Daily Current Affairs December 15

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December 15 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Sports – Daily Current Affairs December 15

1. Which Indian cricketer won her first-ever ICC Women’s Player of the Month award in November 2025?
A) Smriti Mandhana
B) Deepti Sharma
C) Shafali Verma
D) Harmanpreet Kaur
E) Jemimah Rodrigues
Answer: C) Shafali Verma

Event and Location:

• Event: Shafali Verma wins ICC Women’s Player of the Month award for November 2025
• Location: Mumbai, India (ODI World Cup Final Venue)
• Date: December 15, 2025 (Award announced); Match date – November 2, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • The ICC awarded Shafali Verma the Women’s Player of the Month (November 2025) for her match-winning performance of 87 runs off 78 balls in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup final against South Africa.
  • Simon Harmer of South Africa was awarded the Men’s Player of the Month for his 17-wicket haul in the Test series against India.
• Objectives:
  • To recognize outstanding individual performances in international cricket
  • Encourage consistent excellence in women’s and men’s formats across ICC tournaments

Important Terms Explained:

• ICC Player of the Month Award: A monthly recognition by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to honour outstanding performances by male and female cricketers across formats.
• Shafali Verma: A hard-hitting Indian opener who made a comeback to the ODI squad as a replacement during the World Cup knockout stage and played a crucial role in India’s maiden World Cup win.
• Simon Harmer: A veteran South African spinner whose exceptional bowling led to South Africa’s first Test series win in India in 25 years.
• ODI World Cup Final (2025): Held in Mumbai, India defeated South Africa by 52 runs with crucial contributions from Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana.

Tabular Summary:

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Obituary – Daily Current Affairs December 15

2. What was the cause of death of actor Anthony Geary, as confirmed in December 2025?
A) Heart attack during filming
B) Accidental fall
C) Surgical complications after a planned procedure
D) Cancer-related illness
E) Stroke while traveling
Answer: C) Surgical complications after a planned procedure

Event and Location:

• Event: Death of actor Anthony Geary due to surgical complications
• Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Date: December 14, 2025 (Death confirmed); News published December 16, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • Anthony Geary, best known for his role as Luke Spencer in General Hospital, passed away at age 78 following complications from a planned surgical procedure.
  • The death has sparked public discourse on surgical risks in older adults, especially in the context of non-emergency procedures.
• Objectives:
  • Raise awareness about age-related surgical risks such as infections, cardiovascular complications, and slower recovery in elderly patients.
  • Emphasize the importance of informed consent, pre-surgery screening, and family engagement in surgical decisions for ageing individuals.

Important Terms Explained:

• Surgical Complications in Older Adults: Even routine surgeries can be risky for elderly patients due to weakened immunity, cardiovascular stress, and reduced recovery capacity.
• Elective Surgery: A non-emergency medical procedure planned in advance. While often perceived as safe, these surgeries carry age-related risks that must be carefully considered.
• Postoperative Infection: A common complication in older adults due to weakened immune responses, which can escalate quickly into critical health issues.
• General Anaesthesia in Elderly: Can pose risks such as arrhythmias, hemodynamic instability, and cognitive confusion, especially in those over 70.

Tabular Summary:

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Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs December 15

3. What is the key objective of SBI’s launch of Yono 2.0?
A) To replace all physical bank branches
B) To introduce a new loan scheme
C) To compete with digital payment platforms like Google Pay
D) To sell SBI shares through the app
E) To allow cryptocurrency transactions
Answer: C) To compete with digital payment platforms like Google Pay

Event and Location:

• Event: SBI launched Yono 2.0 and announced plans to hire 10,000 staff for digital migration
• Location: Mumbai, India
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: SBI launched Yono 2.0, a revamped version of its digital banking app, and initiated the hiring of 10,000 staff to assist branch customers in migrating to digital platforms.
• Objectives: To promote cost-efficient digital banking, increase adoption of the Yono platform, and position SBI as a competitor to major digital payment players like Google Pay and PhonePe.

Important Terms Explained:

• Yono 2.0: The upgraded version of SBI’s You Only Need One (YONO) app, redesigned to support mobile, tablet, and desktop platforms with enhanced functionality and cross-bank user support.
• Digital Channel Migration: A strategy adopted by banks to shift customers from branch-based services to online platforms for greater efficiency and cost savings.
• Customer Acquisition Cost: The cost incurred by a bank to onboard a new customer. SBI claims Yono 2.0 reduces this cost to one-tenth compared to physical onboarding.

Tabular Summary:

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4. What is Tata Power’s planned investment towards five HVDC projects by FY30?
A) ₹50,000 crore
B) ₹75,000 crore
C) ₹1 lakh crore
D) ₹1.25 lakh crore
E) ₹2 lakh crore
Answer: C) ₹1 lakh crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Tata Power announces ₹1 lakh crore investment plan for five HVDC projects
• Location: Bhubaneswar (Corporate announcement); Nationwide implementation
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Tata Power has proposed a capex of ₹1.25 lakh crore for FY26–FY30, targeting five major HVDC projects, expansion of renewable energy capacity, increased transmission lines, and distribution reach.
• Objectives:
  • Increase total power generation capacity to over 30 GW, with 20 GW from clean and green sources
  • Expand transmission line network to 10,000 CKM
  • Reach 4 crore distribution customers by 2030
  • Participate in nuclear energy through small modular reactors
  • Align with regulatory shifts under the Draft Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2025

Important Terms Explained:

• HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current): A technology for long-distance power transmission that reduces losses and is efficient for connecting remote renewable sources to urban centers.
• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Next-generation compact nuclear reactors with reduced safety and infrastructure risks, being explored by private power firms.
• Draft Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2025: A proposed legislative update allowing parallel licensing, cost-reflective tariffs, and greater participation of private players in distribution.
• Clean and Green Energy: Refers to power generated from renewable sources such as solar, wind, hydro, etc., contributing to carbon neutrality goals.

Tabular Summary:

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5. By what percentage did India’s trade deficit fall in November 2025 compared to the previous year?
A) 45%
B) 52%
C) 61%
D) 66%
E) 75%
Answer: C) 61%

Event and Location:

• Event: India’s trade deficit fell by over 61% in November 2025
• Location: India (International trade figures)
• Date: December 15, 2025 (Data for November 2025)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • India recorded a 61% year-on-year decline in its trade deficit, bringing it down to $6.6 billion in November 2025, driven by a surge in merchandise exports and a fall in merchandise imports.
• Objectives:
  • Improve India’s external trade balance by boosting exports
  • Reduce dependence on imported goods to lower trade deficits
  • Expand trade with key partners like the United States

Important Terms Explained:

• Trade Deficit: Occurs when a country’s imports exceed its exports, resulting in more money flowing out than coming in. A narrowing trade deficit indicates improved export performance or reduced import spending.
• Merchandise Exports: Refers to tangible goods (not services) sold to other countries. These include textiles, electronics, machinery, agricultural produce, etc.
• Year-on-Year (YoY) Comparison: A method of evaluating two or more measurable events on an annualized basis, often used to compare current data to the same period in the previous year.

Tabular Summary:

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6. Which organization has received the LoA to develop a 110MW solar power project in Uttar Pradesh?
A) NTPC Limited
B) NHPC Limited
C) Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
D) NLC India Limited
E) Solar Energy Corporation of India
Answer: D) NLC India Limited

Event and Location:

• Event: NLCIL to develop a 110MW grid-connected solar power plant
• Location: Uttar Pradesh
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • NLC India Limited (NLCIL) received the Letter of Acceptance (LoA) from NCRTC for establishing a 110MW solar photovoltaic power project in Uttar Pradesh.
  • The project will be set up, commissioned, operated, and maintained by NLCIL under a power purchase agreement (PPA).
• Objectives:
  • To support clean and sustainable energy adoption for large-scale infrastructure projects.
  • To fulfill the power requirements of the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) through renewable energy sources.

Important Terms Explained:

• NLC India Limited (NLCIL): A Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Coal engaged in lignite mining and power generation, now expanding into renewables.
• NCRTC (National Capital Region Transport Corporation): A joint venture between the Central Government and state governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, responsible for implementing regional rapid transit systems (RRTS) and infrastructure projects.
• Letter of Acceptance (LoA): A formal document issued to confirm that a bid or proposal has been accepted by the contracting authority, enabling the execution of the project.

Tabular Summary:

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Books and Authors – Daily Current Affairs December 15

7. Who authored the book “A Tale of Two States”, launched by Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu in December 2025?
A) K. Chandrahass
B) N. Anuradha
C) I. Venkata Rao
D) I. Raghav
E) Vamsi Vikas
Answer: C) I. Venkata Rao

Event and Location:

• Event: Launch of English book A Tale of Two States on AP–TS bifurcation
• Location: Hyderabad (CM Chandrababu’s residence)
• Date: December 14, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu launched the English version of the book A Tale of Two States, originally written in Telugu as Vileenam Vibhajana by senior journalist I. Venkata Rao.
• Objectives:
  • To document and explain the political, economic, and social impacts of the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, preserving the narrative for future researchers and generations.

Important Terms Explained:

• A Tale of Two States: The English translation of Vileenam Vibhajana, a political non-fiction book about the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
• Vileenam Vibhajana: The original Telugu book detailing the events, decisions, and leadership roles during the Andhra Pradesh–Telangana state division.
• Bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh (2014): The official separation of the erstwhile unified Andhra Pradesh into two states—Telangana and residuary Andhra Pradesh—under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014.

Tabular Summary:

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Appointments – Daily Current Affairs December 15

8. Who has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of JioStar in December 2025?
A) Sanjeev Mehta
B) G R Arun Kumar
C) T V Narendran
D) Ritesh Tiwari
E) Kunal Bahl
Answer: B) G R Arun Kumar

Event and Location:

• Event: Appointment of G R Arun Kumar as Chief Financial Officer of JioStar
• Location: Mumbai, India
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: JioStar appointed G R Arun Kumar as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), with responsibility for leading the Finance and Commercial functions.
• Objectives:
  • Strengthen financial leadership and strategic planning
  • Drive growth, profitability, and financial resilience
  • Collaborate with Board, CEOs, and business leaders to support value creation
  • Build agile financial systems and enhance operational flexibility in a digital-first environment

Important Terms Explained:

• Chief Financial Officer (CFO): A top executive responsible for managing a company’s financial planning, risk management, record-keeping, and financial reporting.
• Stakeholder Management: The process of maintaining good relationships with individuals or groups who have an interest in a company’s operations, such as investors, employees, or government bodies.
• Digital-first Organisation: A business model where digital tools and platforms are at the core of business operations, customer engagement, and decision-making processes.

Tabular Summary:

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9. Who has been appointed as the Vice President of Corporate Development at OpenAI in December 2025?
A) Sarah Friar
B) Mike Liberatore
C) Albert Lee
D) Torben Severson
E) Sundar Pichai
Answer: C) Albert Lee

Event and Location:

• Event: OpenAI appoints Albert Lee as Vice President of Corporate Development
• Location: United States (Global headquarters: San Francisco)
• Date: December 15, 2025 (official confirmation); starts role on December 16, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • OpenAI has hired Albert Lee, former Senior Director of Corporate Development at Google, as its VP of Corporate Development, reporting to CFO Sarah Friar.
  • His role includes overseeing strategic growth initiatives, acquisitions, and investment partnerships across the company.
• Objectives:
  • To bring experienced leadership with broad strategic visibility across teams
  • Accelerate business development, acquisitions, and strategic investments for OpenAI
  • Expand OpenAI’s corporate and product ecosystem globally under Microsoft-backed leadership

Important Terms Explained:

• OpenAI: A leading artificial intelligence research and deployment company, backed by Microsoft, known for products like ChatGPT and GPT-4/5 series.
• Corporate Development: A strategic division responsible for M&A (mergers and acquisitions), strategic investments, and partnership scouting to drive organizational growth.
• CapitalG: Alphabet’s independent growth equity investment arm, where Lee serves as an advisory board member. The fund has invested in top tech firms like Airbnb and CrowdStrike.
• Sarah Friar: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at OpenAI, overseeing finance and strategic expansion.

Tabular Summary:

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Awards – Daily Current Affairs December 15

10. Who presented the Muthamizh Peravai awards in December 2025?
A) Kamal Haasan
B) M. Karunanidhi
C) M.K. Stalin
D) Udhayanidhi Stalin
E) R. N. Ravi
Answer: C) M.K. Stalin

Event and Location:

• Event: Presentation of Muthamizh Peravai Awards to artistes
• Location: Muthamizh Peravai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
• Date: December 16, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin presented Muthamizh Peravai awards to select artistes and cultural contributors during a ceremony in Chennai.
• Objectives:
  • To honour and recognise outstanding talent in Tamil art and culture.
  • To continue the cultural legacy associated with Muthamizh Peravai, once nurtured by former CM M. Karunanidhi.

Important Terms Explained:

• Muthamizh Peravai: A cultural organisation in Tamil Nadu dedicated to promoting Tamil literature, music, and drama – the three pillars of “Muthamizh”.
• Kalaimamani Awards: Prestigious civilian awards given by the Tamil Nadu government to individuals for excellence in the field of art and literature.
• M. Karunanidhi: Former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and a strong patron of Tamil arts and literature, closely associated with Muthamizh Peravai.

Tabular Summary:

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Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs December 15

11. What is the name of the first fully indigenous 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor launched by India in 2025?
A) SHAKTI
B) AJIT
C) DHRUV64
D) THEJAS64
E) VIKRAM
Answer: C) DHRUV64

Event and Location:

• Event: India launches its first 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor, DHRUV64
• Location: New Delhi, India
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) launched DHRUV64, India’s first fully indigenous 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor under the Microprocessor Development Programme (MDP).
• Objectives:
  • To provide an efficient, multitasking, and reliable indigenous processor platform
  • Support strategic and commercial sectors like 5G, IoT, automotive, industrial automation
  • Strengthen India’s self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem
  • Offer a licence-free, open-source alternative to imported processors

Important Terms Explained:

• DHRUV64: India’s first 1.0 GHz, 64-bit, dual-core microprocessor, developed by C-DAC for use in strategic and commercial applications with open-source architecture and no licensing costs.
• Microprocessor Development Programme (MDP): A MeitY initiative to promote indigenous microprocessor design and development for strategic autonomy and economic growth in semiconductors.
• C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing): A premier R&D organisation under MeitY, focused on advanced computing and electronics.
• Open-source Architecture: A model where processor design specifications are made publicly available, enabling broader adoption and eliminating licence costs.

Tabular Summary:

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Defence – Daily Current Affairs December 15

12. What is the primary objective of the MoU signed between the Indian Navy, Brazilian Navy, and MDL?
A) To build new aircraft carriers jointly
B) To explore underwater oil reserves
C) To exchange information on submarine maintenance
D) To conduct joint anti-piracy operations
E) To launch a trilateral naval exercise
Answer: C) To exchange information on submarine maintenance

Event and Location:

• Event: India, Brazil, and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd sign MoU on Scorpene submarine maintenance
• Location: Brazil
• Date: December 15, 2025 (MoU signed during visit from December 9–12)

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: A tripartite MoU was signed between the Indian Navy, Brazilian Navy, and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) for the exchange of information related to the maintenance of Scorpene-class submarines and other naval vessels.
• Objectives: To strengthen the India–Brazil maritime partnership by enhancing cooperation in life-cycle support, logistics, R&D, experience sharing, training, and industrial collaboration in the naval defence domain.

Important Terms Explained:

• Scorpene-class Submarines: A class of diesel-electric attack submarines developed by the French company Naval Group, built in India by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd under the Project-75 initiative of the Indian Navy.
• Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL): A leading public sector shipyard in India, responsible for constructing Scorpene-class submarines and other naval vessels.
• Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA): The effective understanding of anything associated with the maritime domain that could impact the security, safety, economy, or environment.

Tabular Summary:

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13. Where is India’s first autonomous maritime shipyard being established?
A) Kakinada
B) Paradip
C) Juvvaladinne
D) Vizhinjam
E) Kochi
Answer: C) Juvvaladinne

Event and Location:

• Event: Andhra Pradesh approves India’s first autonomous maritime shipyard
• Location: Juvvaladinne Fishing Harbour, SPSR Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • The Andhra Pradesh government approved Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt. Ltd.’s proposal to set up India’s first dedicated autonomous maritime shipyard and systems development centre at Juvvaladinne.
  • The project will focus on autonomous and unmanned maritime platforms, including the construction, integration, testing, and support of surface and underwater autonomous vessels.
• Objectives:
  • Strengthen defence-linked manufacturing and promote Atmanirbhar Bharat
  • Develop next-generation maritime systems and command-control technologies
  • Position Andhra Pradesh as a hub for autonomous maritime infrastructure
  • Generate 750 jobs (300 direct and 450 indirect), boosting coastal employment

Important Terms Explained:

• Autonomous Maritime Shipyard: A high-tech industrial facility for the construction, integration, lifecycle support, and testing of unmanned and autonomous marine vessels, with minimal human intervention.
• Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd: A leading Indian defence technology firm specializing in autonomous maritime systems, with capabilities in underwater vehicles, mission-critical platforms, and advanced maritime defence technologies.
• Juvvaladinne Fishing Harbour: A coastal site in Bogole mandal, SPSR Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh, chosen for its strategic waterfront location for shipbuilding and maritime innovation.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: A national initiative by the Government of India aimed at promoting self-reliance in defence and manufacturing sectors, including indigenous technology development.

Tabular Summary:

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14. What is the total investment Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group plans to make in its new and upcoming defence facilities in Hyderabad?
A) ₹100 crore
B) ₹200 crore
C) ₹300 crore
D) ₹400 crore
E) ₹500 crore
Answer: D) ₹400 crore

Event and Location:

• Event: Raghu Vamsi launches ₹100-crore facility and unveils six UAV and defence products
• Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group inaugurated a new deep-tech aerospace and defence production facility and launched six indigenous UAV and defence systems.
• Objectives:
  • To strengthen India’s strategic defence capabilities, support Make in India in defence manufacturing, and enable high-scale production of UAVs, UGVs, and aerospace systems for domestic and global markets.

Important Terms Explained:

• UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle): Aircraft systems operated without a human pilot onboard, used for surveillance, combat, and reconnaissance missions.
• Loitering Munitions: A hybrid between drones and missiles that can wait passively in the air before striking a target.
• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): Companies that produce components or products that are used in another company’s end product.
• UGV (Unmanned Ground Vehicle): Land-based robotic systems used for surveillance, combat support, or logistics in defence operations.
• Micro Turbojet Engine: A compact jet engine designed for powering small aircraft and drones, known for high-speed propulsion.

Tabular Summary:

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International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs December 15

15. What is the purpose of the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support (RELOS) agreement signed between India and Russia?
A) Promote nuclear energy cooperation
B) Allow mutual military logistics access
C) Establish a free trade zone
D) Boost cultural exchange programs
E) Enhance space exploration research
Answer: B) Allow mutual military logistics access

Event and Location:

• Event: President Putin signed RELOS agreement with India into federal law
• Location: India and Russia
• Date: December 16, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: Russia and India agreed to a reciprocal logistics support arrangement enabling access to each other’s military facilities and support systems.
• Objectives: To enhance interoperability during joint exercises, humanitarian missions, and other coordinated military operations by allowing mutual access to logistics infrastructure including bases, ports, and airspace.

Important Terms Explained:

• RELOS (Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support): A bilateral logistics support agreement enabling armed forces of India and Russia to access each other’s bases, fuel supplies, and port facilities for refueling and maintenance.
• Ratification Process (Russia): A legal legislative process requiring approval from both houses of the Russian Parliament—State Duma and Federation Council—followed by presidential assent to become federal law.
• Logistical Support: In military terms, this refers to the provision of transport, supplies, refueling, and repairs necessary to maintain operational capability during exercises or missions.

Tabular Summary:

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16. What is the new limit set by Nepal for individuals carrying Indian ₹200 and ₹500 denomination notes?
A) ₹10,000
B) ₹15,000
C) ₹20,000
D) ₹25,000
E) ₹30,000
Answer: D) ₹25,000

Event and Location:

• Event: Nepal lifts ban on high-denomination Indian currency, allows ₹500 notes up to ₹25,000
• Location: Nepal
• Date: December 16, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Government of Nepal has permitted individuals to carry Indian currency notes of ₹200 and ₹500 denominations up to ₹25,000 per person, ending a ban on high-denomination Indian notes that lasted nearly a decade.
• Objectives: To facilitate travel and financial transactions for Nepali and Indian citizens, reduce legal issues linked to currency violations, and boost tourism and economic activity, especially in sectors reliant on Indian visitors such as hospitality and casinos.

Important Terms Explained:

• Foreign Exchange Management (Export and Import of Currency) Regulations, 2015: A regulation under FEMA that governs the rules for carrying Indian currency across borders. Recent amendments now allow carrying of higher denomination notes between India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
• Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB): The central bank of Nepal, responsible for formulating and implementing monetary policy and managing foreign exchange and currency regulations.
• High-Denomination Indian Currency Ban: Nepal previously prohibited individuals from carrying ₹500 and ₹1,000 Indian notes, especially after India’s demonetization move in 2016, leading to difficulties for travellers and economic losses in tourism sectors.

Tabular Summary:

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17. Which of the following technology domains is part of the evolving India–U.S. collaboration as mentioned by U.S. Consul General Laura Williams?
A) Renewable farming
B) Textile innovation
C) Quantum technologies
D) Ceramic engineering
E) Fisheries automation
Answer: C) Quantum technologies

Event and Location:

• Event: India–U.S. collaboration expanding into frontier technology sectors
• Location: Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • U.S. Consul General Laura Williams highlighted that India–U.S. partnerships are increasingly focused on advanced technology domains such as AI, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and responsible data governance.
• Objectives:
  • To foster inclusive, ethical, and real-world problem-solving innovations by deepening bilateral cooperation between India and the U.S. in frontier technologies, supporting entrepreneurship and innovation in regions like Andhra Pradesh.

Important Terms Explained:

• Ratan Tata Innovation Hub (RTIH): A platform in Andhra Pradesh aimed at nurturing innovation-led entrepreneurship, fostering startup culture and advanced tech development.
• Frontier Technologies: Cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and cybersecurity, which have transformative potential for global industries and societies.
• Responsible Data Usage: The ethical and secure use of data ensuring privacy, inclusivity, and transparency, especially critical in international tech partnerships.

Tabular Summary:

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Schemes – Daily Current Affairs December 15

18. Which proposed bill seeks to replace MGNREGA with a supply-driven rural employment programme?
A) Bharat Rozgar Abhiyan Bill, 2025
B) National Rural Employment Promotion Bill, 2025
C) VB-G RAM G Bill, 2025
D) Viksit Gramin Yojana Bill, 2025
E) Samriddhi Bharat Rozgar Bill, 2025
Answer: C) VB-G RAM G Bill, 2025

Event and Location:

• Event: Introduction of VB-G RAM G Bill to replace MGNREGA with a new rural wage programme
• Location: New Delhi, India
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • The government has proposed the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025, intended to replace MGNREGA, India’s existing demand-driven rural employment law.
  • The bill introduces a centrally notified, budget-capped employment scheme with a revised cost-sharing model and increased emphasis on technology-based monitoring.
• Objectives:
  • To increase employment guarantee from 100 to 125 days per household per year
  • Enhance transparency and accountability through mandatory biometric authentication and digital tools
  • Re-structure cost-sharing between Centre and states
  • Provide targeted wage employment based on central notifications and budget allocations

Important Terms Explained:

• MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005): A demand-driven law that guarantees up to 100 days of unskilled manual work annually to rural households, with legal entitlements and unemployment allowance.
• VB-G RAM G Bill, 2025: A proposed bill that seeks to replace MGNREGA with a supply-driven scheme, where employment availability will be determined by the Central Government’s budget and notifications, removing universal legal guarantees.
• Biometric Authentication & Geospatial Tools: Mandatory technologies proposed in the new bill for worker verification, site monitoring, and real-time tracking of work using mobile apps and satellite imagery.
• 73rd Constitutional Amendment: Recognises Panchayati Raj institutions as units of self-government; critics argue the bill undermines decentralisation by centralising power over employment programmes.

Tabular Summary:

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National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs December 15

19. Which station has become the new terminal point after the extension of the Chennai-Vijayawada Vande Bharat Express?
A) Bhimavaram Town
B) Guntur
C) Gudivada Junction
D) Narasapur
E) Rajahmundry
Answer: D) Narasapur

Event and Location:

• Event: Chennai-Vijayawada Vande Bharat Express extended to Narasapur
• Location: Andhra Pradesh (West Godavari District)
• Date: December 16, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Vande Bharat Express service (Train No. 20677/20678) running between MGR Chennai Central and Vijayawada has been extended to Narasapur, with new halts at Gudivada Junction and Bhimavaram Town.
• Objectives: To enhance regional rail connectivity, reduce travel time to Chennai, and provide modern high-speed rail services to underserved areas, especially on branch lines.

Important Terms Explained:

• Vande Bharat Express: India’s semi-high-speed, fully air-conditioned train series designed for fast intercity connectivity with modern facilities.
• Branch Line: A secondary railway line branching off from a main line; typically serves less populated or remote areas.
• Circar Express: An existing express train running in the region, which the extended Vande Bharat is expected to complement and partly replace by offering faster services.

Tabular Summary:

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20. What key change does the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, 2025 propose?
A) Repeal of the Electricity Act, 2003
B) Expansion of nuclear energy to the private sector
C) Nationalisation of all nuclear installations
D) Creation of a new uranium mining agency
E) Promotion of nuclear energy only for defence purposes
Answer: B) Expansion of nuclear energy to the private sector

Event and Location:

• Event: Introduction of Bill to open civil nuclear sector to private entities
• Location: New Delhi, India
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates: The Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, 2025 was introduced to permit private sector participation in the civil nuclear energy sector and establish a new nuclear liability regime, replacing two older Acts.
• Objectives:
  • To increase the share of nuclear energy in India’s energy mix
  • Facilitate private innovation and investment in nuclear power
  • Retain sovereign control over strategic nuclear assets and material
  • Establish a pragmatic civil liability framework
  • Expand use of nuclear energy to non-power applications
  • Provide statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB)

Important Terms Explained:

• Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill, 2025: A landmark legislative initiative to open India’s civil nuclear energy sector to private players while maintaining government control over strategic aspects.
• Atomic Energy Act, 1962: The principal Act governing India’s nuclear program, now proposed to be repealed by the new bill.
• Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010: Provides the legal framework for nuclear accident liability; this Act is also set to be repealed and replaced.
• Special Drawing Rights (SDRs): International monetary reserve currency defined by the IMF, used to calculate the maximum nuclear liability cap in this bill.
• Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB): India’s nuclear regulatory authority, which will receive statutory status under the proposed legislation.
• Nuclear Damage Claims Commission: A proposed new body under the bill to adjudicate claims related to large-scale nuclear damage.

Tabular Summary:

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21. Which traditional product from Tamil Nadu has been proposed for a GI tag due to its historic significance in pearl fishing?
A) Kancheepuram Silk
B) Madurai Malli
C) Thoothukudi Pearls
D) Erode Turmeric
E) Salem Steel
Answer: C) Thoothukudi Pearls

Event and Location:

• Event: Thoothukudi Muthu Urpathiyalargal Sangam seeks GI tag for pearls
• Location: Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu
• Date: December 16, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • The Thoothukudi Muthu Urpathiyalargal Sangam has formally sought Geographical Indication (GI) status for Thoothukudi pearls.
• Objectives:
  • To preserve the heritage and identity of Thoothukudi’s ancient pearl fishing tradition.
  • To ensure economic benefits and legal protection for traditional pearl fishers and artisans.
  • To highlight the cultural, symbolic, and historical significance of these pearls in Tamil traditions.

Important Terms Explained:

• Geographical Indication (GI): A sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin. GI tags offer legal protection and boost marketing value.
• Thoothukudi Pearls: Naturally harvested pearls from the Gulf of Mannar, known for over 2,000 years and traditionally associated with Tamil temple rituals, royal ornaments, and diplomacy.
• Gulf of Mannar: A marine region rich in biodiversity located between India and Sri Lanka, historically significant for pearl diving and marine trade.

Tabular Summary:

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22. What is the proposed FDI limit in the insurance sector as per the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Act, 2025?
A) 49%
B) 74%
C) 85%
D) 100%
E) 90%
Answer: D) 100%

Event and Location:

• Event: Government introduces Bill to raise FDI in insurance sector to 100%
• Location: Indian Parliament
• Date: December 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • The Bill seeks to amend the Insurance Act, 1938, LIC Act, 1956, and IRDA Act, 1999 to increase the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%. It also permits the merger of non-insurance companies with insurance companies, mandates at least one top official to be an Indian citizen, and proposes the Policyholders’ Education and Protection Fund.
• Objectives:
  • To accelerate insurance penetration and achieve universal insurance coverage by 2047, enhance policyholder protection, simplify operations for insurers, and attract more capital and innovation into the sector.

Important Terms Explained:

• FDI (Foreign Direct Investment): Investment by foreign entities in Indian companies; now proposed to be 100% in the insurance sector.
• Policyholders’ Education and Protection Fund: A proposed fund to safeguard and educate insurance policyholders.
• Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha Act, 2025: A proposed amendment to existing insurance laws aimed at improving insurance coverage and ease of doing business.

Tabular Summary:

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23. What digital facility is TTD introducing across its temples to enable seamless payments for devotees?
A) Biometric ATMs
B) Smart Cards
C) NFC Wristbands
D) QR Codes and Kiosk Machines
E) Crypto Wallets
Answer: D) QR Codes and Kiosk Machines

Event and Location:

• Event: TTD to implement UPI payment kiosks and QR codes at all temples
• Location: Across all 60 TTD temples in India
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • TTD has mandated the installation of kiosk machines and QR codes at all 60 of its temples across India to facilitate UPI-based digital payments for devotees.
• Objectives:
  • To enable hassle-free digital donations and transactions, promote cashless pilgrim services, and increase the efficiency and transparency of temple fund collection processes.

Important Terms Explained:

• UPI (Unified Payments Interface): A real-time digital payment system developed by NPCI that enables instant fund transfers between bank accounts using mobile devices.
• QR Code (Quick Response Code): A type of matrix barcode that allows users to scan and access payment or information platforms directly from their smartphones.
• TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams): The autonomous body managing the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati and other associated temples.

Tabular Summary:

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24. Who will inaugurate the Mysuru Yoga Utsava 2025?
A) Praveen Kumar
B) M. Jagannath Shenoy
C) Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar
D) Ricky Kej
E) S. Sridharan
Answer: D) Ricky Kej

Event and Location:

• Event: Mysuru Yoga Utsava 2025 inauguration and global yoga gathering
• Location: Jagannatha Centre for Art & Culture (JCAC), Mysuru, Karnataka
• Date: December 18–21, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • The third edition of Mysuru Yoga Utsava will be held over four days, featuring over 40 workshops and 50 instructors from more than 30 countries.
• Objectives:
  • To celebrate Mysuru’s yoga heritage, promote Indian philosophy, Patanjali’s teachings, and foster a global yoga community under the theme “Tapas – The Fire of Transformation.”

Important Terms Explained:

• Tapas: In yogic philosophy, it refers to the disciplined effort or inner fire required for self-transformation.
• Patanjali’s teachings: Refers to the Yoga Sutras written by the sage Patanjali, a foundational text in classical yoga outlining the eight limbs of yoga.
• Mysuru Yoga Utsava: An annual global yoga festival held in Mysuru, showcasing India’s yoga traditions through practical sessions, workshops, and cultural performances.

Tabular Summary:

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25. Why has India emerged as a preferred destination for data centres according to Piyush Goyal?
A) Low internet tariffs
B) High employment rate
C) Strong national power grid
D) Fast environmental clearance
E) Abundant land supply
Answer: C) Strong national power grid

Event and Location:

• Event: India positioned as preferred hub for data centres due to strong electricity infrastructure
• Location: Nationwide (India-wide relevance)
• Date: December 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

• Mandates:
  • India is attracting large-scale data centre investments due to its 500GW national power grid, among the largest in the world, ensuring reliable power for growing digital infrastructure needs.
• Objectives:
  • To position India as a global leader in AI and data infrastructure by offering stable, scalable, and cost-effective power, while supporting the country’s economic growth and job creation through major global investments.

Important Terms Explained:

• National Power Grid: A unified electricity transmission network across India capable of delivering 500 gigawatts of power, ensuring stable and widespread availability.
• GCCs (Global Capability Centres): Offshore support hubs established by multinational companies for functions like IT, finance, HR, and now increasingly AI/data services.
• Viksit Bharat@2047: Government vision to make India a fully developed country by 2047, marking 100 years of independence, emphasizing sectors like energy, infrastructure, and digital growth.

Tabular Summary:

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Over All Review

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