Use our Current Affairs 2025 PDF for November 2025 to stay ahead of the curve in your exam preparation. This monthly compilation covers a wide range of significant national and international events, government programs, appointments, sports, the economy, and more, making it a handy resource. Remember to download the Monthly Current Affairs PDF, which can be found at the conclusion of this article. Also available for download is the PDF MCQ Practice Set, which covers common exam questions for the UPSC, SSC, banking, railroads, and other state-level competitive exams.
A. National
1. Lucknow Designated UNESCO ‘Creative City of Gastronomy’
The city of Lucknow was officially recognized by UNESCO as a “Creative City of Gastronomy” on 31 October 2025. This recognition celebrates its rich culinary heritage, particularly the legendary Awadhi cuisine, including slow-cooked kebabs and biryanis. Lucknow is now India’s second city, after Hyderabad, to receive this honour in the gastronomy category.
2. India to Conduct World’s Largest 2026 Tiger Census
India is preparing for the 2026 All-India Tiger Estimation, which is recognised as the world’s largest wildlife survey. The census will cover over 4 lakh sq. km across more than 20 states and will utilize advanced technology such as AI-enabled camera traps and eDNA sampling. This massive exercise, conducted every four years, aims to assess habitat quality and guide future conservation strategies, building on the 2022 estimate of 3,167 tigers.
3. North 24 Parganas Becomes India’s Most Populated District
North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal has been declared India’s most populated district, surpassing Thane in Maharashtra. The district recorded a population of over 11.2 million, driven by rapid urban expansion and proximity to Kolkata. It boasts a high literacy rate (over 87%) and an urbanization rate exceeding 60%.
4. Assam Passes Bill to Ban Polygamy
The Assam Legislative Assembly passed the Assam Polygamy Prohibition Bill, 2025, outlawing the practice of polygamy across all communities in the state. This law is inspired by Article 44 (Uniform Civil Code).
5. Nyoma Airbase Inaugurated in Ladakh
The Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief inaugurated the strategically significant Nyoma Airbase in eastern Ladakh. Situated near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) at an altitude of nearly 13,700 feet, it features a 2.7-km runway capable of handling fighter aircraft like the Rafale and Su-30 MKI.
6. India Emerges as the World’s 6th-Largest Patent Filer
India has achieved the status of the world’s 6th-largest patent filer, with over 64,000 patent applications filed. Importantly, more than 55% of these applications originated from resident Indian innovators. This milestone reflects the growing domestic R&D activity, particularly in areas such as AI, deep technology, and healthcare. India has also climbed from 81st to 38th position in the Global Innovation Index (GII) in recent years.
B. Government Schemes
1. Ayushman Bharat Recognized as World’s Largest Health Scheme
The Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) was recognised by WHO and the World Bank as the world’s largest fully government-funded health assurance scheme. It provides cashless health insurance of ₹5 lakh per family annually, covering over 60 crore beneficiaries across India. The scheme has authorised over 7.5 crore hospital admissions since inception, saving beneficiaries an estimated ₹1.2 lakh crore.
2. National Migration Survey (NMS) 2026–27 Launched
The Government of India launched the National Migration Survey (NMS) 2026–27 to map internal and international migration trends, addressing significant data gaps. It will examine themes like employment-linked migration, remittances, and distress migration, covering all States and UTs. The survey will also collect data on migrants’ access to welfare schemes like ration portability under ONORC.
3. DRAP & UiWIN Programs Launched for Dumpsite Remediation
The Government initiated the Dumpsite Remediation Accelerator Programme (DRAP) and the UiWIN Program. DRAP aims to clear 214 legacy dumpsites covering 8.8 crore tonnes of waste and reclaim 7,580 acres of urban land. This effort involves releasing ₹4,181 crore to support the remediation and waste management goals.
4. Centre Notifies New Deep-Sea Fishing Rules for EEZ
The Central Government notified the Deep-Sea Fishing Rules 2025 for India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). These rules prioritize Indian fishermen cooperatives through the ReALCraft Portal and reinforce the ban on foreign vessels in Indian waters. The new framework aims to promote sustainable fishing and protect marine biodiversity through regulations on LED and trawling methods.
5. Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) Initiative Launched
The nationwide, community-driven Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) initiative was launched to tackle water scarcity and hydrological stress. It emphasizes public participation for activities like desilting tanks and restoring traditional water bodies in critical groundwater blocks. The initiative aligns with central schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission and uses GIS mapping to monitor water storage and groundwater levels.
6. Karnataka Becomes First State to Grant Paid Menstrual Leave
Karnataka became the first Indian state to introduce 12 days of paid menstrual leave annually for women employees in both government and private sectors. The policy aims to reduce stigma, recognize menstrual health as workplace wellness, and enhance female participation in the workforce. The provision covers approximately 3.4 lakh women employees in the state government.
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C. International Affairs
1. Maldives Enforces World’s First Generational Tobacco Ban
The Maldives became the world’s first country to enforce a Generational Tobacco Ban in November 2025. This landmark legislation prohibits the sale of all tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2007. The policy is part of the “Tobacco-Free Maldives 2040” vision and serves as a model for youth protection globally.
2. Russia Launches Nuclear Submarine to Carry Poseidon Drone
Russia formally launched the new nuclear-powered submarine, Project 09851 Khabarovsk, designed to carry the unmanned underwater drone Poseidon (Status-6). Russian officials describe Poseidon as a “doomsday” weapon capable of triggering radioactive tsunamis. The launch signifies Russia’s expanded undersea nuclear deterrence capabilities.
3. India Secures Six-Month US Waiver for Chabahar Port
India has obtained a six-month exemption from US sanctions for its operations at Iran’s Chabahar Port, effective October 29, 2025. This waiver is vital for India to maintain its strategic sea-land route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. India develops the Shahid Beheshti terminal at Chabahar, which is Iran’s only deep-water oceanic port.
4. Seychelles Becomes Full Member of Colombo Security Conclave (CSC)
Seychelles officially joined the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) as a full member during the 7th NSA–level meeting in New Delhi. Seychelles is the 6th member, widening the CSC’s footprint across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The membership enhances maritime domain awareness and efforts against piracy, reinforcing India’s role as a net security provider.
5. Bangladesh Becomes First South Asian Nation to Join UN Water Convention
Bangladesh became the first South Asian country to accede to the UN Water Convention (Helsinki, 1992). As a deltaic country relying on over 50 shared rivers, this provides a multilateral legal platform to address transboundary water management and climate risk. The accession is particularly significant for the Ganga–Brahmaputra–Meghna river system. SDGs involved: 6.5,2.13,16.
6. Saudi Arabia Named Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) by US
Saudi Arabia was formally designated as a “Major Non-NATO Ally” (MNNA) by the US, deepening bilateral security and defense partnership. This status grants Saudi Arabia priority access to advanced US military hardware, including F-35 fighter jets, and increased logistics support. The designation is part of a wider strategic framework covering civil nuclear cooperation and AI technologies.
7. India–UK Joint Military Exercise ‘AJEYA WARRIOR-25’ Begins
The eighth edition of the India–UK Joint Military Exercise, ‘Ajeya Warrior-25,’ began in November 2025 at Umroi Cantonment in Meghalaya, India. The exercise involves troops from the Indian Army’s Rajput Regiment and the British Army’s Royal Gorkha Rifles Regiment.
D. Economy
1. India’s Gold Imports Triple to Record $14.72 Billion
India’s gold imports surged to a record US $14.72 billion in October 2025, nearly tripling the US $5.1 billion figure from October 2024. This sharp rise was driven primarily by strong festive season demand, wedding purchases, and stable global gold prices. The spike contributed to India’s trade deficit, which widened to over US $31 billion for the month.
2. Mumbai and Delhi Join World’s Billionaire City List
Mumbai and New Delhi climbed into the global top 10 list of cities by billionaire population, according to the Hurun Research Institute report. Mumbai secured the 3rd rank globally with 92 billionaires. Delhi entered the list at the 9th place with 57 billionaires.
3. India’s Unemployment Rate Falls to 5.2%
India’s unemployment rate declined to 5.2% in the April–June quarter (Q2 2025). The fall was driven by growth in the services, construction, and infrastructure sectors. This decrease, along with improved urban and female labour participation, indicates a steady post-pandemic economic recovery.
4. India Targets 55% Female Workforce Participation by 2030
India announced an ambitious national goal to raise female labour force participation (FLFP) to 55% by 2030. Currently estimated at around 37%, this increase is vital for accelerating economic growth and could significantly add to India’s GDP.
5. India’s Exports Rise 4.8% To $491.8 Billion In April–October Period
India’s total exports, combining merchandise and services, rose over 4.8% to $491.8 billion during April to October period of the current fiscal as compared to the same period in the last fiscal. The Commerce Ministry’s preliminary data shows that imports increased by 6.37% while merchandise exports increased by 0.62%. During the first seven months of 2025, non-petroleum exports were valued at $219.9 billion, registering a 3.92% increase. Total imports are estimated at $569.95 billion during the same period.
6. Andhra Pradesh Attracts Over Rs 11 Lakh Crore Investments At CII Partnership Summit 2025, Visakhapatnam
The State inked MoUs worth ₹4,000 crore with the AM Green Group, which will invest in a Green Aluminium Complex at Kakinada in Uppada. An agreement with Brookfield permits up to $12 billion in investments, including renewable energy projects and a 3 gigawatt data center fueled by sustainable energy. Reliance will set up a 1 gigawatt AI data centre equipped with powerful CPUs.
E. Awards & Recognition
1. Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2025
The Sahitya Akademi announced 24 winners of the Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2025 for outstanding contributions to children’s literature. Winners spanned diverse languages and genres, such as Susheel Shukla (Hindi, Ek Batey Barah) and Nitin Kushalappa MP (English, Dakshin: South Indian Myths and Fables Retold). Each winner receives an engraved copper plaque and a monetary award of ₹50,000.
2. Padma Awards 2026 Honor Sporting Icons
The list of Padma Awards 2026 recognized notable athletes, including Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra (Shooting), who received the Padma Vibhushan. Tennis champion Leander Paes also received the Padma Vibhushan. Olympic javelin star Neeraj Chopra was awarded the Padma Bhushan.
3. National Water Awards 2024 Winners Declared
The 6th National Water Awards for 2024 were announced by the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Maharashtra was ranked the Best State, followed by Gujarat and Haryana. The Best Urban Local Body (ULB) award went to Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra. Vettaikaranpudur Canal Odayakulam Village WUA, Tamil Nadu, secured the Best Water User Association (WUA) award.
4. Shiv Nadar Tops Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025
Shiv Nadar, founder of HCL Technologies, topped the EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025 for the fourth time in five years. Nadar contributed ₹2,708 crore in FY25, primarily focused on education and social development. Mukesh Ambani and family ranked second with a donation of ₹626 crore.
5. Amul Ranks as World’s Top Cooperative by GDP Per Capita
Amul (Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd, GCMMF) was ranked as the world’s number-one cooperative based on GDP per-capita performance, according to the ICA World Cooperative Monitor 2025. Amul is a farmer-owned cooperative with 3.6 million milk producers. Indian Farmers Fertiliser Co-operative Limited (IFFCO) ranked second.
6. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Awarded World Leader for Peace
Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar was honoured with the World Leader for Peace and Security Award 2025 in London. The award recognised his decades-long global efforts in peacebuilding and humanitarian service through the Art of Living Foundation, which operates in over 180 countries. His initiatives have included mediating conflicts in Iraq and Colombia.
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F. Science & Technology
1. PM Launches NexCAR19
India’s First Homegrown CAR T-Cell Therapy Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched NexCAR19, India’s first indigenously developed CAR T-cell therapy for certain blood cancers. Developed by IIT Bombay and ImmunoACT, India becomes the fifth country globally to achieve this. Unlike imported treatments costing ₹3–4 crore, NexCAR19 will be available for under ₹50 lakh, significantly improving accessibility.
2. China Achieves Thorium-Uranium Fuel Conversion in TMSR
China announced a breakthrough in nuclear technology by achieving the world’s first successful thorium-to-uranium fuel conversion in a Thorium Molten Salt Reactor (TMSR). This process converts thorium-232 into fissile uranium-233, enhancing China’s energy independence using its abundant thorium reserves.
3. IN-SPACe & SIDBI Launch ₹1,000 Crore Space Venture Fund
IN-SPACe and SIDBI Venture Capital Ltd (SVCL) operationalised a dedicated ₹1,000 crore venture capital fund for India’s private space-technology ecosystem. The fund will invest in early and growth-stage startups focusing on launch technologies, satellite systems, and in-space services. The fund received SEBI approval on 31 October 2025.
4. India’s Maiden Private Rocket Launch by Skyroot
Skyroot Aerospace India successfully conducted its maiden private rocket launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The suborbital rocket, Vikram-II, developed by Hyderabad-based startup Skyroot Aerospace, tested advanced 3D-printed cryogenic engines and lightweight structures.
5. Godrej Delivers Human-Rated Vikas Engine for Gaganyaan
Godrej Aerospace successfully delivered a flight-ready, human-rated Vikas Engine to ISRO for use in the Gaganyaan Mission. The human-rated engine meets stricter safety and reliability standards crucial for protecting astronauts. The engine will power the L110 liquid stage of the LVM3 rocket, moving ISRO closer to conducting uncrewed test missions in 2025.
6. India’s First Tribal-Focused Genome Project Launched
India launched its first tribal-focused genome project under the DBT and ICMR to map the genetic diversity of the nation’s Scheduled Tribes. The project aims to identify rare hereditary diseases and improve public health outcomes for indigenous populations. It will initially cover 50 tribal groups, following a strict consent-based and culturally sensitive ethical framework.
G. Sports
1. India Clinch First-Ever Women’s World Cup Title
The India Women’s Cricket Team created history by winning their first-ever ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 52 runs in the final in Navi Mumbai. Shafali Verma was named Player of the Match for her 87-run innings and 2 wickets. Deepti Sharma was awarded Player of the Series for her exceptional all-round performance.
2. India Wins Record Nine Golds at World Boxing Cup Finals 2025
India secured a record nine gold medals at the World Boxing Cup Finals 2025 held in Greater Noida. Indian women boxers contributed seven of the nine golds, highlighting their dominance. India secured medals in all 20 weight categories, finishing with nine gold, six silver, and five bronze.
3. India Shines at 2025 Asian Youth Games
India registered its best-ever performance at the Asian Youth Games 2025 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, securing a record total of 48 medals. The tally included 19 gold, 14 silver, and 15 bronze medals, surpassing the previous best of 37 medals in 2017.
4. Belgium and Netherlands to Jointly Host 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup
The International Hockey Federation (FIH) announced that Belgium and the Netherlands will jointly host the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup. This marks the first time two nations will co-host the prestigious event. The Netherlands will host the tournament for the fifth time, and the joint model promotes regional cooperation and sustainability.
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H. Books & Publications
| No. | Books & Publications | Key Details |
| 1 | 2025 Booker Prize | Winner: David Szalay (Hungarian-British) Novel: Flesh First Hungarian-British winner; praised for minimalist prose on migration and masculinity |
| 2 | National Book Award – Fiction 2025 | Winner: Rabih Alameddine Novel: The True True Story of Raja the Gullible (and His Mother) Darkly comic tale of family, identity, and Lebanon’s history |
| 3 | National Book Award – Poetry 2025 | Winner: Patricia Smith Collection: The Intentions of Thunder Explores race, memory, trauma, and resilience |
| 4 | Collins Word of the Year 2025 | Word: “Vibe Coding” Meaning: tailoring communication style/emotional tone to fit social context Usage ↑ 420% in 2025 |
| 5 | WHO Global TB Report 2025 | Global TB incidence ↓ ~19% (2015–2024) India: ↓ ~16% Funding: $6.7B (short of $13B needed) |
| 6 | WHO GLASS Report 2025 (Antimicrobial Resistance) | Global: 1 in 6 bacterial infections resistant (2023) SE Asia (incl. India): 1 in 3 Causes: OTC antibiotics, environmental contamination |
| 7 | Cambridge Word of the Year 2025 | Word: “Parasocial” Meaning: one-sided emotional relationships with celebrities, influencers, or AI |
I. Important Days & Themes
| No. | Day & Date | Theme / Focus (2025) |
| 1 | World Science Day for Peace and Development (November 10) | “Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow – The Science We Need for 2050” Focus: Scientific literacy, global cooperation, sustainability solutions. |
| 2 | National Education Day (November 11) | Promoting inclusive, technology-driven, and skill-oriented education Honours Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first Education Minister. |
| 3 | World Pneumonia Day (November 12) | “Child Survival” Emphasis on vaccination, nutrition, and medical oxygen access for children under five. |
| 4 | World Diabetes Day (November 14) | “Diabetes Across Life Stages” Awareness, prevention, and age-specific care (marks Frederick Banting’s birth anniversary) |
| 5 | Children’s Day (India) (November 14) | “For Every Child, Every Right” Celebrates Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s birth anniversary and children’s innocence & future |
| 6 | Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (November 15) | Honours Bhagwan Birsa Munda and tribal freedom fighters Celebrates tribal heritage and welfare initiatives |
| 7 | National Legal Services Day (November 9) | Commemorates Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 Focus: Free legal aid and equal access to justice (Article 39A) |
J. Obituary
| No. | Name & Field | Age | Key Highlights / Notable Achievements |
| 1 | Saalumarada Thimmakka (Environmentalist) | 114 | “Mother of 385 Banyan Trees”; planted & nurtured 385 banyan trees over 4 km in Karnataka; Padma Shri (2019) |
| 2 | Kamini Kaushal (Veteran Actress) | 98 | Iconic roles in films like Neecha Nagar; career spanning over 70 years |
| 3 | Manuel Frederick (Hockey Legend) | 78 | India’s first Olympic medallist from Kerala; part of 1972 Munich Olympics bronze team; played 1973 & 1978 World Cups |
| 4 | Wing Commander Namansh Syal (IAF Pilot) | 34 | Killed in HAL Tejas crash during Dubai Air Show aerial display (21 Nov 2025); IAF ordered Court of Inquiry |
| 5 | Gopichand Hinduja (Chairman, Hinduja Group) | 85 | UK’s richest Indian; leading global business and finance figure |
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