrates not just the language, but also unity, identity, and cultural pride. Observed nationwide through poetry, essays, and cultural programs, the day highlights Hindi’s role in connecting communities and enriching India’s literary and cultural heritage.

Current Affairs MCQs : Dated – 13 September 2025

Q. Who became Nepal’s first woman Prime Minister on September 12, 2025?
a) Bidhya Devi Bhandari
b) Sushila Karki
c) Onsari Gharti Magar
d) Sujata Koirala

Show Answer
Answer: b) Sushila Karki

Q. What is the name of Mizoram’s first-ever rail connection, inaugurated in September 2025?
a) Silchar–Aizawl Line
b) Bairabi–Sairang Line
c) Agartala–Aizawl Line
d) Guwahati–Sairang Line

Show Answer
Answer: b) Bairabi–Sairang Line

Mizoram’s First Railway Link – Bairabi–Sairang Line

On 13 September 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 51.38 km Bairabi–Sairang railway line, giving Mizoram its first-ever rail connection.

  • The project features 48 tunnels, 142 bridges (including Bridge No. 196 at 114 m), built at a cost of ₹8,070 crore over two decades.
  • The line connects Sairang (near Aizawl) with Bairabi, linking Mizoram to Assam’s Silchar and the national network.
  • Aizawl becomes the 4th NE capital (after Guwahati, Agartala, Itanagar) to get direct rail connectivity.
  • New services launched:
    • Sairang–Delhi Rajdhani Express
    • Sairang–Kolkata Express
    • Sairang–Guwahati Express
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