Current Affairs MCQs : 16 December 2025

Q. Vijay Diwas (16 December) commemorates India’s victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, which led to the creation of which country?
A. Nepal
B. Sri Lanka
C. Bangladesh
D. Myanmar

Show Answer
Correct Answer: C. Bangladesh
Vijay Diwas is observed every year on 16 December to mark India’s historic victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, which led to the liberation of Bangladesh.

Q. India won its maiden Squash World Cup title in December 2025 after defeating which team 3–0 in the final?
A. England
B. Egypt
C. Australia
D. Hong Kong

Show Answer
Correct Answer: D. Hong Kong
India created history by winning its maiden Squash World Cup title in December 2025, defeating top-seeded Hong Kong 3–0 in the final held at Chennai.

Q. Who was appointed as India’s new Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) on 15 December 2025?
A. Jitendra Singh
B. Amit Shah
C. Raj Kumar Goyal
D. C.P. Radhakrishnan

Show Answer
Correct Answer: C. Raj Kumar Goyal
Raj Kumar Goyal, a retired 1990-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, was sworn in as India’s new Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) on 15 December 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Raj Kumar Goyal Appointed as Chief Information Commissioner of India

Raj Kumar Goyal, a retired 1990-batch IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, was sworn in as India’s new Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) on 15 December 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The oath of office and secrecy was administered by President Droupadi Murmu in the presence of senior dignitaries.

Before his appointment, Goyal served as Secretary, Department of Justice under the Ministry of Law and Justice and earlier as Secretary (Border Management) in the Ministry of Home Affairs. With over three decades of experience in public administration, he brings extensive expertise in governance, justice, and internal security.

His name was recommended by a high-level selection committee chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with Home Minister Amit Shah and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi as members.

Goyal’s appointment is significant as it restores the Central Information Commission to full operational strength after nine years. His leadership is expected to strengthen the implementation of the Right to Information Act, 2005, enhancing transparency and accountability in Indian governance.

India Wins Maiden Squash World Cup 2025 – Creates Sporting History

India created history by winning its maiden Squash World Cup title in December 2025, defeating top-seeded Hong Kong 3–0 in the final held at Chennai. With this victory, India became the first Asian nation to lift the prestigious mixed-team Squash World Cup trophy.

The final, played on 14 December 2025 at the Express Avenue Mall, saw a dominant all-round performance by the Indian team. Joshna Chinappa’s experience, Abhay Singh’s composure, Anahat Singh’s fearless play, and Velavan Senthilkumar’s consistency were key to India’s unbeaten run in the tournament. Entering as the second seed, India did not drop a single tie throughout the competition, upgrading its bronze medal from 2023 to gold.

The victory is a major milestone for Indian sports and significantly boosts the country’s profile in squash ahead of the sport’s Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

Vijay Diwas : India’s Historic Victory in the 1971 War

Vijay Diwas is observed every year on 16 December to mark India’s historic victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, which led to the liberation of Bangladesh. The war began on 3 December 1971 and lasted only 13 days, making it one of the shortest and most decisive wars in history.

The conflict arose from a severe humanitarian crisis in East Pakistan, where atrocities forced millions of refugees to flee into India. Responding to this crisis, India intervened. On 16 December 1971, Pakistan’s Eastern Command, led by General A.A.K. Niazi, surrendered unconditionally along with 93,000 troops to the Indian Armed Forces and the Mukti Bahini—one of the largest military surrenders since World War II.

The victory resulted in the creation of Bangladesh and significantly altered South Asian geopolitics. Vijay Diwas symbolizes India’s military strength, strategic leadership, and humanitarian commitment.

Current Affairs MCQs : 15 December 2025

Q: Harimau Shakti 2025, a joint military exercise between India and Malaysia, was conducted at which location in India?

A. Pokhran Field Firing Range, Rajasthan
B. Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan
C. Babina Field Firing Range, Uttar Pradesh
D. Deolali Training Area, Maharashtra

Show Answer
Correct Answer: B. Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan
Harimau Shakti 2025 is the 5th India–Malaysia joint military exercise, held from 5–18 December 2025 at Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan.

Q : Lionel Messi’s “GOAT India Tour 2025” in December 2025 was conducted across which of the following cities?

A. Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi
B. Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi
C. Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, Delhi
D. Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Jaipur

Show Answer
Correct Answer: B. Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi
Lionel Messi’s “GOAT India Tour 2025” was a landmark event for Indian football, held from 13 to 15 December 2025 across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi.

Lionel Messi’s GOAT India Tour 2025: A Historic Moment for Indian Football

Lionel Messi’s “GOAT India Tour 2025” was a landmark event for Indian football, held from 13 to 15 December 2025 across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The three-day visit generated massive fan enthusiasm and placed India firmly on the global football map. Messi was accompanied by fellow football stars Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, adding to the excitement and international attention.

The tour began in Kolkata, widely regarded as India’s football capital, where thousands of fans gathered to welcome Messi, reflecting the city’s deep football culture. In Hyderabad, the focus shifted to grassroots football, with fan interactions and youth-oriented activities highlighting the sport’s growing popularity among young Indians. Mumbai witnessed one of the most memorable moments of the tour when Messi met Sachin Tendulkar and exchanged jerseys with Sunil Chhetri, symbolizing unity between cricket and football—India’s two major sporting passions. The overwhelming crowd response in Mumbai underlined Messi’s unmatched global appeal.

The tour concluded in New Delhi, where Messi met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, giving the visit a strong diplomatic and cultural dimension. Overall, the GOAT India Tour 2025 was more than a fan event; it promoted football, inspired young athletes, strengthened cultural exchange, and showcased India as an emerging hub for global sports engagement.

Harimau Shakti 2025: India–Malaysia Joint Military Exercise

Harimau Shakti 2025 is the 5th India–Malaysia joint military exercise, held from 5–18 December 2025 at Mahajan Field Firing Range, Rajasthan. It involved the Dogra Regiment (India) and the 25th Battalion, Royal Malaysian Army.

The exercise focused on counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism, and UN peacekeeping operations, aiming to enhance interoperability, operational readiness, and bilateral defence cooperation between the two countries.

Current Affairs MCQs : 13 December 2025

Q: The CoalSETU policy approved by Govt in December 2025 aims to:
A) Fix coal prices for regulated sectors
B) Provide free coal to power plants
C) Ensure seamless, efficient and transparent auction of coal linkages
D) Ban export of coal from India

Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) Ensure seamless, efficient and transparent auction of coal linkages
On 12 December 2025, the Government of India approved the CoalSETU policy to ensure seamless, efficient, and transparent utilisation of coal resources.

Q : What is a key feature that makes Census 2027 unique compared to previous Censuses in India?
A) It will cover only urban population
B) It will be the first Census conducted after Independence
C) It will be India’s first fully digital Census using mobile applications
D) It will be conducted in a single phase

Show Answer
Correct Answer: C) It will be India’s first fully digital Census using mobile applications
Caste Enumeration will be included in Census 2027. It will also be India’s first-ever digital Census, with data collection carried out through mobile applications available on both Android and iOS platforms.

Govt Approves ₹11,718 Crore Budget for India’s First Digital Census 2027

On 12 December 2025, the Union Cabinet approved a budget of ₹11,718 crore for conducting Census 2027.

Census 2027 will be conducted in two phasesPhase I (Houselisting and Housing Census) and Phase II (Population Enumeration). It will be India’s 16th Census overall and the 8th Census since Independence. India’s Census is regarded as the largest administrative and statistical exercise in the world.

A major highlight is that Caste Enumeration will be included in Census 2027. It will also be India’s first-ever digital Census, with data collection carried out through mobile applications available on both Android and iOS platforms.

Around 30 lakh field functionaries will be deployed for the exercise. Census 2027 will cover the entire population of the country, involving door-to-door visits to every household using separate questionnaires for housing and population data.

Government Approves CoalSETU Policy for Transparent Coal Linkage Auctions

On 12 December 2025, the Government of India approved the CoalSETU policy to ensure seamless, efficient, and transparent utilisation of coal resources. The decision was taken by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Under this policy, a new auction window called ‘CoalSETU’ has been introduced within the Non-Regulated Sector (NRS) Coal Linkage Auction Policy, 2016. The policy enables long-term auction of coal linkages for any industrial use and exports, ensuring fair access to coal.

Any domestic buyer can participate in the auction irrespective of end use. Coal linkages obtained under CoalSETU can be used for own consumption, exports, or other purposes such as coal washing, but resale within the country is not permitted.

Additionally, linkage holders are allowed to export up to 50% of the allocated coal and can flexibly utilise coal among group companies, improving operational efficiency and optimal resource utilisation.

Current Affairs MCQs : 12 December 2025

Q. What was the primary focus of the phone conversation between PM Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump on 11 December 2025?

A. Finalising a defence pact
B. Strengthening bilateral trade and strategic cooperation
C. Launching a joint space mission
D. Discussing UN Security Council reforms

Show Answer
Answer: B. Strengthening bilateral trade and strategic cooperation

Q. Supriya Sahu received the UNEP Champions of the Earth 2025 award for which major contribution?

A. Developing India’s first carbon trading market
B. Advancing sustainable cooling, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience initiatives in Tamil Nadu
C. Leading India’s national climate finance programme
D. Launching a global biodiversity monitoring network

Show Answer
Answer: B. Advancing sustainable cooling, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience initiatives in Tamil Nadu
Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Forests, Tamil Nadu, has been awarded the UNEP Champions of the Earth 2025 in the Inspiration and Action category.

Supriya Sahu Wins UNEP Champions of the Earth 2025 Award

Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Environment, Climate Change and Forests, Tamil Nadu, has been awarded the UNEP Champions of the Earth 2025 in the Inspiration and Action category. This is the United Nations’ highest environmental honour.


⭐ Why She Received the Award

  • Recognised for sustainable cooling initiatives, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience projects in Tamil Nadu.
  • Demonstrated how integrated governance and nature-based solutions can protect vulnerable communities.
  • Promoted climate action that created around 2.5 million green jobs.
  • Strengthened campaigns against single-use plastics and improved wildlife conservation efforts.
  • Advocated a model combining low-tech + high-tech solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

🏛️ Global Stage

  • Award announced during the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) held in Nairobi.
  • Highlights Tamil Nadu as a global leader in climate mitigation, adaptation, and heat-resilience planning.

Modi–Trump Phone Call: India–U.S. Trade Progress and Strategic Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump held a telephonic conversation on 11 December 2025 to review bilateral ties and ongoing trade negotiations. The discussion focused on strengthening the India–U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, with emphasis on trade, defence, energy, and emerging technologies.

Both leaders assessed progress in resolving tariff disputes and improving market access as negotiations between Indian and U.S. trade officials continue. They also discussed Indo-Pacific security, highlighting the need for maritime cooperation and regional stability.

The call came soon after the India–Russia summit, reflecting India’s balanced and multi-alignment foreign policy.

Current Affairs MCQs : 11 December 2025

Q. Which Indian festival was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the 20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee session held at the Red Fort, New Delhi in December 2025?
A. Holi
B. Garba
C. Deepavali (Diwali)
D. Durga Puja

Show Answer
Answer: C. Deepavali (Diwali)

Q. Which team won the 2025 FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup held in Chennai in December 2025?
A. Spain
B. Germany
C. India
D. Argentina

Show Answer
Answer: B. Germany
Germany won the FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup 2025 in Chennai on 10 December 2025, defeating Spain 3–2 in a shoot-out. India claimed their first-ever bronze medal in the Junior World Cup with a brilliant 4–2 comeback win against Argentina.

Germany Wins 2025 FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup; India Secures Bronze

Germany won the FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup 2025 in Chennai on 10 December 2025, defeating Spain 3–2 in a shoot-out after a 1–1 draw in regulation time, securing their eighth title. Justus Warweg scored for Germany, while Nicolas Mustaros equalised for Spain before the match went to penalties.

India claimed their first-ever bronze medal in the Junior World Cup with a brilliant 4–2 comeback win against Argentina, scoring four goals in eleven minutes through Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Shardanand Tiwari, and Anmol Ekka.

Deepavali Inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List as India’s 16th Element

Deepavali (Diwali), the festival of lights, has been officially inscribed on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the 20th UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee session held at the Red Fort, New Delhi (8–13 December 2025). This makes Deepavali the 16th Indian element on the UNESCO Intangible Heritage list. The announcement was celebrated in Nepal with bhajan gatherings and lamp-lighting at the Pashupati Temple, where community members expressed pride in the global recognition of their tradition.

UNESCO delegates from 194 member states adopted the inscription, acknowledging Deepavali as a living tradition symbolising light over darkness and good over evil. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the recognition, noting that Deepavali reflects the soul of India’s civilisation.

The festival’s practices—lighting oil lamps, fireworks, community gatherings, and home-cleaning rituals—promote social bonding, cultural continuity, and hygiene. The inscription honours the millions who celebrate the festival, the artisans who preserve its traditions, and the enduring cultural values it represents.

India’s list of intangible heritage elements already includes Garba, Durga Puja, Kumbh Mela, Yoga, Vedic chanting, Ramlila, and several other iconic cultural traditions.

Current Affairs MCQs : 10 December 2025

Q. Who appointed Andrej Babiš as the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic on 9 December 2025?
A. Miloš Zeman
B. Petr Pavel
C. Viktor Orbán
D. Charles Michel

Show Answer
Answer: B. Petr Pavel
Andrej Babiš was officially appointed Prime Minister of the Czech Republic on 9 December 2025 by President Petr Pavel, marking his return after his earlier tenure from 2017–2021. Leader of the ANO party, Babiš formed a coalition with eurosceptic groups after winning the October 2025 elections.

Q. Which state ranks first in rooftop solar installation under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana as of December 2025?
A. Rajasthan
B. Maharashtra
C. Gujarat
D. Karnataka

Show Answer
Answer: C
India has successfully installed 7,075.78 MW of rooftop solar capacity under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, covering nearly 24 lakh households across the country as of December 2025. Gujarat: 1,828 MW, Maharashtra: 1,322 MW, Uttar Pradesh: 1,024 MW

India Installs 7075.78 MW Rooftop Solar Under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana; Gujarat Leads the Nation

India has successfully installed 7,075.78 MW of rooftop solar capacity under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, covering nearly 24 lakh households across the country as of December 2025.


🌞 Overview of the Scheme

  • PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG: MBY): A demand-driven program launched to promote residential rooftop solar installations.
  • Target: One crore households by FY 2026–27.
  • Financial Outlay: ₹75,021 crore allocated for implementation.
  • Eligibility: All residential consumers with grid-connected electricity connections can apply via the National Portal.

📊 Current Achievements

  • Installed Capacity: 7,075.78 MW rooftop solar in the residential sector.
  • Households Covered: 23.96 lakh households, which is about 23.96% of the target.
  • Top Performing States:
    • Gujarat: 1,828 MW
    • Maharashtra: 1,322 MW
    • Uttar Pradesh: 1,024 MW
      Together, these three states account for nearly 60% of total capacity.

⚡ Benefits to Citizens

  • Free Electricity: Households can generate up to 300 units per month free of cost, reducing dependence on grid supply.
  • Savings: Lower electricity bills and long-term financial relief.
  • Sustainability: Promotes clean energy adoption, reducing carbon footprint.
  • Community Empowerment: Encourages decentralized energy production and local participation.

Andrej Babiš Reappointed as Prime Minister of Czech Republic

Andrej Babiš was officially appointed Prime Minister of the Czech Republic on 9 December 2025 by President Petr Pavel, marking his return after his earlier tenure from 2017–2021. Leader of the ANO party, Babiš formed a coalition with eurosceptic groups after winning the October 2025 elections.

He pledged to prioritise Czech national interests, adopt a cautious stance on EU integration, and reassess support for Ukraine, signalling a shift in Czech domestic and foreign policy.

Current Affairs MCQs : 9 December 2025

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

Show Answer
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

Show Answer
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.

Q. Which Indian festival has been nominated by India for inscription on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List during the 20th session held in December 2025 in Delhi?
A. Holi
B. Onam
C. Diwali
D. Durga Puja

Show Answer
Answer: C. Diwali
India hosted the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage at the Red Fort, New Delhi, from 8 to 13 December 2025.

India Hosts 20th UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee Session at Red Fort

India is hosting the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage at the Red Fort, New Delhi, from 8 to 13 December 2025. The session is chaired by Ambassador Vishal V. Sharma, India’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, and brings together international delegates, cultural experts, and policymakers to review new nominations and strengthen global cooperation under the 2003 UNESCO Convention.

A key highlight of the session is India’s nomination of Diwali for inclusion in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. India currently has 15 elements already inscribed, including Yoga, Kumbh Mela, and Ramlila.

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.

Current Affairs MCQs : 8 December 2025

Q. Armed Forces Flag Day is observed every year in India on which date?
A. December 4
B. December 5
C. December 7
D. December 10

Show Answer
Answer: C. December 7
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.

Q. Which countries will jointly host the FIFA World Cup 2026?

A. USA, Mexico, Brazil
B. Canada, Brazil, Argentina
C. USA, Canada, and Mexico
D. USA, UK, and France

Show Answer
Answer: C. USA, Canada, and Mexico
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.

Q. How many teams will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026?

A. 32
B. 36
C. 40
D. 48

Show Answer
Answer: D. 48
In FIFA World Cup 2026, 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.

Q: The book “Bharat: That Is India – Reclaiming Our Real Identity”, launched by IGNCA on 7 December 2025, is authored by:
A. Ram Bahadur Rai
B. Arif Mohammad Khan
C. Abhijeet Joag
D. Adi Shankaracharya

Show Answer
Answer: C. Abhijeet Joag
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.

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.
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