IGNCA Launches Book “Bharat: That Is India – Reclaiming Our Real Identity” in New Delhi

On 7 December 2025, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) launched the book “Bharat: That Is India – Reclaiming Our Real Identity” authored by Abhijeet Joag in New Delhi. The event was attended by eminent personalities including Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan and IGNCA Trust President Ram Bahadur Rai.

The programme witnessed active participation from scholars, students, and cultural enthusiasts, reflecting strong interest in India’s history and cultural identity.

FIFA World Cup 2026: First-Ever Tri-Nation Tournament with 48 Teams

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the largest edition in history, jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026 across 16 cities. For the first time, the tournament will feature an expanded 48-team format, divided into 12 groups of four teams, with 32 teams advancing to the knockout stage.

The opening match will be played at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, while the final is scheduled at MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey. Argentina, the 2022 champions, will defend their title. The tournament marks the first tri-nation hosting, making it the most inclusive and geographically diverse World Cup ever.

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.

Current Affairs MCQs : 6 December 2025

Q. Following the recent 25 basis point reduction in December 2025, what is the new policy repo rate announced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?

A) 6.00%
B) 5.50%
C) 5.25%
D) 5.00%

Show Answer
Ans: C) 5.25%
The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee unanimously cut the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25% in its December 2025 meeting.

Q. Which bilateral trade target was set between India and Russia during the 23rd Annual Summit in 2025?
A. $50 billion by 2028
B. $75 billion by 2030
C. $100 billion by 2030
D. $120 billion by 2035

Show Answer
Answer: C. $100 billion by 2030
Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded his two-day visit to India on 5 December 2025, reaffirming the enduring, India–Russia “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”

Q. 5th Edition of ‘Harimau Shakti’ Joint Military Exercise was conducted in December 2025 in Rajasthan between which two countries?
A. India and Indonesia
B. India and Thailand
C. India and Malaysia
D. India and Vietnam

Show Answer
Answer: C. India and Malaysia
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.

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.

Putin Concludes Two-Day India Visit, Boosts Trade, Defence and Energy Ties

Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded his two-day visit to India on 5 December 2025, reaffirming the enduring, India–Russia “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”

During the 23rd India–Russia Summit in New Delhi, both sides set an ambitious $100 billion bilateral trade target by 2030, advanced discussions on a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, strengthened defence manufacturing cooperation, and expanded energy and nuclear collaboration, including continued Russian oil supplies to India. The visit highlighted India’s balanced foreign policy amid global geopolitics and underscored Russia’s effort to reinforce strategic partnerships despite Western sanctions.

RBI Monetary Policy Committee cut the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25%

The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee unanimously cut the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25% in its December 2025 meeting. This marks the fourth rate reduction in 2025, bringing the cumulative cut for the year to 125 basis points. The move comes amid a backdrop of strong economic growth and subdued inflation, described by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra as a “rare Goldilocks period”.

Key details and implications of the announcement:

  • Economic Forecasts: The RBI revised its FY26 GDP growth estimate upward to 7.3% (from 6.8%) and lowered its CPI inflation projection to 2% (from 2.6%).
  • Liquidity Measures: To ensure smoother monetary policy transmission and support liquidity, the central bank announced plans for Open Market Operations (OMO) purchases of government securities worth ₹1 lakh crore and a three-year dollar-rupee buy-sell swap of $5 billion.
  • Impact on Borrowers: The repo rate cut is expected to lead to lower interest rates on loans, benefiting borrowers through reduced Equated Monthly Instalments (EMIs) for home and auto loans.
  • Impact on Investors: Lower interest rates are likely to impact fixed deposit returns, while potentially boosting rate-sensitive sectors of the stock market, such as real estate, auto, and banking.
  • Policy Stance: The MPC has maintained a “neutral” policy stance, leaving room for future adjustments based on evolving economic conditions.

Current Affairs MCQs : 5 December 2025

Q. Why is Putin’s 2025 visit to India considered strategically significant?

A) It is his first visit after becoming President
B) It marks the end of India-US relations
C) It is his first visit to India since the Russia-Ukraine war began
D) It was only for cultural cooperation

Show Answer
✅ Correct Answer: C) It is his first visit to India since the Russia-Ukraine war began

Q. Who won the Jerusalem Masters 2025 chess title?

A) Viswanathan Anand
B) Ian Nepomniachtchi
C) Peter Svidler
D) Arjun Erigaisi

Show Answer
✅ Correct Answer: D) Arjun Erigaisi
Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi won the Jerusalem Masters 2025 chess title on 3 December 2025 after defeating former World Champion Viswanathan Anand.

Arjun Erigaisi Wins Jerusalem Masters 2025 Title

Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi won the Jerusalem Masters 2025 chess title on 3 December 2025 after defeating former World Champion Viswanathan Anand in an all-Indian final. The championship was decided through a blitz tie-break, following drawn rapid games.

En route to the title, Arjun defeated Russian Grandmaster Peter Svidler in the semifinals, while Anand advanced to the final after beating reigning World Blitz Champion Ian Nepomniachtchi.

Putin’s India Visit 2025: 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin is on a two-day state visit to India on December 4–5, 2025 for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is Putin’s first visit to India since the Ukraine war, reaffirming the countries’ “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”

During the visit, Putin was personally received by PM Modi in New Delhi, followed by a private dinner. He was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. The summit at Hyderabad House focuses on cooperation in defence, trade, energy, and technology, with key agreements expected on Su-57 fighter jets, S-400 air defence systems, and oil–gas partnerships.

Strategically, the visit highlights India’s continued defence and energy ties with Russia, India’s role in balancing relations between Russia and Western nations, and the broader global context of the Ukraine conflict and energy security.

Current Affairs MCQs : 4 December 2025

Q. Navy Day on 4 December commemorates which historic naval operation?

A) Operation Vijay
B) Operation Trident
C) Operation Sankalp
D) Operation Meghdoot

Show Answer
Correct Answer: B) Operation Trident
Navy Day celebrated every year on 4 December, to commemorates the success of Operation Trident (1971), when the Indian Navy sank four Pakistani vessels, including PNS Khaibar.

Q. Which defence achievement did DRDO accomplish on 2 December 2025, making India one of the few nations with in-house advanced escape-system testing capability?

A) Successful static ejection seat test
B) First test of a new fighter jet engine
C) High-speed rocket-sledge dynamic test of a fighter aircraft escape system
D) Deployment of a new anti-missile shield

Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) High-speed rocket-sledge dynamic test of a fighter aircraft escape system

DRDO Successfully Conducts High-Speed Rocket-Sledge Test of Fighter Escape System

The DRDO successfully conducted a high-speed rocket-sledge test of a fighter aircraft escape system on 2 December 2025, marking a major milestone in India’s indigenous defence capability.
The test, conducted at the Rail Track Rocket Sledge (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh, involved collaboration with ADA, HAL, and was witnessed by officials from the Indian Air Force and the Institute of Aerospace Medicine.

The dynamic test used a dual-sledge system to propel the LCA aircraft forebody at controlled high velocity, simulating real ejection conditions. An instrumented Anthropomorphic Test Dummy was used to measure loads and accelerations experienced by pilots during ejection.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh congratulated all agencies, calling it a significant step toward self-reliance in defence technology.

India Celebrates Navy Day 2025 with Grand Operational Demonstration in Kerala

Navy Day 2025 was celebrated on 4 December, honouring the role, achievements, and maritime strength of the Indian Navy.
The date commemorates the success of Operation Trident (1971), when the Indian Navy sank four Pakistani vessels, including PNS Khaibar.

In 2025, the celebrations included a grand Operational Demonstration at Shangumugham Beach, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), showcasing frontline warships, coordinated manoeuvres, and advanced naval capabilities.
The event highlighted India’s vision of the MAHASAGAR initiative and the Navy’s role as the Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Current Affairs MCQs : 3 December 2025

Q. Where was the fourth edition of Kashi–Tamil Sangamam inaugurated on 2 December 2025?

A) Chennai
B) Madurai
C) Varanasi
D) Coimbatore

Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) Varanasi

Q. Who assumed the Chairship of International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) on behalf of India in December 2025?

A) Rajiv Kumar
B) Sunil Arora
C) Gyanesh Kumar
D) Ashok Lavasa

Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) Gyanesh Kumar
India has been invited for the first time to chair the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). On 3 December 2025, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar formally assumed the Chairship in Stockholm, Sweden.

Extra Facts about International IDEA:
An inter-governmental organisation with 37 member countries.
India is a founding member and has been actively involved in governance, electoral research, training, and capacity-building initiatives.

Q. What is the new name given to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)?

A) Lok Sewa Bhawan
B) Sewa Dham
C) Sewa Tirth
D) Pradhan Mantri Enclave

Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) Sewa Tirth
India’s Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) was relocated from the historic South Block to a newly built complex named Sewa Tirth in December 2025.

Extra Facts:

  • The PMO was first established in South Block, New Delhi, in 1947, after Independence.
  • On 2 December 2025, the new PMO complex under the Central Vista Redevelopment Project was officially named Seva Teerth.

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.

India Assumes Chairship of International IDEA for the First Time

India has been invited for the first time to chair the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). On 3 December 2025, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar formally assumed the Chairship in Stockholm, Sweden.

CEC Gyanesh Kumar noted that India’s reputation for conducting free, fair, and transparent elections is globally recognised, making this a proud moment for citizens and election officials.

About International IDEA:

  • Founded in 1995.
  • An inter-governmental organisation with 37 member countries.
  • United States and Japan are Observer nations.
  • Holds UN General Assembly observer status since 2003.
  • India is a founding member and has been actively involved in governance, electoral research, training, and capacity-building initiatives.

Kashi–Tamil Sangamam 4.0 Begins in Varanasi

The fourth edition of the Kashi–Tamil Sangamam began on 2 December 2025 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The event was jointly inaugurated by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at Namo Ghat.

The central theme of this edition is “Let Us Learn Tamil – Tamil Karkalam”, emphasizing the unity of India’s languages and promoting Tamil learning across regions. The event highlights cultural integration, with traditional artists from both Kashi (Varanasi) and Tamil Nadu performing together.

More than 1,400 delegates from Tamil Nadu—students, teachers, writers, media professionals, farmers, professionals, artisans, women, and spiritual scholars—will participate in various cultural and educational programs in Kashi.

Current Affairs MCQs : 2 December 2025

Q. When did the Border Security Force (BSF) celebrate its 61st Raising Day?
A) 30 November 2025
B) 1 December 2025
C) 2 December 2025
D) 5 December 2025

Show Answer
Answer: B) 1 December 2025
Explanation: BSF was established in 1965 and marked its 61st Raising Day on 1 December 2025.

Q. Border Security Force (BSF) primarily guards India’s borders with which two countries?
A) China and Nepal
B) Myanmar and Bhutan
C) Pakistan and Bangladesh
D) Sri Lanka and Afghanistan

Show Answer
Answer: C) Pakistan and Bangladesh
Explanation: BSF is India’s primary border-guarding force responsible for securing the Pakistan and Bangladesh borders.
Extra Facts:
Formed on 1 December 1965 after the Indo-Pak war.
It is the world’s largest border-guarding force.

Q. Who was named the men’s World Athlete of the Year 2025?

A) Emmanuel Wanyonyi
B) Armand Duplantis
C) Sebastian Sawe
D) Zhang Jiale

Show Answer
Correct Answer: B) Armand Duplantis
Sweden’s pole vault champion Armand Duplantis honored as the World Athletes of the Year 2025.

Extra facts about Armand Duplantis

  • Broke the men’s pole vault world record four times in 2025.
  • Remained undefeated in all 16 competitions, winning both indoor and outdoor world titles.
  • Became the first male pole vaulter in modern athletics to go unbeaten in one event for two consecutive years.

Q. Under the new DoT cyber-security rules for app-based communication services, what must messaging apps remain continuously linked to in order to prevent misuse?

A) The user’s email address
B) A device fingerprint or hardware ID
C) The active SIM card installed in the user’s device
D) A cloud-based authentication system

Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) The active SIM card installed in the user’s device

DoT Issues New SIM-Binding Rules to Prevent Misuse of Messaging Apps

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued new security guidelines for major app-based communication platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Snapchat, Signal, ShareChat, Josh, Arattai, and JioChat.

These directions aim to stop the misuse of telecom identifiers and strengthen security in India’s digital communication ecosystem.

Under the new rules:

  • Apps must remain continuously linked to the active SIM card in the user’s device.
    ➤ This will prevent users from operating these apps after the SIM is removed, deactivated, or used abroad.
  • Web versions of these services must automatically log out periodically, requiring QR code verification for re-login.
  • Platforms using Indian mobile numbers for user identification must comply with the rules within 90 days and submit a compliance report within 120 days.

The Ministry stated that these measures are necessary to prevent cybercrimes such as anonymous scams, digital arrest frauds, and fake government calls, which are often conducted from overseas using Indian numbers.

With cyber-fraud losses exceeding ₹22,800 crore last year, the government said these mandatory SIM-binding rules will ensure traceability, enhance security, and protect public trust under the Telecom Cyber Security Rules.

Armand Duplantis and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Named World Athletes of the Year 2025

Sweden’s pole vault champion Armand Duplantis and American sprinter Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone were honored as the World Athletes of the Year 2025.

Armand Duplantis

  • Broke the men’s pole vault world record four times in 2025.
  • Remained undefeated in all 16 competitions, winning both indoor and outdoor world titles.
  • Became the first male pole vaulter in modern athletics to go unbeaten in one event for two consecutive years.
  • Also awarded Men’s Field Athlete of the Year.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone

  • Won the women’s 400m title in Tokyo with a record time of 47.78 seconds, breaking a 42-year-old world record.
  • Became the first athlete ever to win world titles in both the 400m flat and 400m hurdles.
  • Also named the Women’s Track Athlete of the Year.

Other honours included:

Out-of-stadium athletes of the year:

  • María Pérez (Spain) – Racewalking
  • Sebastian Sawe (Kenya) – Long-distance running

Men’s Track Athlete of the Year: Emmanuel Wanyonyi (Kenya)

Women’s Field Athlete of the Year: Nicola Olyslagers (Australia)

Rising Stars 2025:

  • Edmund Serem (Kenya)
  • Zhang Jiale (China)

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.

Current Affairs MCQs : 1 December 2025

Q. The 26th Hornbill Festival of Nagaland was celebrated at which venue in December 2025?

A) Dimapur Stadium
B) Kohima War Memorial
C) Naga Heritage Village, Kisama
D) Chumoukedima Cultural Ground

Show Answer
Answer: C) Naga Heritage Village, Kisama

Q. World AIDS Day is observed every year on which date?

A) 15 October
B) 1 December
C) 5 June
D) 10 January

Show Answer
✔ Answer: B) 1 December

Q. When is the Winter Session of the Indian Parliament scheduled in 2025?

November 15–30
December 1–19
December 10–25
December 5–20

Show Answer
Answer: B) December 1–19

Winter Session of Parliament Begins on December 1, 2025

The Winter Session of the Indian Parliament began on 1 December 2025, with 15 sittings scheduled over 19 days. A total of 13 bills are expected to be taken up, including the National Highways (Amendment) Bill, Atomic Energy Bill, Corporate Laws (Amendment) Bill, Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, and the Higher Education Commission of India Bill, 2025.

In the Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will introduce the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill and the Health Security and National Security Cess Bill, 2025. The session will also include discussion and voting on the first batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025–26.

World AIDS Day Observed on December 1 to Raise HIV/AIDS Awareness

World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1 to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, remember those who have died, and support people living with HIV. Established in 1988 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations, it is the first global health awareness day.

The theme for 2025 is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” focusing on strengthening healthcare systems, ensuring funding, addressing inequalities, and supporting community-led initiatives to end AIDS by 2030.

While scientific progress—such as antiretroviral therapy (ART), preventive tools like PrEP, and ongoing research toward a functional cure—offers hope, challenges like stigma, discrimination, and reduced funding continue to hinder progress worldwide.

In India, one of the largest HIV programs globally, awareness campaigns, improved ART access, and increased conversations around prevention methods are helping tackle both urban and rural challenges.

World AIDS Day serves as a reminder to promote education, testing, treatment access, and dignity for affected individuals—reinforcing global commitment toward ending AIDS as a public health threat.

Hornbill Festival of Nagaland from 1-10 December, 2025, at the Kisama Heritage Village

The 26th Hornbill Festival of Nagaland began on December 1, 2025, at the Kisama Heritage Village and will continue for ten days. Celebrated annually to mark Nagaland’s Statehood Day, the festival showcases the unity and cultural richness of the state’s 17 major tribes.

This edition was inaugurated by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio hosting the event. A key highlight is the newly renamed Unity Arena, which hosted the opening ceremony.

The 2025 festival features participation from six partner countries—the United Kingdom, France, Austria, Switzerland, Malta, and Ireland—and Arunachal Pradesh as the partner state, emphasizing international cultural exchange and regional cooperation. To encourage global tourism, the Government of India relaxed the Protected Area Permit (PAP) requirements.

Throughout the celebration, visitors can experience traditional dances, folk music, indigenous sports, arts, handloom exhibitions, tribal cuisine, carnivals, concerts, and food and adventure events across Nagaland. The festival has grown into a significant platform for tourism, cultural diplomacy, and economic opportunities, strengthening tribal identity while connecting Nagaland to the world.

Current Affairs MCQs : 29 November 2025

Q. What is the total financial outlay approved for the Rare Earth Permanent Magnet manufacturing scheme by Govt in November 2025?
A. ₹5,000 crore
B. ₹7,280 crore
C. ₹10,000 crore
D. ₹3,500 crore

Show Answer
Answer: ✅ B. ₹7,280 crore

Q. What was India’s GDP growth rate in the second quarter of FY 2025–26?

A) 5.6%
B) 7.8%
C) 8.2%
D) 9.1%

Show Answer
✔️ Answer: C) 8.2%

Q. Who won the Golden Peacock Award for Best Feature Film at IFFI 2025?

A) My Daughter’s Hair
B) Gondhal
C) Safe House
D) Skin of Youth

Show Answer
✔️ Answer: D) Skin of Youth

56th IFFI Concludes in Goa; ‘Skin of Youth’ Wins Golden Peacock for Best Feature Film

The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded on 28 November 2025 with a grand awards ceremony at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant praised the festival as a remarkable convergence of creativity, culture, and global cinematic collaboration. The event featured reflections from actors, directors, and filmmakers, capturing the festival’s global spirit.

A special tribute was paid to legendary actor Dharmendra, and superstar Rajinikanth was honoured for completing 50 years in Indian cinema. Actor Ranveer Singh’s energetic appearance added excitement to the evening.

The festival’s top honour, the Golden Peacock for Best Feature Film, was awarded to ‘Skin of Youth’ directed by Ashleigh Mayfair. The Silver Peacock for Best Director went to Santosh Davakhar for the film Gondhal, while Akinola Davies Junior won the Special Jury Award for My Father’s Shadow.

Awards for Best Actors were presented to Ubeimar Rios (Male) and Jara Sofija Ostan (Female) for their performances in Little TroubleGirls. The Silver Peacock for Best Debut Feature Film was jointly awarded to ‘My Daughter’s Hair’ (Hesam Farahmand) and ‘Fränk’ (Tõnis Pil). The ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal was awarded to ‘Safe House’ directed by Eirik Svensson.

Other notable recognitions included:

  • Best Debut Director (Indian Feature Film): Karan Singh Tyagi for Kesari 2
  • Best OTT Indian Panorama Award: Bandish Bandits 2

The ceremony concluded with celebrations of cinematic excellence, marking a memorable end to IFFI 2025 and reinforcing its legacy of creativity and inspiration in global cinema.

India’s GDP Growth Surges to 8.2% in Q2 FY 2025–26

India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 8.2% in the second quarter of the financial year 2025-26, showing strong economic momentum. This growth is higher compared to 7.8% in the first quarter and 5.6% in the same period last year. The rise was mainly driven by robust performance in the manufacturing, secondary, and tertiary sectors.

The country’s nominal GDP increased by 8.7% during the quarter. Notably, the manufacturing sector, which contributes 14% to the total GDP, experienced significant improvement, growing by 9.1% compared to just 2.2% last year.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Bust Unveiled at UNESCO on Constitution Day

A bust of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was unveiled at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on November 26, 2025, coinciding with India’s Constitution Day. The ceremony, led by India’s Ambassador to UNESCO Vishal V. Sharma and attended by UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany, marks the first time Ambedkar’s statue has been placed at a major international institution. The bust includes a plaque honoring 70 years of the Indian Constitution.

The event reflects India’s effort to highlight Ambedkar’s global legacy in social justice, equality, and democratic values. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the unveiling a proud moment and a meaningful tribute to the architect of India’s Constitution. UNESCO also acknowledged his contributions, aligning his ideals with its mission of promoting education, human rights, and equality.

This milestone strengthens India’s cultural diplomacy and ensures Ambedkar’s message continues to inspire global conversations on democracy and social empowerment.

Q. Where was the bust of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar unveiled on November 26, 2025?
A) United Nations Headquarters
B) UNESCO Headquarters, Paris
C) Indian Parliament
D) Rashtrapati Bhavan

Answer: UNESCO Headquarters, Paris

Cabinet Approves ₹7,280 Crore Scheme for Rare Earth Magnet Manufacturing

The Union Cabinet has approved a new scheme worth ₹7,280 crore to promote the manufacturing of sintered rare earth permanent magnets in India. This is the country’s first initiative aimed at establishing an annual production capacity of 6,000 metric tonnes of integrated permanent magnets.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that rare earth permanent magnets are among the strongest available and are essential for technologies such as electric vehicles, renewable energy equipment, electronics, aerospace, and defence systems. The scheme will support complete domestic production — from processing rare earth oxides into metals, converting metals into alloys, and finally manufacturing finished magnets.

Demand for these magnets in India is rising rapidly and is expected to double by 2030, largely due to growth in EVs, renewable energy, and electronics. Currently, India depends mainly on imports for its requirements.

This initiative will enable India to set up its first integrated rare earth magnet manufacturing ecosystem, strengthening self-reliance, boosting skilled employment, and supporting the national goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070.

The scheme will run for seven years, including a two-year setup period, and production capacity will be allocated to five selected beneficiaries through a global competitive process.

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