Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

Dear Champions, as you all know that a lot of competitive exams have been notified consequently. Candidates have to prepare themselves according to the level of competition and expectation of the Recruitment board. Regarding that one of the most important topic is Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16. Current Affairs in the form of contemporary events of national & international play a crucial role in almost every competitive exams like Banking, Insurance, SSC, UPSC, TNPSC, Railway etc.

Current affairs are the most dynamic yet scoring among all sections and need to be prepared from the right source. Here, we cafunsta team, providing Daily GK Updates, Current Affairs Questions, and Monthly current affairs pdf.

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November 15 & 16 | Daily Current Affairs 2025

Important Days – Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

1. Jharkhand Foundation Day coincides with the birth anniversary of which tribal freedom fighter?
A) Sidho Murmu
B) Tantya Bhil
C) Birsa Munda
D) Alluri Sitarama Raju
E) Veer Narayan Singh
Answer: C) Birsa Munda

Event and Location:

  • Event: Jharkhand celebrates Foundation Day and 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda
  • Location: Jharkhand (Ulihatu, Ranchi, statewide)
  • Date: November 15, 2024

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • Jharkhand celebrated its Silver Jubilee Foundation Day and the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda with state-level and national events, including visits to his birthplace, rallies, exhibitions, and cultural festivities.
  • Objectives:
    • To honor tribal contributions to India’s freedom struggle, promote tribal identity, celebrate Jharkhand’s cultural legacy, and raise awareness through the Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh and tourism initiatives like the Birsa Festival.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Jharkhand Foundation Day: Celebrated annually on November 15, marking the formation of Jharkhand as India’s 28th state in 2000.
  • Bhagwan Birsa Munda: Revered tribal leader and freedom fighter from Jharkhand whose birth anniversary is commemorated nationally as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
  • Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh: A year-long observance launched by the Government of India to celebrate tribal heritage, culminating on Birsa Munda’s 150th birth anniversary.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Jharkhand Foundation Day & 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda
Announcement date November 15, 2024
Location Jharkhand (Ulihatu, Ranchi, other districts)
Issuing authority Government of Jharkhand, Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Policy/series name Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh, Birsa Festival
Key figures Bhagwan Birsa Munda, Hemant Soren, Jual Oram
Purpose/reason To celebrate tribal heritage and Jharkhand’s 25th Foundation Day
Feature details Statewide events, cultural programs, rallies, exhibitions, tourism festivals
Validity or status Celebrated annually on November 15
Strategic/significant value Boosts cultural pride, tourism, and tribal empowerment

2. Which day is observed as the International Day for Tolerance by the United Nations?
A) October 2
B) November 10
C) November 16
D) December 1
E) September 21
Answer: C) November 16

Event and Location:

  • Event: International Day for Tolerance observed globally
  • Location: Worldwide (UN member states)
  • Date: November 16 (every year, officially since 1996)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The UN General Assembly proclaimed November 16 as the International Day for Tolerance to promote tolerance, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence globally.
  • Objectives:
    • To raise awareness about the dangers of intolerance, celebrate cultural diversity, and encourage non-violence, coexistence, and human rights at both individual and societal levels.

Important Terms Explained:

  • UNESCO-Madanjeet Singh Prize: A biennial prize established in 1995 by UNESCO to recognize significant contributions to promoting tolerance and non-violence.
  • Tolerance: The respect, acceptance, and appreciation of the rich diversity of world cultures, forms of expression, and ways of being human.
  • Declaration of Principles on Tolerance (1995): A document adopted by UNESCO member states to emphasize education, law, access to information, and individual awareness to build a tolerant society.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name International Day for Tolerance
Announcement date Proclaimed by UN in 1996 (Resolution 51/95)
Location Global (Observed in all UN member countries)
Issuing authority United Nations General Assembly & UNESCO
Policy/series name UNESCO-Madanjeet Singh Prize for the Promotion of Tolerance & Non-Violence
Key figures Madanjeet Singh, Audrey Azoulay
Purpose/reason Promote tolerance, non-violence, and human rights
Feature details Awareness programs, cultural recognition, educational efforts
Validity or status Observed annually on November 16
Strategic/significant value Encourages peace, diversity, and cultural understanding globally

3. National Press Day, commemorating the establishment of the Press Council of India, is observed every year on which date?
A) October 2
B) January 26
C) November 16
D) December 10
E) August 15
Answer: C) November 16

Event and Location:

  • Event: National Press Day observed to celebrate free and responsible journalism
  • Location: India (Nationwide)
  • Date: November 16, 2024 (Observed annually since 1966)

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • To commemorate the establishment of the Press Council of India (PCI) and highlight the significance of a free and ethical press.
  • Objectives:
    • To uphold press freedom, promote responsible journalism, safeguard journalistic integrity, and honor contributions to democracy, transparency, and social justice.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Press Council of India (PCI): A statutory, quasi-judicial body established in 1966 to regulate the ethics and standards of journalism and act as a watchdog for press freedom in India.
  • Press Council Act, 1978: The legal framework that reconstituted the PCI, giving it statutory powers to act on ethical violations and protect the independence of the press.
  • National Press Day: Observed on 16 November each year to mark the founding of the PCI, celebrate press freedom, and promote ethical media practices.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name National Press Day
Announcement date November 16, 1966
Location India
Issuing authority Press Council of India (PCI)
Policy/series name National Press Day Observance
Key figures Smt. Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Dr. L. Murugan
Purpose/reason To uphold press freedom and promote ethical journalism
Feature details Theme-based events, panel discussions, awards, workshops, and seminars
Validity or status Celebrated annually on November 16
Strategic significance Reinforces press as the fourth pillar of democracy and combats misinformation

Obituary – Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

4. Which renowned science communicator and environmentalist, associated with KSSP and IEEE, passed away at the age of 85?
A) Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
B) Prof. V.K. Damodaran
C) Dr. M.S. Swaminathan
D) Prof. T.N. Krishnan
E) Dr. G. Madhavan Nair
Answer: B) Prof. V.K. Damodaran

Event and Location:

  • Event: Renowned science author and environmentalist Prof. V.K. Damodaran passes away
  • Location: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Prof. V.K. Damodaran, a pioneering science writer, environmentalist, and renewable energy advocate, passed away at the age of 85. He was a founding member of the Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad (KSSP) and contributed to science communication, education, and sustainable energy planning for over five decades.
  • Objectives: His work aimed to promote scientific temper, environmental consciousness, and clean energy solutions, both in India and internationally, especially in Africa and China through advisory roles.

Important Terms Explained:

  • KSSP (Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad): A people’s science movement founded in Kerala to promote scientific literacy and environmental awareness through publications and outreach.
  • IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers): A global association of engineers and technologists focused on advancing technology; Prof. Damodaran was a senior fellow and regional awardee.
  • Energy Management Centre (EMC), Kerala: A state-level agency for promoting energy efficiency and planning; Prof. Damodaran was its founder-director.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Passing of science author and environmentalist Prof. V.K. Damodaran
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Issuing authority Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad, Media, Government of Kerala
Policy/series name Legacy contributions to science and renewable energy
Key figures Prof. V.K. Damodaran, VP Kutti Master (father), PC Ranjini (wife)
Purpose/reason Announcement of death and recognition of lifetime contributions
Feature details Over 20 books authored; chaired multiple scientific and environmental bodies
Validity or status Obituary and funeral scheduled for November 16, 2025
Strategic/significant value Pioneer in science popularization, IEEE awardee, contributor to global energy planning

 

Banking and Finance – Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

5. As of November 10, 2025, what is the net direct tax collection in India for FY26?
A) Rs 15.35 lakh crore
B) Rs 6.91 lakh crore
C) Rs 7.19 lakh crore
D) Rs 12.92 lakh crore
E) Rs 2.42 lakh crore
Answer: D) Rs 12.92 lakh crore

Event and Location:

  • Event: India’s net direct tax collection rises 7% in FY26
  • Location: India
  • Date: November 10, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Government of India reported that net direct tax collections for FY26, as of November 10, stood at Rs 12.92 lakh crore, reflecting a 7% year-on-year increase. Gross collections reached Rs 15.35 lakh crore, up by 2.15%, and tax refunds fell sharply by 17.72% to Rs 2.42 lakh crore.
  • Objectives: The report aims to showcase the government’s improved tax revenue performance, indicating better tax compliance and economic recovery, as well as the fiscal health of the country.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Net Direct Tax Collection: The total direct tax revenue after deducting tax refunds issued; includes corporate and personal income tax.
  • Gross Collection: The total revenue collected from direct taxes before subtracting tax refunds.
  • Corporate Tax: Tax levied on a company’s profits. In this report, gross collection was Rs 6.91 lakh crore.
  • Non-Corporate Tax (NCT): Taxes paid by individuals and entities other than corporations, including HUFs, firms, local bodies, etc.
  • Tax Refund: Amount returned by the government to taxpayers for excess taxes paid.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Net direct tax collection up by 7% in FY26
Announcement date November 11, 2025
Location India
Issuing authority Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)
Policy/series name FY26 Direct Tax Revenue Data
Key figures Nitin Gupta (CBDT Chairman)
Purpose/reason To update tax revenue status for the fiscal year up to November 10
Feature details Net tax: Rs 12.92 lakh cr, Gross: Rs 15.35 lakh cr, Refunds: Rs 2.42 lakh cr
Validity or status Data as of November 10, 2025
Strategic/significant value Indicates strong revenue mobilisation and economic stability

6. What relief has the RBI recently provided to support exporters from sectors like leather and apparel?
A) Export duty waived for 6 months
B) Special export-linked incentives introduced
C) Moratorium on loan repayments from Sep to Dec 2025
D) Increase in interest rates on export credit
E) Direct subsidy on foreign shipments
Answer: C) Moratorium on loan repayments from Sep to Dec 2025

Event and Location:

  • Event: RBI announces moratorium and relief measures for exporters
  • Location: India
  • Date: November 14, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed banks and NBFCs to offer a loan moratorium to exporters from select sectors including leather, apparel, gems and jewelry, and chemicals. The moratorium applies to repayments due between September 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025.
  • Objectives: To ease financial stress faced by exporters during a challenging global trade environment and ensure liquidity and continuity in operations during a short-term slowdown.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Moratorium: A temporary suspension of loan repayments granted by lenders, allowing borrowers to defer EMI payments without being marked as defaulters.
  • NBFC (Non-Banking Financial Company): Financial institutions that offer banking services like loans and credit facilities but do not hold a banking license.
  • Exporters: Businesses or individuals who sell goods or services to foreign countries; often sensitive to global demand fluctuations and currency volatility.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name RBI relief measures and moratorium for exporters
Announcement date November 14, 2025
Location India
Issuing authority Reserve Bank of India
Policy/series name Exporter Moratorium Relief 2025
Key figures Shaktikanta Das (RBI Governor)
Purpose/reason To ease financial burden on exporters facing global demand constraints
Feature details Moratorium on repayments from Sep 1 to Dec 31, 2025 via banks and NBFCs
Validity or status Applicable for loans under specific export sectors during the 4-month period
Strategic/significant value Supports continuity of export business and preserves sectoral employment

7. How much credit guarantee support has India planned to allocate for exporters in FY26?
A) Rs 45,060 crore
B) Rs 10,000 crore
C) Rs 5,000 crore
D) Rs 20,000 crore
E) Rs 2,000 crore
Answer: D) Rs 20,000 crore

Event and Location:

  • Event: India to allocate credit guarantees for exporters under new FY26 financial package
  • Location: India
  • Date: November 13, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Union Cabinet approved a financial support package worth Rs 45,060 crore for exporters. Within this, Rs 20,000 crore is allocated towards credit guarantees on bank loans to ease access to finance for export-oriented businesses.
  • Objectives: The goal is to enhance the credit flow to exporters, reduce the risk for banks, and boost India’s foreign trade competitiveness by ensuring funding support for small and large export enterprises.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Credit Guarantee: A government-backed assurance to banks or lenders that a loan will be repaid, even if the borrower defaults. It reduces lender risk and improves borrower access to credit.
  • Exporters: Individuals or businesses that sell goods and services to other countries. They are often exposed to financial and trade-related risks.
  • Union Cabinet: The highest decision-making body in India’s executive branch that approves major financial, trade, and economic policies.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Exporters’ credit guarantee allocation under FY26 package
Announcement date November 13, 2025
Location India
Issuing authority Union Cabinet of India
Policy/series name Export Credit Guarantee Support Scheme FY26
Key figures Narendra Modi (Prime Minister)
Purpose/reason To promote international trade by improving access to affordable credit
Feature details Rs 20,000 crore in credit guarantees, Rs 2,000 crore budget allocation
Validity or status For fiscal year 2025–26
Strategic/significant value Strengthens export sector resilience and enhances credit availability

Business and Economy – Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

8. What is the primary challenge faced by the RBI according to the recent SBI Research report?
A) Rising gold imports
B) Weak GDP performance
C) Negative retail inflation excluding gold amid strong growth
D) Declining bank credit demand
E) Widening fiscal deficit
Answer: C) Negative retail inflation excluding gold amid strong growth

Event and Location:

  • Event: Retail inflation excluding gold expected to remain negative for two more months
  • Location: India
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: SBI Research reported that retail inflation excluding gold turned negative in October 2025 and may remain so for the next two months. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) dropped to -0.57% year-on-year without gold’s influence.
  • Objectives: The aim is to highlight the current low-inflation environment and its impact on monetary policy, stressing the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)’s challenge in balancing price stability with economic growth, given a GDP expansion above 7% in Q2 FY26.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Retail Inflation (CPI): Measures changes in the price level of a basket of retail goods and services purchased by households, reflecting consumer cost of living.
  • Core CPI: A measure of inflation that excludes volatile items such as food and fuel, offering a clearer picture of underlying inflation trends.
  • GST Rationalisation: The process of modifying Goods and Services Tax slabs or structures to simplify compliance and reduce consumer prices, contributing to lower inflation.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Retail inflation excluding gold remains negative
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location India
Issuing authority SBI Research
Policy/series name CPI Inflation Analysis Report
Key figures Shaktikanta Das (RBI Governor), Dinesh Kumar Khara (SBI Chairman)
Purpose/reason To assess inflation trends and guide future RBI policy actions
Feature details CPI at -0.57% YoY excluding gold, Core CPI at 2.6%, GST helped inflation moderation
Validity or status To continue into next two months per forecast
Strategic/significant value Highlights a policy dilemma for RBI due to high growth and low inflation

9. How much did Berkshire Hathaway invest in Alphabet Inc. during Q3 of FY25?
A) $60.7 billion
B) $9.7 billion
C) $4.9 billion
D) $1.6 billion
E) $382 billion
Answer: C) $4.9 billion

Event and Location:

  • Event: Berkshire Hathaway acquires $4.9 billion stake in Alphabet Inc.
  • Location: United States (New York, Omaha, California)
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Berkshire Hathaway Inc., led by Warren Buffett, disclosed the acquisition of 17.9 million shares in Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google, during Q3 FY25, amounting to a $4.9 billion investment.
  • Objectives: The acquisition reflects Berkshire’s strategy to diversify its tech portfolio and deploy its record $382 billion cash reserve into strong, long-term growth-oriented businesses, while reducing exposure in Apple, Bank of America, and other holdings.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Berkshire Hathaway Inc.: A multinational conglomerate holding company led by Warren Buffett, known for strategic investments in public and private companies.
  • Alphabet Inc.: The parent company of Google and its subsidiaries, involved in technology, advertising, and AI services.
  • Stake Acquisition: The purchase of ownership shares in a company, providing financial interest and potential influence in business strategy.
  • Equity Portfolio: The collection of stock investments held by a firm or investor; Berkshire’s portfolio includes significant stakes in tech and financial firms.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Berkshire Hathaway acquires Alphabet stake
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location United States
Issuing authority Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (via regulatory filing)
Policy/series name Q3 FY25 Equity Portfolio Update
Key figures Warren Buffett (Chairman & CEO), Sundar Pichai (CEO of Alphabet)
Purpose/reason To diversify investments and strategically allocate cash reserves
Feature details $4.9 billion Alphabet stake, 15% reduction in Apple, exits from D.R. Horton
Validity or status Current holdings as of Q3 FY25
Strategic/significant value Positions Berkshire in the AI and digital ad tech ecosystem via Alphabet

10. Where is Reliance planning to set up a 1-gigawatt AI data centre in India?
A) Gujarat
B) Maharashtra
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Andhra Pradesh
E) Karnataka
Answer: D) Andhra Pradesh

Event and Location:

  • Event: Reliance to set up 1-gigawatt AI data centre in Andhra Pradesh
  • Location: Andhra Pradesh, India
  • Date: November 14, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Reliance Industries Ltd., led by Mukesh Ambani, has announced plans to establish a 1-gigawatt AI data centre in Andhra Pradesh, complementing its existing gigawatt-scale data centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The announcement was made by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.
  • Objectives: The initiative aims to build one of Asia’s strongest AI infrastructure networks to meet growing demand for AI computing power, position India as a hub for next-gen data infrastructure, and attract global investments from leading technology companies.

Important Terms Explained:

  • AI Data Centre: A specialised facility that provides computing infrastructure required for Artificial Intelligence operations, capable of handling massive data and processing workloads.
  • Gigawatt-scale: A unit indicating power capacity; in this context, it refers to the energy-intensive nature of data centres designed to handle AI workloads requiring high-performance computing infrastructure.
  • Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL): A major Indian conglomerate with interests in petrochemicals, telecom, retail, and digital services, headed by Mukesh Ambani.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Reliance to establish 1-GW AI data centre in Andhra Pradesh
Announcement date November 14, 2025
Location Andhra Pradesh, India
Issuing authority Reliance Industries Ltd. & Andhra Pradesh Government
Policy/series name AI Infrastructure Expansion
Key figures Mukesh Ambani (Reliance), N. Chandrababu Naidu (AP CM)
Purpose/reason To expand AI computing infrastructure and enhance India’s digital capacity
Feature details Twin data centre model (Andhra Pradesh & Jamnagar); part of Asia-wide network
Validity or status Project announced; financials undisclosed
Strategic/significant value Strengthens India’s position in global AI infrastructure development

Acquisitions and Mergers – Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

11. Which wellness brand did IHCL acquire a 51% stake in for ₹240 crore?
A) Ananda in the Himalayas
B) Niraamaya Retreats
C) Atmantan
D) Vana Wellness
E) Kaya Kalp
Answer: C) Atmantan

Event and Location:

  • Event: IHCL acquires 51% stake in wellness brand Atmantan
  • Location: Mulshi, Pune, Maharashtra
  • Date: November 14, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • IHCL (Indian Hotels Company Limited), a Tata Group company, announced the acquisition of a 51% stake in Sparsh Infratech Pvt Ltd, which owns the luxury wellness retreat Atmantan, for a total deal value of ₹240 crore.
  • Objectives:
    • The acquisition marks IHCL’s strategic entry into the wellness tourism market, enabling it to expand the Atmantan brand both domestically and globally, and tap into the rising demand for integrated wellness experiences that combine health, hospitality, and immersive therapies.

Important Terms Explained:

  • IHCL (Indian Hotels Company Limited):
    • The hospitality arm of the Tata Group, operating iconic hotel brands like Taj, Vivanta, SeleQtions, and Ginger.
  • Atmantan:
    • A luxury integrated wellness retreat located in Mulshi, near Pune, offering holistic health services including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, and Fitness Coaching.
  • Wellness Tourism:
    • A growing segment in global tourism focused on travel experiences that improve or maintain health and well-being, through activities such as spa therapies, health treatments, yoga, and meditation.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name IHCL acquires 51% stake in Atmantan
Announcement date November 14, 2025
Location Mulshi, Pune, Maharashtra
Issuing authority Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL)
Policy/series name IHCL Strategic Wellness Platform
Key figures Puneet Chhatwal (CEO & MD, IHCL)
Purpose/reason Expand in luxury integrated wellness sector
Feature details Deal value ₹240 crore (₹205 crore primary, ₹35 crore secondary)
Validity or status Definitive agreements signed
Strategic/significant value Enables global/domestic growth of wellness retreats and brand ownership

Science and Technology – Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

12. What is the primary aim of the newly launched Language and Cognition Lab at IIT Madras?
A) Translate ancient Indian texts into modern languages
B) Investigate linguistic processing using experimental techniques
C) Create dictionaries for Indian dialects
D) Promote foreign language education in India
E) Develop AI chatbots in Indian languages
Answer: B) Investigate linguistic processing using experimental techniques

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of the Language and Cognition Laboratory (LC-Lab)
  • Location: IIT Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Date: November 10, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • To establish India’s first dedicated lab for experimental linguistics, focusing on how people perceive, process, and produce language, particularly in multilingual Indian contexts.
  • Objectives:
    • To use eye-tracking, reaction-time studies, and in the future, neurocognitive methods like EEG and TMS, to enhance understanding of grammar, sentence structure, dyslexia, and cognition in Indian languages, contributing to linguistically-informed educational tools and technologies.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Language and Cognition Lab (LC-Lab):
    • An interdisciplinary facility at IIT Madras that conducts experimental research in linguistics, focusing on Indian languages using eye-tracking and cognitive processing tools.
  • Eye-tracking studies:
    • An advanced experimental technique that records eye movement to study attention and reading patterns in language comprehension.
  • Electroencephalography (EEG):
    • A neuroimaging method that measures brain activity using sensors placed on the scalp, useful in understanding cognitive responses during language processing.
  • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS):
    • A non-invasive method that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, often used in neurological and language-related research.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Language and Cognition Laboratory (LC-Lab)
Announcement date November 10, 2025
Location Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Issuing authority IIT Madras
Policy/series name Experimental Linguistics and Cognitive Science Research
Key figures Prof. V. Kamakoti (Director, IITM)
Purpose/reason To study India’s linguistic diversity using scientific techniques
Feature details Eye-tracking, reaction-time studies, future EEG and TMS research
Validity or status Operational; supported by industry partners
Strategic/significant value Promotes AI-based, linguistically-informed educational and tech innovation

13. What is the name of the national-level hackathon recently launched at VVCE in Mysuru?
A) CodeSprint Mysuru
B) HackIndia 2025
C) TechYuva 2.0
D) HACKKSHETRA 2.0
E) Innovathon Mysuru
Answer: D) HACKKSHETRA 2.0

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of HACKKSHETRA 2.0 – a 24-hour national-level hackathon
  • Location: Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering (VVCE), Mysuru, Karnataka
  • Date: November 14, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The Department of Computer Science and Engineering at VVCE launched HACKKSHETRA 2.0, a national-level, 24-hour hackathon aimed at encouraging real-world tech solutions.
  • Objectives:
    • To motivate engineering students to design and prototype innovative, technology-driven solutions for India-specific challenges, especially in sectors like healthcare, accessibility, and rural development.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Hackathon:
    • A time-bound event where programmers, designers, and tech enthusiasts collaborate intensively to build innovative solutions to specific problems.
  • VVCE (Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering):
    • A reputed engineering college in Mysuru, Karnataka, known for organizing technical fests, hackathons, and innovation challenges.
  • HACKKSHETRA:
    • A thematic national-level hackathon hosted by VVCE that focuses on building solutions tailored to societal and grassroots problems using emerging technologies.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name HACKKSHETRA 2.0
Announcement date November 14, 2025
Location VVCE, Mysuru, Karnataka
Issuing authority Department of Computer Science and Engineering, VVCE
Policy/series name National-Level Hackathon Series
Key figures Rajneesh Sharma, Centre Head, Incture Technologies
Purpose/reason Promote student-led tech innovations for Indian use cases
Feature details 24-hour event with focus on healthcare and rural tech solutions
Validity or status Active (event in progress or recently concluded)
Strategic significance Encourages innovation, problem-solving, and industry-academia linkages

International Affairs – Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

14. Which Indian port was visited by Nepalese and Russian delegations to explore new trade corridors?
A) Chennai Port
B) Paradip Port
C) Kandla Port
D) Visakhapatnam Port
E) Cochin Port
Answer: D) Visakhapatnam Port

Event and Location:

  • Event: Nepal and Russia explore new trade corridors via Visakhapatnam Port
  • Location: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Delegations from Nepal and Russia, including senior officials and business leaders, visited the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) to assess port infrastructure and discuss potential for bilateral and trilateral trade corridor development.
  • Objectives: The visit aimed to evaluate logistics capabilities, explore investment opportunities, and identify potential to boost exports and imports between Nepal, Russia, and India via Visakhapatnam Port as a strategic maritime hub.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Trade Corridor: A designated route that facilitates international trade through integrated infrastructure, logistics, and customs mechanisms between countries.
  • Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA): The governing body managing the operations of Visakhapatnam Port, one of India’s major ports located on the east coast, focusing on cargo handling, modernization, and maritime infrastructure.
  • Sustainability in Ports: Refers to practices like solar power generation, wastewater recycling, and green logistics to minimize the environmental footprint of maritime operations.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Nepal and Russia delegations visit Visakhapatnam Port
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Issuing authority Visakhapatnam Port Authority
Policy/series name Trade Corridor Exploration Visit
Key figures Anil Kumar Sinha (Nepal Minister), Bipeen Acharya, Tarka Raj Bhatta
Purpose/reason To explore strategic port partnerships and expand trade routes
Feature details Port tour, investment discussions, focus on cargo handling & sustainability
Validity or status Visit concluded; discussions underway
Strategic/significant value Strengthens trilateral trade relations and port-driven economic growth

15. What was the key agenda of the Consul Generals Conference chaired by EAM S. Jaishankar in New York?
A) Launching new visa policies
B) Discussing space collaboration with the US
C) Reviewing India–US bilateral ties and diaspora engagement
D) Signing an Indo-US defence pact
E) Finalizing trade tariff changes
Answer: C) Reviewing India–US bilateral ties and diaspora engagement

Event and Location:

  • Event: EAM S. Jaishankar chairs Consul Generals Conference in New York
  • Location: New York, United States
  • Date: November 14, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar chaired a Consul Generals Conference in New York, attended by senior Indian diplomats from the Embassy of India in Washington D.C. and Consulates in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, Boston, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
  • Objectives: The conference aimed to review India-US bilateral relations, discuss diplomatic outreach, and assess the effectiveness of engagement with the Indian diaspora in the United States. The discussions emphasized strengthening diplomatic coordination and promoting strategic partnerships.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Consul General: A senior diplomat who heads a consulate and manages diplomatic affairs, public services, and community outreach in a specific city or region abroad.
  • Diaspora Engagement: Efforts by the Indian government to strengthen ties with Indian-origin communities living overseas, including cultural, educational, and policy-level outreach.
  • Multilateralism: A system of coordinating international relations through cooperation between multiple countries and global organizations like the United Nations.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name EAM Jaishankar chairs Consul Generals Conference in New York
Announcement date November 14, 2025
Location New York, United States
Issuing authority Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India
Policy/series name India–US Bilateral & Diaspora Engagement Review
Key figures Dr. S. Jaishankar (EAM), Vinay Kwatra (Indian Ambassador to US)
Purpose/reason To review diplomatic coordination, diaspora efforts, and India-US relations
Feature details Participation from 9 US-based Indian consulates and Embassy in Washington D.C.
Validity or status Conducted; outcomes focused on coordination and cooperation
Strategic/significant value Reinforces India–US ties and boosts outreach to Indian-origin communities

Schemes – Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

16. Which new welfare initiative was recently launched by Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin for Chennai’s sanitary workers?
A) Health insurance coverage for all workers
B) Permanent employment appointments
C) Free meal scheme for sanitary workers
D) Interest-free loans for home construction
E) Skill training for conservancy staff
Answer: C) Free meal scheme for sanitary workers

Event and Location:

  • Event: Launch of free meal scheme for sanitary workers in Chennai
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin launched a free meal scheme for 31,373 sanitary workers under the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC). Meals will be served based on their work shifts (breakfast, lunch, or dinner), distributed in steel tiffin boxes across various GCC buildings. The scheme is being implemented at a cost of Rs 186 crore.
  • Objectives: To recognize and support the efforts of sanitary workers by ensuring nutritious meals, improved working conditions, and extended welfare benefits such as rest lounges, healthcare, education support, and housing subsidies.

Important Terms Explained:

  • GCC (Greater Chennai Corporation): The civic body governing Chennai city, responsible for municipal administration including sanitation and public services.
  • Free Meal Scheme: A state-funded welfare program offering hygienic, warm meals to sanitation workers during their working shifts to ensure health and dignity.
  • Kalaignar Kanavu Illam Scheme: A housing scheme by the Tamil Nadu government to provide urban homes for underprivileged groups including conservancy workers.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of free meal scheme for Chennai sanitary workers
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Issuing authority Government of Tamil Nadu
Policy/series name Free Meal Scheme for Sanitary Workers
Key figures M. K. Stalin (Chief Minister)
Purpose/reason To provide nutritional support and improve welfare of sanitation staff
Feature details Meals served based on shifts; steel boxes; cost Rs 186 crore
Validity or status Active in Chennai; to be extended statewide from December 6
Strategic/significant value Enhances dignity, health, and support for frontline sanitation workers

17. Under which central scheme did Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) disburse ₹64.4 lakh to agri-startups?
A) PM-KISAN
B) E-NAM
C) RKVY-RAFTAAR
D) Atma Nirbhar Krishi Yojana
E) Agri-Inno Bharat
Answer: C) RKVY-RAFTAAR

Event and Location:

  • Event: Disbursement of ₹64.4 lakh grants to agri-startups
  • Location: Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
  • Date: November 14, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • TNAU disbursed ₹64.4 lakh in funding to agribusiness incubatees under the RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme through its Agribusiness Incubation Society – Technology Business Incubator (ABIS-TBI).
  • Objectives:
    • To strengthen the agricultural startup ecosystem by supporting innovations in agriculture and allied sectors, encouraging agripreneurship, and promoting agri-business development through infrastructure and financial support.

Important Terms Explained:

  • RKVY-RAFTAAR:
    • Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana – Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied Sectors Rejuvenation is a Central Sector Scheme launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. It supports startups in the agri-sector through incubation, funding, and technical mentoring.
  • ABIS-TBI (Agribusiness Incubation Society – Technology Business Incubator):
    • A platform within TNAU that nurtures agri-startups by providing mentorship, facilities, and access to government schemes like RKVY-RAFTAAR.
  • Agripreneurship:
    • A portmanteau of “agriculture” and “entrepreneurship”, referring to startups and businesses that innovate in farming, agritech, food processing, and allied services.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Disbursement of startup grants under RKVY-RAFTAAR
Announcement date November 14, 2025
Location Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore
Issuing authority Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare via TNAU
Policy/series name RKVY-RAFTAAR
Key figures Agri-startup incubatees under ABIS-TBI, TNAU
Purpose/reason Promote agripreneurship and boost innovation in agriculture
Feature details ₹64.4 lakh disbursed to selected startups through incubation support
Validity or status Active implementation since 2019 at TNAU
Strategic/significant value Strengthens rural economy, employment generation, and innovation in farming

National Affairs – Daily Current Affairs November 15 & 16

18. Which city has recently received final approval for the establishment of a CGHS Wellness Centre?
A) Thiruvananthapuram
B) Kozhikode
C) Kochi
D) Kollam
E) Alappuzha
Answer: D) Kollam

Event and Location:

  • Event: Approval granted for establishment of CGHS Wellness Centre in Kollam
  • Location: Kollam, Kerala, India
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Ministry of Health has granted approval for the establishment of a Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) Wellness Centre in Kollam, Kerala. This comes as part of the second phase of wellness centre expansion.
  • Objectives: To improve healthcare access for central government employees and pensioners in Kollam and adjoining districts by establishing a wellness centre under CGHS, ensuring better service delivery and accessibility.

Important Terms Explained:

  • CGHS (Central Government Health Scheme): A government healthcare initiative launched in 1954, providing comprehensive medical care facilities to central government employees, pensioners, and eligible dependents.
  • Wellness Centre: A CGHS clinic or facility offering outpatient medical services, preventive healthcare, and prescription support for registered beneficiaries.
  • In-principle Approval: A conditional, preliminary acceptance given for a project or proposal, subject to final formal clearances and procedural completions.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Approval for CGHS Wellness Centre in Kollam
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Kollam, Kerala
Issuing authority Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Policy/series name CGHS Wellness Centre Expansion (Phase 2)
Key figures N.K. Premachandran (MP)
Purpose/reason To provide better healthcare access to CGHS beneficiaries in Kollam region
Feature details Approval granted post-clearance of Phase 1 centres; Kollam included in Phase 2
Validity or status Approved; establishment process to begin
Strategic/significant value Enhances healthcare infrastructure for government employees in southern Kerala

19. What is the planned distance between public EV charging stations on highways under Telangana REDCO’s new proposal?
A) Every 50 kilometres
B) Every 35–40 kilometres
C) Every 25–30 kilometres
D) Every 60 kilometres
E) Every 10 kilometres
Answer: C) Every 25–30 kilometres

Event and Location:

  • Event: Telangana REDCO to set up public EV charging stations every 25–30 km on highways
  • Location: Telangana, India
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Telangana Renewable Energy Development Corporation (TGREDCO) has announced plans to install public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) every 25–30 kilometres along national and state highways, and at key urban and semi-urban public locations.
  • Objectives: The initiative aims to boost electric vehicle adoption, reduce range anxiety, and enhance EV infrastructure by ensuring accessible and reliable charging options across Tier I and Tier II cities, as well as on highways.

Important Terms Explained:

  • EVCS (Electric Vehicle Charging Station): A facility that provides electricity to recharge electric vehicles, typically located at public, commercial, or residential sites.
  • TGREDCO (Telangana Renewable Energy Development Corporation): The state government body responsible for promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives in Telangana.
  • Tier I and II Cities: Classification of Indian cities based on population and infrastructure; Tier I includes major metros like Hyderabad, while Tier II includes growing urban centres.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name TGREDCO to install EV charging stations across Telangana highways
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Telangana, India
Issuing authority Telangana Renewable Energy Development Corporation (TGREDCO)
Policy/series name Telangana EV Charging Infrastructure Expansion Plan
Key figures V. Anila (Managing Director, TGREDCO)
Purpose/reason To enhance EV accessibility and reduce range concerns among vehicle users
Feature details Stations every 25–30 km on highways; in govt offices, schools, rail stations
Validity or status Locations under review; 1500 applications from private entities received
Strategic/significant value Supports green mobility and electric vehicle penetration in the state

20. From which date will the Chennai–Vijayawada Vande Bharat Express be extended to Narsapur?
A) December 1, 2025
B) January 1, 2026
C) March 1, 2026
D) November 30, 2025
E) February 15, 2026
Answer: B) January 1, 2026

Event and Location:

  • Event: Extension of Chennai–Vijayawada Vande Bharat Express to Narsapur
  • Location: Tamil Nadu – Andhra Pradesh (Chennai, Vijayawada, Narsapur)
  • Date: November 15, 2025 (announcement), effective January 1, 2026

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: The Railway Board has approved the extension of Train No. 20677/20678, the MGR Chennai Central – Vijayawada Vande Bharat Express, up to Narsapur. The extended service will be effective from January 1, 2026.
  • Objectives: The goal is to improve rail connectivity to coastal Andhra Pradesh, particularly Narsapur, enhancing regional mobility and passenger convenience on this popular route.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Vande Bharat Express: India’s semi-high-speed, fully air-conditioned train known for faster travel and modern amenities. Operated by Indian Railways.
  • Railway Board: The apex body under the Ministry of Railways that formulates railway policies and approves route changes, new trains, and infrastructure upgrades.
  • Train Extension: Refers to the process of adding additional destinations beyond the train’s existing terminal point to serve more passengers.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Chennai–Vijayawada Vande Bharat Express extended to Narsapur
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Chennai – Vijayawada – Narsapur
Issuing authority Railway Board, Ministry of Railways
Policy/series name Vande Bharat Express Route Extension Plan
Key figures Not mentioned
Purpose/reason To enhance rail connectivity to Narsapur via a faster premium service
Feature details Train 20677 departs Chennai at 5:30 AM, reaches Narsapur at 2:10 PM
Train 20678 returns from Narsapur at 2:50 PM, arrives in Chennai at 11:45 PM
Validity or status Effective from January 1, 2026
Strategic/significant value Boosts regional connectivity and rail-based tourism in Andhra Pradesh

21. When will the 55th annual music conference of Bangalore Gayana Samaja take place?
A) November 10 to 15
B) November 18 to 25
C) November 16 to 23
D) December 1 to 8
E) November 20 to 27
Answer: C) November 16 to 23

Event and Location:

  • Event: 55th Annual Music Conference of Bangalore Gayana Samaja
  • Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
  • Date: November 16 to 23, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Bangalore Gayana Samaja, one of India’s oldest music sabhas, will host its 55th annual music conference from November 16 to 23, 2025. The event will include daily seminars, junior concerts, and main concerts, held at its premises on Sri Krishna Rajendra Road, Bengaluru.
  • Objectives: To promote Indian classical music, provide a platform for junior and senior artistes, and engage music scholars and enthusiasts in daily discussions and performances celebrating the rich traditions of Carnatic and classical music.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Bangalore Gayana Samaja: A prestigious cultural institution established in 1905 in Bengaluru, known for promoting Indian classical music and hosting annual conferences and concerts.
  • Music Conference: A structured week-long event involving music performances, scholarly seminars, and recognition of musicians, aimed at sustaining and enriching musical heritage.
  • Junior and Main Concerts: Junior concerts provide performance opportunities to emerging talents, while main concerts feature established senior musicians.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name 55th Annual Music Conference of Bangalore Gayana Samaja
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Bengaluru, Karnataka
Issuing authority Bangalore Gayana Samaja
Policy/series name Annual Music Conference Series
Key figures Not mentioned
Purpose/reason To promote and celebrate Indian classical music traditions
Feature details Seminars (10 AM), Junior Concerts (4:15–5:30 PM), Main Concerts (6–9 PM)
Validity or status Scheduled from November 16 to 23, 2025
Strategic/significant value Cultural enrichment and support for classical music ecosystem

22. Where did Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin inaugurate the renovated Periyar Nagar Library?
A) Anna Nagar
B) Perambur
C) Kolathur
D) T. Nagar
E) Egmore
Answer: C) Kolathur

Event and Location:

  • Event: CM Stalin inaugurates renovated Periyar Nagar Library and other infrastructure projects
  • Location: Kolathur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated the renovated Periyar Nagar Library and the newly established Mudalvar Padaipagam in Kolathur constituency, developed at a cost of Rs 5.24 crore by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA). He also inaugurated a new sub-registrar office in Periamedu and laid the foundation stone for K5 Peravallur police station.
  • Objectives: The aim is to enhance public infrastructure, promote reading and education, and improve civic services and law enforcement infrastructure in northern Chennai under the Vada Chennai Valarchi Thittam.

Important Terms Explained:

  • CMDA (Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority): The statutory planning authority responsible for development and regulation of urban infrastructure in the Chennai Metropolitan Area.
  • Periyar Nagar Library: A key public library in Kolathur zone with 17,886 members and a collection of 70,000 books; part of a broader network of seven libraries serving over 28,000 people in the area.
  • Vada Chennai Valarchi Thittam: A development plan aimed at the upliftment and urban transformation of North Chennai, focusing on civic, healthcare, and infrastructure development.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Inauguration of Periyar Nagar Library and civic projects in Kolathur
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Kolathur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Issuing authority Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA)
Policy/series name Vada Chennai Valarchi Thittam
Key figures M.K. Stalin (Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu)
Purpose/reason To improve library access, civic infrastructure, and law enforcement capacity
Feature details Rs 5.24 crore for library & book centre; Rs 3.86 crore for sub-registrar’s office
Validity or status Inaugurated
Strategic/significant value Promotes literacy, civic access, and administrative efficiency in North Chennai

23. Which occasion did PM Modi mark while launching ₹9,700 crore worth of tribal welfare and infrastructure projects in Gujarat?
A) Constitution Day
B) Gandhi Jayanti
C) Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas
D) Sardar Patel Jayanti
E) Ekta Divas
Answer: C) Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas

Event and Location:

  • Event: PM Modi inaugurates and lays foundation stone for ₹9,700 crore projects on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas
  • Location: Dediapada, Narmada District, Gujarat
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: On the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of development and tribal welfare projects worth over ₹9,700 crore in tribal-dominated areas of Gujarat, particularly in Dediapada.
  • Objectives: The initiative focuses on tribal empowerment, education, healthcare, connectivity, and preservation of tribal culture, while also marking India’s recognition of tribal heroes in the freedom movement and their cultural heritage.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas: A day observed on November 15 to honor the contribution of tribal communities to India’s history, culture, and freedom struggle, especially commemorating the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
  • PM-JANMAN (Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan): A government mission aimed at holistic development of tribal communities, covering housing, health, education, connectivity, and livelihood.
  • Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS): Schools funded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to provide quality education to tribal students from Classes 6 to 12.
  • Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor (MAHSR): India’s first bullet train project, developed with Japanese assistance, connecting Mumbai and Ahmedabad through a 508 km high-speed corridor.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name ₹9,700 crore projects launched on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Dediapada, Narmada District, Gujarat
Issuing authority Government of India, PMO
Policy/series name PM-JANMAN, DA-JAGUA, EMRS, MAHSR
Key figures PM Narendra Modi, CM Bhupendra Patel, Governor Acharya Devvrat
Purpose/reason To celebrate tribal contributions and launch tribal-focused development
Feature details 42 EMRS, 250 tribal buses, 748 km roads, tribal museums, 1L homes under PM-JANMAN
Validity or status Launched and foundation stones laid
Strategic/significant value Empowers tribal areas, preserves cultural heritage, boosts connectivity

24. Where did Delhi CM Rekha Gupta lay the foundation stone for the city’s third Automated Testing Station (ATS)?
A) Burari
B) Jhuljhuli
C) Nand Nagri
D) Tehkhand
E) Najafgarh
Answer: D) Tehkhand

Event and Location:

  • Event: Delhi CM inaugurates electric buses and lays foundation for third Automated Testing Station
  • Location: Tehkhand Depot, Delhi, India
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates: Chief Minister Rekha Gupta laid the foundation stone for Delhi’s third Automated Testing Station (ATS) at the Tehkhand Depot, and also flagged off 50 new electric buses under the state’s clean transport initiative. The ATS is being built at a cost of ₹10 crore with a capacity of 72,000 vehicle tests per year, including 20,000 two-wheelers.
  • Objectives: To curb air pollution by ensuring technology-driven vehicle fitness testing, increase transparency and efficiency, and accelerate Delhi’s shift to electric and sustainable mobility.

Important Terms Explained:

  • Automated Testing Station (ATS): A fully digital, human-free vehicle fitness testing centre where key parameters like emissions, brakes, suspension, and lighting systems are checked with machine precision.
  • Electric Buses (e-buses): Zero-emission public transport vehicles powered by electricity, equipped with modern amenities like CCTV, GPS, panic buttons, and disabled-friendly features.
  • Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC): The government-run public transport operator in Delhi, managing buses and depots, playing a central role in Delhi’s e-mobility mission.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Launch of Delhi’s 3rd ATS and induction of 50 e-buses
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Tehkhand Depot, Delhi
Issuing authority Government of NCT of Delhi
Policy/series name Delhi Clean Transport and Vehicle Fitness Drive
Key figures CM Rekha Gupta, Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh
Purpose/reason To reduce vehicular pollution and modernise public transport infrastructure
Feature details ATS capacity: 72,000 vehicles/year; ₹10 crore cost; 50 new AC e-buses added
Validity or status ATS foundation laid; buses flagged off
Strategic/significant value Boosts Delhi’s air quality control, e-mobility goals, and testing transparency

25. What is the name of the traffic image dataset released by AIM@IISc for Indian urban conditions?
A) UTRA-14
B) AI-TrafficNet
C) UVH-26
D) IN-VehicleSet
E) SafeCity-Vision
Answer: C) UVH-26

Event and Location:

  • Event: Release of UVH-26 dataset and vision models for Indian traffic
  • Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
  • Date: November 15, 2025

Mandates and Objectives:

  • Mandates:
    • The AIM@IISc initiative has released UVH-26, a publicly accessible, high-resolution traffic image dataset along with fine-tuned object detection models. These resources are trained specifically for Indian urban traffic conditions.
  • Objectives:
    • To enable AI-driven research and development in traffic surveillance, urban planning, smart mobility, and automated vehicle recognition systems tailored for Indian roads, using real-world data from the Bengaluru Safe City project.

Important Terms Explained:

  • AIM@IISc:
    • Short for AI for Integrated Mobility at IISc, this is an artificial intelligence initiative by the Indian Institute of Science aimed at developing AI-based mobility and transport solutions tailored to Indian urban environments.
  • UVH-26:
    • A large-scale traffic dataset consisting of 26,646 high-resolution images with 1.8 million bounding-box annotations across 14 Indian-specific vehicle types, such as two-wheelers, autorickshaws, and buses. The dataset was created from images collected under the Bengaluru Safe City Project.
  • Bengaluru Safe City Project:
    • A government-funded initiative under the Nirbhaya Fund aimed at making Bengaluru safer through surveillance and AI-enabled analytics, especially to enhance women’s safety and public infrastructure monitoring.

Tabular Summary:

Parameter Details
Event name Release of UVH-26 traffic dataset and AI models
Announcement date November 15, 2025
Location Bengaluru, Karnataka
Issuing authority AIM@IISc (AI for Integrated Mobility at IISc)
Policy/series name UVH-26 Dataset Series
Key figures IISc Researchers and Bengaluru Safe City Project Team
Purpose/reason To support AI development for Indian urban traffic understanding
Feature details 26,646 images, 1.8 million annotations, 14 vehicle classes
Validity or status Publicly released, available for AI research and model training
Strategic/significant value Enables smart city planning, traffic analytics, and vehicle classification AI


Over All Review

Important Days

  • Jharkhand marked its 25th Foundation Day on November 15, 2024, celebrating its formation in 2000 under the Bihar Reorganisation Act.
  • International Day for Tolerance is observed annually on November 16 to promote respect and appreciation for cultural diversity and peaceful coexistence.
  • National Press Day is observed annually on November 16 to commemorate the establishment of the Press Council of India in 1966.

Obituary

  • Prof. V.K. Damodaran, a renowned science writer and environmentalist, passed away at age 85 in Thiruvananthapuram.

Banking and Finance 

  • India’s net direct tax collection for FY26 reached Rs 12.92 lakh crore as of November 10, marking a 7% growth.
  • The Reserve Bank of India has introduced a moratorium relief for exporters from September to December 2025.
  • India is planning to allocate Rs 2,000 crore ($227.5 million) for exporters’ credit guarantees in FY26.

Business And Economy

  • India’s retail inflation excluding gold turned negative in October 2025 at -0.57% year-on-year.
  • Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway acquired a $4.9 billion stake in Alphabet Inc. by purchasing 17.9 million shares during Q3 FY25.
  • Reliance Industries will set up a 1-gigawatt AI data centre in Andhra Pradesh, announced CM Chandrababu Naidu.

Acquisitions and Mergers

  • IHCL has acquired a 51% stake in luxury wellness retreat brand Atmantan for ₹240 crore.

Science and Technology

  • IIT Madras has launched India’s first Language and Cognition Laboratory (LC-Lab) to explore linguistic processing through experimental research.
  • The second edition of HACKKSHETRA, a 24-hour national hackathon, was launched at VVCE in Mysuru on November 14, 2025.

International Affairs

  • High-level delegations from Nepal and Russia visited Visakhapatnam Port on November 15, 2025.
  • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired a conference of Indian Consul Generals in New York on November 14, 2025.

Schemes

  • Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin launched a free meal scheme benefiting over 31,000 sanitary workers in Chennai.
  • Tamil Nadu Agricultural University has disbursed ₹64.4 lakh in startup grants to agri-entrepreneurs under the RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme.

National Affairs

  • The Ministry of Health has approved a CGHS Wellness Centre for Kollam, Kerala.
  • Telangana REDCO plans to install public EV charging stations every 25–30 kilometres on highways.
  • The Railway Board has approved the extension of the Chennai–Vijayawada Vande Bharat Express to Narsapur.
  • The Bangalore Gayana Samaja will host its 55th annual music conference from November 16 to 23, 2025.
  • Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin inaugurated the renovated Periyar Nagar Library and Mudalvar Padaipagam in Kolathur on November 15.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched and laid the foundation for projects worth over ₹9,700 crore in Gujarat on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
  • Delhi CM Rekha Gupta laid the foundation for the city’s third automated vehicle fitness testing station at Tehkhand Depot.
  • The Indian Institute of Science’s AIM@IISc initiative has publicly released the UVH-26 dataset tailored for Indian traffic conditions.

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