Daily Current Affairs November 20

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November 20 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs November 20

1. What are the official themes of World Children’s Day 2025 as highlighted by UNICEF?
A) Every Child Deserves Love and Safety
B) My Day My Rights and For Every Child Every Right
C) Our Future Our Voice and Safe Childhood for All
D) Equality in Childhood and Child First Always
E) My Childhood My Nation and Protect the Child
Answer: B) My Day My Rights and For Every Child Every Right

Event and Location:

  • Event: Global observance of World Children’s Day 2025
  • Location: Worldwide
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Celebrating World Children’s Day globally with activities, dialogues, campaigns, and awareness efforts focusing on child rights, voice, and dignity.
  • Objectives:
    • To amplify children’s participation in shaping policy and society, reinforce their civil rights, and address global challenges such as education, healthcare, safety, and equality from a child-centered lens.

Important Terms Explained:

  • UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child):
    • An international human rights treaty adopted in 1989 that recognizes children as individuals with full rights, including civil, political, social, and cultural rights. It is the most widely ratified human rights treaty with 196 signatories.
  • UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund):
    • A UN agency founded in 1946 focused on child welfare, development, protection, and emergency relief. It leads the annual World Children’s Day celebration and the “Go Blue” campaign.
  • Go Blue Campaign:
    • A global initiative by UNICEF where iconic landmarks are lit in blue to symbolize solidarity for children’s rights and to draw attention to child-centric issues.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name World Children’s Day 2025
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Global
Issuing authority UNICEF
Policy/series name World Children’s Day & Go Blue Campaign
Key figures Global children’s advocates, youth participants
Purpose/reason To promote and uphold children’s rights globally
Feature details School campaigns, blue-lit buildings, storytelling, dialogues, film showcases
Validity or status Annually observed event; currently active
Strategic/significant value Reinforces child rights globally and commemorates key UN declarations

2. What is the official theme for National Philosophy Day 2025?
A) Justice and Ethics in Education
B) Philosophy and Global Dialogue in the Digital Era
C) Knowledge, Power and Freedom
D) Bridging Cultures through Philosophy
E) Rethinking Existence in the 21st Century
Answer: B) Philosophy and Global Dialogue in the Digital Era

Event and Location:

  • Event: Celebration of National Philosophy Day 2025
  • Location: Global (Observed in educational, cultural, and public institutions worldwide)
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • To observe National Philosophy Day annually on the third Thursday of November, highlighting philosophy’s relevance in public life.
  • Objectives:
    • To promote critical thinking, encourage philosophical dialogue, and foster cross-cultural understanding and mutual respect in a digital and globalized era.

Important Terms Explained:

  • World Philosophy Day:
    • An annual observance initiated by UNESCO to emphasize the importance of philosophy in society, first celebrated in 2002 and officially recognized in 2005.
  • Critical Thinking:
    • The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment — a key skill promoted by philosophical education.
  • Global Dialogue in the Digital Era:
    • A thematic focus for 2025 that highlights the need for respectful, cross-border conversation amidst digital transformation and social polarization.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name National Philosophy Day / World Philosophy Day 2025
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Global
Issuing authority UNESCO
Policy/series name World Philosophy Day
Key figures Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Confucius, Adi Shankaracharya, Chanakya
Purpose/reason To promote wisdom, tolerance, and philosophical thinking across cultures
Feature details Observed globally via forums, debates, lectures, and cultural events
Validity or status Annual observance (third Thursday of November)
Strategic value Encourages intellectual curiosity and global peace through shared reasoning

Sports – Daily Current Affairs November 20

3. Who recently won the 90kg title at the World Boxing Cup Final held in Greater Noida and was formerly a sparring partner of Anthony Joshua?
A) Anthony Joshua
B) Tokhirov Nusratbek
C) Tyson Fury
D) Isaac Okoh
E) Joe Joyce
Answer: D) Isaac Okoh

Event and Location:

  • Event: Isaac Okoh wins 90kg title at World Boxing Cup Final
  • Location: Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Isaac Okoh of England defeated Tokhirov Nusratbek of Uzbekistan to claim the 90kg title in the World Boxing Cup Final 2025 held in Greater Noida.
  • Objectives:
    • To further his goal of entering professional boxing by gaining competitive international exposure, with long-term aspirations of qualifying for the Olympics and transitioning to the pro boxing circuit.

Important Terms Explained:

  • World Boxing Cup Final:
    • An elite-level international boxing competition where top amateur boxers from around the world compete across weight categories. The event serves as a key milestone in amateur boxing careers.
  • Isaac Okoh:
    • An English amateur boxer who previously trained as a sparring partner for two-time World Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua. Okoh aims to use the Olympic path as a stepping stone to professional boxing success.
  • Sparring Partner:
    • A training partner who helps professional boxers prepare for fights, simulating match conditions and styles to sharpen skills, often gaining valuable experience in the process.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name World Boxing Cup Final 2025
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
Issuing authority World Boxing Federation
Policy/series name Men’s 90kg category bout
Key figures Isaac Okoh (England), Tokhirov Nusratbek (Uzbekistan)
Purpose/reason To compete in international boxing and advance toward Olympic qualification
Feature details Okoh won the final after gaining experience as Joshua’s sparring partner
Validity or status Title won in completed event
Strategic/significant value Boosts Okoh’s amateur boxing career and Olympic aspirations

Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs November 20

4. According to India Ratings, what key risk do the new RBI gold loan norms and rising gold prices pose to gold financiers?
A) Fall in gold demand
B) Low customer turnout
C) Higher loan-to-value risk due to price volatility
D) Decline in NBFC profits from gold exports
E) Increase in gold import duty
Answer: C) Higher loan-to-value risk due to price volatility

Event and Location:

  • Event: India Ratings flags risks from new RBI gold loan norms amid rising prices
  • Location: Mumbai, India
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduced revised gold loan norms, including the classification of loans as Consumption Loans (CLs) and Income Generating Loans (IGLs).
    • These changes allow flexibility in computing Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratios for different loan types.
  • Objectives:
    • To provide clarity and structural flexibility in gold loan product design, while ensuring better credit risk assessment and control across NBFCs and other gold lenders, especially amid rising gold prices.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Loan-to-Value (LTV):
    • A metric used by lenders to assess the risk of lending.
    • In gold loans, it represents the percentage of the gold’s market value that can be lent.
    • A higher LTV increases lender risk during price volatility.
  • Consumption Loans (CLs):
    • Gold loans used for personal consumption purposes, typically of lower ticket size and short tenure.
    • These carry relatively higher risk when interest accrues and pushes the effective LTV.
  • Income Generating Loans (IGLs):
    • Gold loans granted for business or income-generating purposes.
    • These are usually of larger ticket sizes (above ₹2.5 lakh), and have a higher exposure to price volatility and default risk.
  • Non-Bullet Loan:
    • A loan with periodic repayments (interest and/or principal) unlike bullet loans, where repayment happens in a lump sum at the end. Structuring non-bullet loans without accounting for accrued interest may inflate LTV inadvertently.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India Ratings highlights risk in gold loan structures under new RBI norms
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Mumbai, India
Issuing authority Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
Policy/series name Revised Gold Loan Framework
Key figures Karan Gupta (India Ratings), RBI
Purpose/reason To ensure risk control amidst rising gold prices and flexible loan structures
Feature details Loans split into CLs and IGLs; LTV computed with flexibility; real-time monitoring needed
Validity or status Active framework; under regulatory scrutiny
Strategic/significant value Aims to secure gold lenders from potential shocks caused by gold price volatility

Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs November 20

5. What is the main goal of the Starbucks–Tata Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) announced in November 2025?
A) Export Indian coffee globally
B) Provide barista training in India
C) Support 10,000 Indian coffee farmers with agronomy and sustainability practices
D) Replace traditional coffee farming with automation
E) Import coffee beans from Costa Rica
Answer: C) Support 10,000 Indian coffee farmers with agronomy and sustainability practices

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) by Starbucks and Tata Starbucks
  • Location: Karnataka, India (with outreach to other key coffee-growing states)
  • Date: November 21, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Starbucks, through its global trading subsidiary Starbucks Coffee Trading Company (SARL), and Tata Starbucks Private Ltd. launched the Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) in India to improve coffee farming practices and build climate resilience.
  • Objectives:
    • To empower 10,000 Indian coffee farmers by 2030 through the introduction of global agronomy best practices, climate-smart farming, digital training, and the donation of 1 million high-yield Arabica seedlings over the next five years.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Farmer Support Partnership (FSP):
    • A collaborative initiative between Starbucks and Tata Starbucks to support Indian coffee growers by creating model farms, enabling digital agronomy training, and promoting climate resilience and profitability in coffee production.
  • C.A.F.E. Practices (Coffee and Farmer Equity):
    • A Starbucks ethical sourcing program promoting transparency, social responsibility, and environmental standards in the coffee supply chain.
  • Regen-Ag (Regenerative Agriculture):
    • An approach to farming that improves soil health, carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and climate resilience, being promoted under the FSP to future-proof Indian coffee agriculture.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) by Starbucks & Tata Starbucks
Announcement date November 21, 2025
Location Karnataka (with operations in TN, Kerala, AP)
Issuing authority Starbucks Coffee Trading Company & Tata Starbucks Private Ltd.
Policy/series name Farmer Support Partnership (FSP)
Key figures Brian Niccol (Starbucks CEO), N Chandrasekaran (Tata Sons Chairman)
Purpose/reason Empower 10,000 farmers and build sustainable coffee ecosystems
Feature details Model farms, digital training, 1M Arabica seedlings, climate resilience
Validity or status 5-year initiative (2025–2030)
Strategic/significant value Strengthens India’s coffee value chain and supports global sustainability

6. What is ‘memmoo’, recently launched by Kochi-based start-up Digital Worker Services?
A) A logistics app for MSMEs
B) A digital health tracker
C) An AI-driven BPO platform with a free-to-use AGI framework
D) A government portal for AI research
E) A fintech blockchain-based payment platform
Answer: C) An AI-driven BPO platform with a free-to-use AGI framework

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of AI-powered BPO platform ‘memmoo’
  • Location: Kochi, Kerala, India
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Digital Worker Services, a start-up based in Kochi, launched ‘memmoo’, an AI-driven BPO platform powered by a lightweight Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) framework, designed to enable businesses to deploy digital co-workers at no cost.
  • Objectives:
    • To democratize intelligent automation, allowing businesses of all sizes to adopt AI-powered digital transformation without financial barriers, and to disrupt the traditional BPO and enterprise AI sectors through cost-effective, scalable solutions.

Important Terms Explained:

  • memmoo:
    • An AI-driven BPO platform introduced by Digital Worker Services, allowing organizations to automate business workflows, customer service, and logistics operations using AI-based digital co-workers.
  • Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) Framework:
    • A flexible, general-purpose AI system capable of performing a wide range of cognitive tasks, simulating human-like decision-making across various functions. In this case, the framework is lightweight, cost-effective, and free to use for enterprises.
  • Digital Co-workers:
    • AI virtual agents designed to handle repetitive and complex enterprise tasks such as customer support, logistics, data management, and more—allowing companies to streamline operations with minimal human input.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of AI-driven BPO platform ‘memmoo’
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Kochi, Kerala
Issuing authority Digital Worker Services
Policy/series name memmoo – AI-Powered Digital Co-worker Platform
Key figures Aromal Jayaraj Shikky (CEO)
Purpose/reason Democratize AI-based business automation for SMEs and mid-size enterprises
Feature details Free-to-use AGI framework, digital co-workers, subscription-based support
Validity or status Platform launched and commercially active
Strategic/significant value Could position Kochi as a hub for AGI innovation; aims for global BPO disruption

7. According to the COP30 ZEV report, what percentage of global electric three-wheeler sales did India account for last year?
A) 33%
B) 44%
C) 57%
D) 62%
E) 71%
Answer: C) 57%

Event and Location:

  • Event: India leads global electric 3-wheeler sales; progress shared at COP30
  • Location: Brazil (COP30 Summit); India (subject focus)
  • Date: November 20, 2025 (report published)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Accelerating to Zero Coalition, supported by the ICCT, released a report at COP30 stating that India accounted for 57% of global electric three-wheeler sales, with continued growth in light-duty EV adoption.
  • Objectives:
    • To showcase India’s policy-driven leadership in zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) transition, especially in the light-duty and last-mile mobility segments, while setting goals for medium and heavy-duty truck electrification.

Important Terms Explained:

  • ZEV (Zero-Emission Vehicle):
    • Vehicles that produce no tailpipe emissions, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. ZEVs help reduce urban air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles):
    • A flagship government subsidy program launched in India to promote the adoption of electric vehicles by offering incentives on purchases and charging infrastructure.
  • PM E-Drive Scheme:
    • Launched to accelerate the adoption of EVs in India, this scheme targets 2.5 million electric two-wheelers and 320,000 electric three-wheelers, backed by $315 million in subsidies for vehicles and charging infrastructure.
  • Accelerating to Zero Coalition (A2Z):
    • A global multi-stakeholder alliance promoting the transition to ZEVs; the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) serves as the secretariat for the initiative.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India leads global electric 3-wheeler market; COP30 ZEV report
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Brazil (report release); India (subject coverage)
Issuing authority Accelerating to Zero Coalition, ICCT
Policy/series name ZEV Progress Report; PM E-Drive Scheme; FAME
Key figures Amit Bhatt (ICCT India MD), Government of India
Purpose/reason Highlight India’s role in global EV shift, especially 3-wheeler dominance
Feature details 57% global share in e-3W; 2.9% EV sales in H1 2025; 23% YoY light EV growth
Validity or status Current data for 2024 and H1 2025
Strategic/significant value Positions India as a leader in clean mobility; targets trucks next

8. What is the name of the AI data centre joint venture launched by TCS and TPG with a planned ₹18,000 crore investment?
A) AIGrid
B) CoreCompute
C) HyperVault
D) DeepBase
E) DataSphere
Answer: C) HyperVault

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of AI data centre joint venture ‘HyperVault’ by TCS and TPG
  • Location: India (National scope; global investor focus)
  • Date: November 21, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • TCS and TPG announced a ₹18,000 crore joint venture named HyperVault, aimed at building GW-scale, liquid-cooled, AI-optimised data centres across India to serve hyperscalers and AI-first enterprises.
  • Objectives:
    • To address soaring AI infrastructure demand by deploying secure, high-density, climate-positive data centres, enabling India to become a global hub for AI compute capacity while ensuring energy efficiency and scalability.

Important Terms Explained:

  • HyperVault:
    • An AI-ready data centre platform launched by TCS and TPG to offer liquid-cooled, high-density, large-scale infrastructure to support AI workloads, hyperscalers, and cloud providers.
  • AGI Stack Base Layer:
    • Refers to the hardware and infrastructure foundation needed to power Artificial General Intelligence solutions — including GPUs, network systems, and liquid cooling for high-intensity compute environments.
  • TPG Terabyte:
    • A unit of TPG’s Asia Real Estate platform, investing in digital infrastructure. Will contribute up to ₹8,820 crore in the venture, acquiring 27.5% to 49% equity through a mix of debt and equity.
  • Climate-Positive Infrastructure:
    • Refers to data centres built with a focus on renewable energy, sustainability, and energy efficiency, minimizing carbon emissions while enabling high-performance digital services.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of HyperVault – AI Data Centre JV by TCS and TPG
Announcement date November 21, 2025
Location India (Pan-India deployment strategy)
Issuing authority Tata Consultancy Services and TPG Terabyte
Policy/series name HyperVault Data Centre Platform
Key figures N. Chandrasekaran, Jim Coulter, Sanchit Vir Gogia, Rajiv Ranjan
Purpose/reason Build AI-ready, liquid-cooled, scalable data centres in India
Feature details ₹18,000 cr investment, 51:49 ownership (TCS:TPG), climate-positive design
Validity or status Investment underway; phase-wise rollout expected
Strategic/significant value Enhances India’s global positioning in AI infrastructure and cloud hosting

 

Awards – Daily Current Affairs November 20

9. Who among the following was not one of the recipients of the Ilakkiya Maamani Award 2024 presented by the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister in November 2025?
A) D. Gnanasundaram
B) R. Kamarasu
C) K. Somasundaram (Kalapriya)
D) M. Karunanidhi
E) All are awardees
Answer: D) M. Karunanidhi

Event and Location:

  • Event: Presentation of Ilakkiya Maamani Awards 2024
  • Location: Secretariat, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin presented the Ilakkiya Maamani Awards 2024 to three Tamil scholars in recognition of their significant literary contributions.
  • Objectives:
    • To honour and promote Tamil language and literature, and to recognize the scholarly efforts of individuals dedicated to enriching Tamil through research, writing, and literary service.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Ilakkiya Maamani Award:
    • An annual state-level literary award instituted by the Tamil Nadu Government in 2021 to honour three distinguished Tamil scholars each year for their contributions to Tamil language and literature.
  • Tamil Scholars:
    • Experts and contributors to Tamil literature, language, and culture, often through poetry, criticism, translation, historical research, or public service in literary fields.
  • Higher Education Department & CMDA:
    • The Department of Higher Education oversees universities and colleges in Tamil Nadu, while the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) handles urban planning and infrastructure projects within Chennai.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Ilakkiya Maamani Awards 2024 Presentation
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Secretariat, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Issuing authority Government of Tamil Nadu
Policy/series name Ilakkiya Maamani Award (since 2021)
Key figures D. Gnanasundaram, R. Kamarasu, K. Somasundaram alias Kalapriya
Purpose/reason To honour contributions to Tamil language and literature
Feature details Annual award to 3 Tamil scholars; CM also inaugurated Higher Education projects
Validity or status Award for year 2024, presented in November 2025
Strategic/significant value Promotes cultural preservation and recognition of Tamil scholarship

Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs November 20

10. What is the objective of Samsung’s DigiArivu initiative launched in Tamil Nadu in November 2025?
A) Promote coding bootcamps in urban cities
B) Offer free tablets to private schools
C) Upgrade digital and STEM infrastructure in government schools
D) Build new universities in all districts
E) Provide scholarships for international students
Answer: C) Upgrade digital and STEM infrastructure in government schools

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Samsung’s DigiArivu initiative for digital and STEM education
  • Location: Tamil Nadu (Kancheepuram and Ranipet districts)
  • Date: November 19, 2025 (Launched at Anna Centenary Library, Chennai)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Samsung, in collaboration with UN Global Compact Network India (UNGCNI), launched DigiArivu to enhance digital learning and STEM education in 10 government schools in Tamil Nadu.
  • Objectives:
    • To improve digital infrastructure, promote activity-based STEM learning, provide educational resources, and develop future-ready skills among students in tier-2 and tier-3 regions of Tamil Nadu.

Important Terms Explained:

  • DigiArivu:
    • A CSR initiative by Samsung aimed at enabling digital learning and strengthening STEM education in government schools. The program also includes teacher training, library setup, and soft-skill development.
  • UN Global Compact Network India (UNGCNI):
    • The Indian arm of the UN Global Compact, working with corporates and governments to align development goals with sustainability and inclusion, often partnering in education, environment, and gender initiatives.
  • Building as Learning Aid (BaLA):
    • An educational infrastructure concept where school buildings themselves are designed or adapted as teaching-learning tools to enhance classroom interaction and experiential learning.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Samsung DigiArivu initiative
Announcement date November 19, 2025
Location Tamil Nadu (Chennai, Kancheepuram, Ranipet)
Issuing authority Samsung India in partnership with UNGCNI
Policy/series name DigiArivu
Key figures Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, S H Yoon (Samsung)
Purpose/reason To upgrade digital and STEM education in government schools
Feature details Smart classrooms, BaLA design, libraries, sports kits, expert sessions
Validity or status Active pilot in 10 schools, to scale with success
Strategic/significant value Supports Digital India, SDGs, and equitable education access

Defence – Daily Current Affairs November 20

11. Who developed the Indian Army’s newly IPR-registered coat combat (digital print), and what does its registration protect?
A) DRDO and protects the fabric source
B) IIT Kanpur and protects the supply chain
C) NIFT Delhi and protects design and camouflage pattern
D) NID Ahmedabad and protects training standards
E) BEL and protects the production license
Answer: C) NIFT Delhi and protects design and camouflage pattern

Event and Location:

  • Event: Indian Army secures IPR for new coat combat (digital print)
  • Location: India
  • Date: October 7, 2025 (Published in Patent Journal); Registered on February 27, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Indian Army registered the design and camouflage pattern of its new coat combat (digital print) with the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks, granting it exclusive intellectual property rights (IPR).
  • Objectives:
    • To ensure legal protection against unauthorized use, enhance indigenous innovation, and reinforce soldier welfare and operational efficiency through modernized combat wear.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Coat Combat (Digital Print):
    • A newly designed three-layered combat uniform incorporating advanced technical textiles, ergonomic tailoring, and digital camouflage for durability, mobility, and protection in multiple terrains.
  • Intellectual Property Rights (IPR):
    • Legal rights securing ownership and exclusive use of the design and camouflage pattern, preventing unauthorized manufacturing or reproduction under the Designs Act, 2000 and Patents Act, 1970.
  • Army Design Bureau (ADB):
    • An innovation and design facilitation cell under the Indian Army, coordinating modernization projects through academia and industry partnerships, such as this one with NIFT Delhi.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Indian Army secures IPR for new coat combat (digital print)
Announcement date October 7, 2025
Location India
Issuing authority Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks
Policy/series name Design Application No. 449667-001
Key figures Indian Army, NIFT Delhi, Army Design Bureau
Purpose/reason To protect the exclusive rights to the new digital print coat combat design
Feature details Three-layered design: outer camouflage, insulated mid-layer, thermal base
Validity or status Design officially registered; legal rights granted
Strategic/significant value Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and Decade of Transformation initiative

12. Under which defence innovation framework has the Indian Navy placed ₹1,400 crore worth of orders with start-ups and MSMEs as of November 2025?
A) Atmanirbhar Sena
B) Bharat Defence Innovation Scheme
C) Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)
D) Naval Startup Growth Mission
E) Swavlamban Udyam Yojana
Answer: C) Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)

Event and Location:

  • Event: Indian Navy places ₹1,400-cr orders under iDEX; Swavlamban 2025 curtain raiser
  • Location: New Delhi, India
  • Date: November 20, 2025 (event); Swavlamban 2025 scheduled for Nov 25–26

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Indian Navy has placed procurement orders worth ₹1,400 crore to 16 start-ups and MSMEs under the iDEX initiative, aiming to boost indigenous defence innovation and capability development.
  • Objectives:
    • To foster self-reliance in defence production, accelerate start-up-led innovation, and enable dual-use technology development for maritime and national security through Swavlamban 2025 and the iDEX ecosystem.

Important Terms Explained:

  • iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence):
    • A flagship initiative under the Ministry of Defence to support start-ups, MSMEs, and innovators in developing indigenous defence technologies through structured challenges, funding, and procurement commitments.
  • Swavlamban:
    • The Indian Navy’s flagship innovation and indigenisation seminar, bringing together stakeholders from defence, academia, and industry. Swavlamban 2025 will feature innovations, policy discussions, and technology showcases.
  • Acceptance of Necessity (AoN):
    • An official step in the Indian defence procurement process indicating that a proposal has been accepted in principle for future acquisition.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Swavlamban 2025 – Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Seminar
Announcement date November 20, 2025 (curtain raiser)
Location New Delhi (Manekshaw Centre)
Issuing authority Indian Navy
Policy/series name iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence)
Key figures Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan
Purpose/reason To enhance naval capabilities via start-up innovation and indigenous tech
Feature details ₹1,400 cr procurement; 565 iDEX challenges; 150+ start-ups onboarded
Validity or status Ongoing initiative; Swavlamban 2025 scheduled Nov 25–26
Strategic/significant value Strengthens defence self-reliance and export potential

13. Which two organisations signed a Technical Agreement in November 2025 to strengthen defence R&D collaboration?
A) DRDO and Dassault Aviation
B) DRDO and DGA, France
C) HAL and DGA, France
D) ISRO and CNES
E) DRDO and Safran Defence
Answer: B) DRDO and DGA, France

Event and Location:

  • Event: Signing of Technical Agreement to strengthen bilateral defence R&D
  • Location: DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • A Technical Agreement was signed between DRDO and DGA, France to promote joint defence R&D, innovation, and exchange of technical knowledge and resources.
  • Objectives:
    • To establish a formal framework for bilateral research collaboration, joint testing, equipment and technology transfer, and mutual capacity building in strategic and emerging defence areas.

Important Terms Explained:

  • DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation):
    • India’s premier agency under the Ministry of Defence responsible for research and development in defence technologies. It spearheads innovation in areas like missiles, radar, electronic warfare, etc.
  • DGA (Direction Générale de l’Armement):
    • France’s Directorate General of Armaments, under the Ministry of Armed Forces, responsible for defence procurement, R&D, and supporting French armed forces with cutting-edge technologies.
  • Technical Agreement (in defence context):
    • A formal, bilateral framework that enables structured cooperation, including joint research, knowledge exchange, co-development of technologies, and strategic collaboration between defence institutions.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name DRDO–DGA France Technical Agreement
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi
Issuing authority DRDO (India) and DGA (France)
Policy/series name Bilateral Defence R&D Cooperation Agreement
Key figures Dr. Samir V Kamat (Chairman DRDO), Lt Gen Gael Diaz de Tuesta (DGA France)
Purpose/reason To deepen joint research, knowledge exchange, and innovation in strategic defence technologies
Feature details Includes cooperation in AI, cyber security, quantum, unmanned vehicles, propulsion, sensors etc.
Validity or status Active, signed agreement
Strategic/significant value Strengthens Indo-French defence ties and advances mutual defence capabilities

International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs November 20

14. At which international summit did Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav hold bilateral talks with ministers from China, Cuba, Germany, and Denmark in November 2025?
A) G20 Climate Ministers’ Meet
B) UNGA Climate Roundtable
C) UN COP30 Summit
D) BRICS Green Energy Forum
E) World Sustainable Forum
Answer: C) UN COP30 Summit

Event and Location:

  • Event: Bilateral climate discussions on the sidelines of COP30
  • Location: Belém, Brazil
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • India’s Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav conducted bilateral talks with representatives from China, Cuba, Germany, and Denmark during the UN COP30 climate summit.
  • Objectives:
    • To discuss climate cooperation, enhance renewable energy collaboration, and advance multilateral engagement on environmental challenges and green technology exchange.

Important Terms Explained:

  • COP30 (Conference of Parties 30):
    • The 30th session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference, where global leaders and negotiators meet annually to assess progress under the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) and agree on future climate actions.
  • Bilateral Meetings:
    • Private or semi-official discussions between two countries, typically on the sidelines of multilateral events, aimed at enhancing cooperation or aligning policy stances.
  • Renewable Energy Collaboration:
    • A common agenda item at climate summits involving technology transfer, funding models, and joint projects in solar, wind, hydrogen, or biomass between countries.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Bilateral Meetings during COP30
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Belém, Brazil
Issuing authority Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, India
Policy/series name COP30 (UN Climate Change Conference)
Key figures Bhupender Yadav, Liu Zhenmin, C Armando Rodriguez Batista
Purpose/reason Climate diplomacy and renewable energy cooperation
Feature details Discussions on mitigation, energy transition, and green tech partnerships
Validity or status Ongoing diplomatic engagement at COP30
Strategic/significant value Strengthens India’s multilateral climate leadership and bilateral ties

15. What is the purpose of the ongoing CECA negotiations between India and Australia, as discussed in November 2025?
A) To collaborate on defence weapons
B) To build a joint space station
C) To establish a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement covering trade and services
D) To merge maritime boundaries
E) To promote tourism only
Answer: C) To establish a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement covering trade and services

Event and Location:

  • Event: 16th India–Australia Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue and CECA update
  • Location: New Delhi, India
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong met in New Delhi to advance bilateral cooperation and confirm that Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) talks are nearing conclusion.
  • Objectives:
    • To enhance trade, investment, cyber-tech, maritime security, and defence cooperation, and to finalize CECA for liberalized trade in goods and services, digital trade, and broader institutional collaboration.

Important Terms Explained:

  • CECA (Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement):
    • A proposed broad-based trade agreement between India and Australia covering trade in goods and services, rules of origin, investment, digital trade, and institutional frameworks.
  • ECTA (Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement):
    • An earlier agreement implemented by India and Australia aimed at reducing or eliminating import duties on a wide range of goods; CECA is a broader, upgraded version of this.
  • Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue:
    • A recurring diplomatic engagement between India and Australia to review bilateral progress, enhance strategic cooperation, and set future policy directions across defence, economy, and people-to-people ties.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name 16th India–Australia Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location New Delhi, India
Issuing authority Ministry of External Affairs, India & Department of Foreign Affairs, Australia
Policy/series name CECA (Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement) negotiations
Key figures Dr. S. Jaishankar, Senator Penny Wong
Purpose/reason Strengthen bilateral ties and conclude CECA negotiations
Feature details Trade, cyber tech, defence, digital trade, people-to-people connections
Validity or status CECA near finalization; ECTA already implemented
Strategic/significant value Deepens Indo-Pacific cooperation; boosts $24.1 billion bilateral trade

16. What was the primary focus of the 3rd Joint Working Group Meeting between India and Germany held in November 2025?
A) Establishing a pharmaceutical manufacturing unit
B) Promoting cultural tourism
C) Enhancing collaboration in traditional and integrative medicine
D) Expanding trade relations in agricultural goods
E) Negotiating a free trade agreement
Answer: C) Enhancing collaboration in traditional and integrative medicine

Event and Location:

  • Event: 3rd Joint Working Group Meeting on Alternative Medicine between India and Germany
  • Location: Berlin, Germany
  • Date: November 18–20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Conduct bilateral discussions on traditional medicine between the Ministry of Ayush, India and the German Federal Ministry of Health.
    • Explore regulatory, reimbursement, and integration pathways for traditional medicine systems.
  • Objectives:
    • Strengthen international collaboration in evidence-based traditional medicine.
    • Enhance patient access through inclusion in public health and insurance systems.
    • Promote joint research, regulatory harmonisation, and training.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Ministry of Ayush:
    • The Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (Ayush), Government of India, responsible for promoting traditional systems of medicine and research in India and abroad.
  • CCRAS (Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences):
    • An autonomous body under the Ministry of Ayush for formulation, coordination and development of research in Ayurveda.
  • Federal Joint Committee (G-BA):
    • Germany’s highest decision-making body in the healthcare system for reimbursement and inclusion of therapies in public health insurance.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name 3rd India–Germany Joint Working Group Meeting on Alternative Medicine
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Berlin, Germany
Issuing authority Ministry of Ayush, Government of India; German Federal Ministry of Health
Policy/series name Bilateral cooperation in traditional and integrative medicine
Key figures Monalisha Dash, Dr. Rabinarayan Acharya, Dr. Subhash Kaushik, Paul Zubeil, Prof. Dr. Georg Seifert
Purpose/reason To develop integrative care frameworks, reimbursement pathways, and shared regulatory approaches
Feature details Site visits to Charité Berlin, Community Hospital Havelhöhe, and Federal Joint Committee (G-BA)
Validity or status Ongoing collaboration and MoU development in progress
Strategic/significant value Promotes Ayush globalisation, evidence-based integration, and expands India’s role in health diplomacy

Schemes – Daily Current Affairs November 20

17. Which community is eligible for the Pongal 2026 cash assistance scheme announced by Puducherry’s Adi Dravidar and ST Welfare Department?
A) Backward Classes only
B) Fishermen communities
C) Adi Dravidar and Scheduled Tribe families
D) Urban middle-income group
E) General category families
Answer: C) Adi Dravidar and Scheduled Tribe families

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of cash assistance scheme for Pongal 2026
  • Location: Puducherry, India
  • Date: November 20, 2025 (announcement); January 14, 2026 (Pongal festival)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Adi Dravidar and Scheduled Tribe Welfare Department of Puducherry has invited applications for cash assistance in lieu of free dhoti and saree for Pongal 2026.
  • Objectives:
    • To ensure that eligible Adi Dravidar and ST families receive financial aid ahead of Pongal, replacing the earlier practice of distributing physical garments with direct monetary benefit.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Adi Dravidar:
    • A term commonly used in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to refer to Scheduled Caste (SC) communities, primarily those classified under Dalit categories, entitled to specific welfare schemes under constitutional provisions.
  • Scheduled Tribes (ST):
    • Communities identified in the Constitution of India for affirmative support due to socio-economic disadvantages.
    • They are entitled to special development programs, including welfare schemes during festivals like Pongal.
  • Pongal Festival:
    • A harvest festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry every year on January 14, honoring the Sun God and marking agricultural abundance.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Pongal 2026 Cash Assistance Scheme for Adi Dravidar and ST Families
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Puducherry
Issuing authority Adi Dravidar and ST Welfare Department, Puducherry
Policy/series name Pongal Welfare Cash Assistance (in lieu of free dhoti/saree)
Key figures Beneficiaries aged 18 and above from SC/ST communities
Purpose/reason To support socio-economically weaker families during Pongal
Feature details Cash benefit to replace garment distribution; applications open till Dec 10
Validity or status Application process active; implementation by January 2026
Strategic/significant value Ensures direct benefit transfer for seasonal welfare to SC/ST families

18. Where was the Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign launched on November 19, 2025, to address tobacco addiction among young people?
A) IIT Bombay
B) Anna University, Chennai
C) Visvesvaraya Technological University, Kalaburagi
D) Banaras Hindu University
E) JNTU Hyderabad
Answer: C) Visvesvaraya Technological University, Kalaburagi

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign
  • Location: VTU Centre for Post Graduate Studies, Kalaburagi, Karnataka
  • Date: November 19, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign was launched at VTU Kalaburagi by the Deputy Commissioner of Kalaburagi, aiming to curb rising tobacco addiction rates among young individuals.
  • Objectives:
    • To promote early prevention, increase sustained awareness, and support strict enforcement of tobacco control laws, particularly among youth in academic institutions.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign:
    • A health initiative focused on preventing youth tobacco addiction through education, policy enforcement, and campus-level advocacy. It targets schools and colleges as key sites for intervention.
  • District Tobacco Control Officer (DTCO):
    • A government-appointed official responsible for implementing tobacco control laws, conducting public awareness drives, and monitoring compliance in the district.
  • Community-Based Interventions:
    • Health or behavioral programs involving local communities, institutions, and leadership to bring about sustainable public health outcomes through localized action.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign at VTU Kalaburagi
Announcement date November 19, 2025
Location Kalaburagi, Karnataka
Issuing authority District Administration and Health Department
Policy/series name Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions Initiative
Key figures Deputy Commissioner Fouzia Taranum, Dr. Rakesh Kamble (DTCO)
Purpose/reason To raise awareness and enforce laws against tobacco use among youth
Feature details Awareness drives, keynote sessions, community-level campaigns
Validity or status Currently active awareness campaign
Strategic/significant value Targets youth addiction and public health protection in academic settings

19. Which of the following infrastructure projects was NOT reviewed during the 102nd National Planning Group (NPG) meeting under PM GatiShakti in November 2025?
A) Four-lane elevated corridor on NH-65 in Maharashtra
B) New railway line between Silghat and Dekargaon in Assam
C) Third and fourth rail line between Punarakh and Kiul in Bihar
D) Eastern Peripheral Expressway project in Haryana
E) Multimodal integration of NH-15 and NH-715 in Assam
Answer: D) Eastern Peripheral Expressway project in Haryana

Event and Location:

  • Event: 102nd National Planning Group (NPG) meeting under PM GatiShakti
  • Location: New Delhi
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Review and assess key infrastructure projects for multimodal connectivity and logistics efficiency.
    • Ensure conformity with PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (PMGS NMP) principles.
  • Objectives:
    • Enhance last-mile connectivity to industrial, agricultural, and tourist zones.
    • Promote integrated and seamless multimodal infrastructure across states.
    • Reduce logistics costs, travel times, and support economic development in project regions.

Important Terms Explained:

  • PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (PMGS NMP):
    • A central government initiative aimed at creating an integrated, multimodal infrastructure grid to reduce logistics costs and time, using geospatial planning and inter-ministerial coordination.
  • Bharatmala Pariyojana:
    • A centrally sponsored and funded road and highways development project focused on optimizing freight and passenger movement by building economic corridors, feeder routes, and elevated corridors.
  • Network Planning Group (NPG):
    • A body under DPIIT responsible for vetting major infrastructure proposals to ensure alignment with the principles of multimodal integration and the PM GatiShakti framework.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name 102nd Meeting of Network Planning Group (NPG) under PM GatiShakti
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location New Delhi
Issuing authority Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
Policy/series name PM GatiShakti National Master Plan (PMGS NMP)
Key figures Joint Secretary, Logistics, DPIIT
Purpose/reason Review of 3 strategic infrastructure projects for multimodal alignment and integrated logistics
Feature details Evaluated 1 road project (Maharashtra), 2 railway projects (Bihar and Assam)
Validity or status Projects under planning and review for approval
Strategic/significant value Supports logistics efficiency, regional economic growth, and integrated transport systems

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs November 20

20. With which firm did the Tamil Nadu government sign an MoU in November 2025 to attract and expand Global Capability Centres (GCCs)?
A) Infosys
B) Deloitte
C) TCS
D) ANSR
E) Accenture
Answer: D) ANSR

Event and Location:

  • Event: Tamil Nadu government signs MoU with ANSR to boost Global Capability Centres
  • Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Tamil Nadu government, through its investment promotion agency Guidance, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ANSR to attract and scale Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in the state.
  • Objectives:
    • To position Tamil Nadu as a global hub for high-value technology, R&D, AI, engineering, and digital services by leveraging ANSR’s expertise and attracting the next generation of global corporations.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Global Capability Centres (GCCs):
    • Offshore units of global enterprises that deliver a range of services including engineering, R&D, IT, digital transformation, AI, and cybersecurity, functioning as strategic hubs supporting core operations worldwide.
  • ANSR:
    • A Bengaluru-based company with over 20 years of experience in setting up 200+ GCCs globally. Specializes in enterprise capability development in domains such as AI engineering, cybersecurity, digital commerce, and data science.
  • Guidance Tamil Nadu:
    • The state’s nodal investment promotion agency, responsible for facilitating industrial investments and implementing strategic policies like Tamil Nadu’s dedicated GCC policy launched in 2024.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Tamil Nadu signs MoU with ANSR to boost GCC ecosystem
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Bengaluru, Karnataka
Issuing authority Guidance Tamil Nadu
Policy/series name Tamil Nadu GCC Policy (2024)
Key figures TRB Rajaa (Minister), Lalit Ahuja (ANSR CEO)
Purpose/reason To attract global firms to establish and scale GCCs in Tamil Nadu
Feature details Focus on AI, cybersecurity, R&D, product engineering, digital services
Validity or status Active MoU; implementation under process
Strategic/significant value Enhances Tamil Nadu’s competitiveness in high-skill global services

21. What is the purpose of the Southern Railway’s newly launched coast-to-coast parcel express train starting December 2025?
A) Tourism promotion between Kerala and Tamil Nadu
B) Coastal passenger ferry integration
C) Dedicated time-tabled freight corridor for food grains
D) Eco-friendly and fast parcel transport between Chennai and Mangaluru
E) Express medical train for coastal regions
Answer: D) Eco-friendly and fast parcel transport between Chennai and Mangaluru

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of India’s first coast-to-coast parcel express train service
  • Location: Tamil Nadu and Kerala
  • Date: December 12, 2025 (first run from Mangaluru Central)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Southern Railway is launching a weekly, dedicated, coast-to-coast parcel express train to connect commercial hubs across Tamil Nadu and Kerala via a fixed timetable and real-time monitoring.
  • Objectives:
    • To facilitate efficient, fast, eco-friendly, and cost-effective logistics, reduce road dependency, and provide organised parcel handling through designated parcel vans.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Parcel Express Train (Coast-to-Coast):
    • A time-tabled train service by Southern Railway for transporting a wide variety of commodities including white goods, perishables, industrial materials, and more between Mangaluru and Chennai.
  • High Capacity Parcel Vans (HCPV):
    • Specially designed railway wagons that can carry large volumes of goods, with 10 dedicated parcel vans and 2 brake/luggage vans included in this train for secure and organised cargo movement.
  • Sustainable Logistics:
    • Refers to shifting goods movement from road to rail, reducing carbon emissions and road congestion while promoting eco-friendly and efficient freight transport.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Southern Railway’s Coast-to-Coast Parcel Express Train
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Across Tamil Nadu and Kerala
Issuing authority Southern Railway
Policy/series name Coast-to-Coast Parcel Express Service
Key figures Ministry of Railways, Southern Railway officials
Purpose/reason Strengthen regional logistics and provide fast, eco-friendly parcel transport
Feature details Real-time monitoring, 10 parcel vans, 2 brake vans, fixed weekly schedule
Validity or status Service begins December 12, 2025; weekly operation
Strategic/significant value Reduces road logistics pressure; promotes rail freight and sustainability

22. Where is the 67th Akashvani Sangeet Sammelan scheduled to be held on November 23, 2025?
A) Bengaluru
B) Chennai
C) Hyderabad
D) Mysuru
E) Pune
Answer: D) Mysuru

Event and Location:

  • Event: 67th Akashvani Sangeet Sammelan
  • Location: Ganabharathi’s Veene Seshanna Bhavan, Kuvempunagar, Mysuru, Karnataka
  • Date: November 23, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • To conduct the 67th edition of the Akashvani Sangeet Sammelan as part of a nationwide classical music festival, in collaboration with Prasar Bharati and the Ministry of Culture.
  • Objectives:
    • To promote Indian classical music and musicians, record high-quality performances, and ensure wider public access through nationwide broadcasts and, for the first time, Doordarshan telecasts.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Akashvani Sangeet Sammelan:
    • An annual classical music conference conducted by Akashvani (All India Radio) since 1954, featuring top-grade artists across India. It is considered a prestigious platform for Indian classical musicians.
  • Prasar Bharati:
    • India’s public broadcasting agency, comprising All India Radio (Akashvani) and Doordarshan, responsible for promoting Indian culture and media access nationwide.
  • Doordarshan:
    • The national television broadcaster of India, which for the first time will record and telecast the Akashvani Sangeet Sammelan performances.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name 67th Akashvani Sangeet Sammelan
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Mysuru, Karnataka
Issuing authority Akashvani (All India Radio), Mysuru
Policy/series name Akashvani Nationwide Music Programme
Key figures Prof. Sharanappa V. Halse, Vid. H.L. Shivashankara Swamy, Dr. S.V. Sahana
Purpose/reason Promote classical music and recognize talented artists
Feature details Mridanga Taranga, Veena recital, multi-instrument accompaniments
Validity or status To be held on Nov 23; broadcast begins Jan 2, 2026
Strategic/significant value First Doordarshan telecast; national-level cultural preservation effort

23. What is the improved sex ratio at birth recorded in Kanniyakumari district between April and October of the fiscal year 2025–2026?
A) 958.5
B) 973.9
C) 960.5
D) 989.4
E) 950.1
Answer: D) 989.4

Event and Location:

  • Event: Improvement in sex ratio at birth in Kanniyakumari district
  • Location: Kanniyakumari, Tamil Nadu
  • Date: April to October, FY 2025–2026 (data reported on November 20, 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Kanniyakumari district administration, through sustained health and welfare initiatives, has reported an increase in the sex ratio at birth to 989.4 females per 1,000 males between April and October 2025.
  • Objectives:
    • To reduce gender disparity at birth, promote awareness on the value of the girl child, and improve the overall sex ratio for the financial year 2025–2026.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB):
    • Refers to the number of female births per 1,000 male births. It is a critical demographic indicator reflecting gender equity and possible trends in sex-selective practices or female foeticide.
  • Kanniyakumari District Administration:
    • The local government body in Tamil Nadu responsible for public health, welfare, and implementation of women-centric schemes to improve SRB and child welfare indicators.
  • Fiscal Year 2025–2026:
    • A financial accounting period used by governments and organizations in India, starting on April 1, 2025, and ending on March 31, 2026.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Improvement in sex ratio at birth in Kanniyakumari district
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Kanniyakumari, Tamil Nadu
Issuing authority Health Department, Kanniyakumari District
Policy/series name District-level birth monitoring initiatives
Key figures 989.4 females per 1,000 males (Apr–Oct 2025)
Purpose/reason To enhance gender equity and address birth gender imbalance
Feature details SRB in FY 2023–24 was 973.9; FY 2024–25 was 960.5; improved to 989.4 now
Validity or status Current FY 2025–26 data (provisional; April to October)
Strategic/significant value Indicates positive demographic shift and success of awareness programs

24. Where has the Waltair Division of East Coast Railway set up a new Emergency Medical Room (EMR) in collaboration with MIMS Hospital?
A) Vijayawada railway station
B) Vizianagaram railway station
C) Visakhapatnam railway station
D) Guntur railway station
E) Kurnool City railway station
Answer: B) Vizianagaram railway station

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of Emergency Medical Room (EMR) at railway station
  • Location: Vizianagaram Railway Station, Andhra Pradesh
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Waltair Division of East Coast Railway, in partnership with Maharajahs Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS Hospital), Nellimarla, established an Emergency Medical Room on Platforms 2 and 3 of Vizianagaram railway station.
  • Objectives:
    • To provide round-the-clock emergency healthcare services to railway passengers and improve medical response readiness at key railway hubs in the region.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Emergency Medical Room (EMR):
    • A facility offering 24×7 emergency medical support at transport hubs like railway stations, equipped to handle passenger emergencies, stabilizations, and basic treatment needs.
  • Waltair Division:
    • A key division of East Coast Railway Zone, headquartered in Visakhapatnam, responsible for train operations, passenger amenities, and infrastructure across parts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.
  • Maharajahs Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS Hospital):
    • A medical college and hospital located in Nellimarla, Andhra Pradesh, known for offering healthcare services and medical education. It has partnered with Indian Railways for this initiative.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Emergency Medical Room at Vizianagaram Railway Station
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh
Issuing authority Waltair Division, East Coast Railway
Policy/series name Emergency Medical Services Initiative
Key figures DRM Lalit Bohra, Dr. D. Sharath Babu (Chief Medical Superintendent)
Purpose/reason Provide 24×7 emergency medical care to passengers
Feature details EMR set up on Platforms 2 & 3 in partnership with MIMS Hospital
Validity or status Fully operational from November 20, 2025
Strategic/significant value Enhances passenger safety and medical infrastructure at key rail stations

25. Which Indian state announced a ₹400 crore funding push for deeptech startups and unveiled a new deeptech policy at the Future Makers Conclave 2025?
A) Maharashtra
B) Tamil Nadu
C) Gujarat
D) Karnataka
E) Telangana
Answer: D) Karnataka

Event and Location:

  • Event: Karnataka announces ₹400 crore support for deeptech start-ups at Future Makers Conclave
  • Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
  • Date: November 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with venture capital firms, disbursed ₹400 crore to deeptech start-ups at the Future Makers Conclave held during the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025.
    • It also announced 143 winners under the ELEVATE programme, the largest cohort till date.
  • Objectives:
    • To foster a globally competitive deeptech ecosystem, support innovation beyond Bengaluru, and empower start-ups solving real-world challenges with policy, capital, and platform-level support.
    • The ELEVATE Next (Deeptech) programme was also launched to extend grant support to emerging start-ups.

Important Terms Explained:

  • ELEVATE Programme:
    • A flagship start-up support initiative by the Government of Karnataka to identify and fund innovative start-ups, especially those based in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
    • Since inception, it has funded 1,084 start-ups, including 390 from Beyond Bengaluru.
  • Future Makers Conclave:
    • A marquee event during the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025 focused on catalysing next-gen innovation and connecting start-ups with venture capital investors, policy makers, and industry experts.
  • Deeptech Startups:
    • Start-ups that leverage cutting-edge technologies like AI, robotics, quantum computing, space tech, and advanced engineering to solve complex problems.
    • They require high capital and R&D investments and often have long gestation periods.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Future Makers Conclave at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Bengaluru, Karnataka
Issuing authority Government of Karnataka
Policy/series name ELEVATE and ELEVATE Next (Deeptech)
Key figures Priyank Kharge, Shubhanshu Shukla, Sania Mirza, Ankur Warikoo
Purpose/reason To boost deeptech start-up ecosystem and attract VC investment
Feature details ₹400 crore disbursed; 143 ELEVATE winners; grants of ₹50 lakh–₹1 crore
Validity or status Active; New deeptech policy unveiled in 2025
Strategic/significant value Strengthens India’s leadership in global innovation and decentralises startup growth

26. What is the primary objective of the newly launched ‘SARAL SIMS’ facility introduced by the Ministry of Steel in November 2025?
A) To track exports of finished steel products
B) To simplify steel import registration for small and export-linked consignments
C) To regulate steel pricing in the domestic market
D) To mandate quality checks on all steel imports
E) To promote steel manufacturing by large industries only
Answer: B) To simplify steel import registration for small and export-linked consignments

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of SARAL SIMS facility for simplified steel import registration
  • Location: Pan India (via online portal)
  • Date: November 20, 2025 (Effective from November 21, 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Ministry of Steel launched SARAL SIMS, a simplified steel import registration facility under the Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS), aimed at small importers and export-linked consignments.
  • Objectives:
    • To enhance ease of doing business by simplifying the registration process for small quantity imports and importers under Advance Authorization, SEZ, and EOU routes by eliminating consignment-wise approvals and minimizing procedural burdens.

Important Terms Explained:

  • SARAL SIMS:
    • A new, simplified facility under SIMS allowing small importers and export-oriented entities to register once annually for steel imports instead of per consignment.
    • It covers small imports (≤10 MT each) with a cap of 1000 MT annually (500 MT for FY 2025-26) and export-linked imports with no quantity limit.
  • SIMS (Steel Import Monitoring System):
    • A pre-import registration system for steel imports in India under which importers must declare details of their steel consignments before clearance. It helps the government monitor steel inflows and market trends.
  • Advance Authorization / SEZ / EOU:
    • Export-linked import mechanisms in India under which entities can import inputs duty-free for use in the production of export goods.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of SARAL SIMS steel import registration facility
Announcement date November 20, 2025
Location Online / Pan India
Issuing authority Ministry of Steel
Policy/series name SARAL SIMS under Steel Import Monitoring System (SIMS)
Key figures Steel importers, MSMEs, SEZ and EOU units
Purpose/reason Simplify import procedures and reduce compliance burden
Feature details Annual import registration, 1000 MT cap for small imports (500 MT in FY26)
Validity or status Effective from November 21, 2025
Strategic/significant value Promotes ease of doing business and supports export-linked growth

27. What is the theme of Swavlamban 2025, the Indian Navy’s Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) seminar?
A) Naval Excellence Through Export
B) Technology and Sea Power
C) Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation
D) Maritime Innovation for Global Security
E) Aatmanirbhar Defence Ecosystem
Answer: C) Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation

Event and Location:

  • Event: Curtain Raiser for Swavlamban 2025 – NIIO’s Naval Innovation Seminar
  • Location: Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi
  • Date: November 20, 2025 (Seminar dates: November 25–26, 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Indian Navy conducted a curtain raiser press conference to introduce Swavlamban 2025, the fourth edition of its Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) seminar.
  • Objectives:
    • To showcase innovations, promote indigenisation in defence, encourage MSMEs and start-ups, and accelerate the adoption of emerging and disruptive technologies in the maritime domain.
    • The seminar also aims to foster collaboration among industry, academia, and defence stakeholders.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Swavlamban 2025:
    • An annual seminar by the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO), focusing on enhancing defence self-reliance through innovation.
    • The 2025 theme is “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenisation.”
  • NIIO (Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation):
    • A dedicated Indian Navy unit promoting indigenous defence technologies and linking industry/start-ups with naval capability requirements.
  • Aatmanirbharta in Defence:
    • Refers to the self-reliant India mission in defence production, aiming to reduce dependence on imports by encouraging domestic R&D, manufacturing, and innovation.
  • Innovathon:
    • An innovation-focused initiative to scout and support promising technologies from ideation to induction into naval operations.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Swavlamban 2025 – Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) Seminar
Announcement date November 20, 2025 (Curtain raiser)
Location Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi
Issuing authority Indian Navy / NIIO
Policy/series name Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) initiative
Key figures Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff
Purpose/reason Promote indigenisation, emerging tech adoption, and foster industry-defence collaboration
Feature details Launch of Innovathon, expert panels, start-up exhibits, release of Swavlamban 4.0 document
Validity or status Fourth edition; seminar scheduled for November 25–26, 2025
Strategic/significant value Accelerates India’s Aatmanirbhar push in defence and maritime innovation


Over All Review

Important Days

  • World Children’s Day 2025 was observed globally on November 20 under the themes “My Day, My Rights” and “For Every Child, Every Right”.
  • National Philosophy Day 2025 was observed on November 20 with the theme “Philosophy and Global Dialogue in the Digital Era.”

Sports 

  • Isaac Okoh of England won the 90kg category title at the World Boxing Cup Final 2025 in Greater Noida on November 20.

Banking and Finance 

  • India Ratings has warned that new RBI norms combined with rising gold prices could increase risk exposure for gold loan financiers.

Business And Economy

  • Starbucks and Tata Starbucks launched the Farmer Support Partnership (FSP) in Karnataka on November 21, 2025.
  • Kochi-based start-up Digital Worker Services launched ‘memmoo’, an AI-powered BPO platform, on November 20, 2025.
  • India accounted for 57% of global electric three-wheeler sales last year, according to a COP30 report.
  • TCS and TPG announced a ₹18,000 crore joint venture named HyperVault to build AI-optimized data centres in India.

Awards 

  • Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin presented the Ilakkiya Maamani Awards 2024 to three Tamil scholars on November 20, 2025.

Science and Technology

  • Samsung launched the DigiArivu initiative on November 19, 2025, to upgrade digital learning in Tamil Nadu government schools.

Defence

  • The Indian Army has secured intellectual property rights for its new coat combat (digital print) through official registration under the Designs Act, 2000.
  • The Indian Navy has placed ₹1,400 crore worth of orders with 16 start-ups and MSMEs under the iDEX framework since 2018.
  • DRDO and France’s DGA signed a Technical Agreement on November 20, 2025, in New Delhi to boost bilateral defence R&D.

International Affairs

  • Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav held bilateral meetings at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, on November 20, 2025.
  • India and Australia are close to concluding their Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) negotiations.

Schemes

  • Puducherry’s Adi Dravidar and ST Welfare Department has launched a cash assistance scheme for Pongal 2026.
  • A Tobacco-Free Youth Campaign was launched at VTU’s Kalaburagi centre on November 19, 2025, to address growing tobacco use among students.
  • The 102nd NPG meeting reviewed three key infrastructure projects under PM GatiShakti to enhance multimodal logistics.
  • India and Germany held the 3rd Joint Working Group Meeting on Alternative Medicine in Berlin from November 18 to 20, 2025.

National Affairs

  • The Tamil Nadu government signed an MoU with ANSR on November 20, 2025, to expand its Global Capability Centre footprint.
  • Southern Railway will launch India’s first coast-to-coast parcel express train between Chennai and Mangaluru on December 12, 2025.
  • The 67th Akashvani Sangeet Sammelan will be held on November 23, 2025, at Veene Seshanna Bhavan in Mysuru.
  • The sex ratio at birth in Kanniyakumari district rose to 989.4 females per 1,000 males between April and October 2025.
  • An Emergency Medical Room (EMR) was launched on November 20, 2025, at Vizianagaram railway station by the Waltair Division of East Coast Railway.
  • Karnataka disbursed ₹400 crore to deeptech startups at the Future Makers Conclave held during Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025.
  • The Ministry of Steel introduced SARAL SIMS to ease the import registration process for small and export-linked steel consignments.
  • The Indian Navy held the curtain raiser for Swavlamban 2025, highlighting its innovation and indigenisation efforts.

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