Daily Current Affairs December 24

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December 24 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs December 24

1. What is the theme of National Consumer Day 2025 observed on December 24?
A) Consumer Empowerment through Awareness
B) Transparency in Digital Commerce
C) Responsible Consumption for a Greener Future
D) Efficient and Speedy Disposal through Digital Justice
E) Promoting Safe and Standardized Products
Answer: D) Efficient and Speedy Disposal through Digital Justice

Event and Location:

  • Event: Observance of National Consumer Day 2025
  • Location: India (Nationwide observance)
  • Date: December 24, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: To observe National Consumer Day with a focus on consumer rights and the use of digital platforms for speedy grievance redressal under the Consumer Protection Act.
  • Objectives: To enhance public awareness about consumer rights and promote technology-driven justice systems like e-Jagriti and National Consumer Helpline 2.0 for efficient and inclusive dispute resolution.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Consumer Protection Act, 2019: This act replaced the 1986 legislation to address challenges of digital commerce, introduced a three-tier redressal mechanism, and empowered the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA).
  • e-Jagriti: A unified digital platform launched on January 1, 2025, combining earlier systems like e-Daakhil and CONFONET, enabling online case filing, digital hearings, and real-time tracking of consumer complaints.
  • National Consumer Helpline 2.0 (NCH 2.0): An upgraded, AI-powered consumer support platform providing multilingual grievance resolution services via toll-free number, mobile apps, and WhatsApp integration.
  • Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA): A regulatory body established in July 2020 to curb unfair trade practices, misleading advertisements, and order recall of hazardous goods.
  • Legal Metrology Rules 2025: Amendments introduced for better labeling of medical devices, mandatory price clarity, and proposed origin filters for e-commerce to boost transparency.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name National Consumer Day 2025
Announcement date December 24, 2025
Location India (Nationwide observance)
Issuing authority Department of Consumer Affairs
Policy/series name Consumer Protection Act, 2019
Key figures Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), BIS, NCH 2.0
Purpose/reason Promote consumer rights and digital grievance redressal
Feature details Launch of e-Jagriti, NCH 2.0 upgrades, legal metrology reforms
Validity or status Active and ongoing in 2025
Strategic/significant value Boosts consumer confidence, ensures faster justice, promotes inclusivity

2. What is the reason behind celebrating Kisan Diwas on December 23 every year in India?
A) Launch of first agricultural export policy
B) Anniversary of India’s first Green Revolution
C) Birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh
D) Establishment of Ministry of Agriculture
E) Foundation day of ICAR
Answer: C) Birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh

Event and Location:

  • Event: Celebration of Kisan Diwas 2025 to honour Indian farmers
  • Location: Across India
  • Date: December 23, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Government of India observes December 23 annually as Kisan Diwas (National Farmers’ Day), marked by nationwide events including seminars, exhibitions, and awareness campaigns.
  • Objectives: To commemorate the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, highlight farmers’ contribution to national development, promote sustainable agriculture, and address challenges such as climate change, market volatility, and water stress.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Kisan Diwas / National Farmers’ Day: Observed annually on December 23 to honour Indian farmers and the legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh, highlighting their role in food security and rural prosperity.
  • Chaudhary Charan Singh: Former Prime Minister of India (1979–1980), known as the ‘Champion of Farmers’ for his pro-farmer policies, including land reforms and support for small and marginal farmers.
  • Sustainable and Climate-Resilient Farming: An approach that includes using modern technology, reducing dependency on natural resources, and building resilience to climate change impacts, ensuring long-term agricultural productivity.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Kisan Diwas / National Farmers’ Day 2025
Announcement date December 23, 2025
Location Across India
Issuing authority Government of India
Policy/series name Kisan Diwas (Declared officially in 2001)
Key figures Chaudhary Charan Singh (5th Prime Minister of India, 1979–1980)
Purpose/reason To honour the contribution of farmers and mark Charan Singh’s birth anniversary
Feature details Awareness drives, exhibitions, seminars, policy dialogues, student outreach
Validity or status Observed annually; ongoing national observance
Strategic/significant value Promotes rural prosperity, technological adaptation, and agricultural sustainability

Sports – Daily Current Affairs December 24

3. Which organization released the 2024 report identifying India as the top country for doping violations?
A) IOC
B) NADA
C) UNESCO
D) WADA
E) IAAF
Answer: D) WADA

Event and Location:

  • Event: India tops WADA’s global doping list for the third consecutive year
  • Location: Global (India highlighted in report)
  • Date: December 23, 2025 (report date)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) published its global anti-doping report, revealing that India recorded 260 positive doping cases in 2024, the highest globally, making it the top doping offender for the third year in a row.
  • Objectives: To monitor doping trends worldwide, assess anti-doping efforts in different countries, and raise global awareness about performance-enhancing drug misuse in sports.

Important Terms Explained:

  • WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency): An international organization responsible for promoting, coordinating, and monitoring the global fight against doping in sports. It publishes annual reports detailing doping violations across nations.
  • NADA (National Anti Doping Agency): India’s official body for overseeing doping control and education, responsible for conducting tests and implementing anti-doping regulations within the country.
  • Adverse Analytical Findings (AAFs): A term used by WADA for cases where banned substances are detected in athletes’ samples during drug tests, considered a doping violation unless a valid exemption exists.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India tops global doping list in WADA 2024 report
Announcement date December 23, 2025
Location Global, with focus on India
Issuing authority World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)
Policy/series name Annual Global Anti-Doping Report
Key figures 260 doping violations from India in 2024
Purpose/reason To monitor and highlight global doping trends and enforce anti-doping integrity
Feature details India had the highest number of doping violations (260), 3.6% positivity rate
Validity or status Third consecutive year India topped the list
Strategic/significant value Raises concerns about India’s credibility in global sports; could affect Olympic bid

Ranking – Daily Current Affairs December 24

4. Which Indian city ranked 5th globally in the TasteAtlas World Food Cities Rankings 2025–26?
A) Delhi
B) Hyderabad
C) Kolkata
D) Mumbai
E) Amritsar
Answer: D) Mumbai

Event and Location:

  • Event: Mumbai ranks 5th in TasteAtlas World Food Cities Rankings 2025–26
  • Location: Global ranking with Indian focus on Mumbai and five other cities
  • Date: December 24, 2025 (Date of release by TasteAtlas)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • TasteAtlas released the World’s 10 Best Food Cities 2025–26 as part of its World Food Awards, evaluating 18,828 cities based on local dish ratings and authentic culinary experiences.
  • Objectives:
    • To highlight global culinary hubs, promote authentic food-based tourism, and celebrate cities where cuisine reflects cultural depth, tradition, and innovation.

Top 10 Best Food Cities in the World (2025–26) – Ranking Table

Rank City Country Famous For
1 Naples Italy Pizza Margherita, Neapolitan cuisine
2 Milan Italy Risotto alla Milanese, Panettone
3 Bologna Italy Tagliatelle al ragù, Mortadella
4 Florence Italy Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Tuscan cuisine
5 Mumbai India Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Bhelpuri, Modak
6 Genoa Italy Pesto, Focaccia, Ligurian seafood
7 Paris France Croissants, French cheese, classic cuisine
8 Vienna Austria Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte
9 Rome Italy Carbonara, Amatriciana, Roman cuisine
10 Lima Peru Ceviche, Peruvian fusion cuisine

Indian Cities in the Top 100 Global Food Cities (TasteAtlas 2025–26)

Rank City State Famous Dishes
5 Mumbai Maharashtra Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, Bhelpuri, Modak
48 Delhi Delhi (NCT) Butter Chicken, Chole Bhature, Paranthas
53 Amritsar Punjab Amritsari Kulcha, Lassi, Chole
54 Hyderabad Telangana Hyderabadi Biryani, Haleem
73 Kolkata West Bengal Kathi Roll, Macher Jhol, Mishti Doi
93 Chennai Tamil Nadu Dosa, Idli, Filter Coffee

Important Terms Explained:

  • TasteAtlas World Food Awards:
    • A global ranking platform that evaluates cuisines and food cities based on user reviews, expert opinions, and dish authenticity across thousands of locations.
  • Culinary Tourism:
    • A growing travel trend where tourists choose destinations based on food experiences. It promotes economic development, cultural exchange, and destination branding.
  • Authentic Local Food Experience:
    • An evaluation criterion used by TasteAtlas focusing on traditional, regional dishes that reflect the true essence of a city’s food culture, excluding commercial or fusion trends.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name TasteAtlas World’s Best Food Cities Rankings 2025–26
Announcement date December 24, 2025
Location Global (India focus: Mumbai ranked 5th)
Issuing authority TasteAtlas World Food Awards
Policy/series name World’s Top Food Cities Rankings
Key figures TasteAtlas Founder – Matija Babić
Purpose/reason Promote food tourism, celebrate culinary heritage
Feature details Based on authentic dish ratings from 18,828 cities
Validity or status 2025–26 edition of the global food city rankings
Strategic/significant value Boosts India’s soft power, tourism, and cultural global presence

Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs December 24

5. What is the new base year for India’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) series to be released in February 2026?
A) 2020
B) 2021
C) 2022
D) 2023
E) 2024
Answer: E) 2024

Event and Location:

  • Event: Government to launch new CPI, GDP, and IIP data series with revised base years
  • Location: India
  • Date: February 2026 (CPI & GDP release), May 2026 (IIP release)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) will begin publishing revised macroeconomic indicators—Consumer Price Index (CPI), Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and Index of Industrial Production (IIP)—with updated base years from February 2026 and May 2026.
  • Objectives: To improve statistical accuracy, capture recent structural changes in the economy, update data sources, and enhance policymaking, international comparability, and investor confidence.

Important Terms Explained:

  • CPI (Consumer Price Index): A measure of inflation based on changes in the prices of a basket of goods and services commonly consumed by households. It helps track the cost of living and monetary policy. The new base year will be 2024.
  • GDP (Gross Domestic Product): The total monetary value of all goods and services produced in a country over a specific period. The revised GDP series will use 2022–23 as the base year for better alignment with current economic structures.
  • IIP (Index of Industrial Production): A measure that tracks industrial activity and performance in sectors like manufacturing, mining, and electricity. The revised IIP base year will also be 2022–23.
  • MoSPI (Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation): The central agency responsible for collecting, analyzing, and publishing official economic statistics including GDP, CPI, and IIP in India.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India to roll out revised CPI, GDP, and IIP series
Announcement date December 2025
Location India
Issuing authority Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI)
Policy/series name Revised Macroeconomic Data Series
Key figures Suman K Bery, V. Anantha Nageswaran, Saurabh Garg, N. K. Santoshi
Purpose/reason Reflect structural shifts in economy; enhance data reliability
Feature details New CPI base year: 2024; GDP and IIP base year: 2022–23
Validity or status Effective from February and May 2026
Strategic/significant value Supports improved economic planning, transparency, and international data standards

Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs December 24

6. Which core sector recorded the highest growth in India during November 2025?
A) Coal
B) Steel
C) Fertiliser
D) Cement
E) Electricity
Answer: D) Cement

Event and Location:

  • Event: India’s Eight Core Sectors recorded 1.8% output growth in November 2025
  • Location: India
  • Date: November 2025 (data released in December 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry released official data showing 1.8% year-on-year growth in the Index of Eight Core Industries for November 2025.
  • Objectives: To assess sector-wise industrial performance, track infrastructure-linked output trends, and support policy formulation in sectors contributing heavily to the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

Important Terms Explained:

  • Eight Core Industries: A group of eight infrastructure-linked sectors that form a key subset of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), collectively accounting for 40.27% of the IIP’s weight. They include: Coal, Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Refinery Products, Fertilisers, Steel, Cement, and Electricity.
  • Index of Industrial Production (IIP): A composite index tracking the short-term changes in the volume of production of a basket of industrial products. It is a key indicator of industrial activity and overall economic momentum.
  • Ministry of Commerce and Industry: A central ministry responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to trade, industry, and infrastructure sectors in India. It also releases periodic economic performance data.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Core Sector Growth Data for November 2025
Announcement date December 2025
Location India
Issuing authority Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Policy/series name Index of Eight Core Industries
Key figures Cement (14.5%), Steel (6.1%), Fertilizer (5.6%), Coal (2.1%)
Purpose/reason To track performance of major infrastructure industries
Feature details Positive growth in cement, steel, coal, fertilisers; decline in oil and gas
Validity or status Data reflects performance for November 2025
Strategic/significant value Influences IIP trends, reflects health of industrial and infrastructure sectors

 

Books and Authors – Daily Current Affairs December 24

7. What is the title of the book authored by Mohar Basu on Salman Khan, set to be released in December 2025?
A) Being Salman
B) Salman Khan: Stardom Unleashed
C) Khan of Hearts
D) Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood
E) Superstar Salman
Answer: D) Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood

Event and Location:

  • Event: Announcement and scheduled release of Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood by Mohar Basu
  • Location: India
  • Date: December 20, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: HarperCollins Publishers India will publish a book titled Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood, authored by entertainment journalist Mohar Basu, celebrating the iconic stardom and cultural influence of actor Salman Khan.
  • Objectives: To document and celebrate Salman Khan’s legacy, mass appeal, iconic film roles, and the fan culture built around him, through a blend of storytelling, visual content, and industry insights.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Salman Khan: One of India’s most popular and commercially successful film actors, known for his mass appeal, iconic roles in Hindi cinema, and consistent box-office hits across genres like romance, action, and comedy.
  • HarperCollins Publishers India: A major Indian publishing house and subsidiary of the global HarperCollins Publishers, known for producing diverse and bestselling titles across fiction, non-fiction, and biographies.
  • Mohar Basu: An award-winning Indian entertainment journalist and film writer who has contributed to leading media houses, known for in-depth coverage of Bollywood and cinema culture.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Release of Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood
Announcement date December 22, 2025
Location India
Issuing authority HarperCollins Publishers India
Policy/series name Bollywood Biographies
Key figures Mohar Basu (Author), Salman Khan (Subject)
Purpose/reason To honour and chronicle Salman Khan’s cinematic legacy and fan culture
Feature details Fan stories, rare photographs, dialogues, insights into stardom
Validity or status Scheduled for release on December 20, 2025
Strategic/significant value Adds to India’s cinematic literary collection; documents mass media influence

 

Awards – Daily Current Affairs December 24

8. Who was recently honoured with France’s Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for contributions to literature and cultural exchange?
A) Arundhati Roy
B) Ravi Deecee
C) Chetan Bhagat
D) Amish Tripathi
E) Manu S. Pillai
Answer: B) Ravi Deecee

Event and Location:

  • Event: Ravi Deecee awarded France’s Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres
  • Location: Embassy of France, New Delhi, India
  • Date: December 4, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The French Government conferred the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres award on Ravi Deecee, Managing Director of DC Books, for his outstanding contribution to literature, publishing, and cultural diplomacy.
  • Objectives: To recognise and honour the promotion of French literature in India, translation work in regional languages like Malayalam, and sustained efforts toward India–France cultural collaboration and creative exchange.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres: A prestigious civilian honour instituted by the French Ministry of Culture in 1957, awarded to individuals with remarkable contributions to the fields of arts, literature, or the propagation of these fields globally.
  • DC Books: One of India’s most prominent regional language publishing houses, headquartered in Kerala, known for promoting Malayalam literature and translations of global literary works into Indian languages.
  • Vagamon Writer Residency / Villa Swagatam Programme: A cultural initiative supported by the French Embassy in India to foster international literary collaboration and bring global authors to Indian literary spaces.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Ravi Deecee awarded French civilian honour for literature and cultural work
Announcement date December 4, 2025
Location Embassy of France, New Delhi
Issuing authority French Ministry of Culture
Policy/series name Ordre des Arts et des Lettres
Key figures Ravi Deecee, Thierry Mathou (French Ambassador)
Purpose/reason Recognising literary contribution and India–France cultural exchange
Feature details French–Malayalam literary translations, Vagamon Residency, cultural diplomacy
Validity or status Award conferred
Strategic/significant value Strengthens France–India soft power ties and multilingual cultural diplomacy

Defence – Daily Current Affairs December 24

9. Which organization has partnered with DRDO through an MoU signed on 22 December 2025 to support defence and internal security research and training?
A) National Defence Academy
B) Indian Institute of Science
C) Rashtriya Raksha University
D) IIT Delhi
E) Indian Army War College
Answer: C) Rashtriya Raksha University

Event and Location:

  • Event: DRDO and Rashtriya Raksha University signed an MoU for defence and internal security collaboration
  • Location: South Block, New Delhi
  • Date: December 22, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly pursue research, education, training, and technology development for defence and internal security.
  • Objectives: To enhance self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) in defence and internal security systems, build an integrated ecosystem combining academic expertise and defence R&D, and equip security forces with advanced skills and indigenous technologies.

Important Terms Explained:

  • DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation): India’s premier defence R&D agency under the Ministry of Defence, responsible for developing indigenous defence technologies and systems for the Armed Forces.
  • Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU): An Institution of National Importance under the Ministry of Home Affairs, UGC-recognized nodal centre for defence studies, specializing in internal security education, training, and policy research.
  • Aatmanirbhar Bharat: A government initiative promoting self-reliance across sectors, particularly in strategic areas like defence, through indigenous innovation, reduced import dependence, and strengthening national capabilities.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name MoU signed between DRDO and Rashtriya Raksha University
Announcement date December 22, 2025
Location South Block, New Delhi
Issuing authority DRDO and Rashtriya Raksha University
Policy/series name DRDO–RRU Defence and Security Cooperation
Key figures Dr Chandrika Kaushik (DRDO), Prof. Bimal Patel (RRU), Rajnath Singh (Defence Minister)
Purpose/reason To enhance collaboration in defence R&D, training, and internal security innovation
Feature details Joint research, PhD programmes, tech gap studies, training of CAPFs
Validity or status MoU signed and active
Strategic/significant value Strengthens India’s strategic autonomy, supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence and security

10. Which academic institution has signed an MoU with the Indian Army to develop AI-based defence solutions?
A) IIT Bombay
B) NSUT
C) IISC Bengaluru
D) NIT Trichy
E) IIIT Hyderabad
Answer: B) NSUT

Event and Location:

  • Event: Indian Army and Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT) signed an MoU for AI and software defence collaboration
  • Location: New Delhi, India
  • Date: December 22, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Indian Army signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT) to jointly develop AI-based and software-driven defence solutions, including live project work and training.
  • Objectives: To foster indigenous technology innovation, empower academic engagement in national defence, and modernize military operations through software engineering, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity tools in line with Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Important Terms Explained:

  • AI (Artificial Intelligence): A branch of computer science focused on building systems capable of performing tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as decision-making, predictive analytics, and pattern recognition. Used extensively in defence for surveillance, cybersecurity, and logistics.
  • NSUT (Netaji Subhas University of Technology): A premier public technical university in New Delhi, formerly NSIT, known for engineering and technology research. It will contribute to Indian Army projects through faculty development, training, and applied R&D.
  • Aatmanirbhar Bharat: A national initiative aimed at making India self-reliant across key sectors, including defence, by promoting indigenous capabilities, reducing import dependence, and enhancing innovation.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Indian Army–NSUT MoU for AI & Software-Based Defence Projects
Announcement date December 22, 2025
Location New Delhi, India
Issuing authority Indian Army and Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT)
Policy/series name Army–Academia Technology Partnership
Key figures NSUT leadership, Indian Army’s ADGPI
Purpose/reason To develop AI-based tools for defence and enhance indigenous tech innovation
Feature details Live projects, faculty training, defence software systems, cybersecurity tools
Validity or status MoU signed and collaboration initiated
Strategic/significant value Enhances India’s self-reliance and defence modernization under Aatmanirbhar Bharat

International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs December 24

11. Which foreign country has partnered with India for the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal?
A) France
B) Japan
C) United Kingdom
D) Netherlands
E) Germany
Answer: D) Netherlands

Event and Location:

  • Event: India–Netherlands MoU signed for maritime heritage cooperation
  • Location: Lothal, Gujarat, India
  • Date: December 23, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: India and the Netherlands signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal, focusing on maritime museum design, artefact conservation, research, and cultural exchange.
  • Objectives: To promote India’s maritime legacy, enhance international cultural cooperation, raise NMHC’s global profile, and integrate Dutch expertise in maritime heritage to boost tourism, education, and cultural diplomacy.

Important Terms Explained:

  • National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC): A flagship cultural project at Lothal, Gujarat, under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, aimed at showcasing India’s 4,500-year-old maritime history and transforming Lothal into a global maritime heritage hub.
  • Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): A formal agreement between India and the Netherlands to cooperate in museum development, artefact preservation, and maritime heritage research through institutional collaboration.
  • National Maritime Museum, Amsterdam: A leading Dutch institution specializing in maritime history and museum management, partnering with NMHC to share best practices in curation, conservation, and education.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name India–Netherlands MoU on Maritime Heritage Cooperation
Announcement date December 23, 2025
Location Lothal, Gujarat, India
Issuing authority Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India
Policy/series name National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) initiative
Key figures S Jaishankar (India), David van Weel (Netherlands)
Purpose/reason To collaborate on museum design, conservation, exhibitions, and research
Feature details Joint exhibitions, skill sharing, cultural exchange, conservation support
Validity or status Active collaboration under MoU
Strategic/significant value Enhances India’s cultural diplomacy, tourism, and maritime legacy presentation

12. Which country will introduce its first polymer one-rial banknote into circulation from January 11, 2026?
A) Bahrain
B) Saudi Arabia
C) Kuwait
D) Oman
E) UAE
Answer: D) Oman

Event and Location:

  • Event: Oman launches first polymer one-rial banknote
  • Location: Sultanate of Oman
  • Date: January 11, 2026 (circulation date)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Central Bank of Oman (CBO) has issued the country’s first polymer one-rial banknote, marking a transition from traditional paper currency to polymer-based notes.
  • Objectives: To enhance durability, prevent counterfeiting, modernize the currency system, and showcase Omani culture and development through thoughtful note design.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Polymer Banknote: A currency note made from synthetic polymer (plastic), which is more durable, secure, and environmentally sustainable than traditional paper notes. Countries like the UK, Australia, and Canada use polymer notes widely.
  • Central Bank of Oman (CBO): The apex monetary authority of Oman responsible for issuing banknotes, maintaining financial stability, and regulating the banking sector.
  • Security Features: These include transparent windows, colour-shifting foil, and iridescent ink, which are anti-counterfeiting features commonly used in modern high-security currencies.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Oman’s first polymer one-rial banknote
Announcement date December 2025
Location Oman
Issuing authority Central Bank of Oman (CBO)
Policy/series name One-Rial Polymer Currency Note Series
Key figures CBO Governor, Banknote Design Committee
Purpose/reason Improve durability, security, and reflect national identity
Feature details Transparent window, colour-shifting foil, iridescent ink, national landmarks
Validity or status To enter circulation from January 11, 2026
Strategic/significant value First-ever polymer note in Oman; aligns with global currency modernisation

Schemes – Daily Current Affairs December 24

13. What is the minimum procurement target mandated for CPSEs under the NSSH Scheme from SC/ST-owned enterprises?
A) 2 percent
B) 3 percent
C) 4 percent
D) 5 percent
E) 10 percent
Answer: C) 4 percent

Event and Location:

  • Event: Intensified promotion of the NSSH Scheme for SC/ST entrepreneurs
  • Location: India
  • Date: December 23, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Ministry of MSME, through NSIC, is implementing the NSSH Scheme to promote SC/ST entrepreneurship in the MSME sector by offering financial support, skill development, and public procurement access.
  • Objectives: To foster inclusive economic growth by empowering SC/ST entrepreneurs with market access, financial linkages, skill training, and participation in government procurement processes, thereby enhancing their competitiveness and sustainability.

Important Terms Explained:

  • NSSH Scheme (National Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Hub): A flagship initiative of the Ministry of MSME implemented by NSIC, aimed at supporting SC/ST entrepreneurs through credit facilitation, capacity building, and market linkage.
  • Public Procurement Policy (4% Target): A government mandate requiring all Ministries, Departments, and CPSEs to procure at least 4% of their total purchases from SC/ST-owned enterprises, ensuring inclusive participation in the procurement ecosystem.
  • GeM (Government e-Marketplace): A government-run online platform where SC/ST enterprises can register to access public procurement opportunities and government tenders efficiently.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name National Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Hub (NSSH) Scheme Promotion
Announcement date December 23, 2025
Location India
Issuing authority Ministry of MSME, implemented by NSIC
Policy/series name National Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Hub (NSSH) Scheme
Key figures NSIC Chairman Gaurang Dixit, MSME Minister Narayan Rane
Purpose/reason To promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST communities and ensure inclusive growth
Feature details Credit facilitation, skill development, GeM registration, procurement support
Validity or status Ongoing scheme under active implementation
Strategic/significant value Aims to build a more inclusive MSME ecosystem by integrating marginalized entrepreneurs

14. What is the proposed name of the $10 billion research fund recommended by NITI Aayog to support higher education internationalisation in India?
A) Gyan Nidhi Fund
B) Bharat Vidya Kosh
C) Shiksha Vikas Kosh
D) Global Research Corpus
E) Vidya Setu Fund
Answer: B) Bharat Vidya Kosh

Event and Location:

  • Event: NITI Aayog released roadmap for internationalisation of Indian higher education
  • Location: India
  • Date: December 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: NITI Aayog unveiled a comprehensive policy roadmap aimed at internationalising higher education in India, proposing regulatory reforms, foreign university collaboration, student mobility, and a new sovereign wealth fund for research.
  • Objectives: To make Indian higher education globally competitive, attract international students and institutions, simplify cross-border academic processes, and align with NEP 2020 goals of building a globally integrated academic ecosystem.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Bharat Vidya Kosh: A proposed $10 billion National Research Sovereign Wealth Impact Fund to be jointly funded by 50% diaspora/philanthropy and 50% by the Government of India, aimed at supporting research, innovation, skilling, and institutional capacity building in higher education.
  • Vishwa Bandhu Scholarship: A proposed financial aid programme to attract international students to two-year master’s degrees in Indian institutions, covering tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and travel allowances.
  • Campus-Within-Campus Model: A policy suggestion to allow foreign universities to co-locate campuses within Indian public or private universities through brownfield investments, governed by a 10-year sunset clause.
  • NEP 2020 (National Education Policy): India’s guiding education policy framework promoting flexibility, innovation, and globalisation in higher education, with a focus on Internationalisation at Home.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name NITI Aayog Roadmap for Internationalisation of Higher Education
Announcement date December 2025
Location India
Issuing authority NITI Aayog
Policy/series name Bharat Vidya Kosh and Internationalisation Roadmap
Key figures 13 lakh Indian students abroad (2024); ~50,000 foreign students in India
Purpose/reason Bridge outbound–inbound student gap, globalise Indian higher education
Feature details Bharat Vidya Kosh, Vishwa Bandhu Scholarship, Campus-within-Campus model
Validity or status Roadmap proposed; under review for implementation
Strategic/significant value Reduces brain drain, improves India’s global rankings, attracts talent, promotes NEP 2020 goals

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs December 24

15. Which two institutions have partnered to set up the Centre of Excellence for CRISPR Innovation and Translation (CoE-CIT)?
A) IISc Bengaluru and Serum Institute
B) CSIR and Bharat Biotech
C) JNCASR and CrisprBits
D) IIT Delhi and Biocon
E) AIIMS and Zydus
Answer: C) JNCASR and CrisprBits

Event and Location:

  • Event: Signing of LoI to establish Centre of Excellence for CRISPR Innovation and Translation (CoE-CIT)
  • Location: Bengaluru, India
  • Date: December 22, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: A Letter of Intent (LoI) was signed between Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) and CrisprBits Pvt. Ltd. to create a Centre of Excellence for CRISPR Innovation and Translation (CoE-CIT).
  • Objectives: To promote translational research using CRISPR gene-editing technology, develop affordable clinical solutions, and strengthen academia–industry collaboration in the Indian biotechnology ecosystem.

Important Terms Explained:

  • CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats): A revolutionary gene-editing technology that enables scientists to modify DNA with high precision. It is widely used in biotechnology, diagnostics, and therapeutic development.
  • CoE-CIT (Centre of Excellence for CRISPR Innovation and Translation): A proposed research centre aiming to translate lab-based CRISPR research into real-world healthcare applications. It will be jointly developed by JNCASR and CrisprBits.
  • JNCASR (Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research): An autonomous multidisciplinary research institute based in Bengaluru under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), known for excellence in scientific innovation.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Establishment of CoE-CIT for CRISPR Research
Announcement date December 22, 2025
Location Bengaluru, India
Issuing authority JNCASR and CrisprBits, under DST support
Policy/series name Centre of Excellence for CRISPR Innovation and Translation (CoE-CIT)
Key figures JNCASR, CrisprBits
Purpose/reason Bridge gap between lab research and clinical application in gene editing
Feature details CRISPR-based therapies, academic–industry partnership, translational R&D
Validity or status LoI signed, centre in development phase
Strategic/significant value Boosts India’s biotech self-reliance, healthcare innovation, and affordability

16. Which upcoming statutory body will oversee port and vessel security in India, as announced by the Government in December 2025?
A) Port Vigilance Authority
B) National Maritime Surveillance Council
C) Coastal Safety Directorate
D) Bureau of Port Security
E) Maritime Protection Task Force
Answer: D) Bureau of Port Security

Event and Location:

  • Event: Announcement of the formation of the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS)
  • Location: India
  • Date: December 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Government of India will establish the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) as a statutory body under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025, to oversee, regulate, and modernise security across Indian ports and vessels.
  • Objectives: To implement risk-based, intelligence-driven port security protocols, strengthen cybersecurity, coordinate security operations across maritime infrastructure, and ensure resilience against threats such as smuggling, terrorism, and cyberattacks.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Bureau of Port Security (BoPS): A proposed statutory body under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), tasked with port and vessel security oversight, including risk assessment, intelligence coordination, and cybersecurity protection.
  • BCAS (Bureau of Civil Aviation Security): The existing statutory body overseeing aviation security in India. BoPS will be modelled on BCAS, but will cater to the maritime domain.
  • Merchant Shipping Act, 2025: The upcoming legislative framework under which the BoPS will be formally constituted, aiming to modernise and consolidate maritime regulatory architecture.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Bureau of Port Security (BoPS)
Announcement date December 2025
Location India
Issuing authority Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
Policy/series name Merchant Shipping Act, 2025
Key figures MoPSW, CISF, Maritime Security Stakeholders
Purpose/reason To ensure secure, resilient, and modernised port and vessel security
Feature details Intelligence-sharing, risk-based security, cybersecurity, CISF deployment
Validity or status Announced; Implementation expected post-2025 legislation
Strategic/significant value Enhances national maritime safety, economic protection, and trade security


Over All Review

Important Days

  • National Consumer Day 2025 was observed across India on December 24 with the theme “Efficient and Speedy Disposal through Digital Justice.”
  • Kisan Diwas is observed on December 23 every year to mark the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh.

Sports 

  • India recorded 260 doping cases in 2024, topping WADA’s global list for the third year in a row.

Ranking 

  • Mumbai ranked 5th globally in the TasteAtlas World Food Cities 2025–26, celebrating its vibrant street food culture.

Banking and Finance 

  • The Government of India will launch revised CPI and GDP series in February 2026, and an updated IIP series in May 2026.

Business And Economy

  • India’s eight core sectors grew by 1.8% in November 2025, showing a mixed industrial performance.

Books and Authors

  • HarperCollins India will publish Salman Khan: The Sultan of Bollywood, authored by Mohar Basu, on December 20, 2025.

Awards 

  • Malayalam publisher Ravi Deecee received France’s Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres award on December 4, 2025.

Defence

  • DRDO and Rashtriya Raksha University signed an MoU on December 22, 2025 to collaborate in defence and internal security sectors.
  • The Indian Army signed an MoU with NSUT on December 22, 2025, to develop indigenous AI-based defence systems.

International Affairs

  • India and the Netherlands signed an MoU to strengthen maritime heritage cooperation at the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat.
  • Oman will begin circulating its first polymer one-rial banknote from January 11, 2026, issued by the Central Bank of Oman.

Schemes

  • The NSSH Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of MSME to support SC/ST entrepreneurs through financial and market-based interventions.
  • NITI Aayog has proposed a $10 billion Bharat Vidya Kosh to finance research, innovation, and global collaboration in higher education.

National Affairs

  • India signed a Letter of Intent on December 22, 2025 to establish a Centre of Excellence for CRISPR Innovation and Translation.
  • India will set up the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) as a statutory authority under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025.

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