DEFENCE NEWS
- INS Sindhughosh Decommissioned: Indian Navy decommissioned INS Sindhughosh, the lead submarine of Sindhughosh class, after 40 years of service.
- The ceremony was held at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, marking fleet modernisation.
- INS Anjadip Delivered to Indian Navy: GRSE delivered INS Anjadip, the third ASW Shallow Water Craft, to the Indian Navy at Chennai Port.
- The vessel enhances coastal surveillance and anti submarine warfare under Make in India.
- Akash-NG Missile User Trials Completed: DRDO successfully completed User Evaluation Trials of Akash-New Generation SAM at Chandipur, Odisha.
- The trials assessed operational readiness by Indian Army and Air Force. Samudra Pratap Inducted by Coast Guard: Indian Coast Guard inducted ‘Samudra Pratap’, India’s first indigenously built Pollution Control Vessel, at Goa Shipyard.
- The vessel strengthens oil spill response and marine environmental protection.
- India Exports WhAP Vehicles to Morocco: Tata Advanced Systems delivered the first batch of WhAP 8×8 armoured vehicles to Morocco.
- The deal supports Make in India and defence exports under ‘Make for the World’.
- India Hands Over Quick Impact Projects to Myanmar: India delivered three Quick Impact Projects focused on education, healthcare and community development.
- The initiative strengthens bilateral ties under the Act East Policy.
- DRDO–Rashtriya Raksha University MoU: DRDO signed an MoU with Rashtriya Raksha University to enhance defence and internal security research.
- The partnership promotes academic-defence collaboration and indigenous capability building.
- Indian Army–NSUT AI Collaboration: Indian Army partnered with Netaji Subhas University of Technology for AI-based military solutions.
- The collaboration boosts modern warfare capabilities and student-led innovation.
- BRO Manual Launched: Defence Minister launched the Border Roads Organisation Manual to streamline strategic road construction.
- The move improves efficiency, transparency and border infrastructure development.
- INSV Kaundinya Maritime Voyage: Indian Navy’s stitched wooden vessel INSV Kaundinya will sail from Porbandar to Muscat on 29 December 2025.
- The voyage retraces ancient maritime trade routes and showcases naval heritage.
NATIONAL NEWS
- PM Modi WB–Assam Visit (Dec 20–21, 2025): PM Narendra Modi visited West Bengal and Assam to inaugurate, dedicate and lay foundation stones of multiple infrastructure projects.
- Key focus areas included highways, airport infrastructure, fertiliser production and regional economic development.
- Guwahati Nature-Themed Airport Terminal: PM Modi inaugurated India’s first nature-themed airport terminal at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati.
- The 1.4 lakh sq.m terminal is inspired by Assam’s biodiversity such as bamboo and orchids.
- Statue of Gopinath Bordoloi Unveiled: PM Modi unveiled an 80-foot statue of Assam’s first Chief Minister Gopinath Bordoloi in Guwahati.
- The statue honours his contribution to Assam’s integration and constitutional development.
- Ammonia-Urea Fertiliser Project, Assam: PM Modi laid the foundation stone of ₹10,600 crore Ammonia-Urea Fertiliser Project at Namrup, Dibrugarh.
- The project will boost urea production, reduce imports, create jobs and support Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- SHANTI Bill, 2025 Gets Presidential Assent: President Droupadi Murmu granted assent to the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025.
- The Act allows private sector participation in nuclear power and permits FDI up to 49%.
- Fit India Sundays on Cycle Anniversary: Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya led the 1st anniversary celebrations of “Fit India Sundays on Cycle” at Rock Beach, Puducherry.
- The event also saw the launch of Fit India Mobile App Carbon Credit Incentivization.
- Swachh Survekshan 2025-26 Toolkit Released: Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar released the toolkit for the 10th Swachh Survekshan in Bhopal.
- The theme is “Swachata Ki Nayi Pehel – Badhayein Haath, Karein Safai Saath”.
- Bureau of Port Security Approved: Union Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level meeting for the creation of the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS).
- The body aims to strengthen security of ports, vessels and coastal infrastructure.
- India Achieves 20% Ethanol Blending: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas announced India achieved 20% ethanol blending in petrol in November 2025.
- The target was achieved ahead of the original 2030 deadline under the EBP Programme.
- NCW Launches SHAKTI Scholars Fellowship: National Commission for Women launched ‘SHAKTI Scholars: NCW Young Research Fellowship’.
- The initiative promotes policy-oriented research on women-centric issues.
- New Petroleum and Natural Gas Rules, 2025: Government notified new P&NG Rules introducing a single petroleum lease system.
- The rules aim to attract investment and simplify oil and gas operations.
- CBDT Launches NUDGE Campaign: CBDT launched the Non-Intrusive Usage of Data to Guide and Enable (NUDGE) campaign for AY 2025-26.
- The initiative promotes voluntary tax compliance through data analytics.
- Delhi Metro Phase-V(A) Expansion Approved: Union Cabinet approved three new Delhi Metro corridors spanning 16.076 km at a cost of ₹12,014.91 crore.
- The expansion includes 13 stations and will push the network beyond 400 km.
- Subansiri Lower HEP Unit-2 Commissioned: Commercial operations of 250 MW Unit-2 of the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project were inaugurated.
- The NHPC project is located on the Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border.
- MYAS Comprehensive Internship Policy Launched: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports launched a new internship policy with 452 internships annually.
- Each intern will receive a stipend of ₹20,000 per month.
- India’s First PPP-Model Medical Colleges: Foundation stones were laid for India’s first PPP-model medical colleges in Dhar and Betul, Madhya Pradesh.
- The colleges will be linked to district hospitals to improve healthcare access.
- Aravalli Hills Redefinition Controversy: Supreme Court approved a 100-metre local relief benchmark for Aravalli Hills protection.
- Environmentalists raised concerns over mining and real estate expansion.
- Gujarat Declared Tiger State: NTCA officially declared Gujarat as India’s newest Tiger State after 33 years of conservation efforts.
- The move strengthens biodiversity protection alongside the state’s Asiatic lion population.
- Ancient Stone Labyrinth Discovered: Archaeologists discovered a 2,000-year-old circular stone labyrinth in Boramani, Solapur.
- The structure with 15 concentric rings indicates Indo Roman influence.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
- QUAD Conducts First Field Training Exercise (FTX): QUAD partners India, USA, Australia and Japan conducted their 1st Field Training Exercise from December 8–12, 2025, at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam.
- The exercise operationalised the Indo-Pacific Logistics Network (IPLN) to strengthen HADR logistics interoperability.
- India to Assume BRICS Presidency: Brazil formally handed over the rotating BRICS presidency to India during the 4th BRICS Sherpas Meeting in Brasília.
- India will officially assume the BRICS chairmanship from January 1, 2026.
- EAM Jaishankar Visits Sri Lanka: External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar visited Sri Lanka as PM Modi’s Special Envoy after Cyclone Ditwah.
- The visit was conducted under ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’, reinforcing India’s Neighbourhood First Policy.
- Russia Plans Nuclear Power Plant on Moon: Russia announced plans to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon by 2036 to support its lunar missions.
- The project, involving Roscosmos and Lavochkin Association, will power a joint Russia-China lunar research station.
- Elon Musk Becomes $700 Billion Individual: Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk became the world’s first individual to reach a $700 billion net worth.
- The milestone was driven by growth in technology, space and AI investments.
- Pearl Harbor Survivor Ira Schab Passes Away: Ira “Ike” Schab, a survivor of the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, died at the age of 105.
- He symbolised wartime resilience and the legacy of World War II veterans.
- India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement: India and New Zealand concluded comprehensive FTA negotiations covering agriculture, dairy, IT and education.
- The agreement supports India’s trade diversification strategy and bilateral economic ties.
- Oman Launches Polymer Currency: Oman announced the launch of its first polymer one-rial banknote for circulation from January 2026.
- The move aims to enhance durability, security and currency modernization.
- India Announces $450 Million Sri Lanka Relief Package: India announced a $450 million humanitarian aid package for Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah.
- The assistance includes food, medicines and infrastructure support under the Neighbourhood First Policy.
- World’s Busiest Airport Ranking 2025: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport retained its position as the world’s busiest airport.
- The ranking reflects strong post-pandemic recovery in global aviation.
- World’s Best Food Cities 2025-26: Global culinary rankings highlighted several Asian and European cities as top food destinations.
- The list promotes culinary tourism and urban cultural branding.
- Top Billionaires’ Wealth Gains 2025: Forbes reported that technology, AI and energy sectors dominated global wealth creation in 2025.
- The trend highlights innovation-driven economic growth.
- Armenia Unveils COP17 Logo: Armenia unveiled a butterfly-themed logo for COP17 of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.
- The logo symbolises biodiversity conservation and ecological balance.
- Japan to Restart Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Plant: Japan announced plans to restart the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant.
- The move aims to reduce fossil fuel dependence, cut emissions and improve energy security.
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS
- BP Kanungo Appointed IIFL Finance Chairman: IIFL Finance Limited appointed former RBI Deputy Governor Bibhu Prasad (B.P.) Kanungo as its non-executive Chairman.
- He will lead board-level strategy, strengthen governance standards and safeguard shareholder interests.
- Saleem Ahmad Takes Charge as RVNL CMD: Saleem Ahmad assumed charge as Chairman and Managing Director of Rail Vikas Nigam Limited on 23 December 2025.
- The Navratna CPSE under Ministry of Railways will be led by him till April 30, 2029 or until further orders.
- Professional Background of Saleem Ahmad: Saleem Ahmad brings over 30 years of experience in civil engineering and large infrastructure projects.
- He succeeded Sukhmal Chand Jain, who served as interim CMD following Pradeep Gaur’s retirement.
AWARDS & HONOURS
- Indian Team Wins NASA Most Inspirational Award: Chennai-based team Photonics Odyssey won NASA’s Most Inspirational Award at the International Space Apps Challenge 2025.
- Their satellite-internet concept aims to expand broadband access in remote and underserved regions of India.
- International Space Apps Challenge 2025: Launched by NASA in 2012, the global hackathon saw participation from over 114,000 innovators across 167 countries.
- The event encourages solutions using NASA’s open data for real-world challenges.
- Ravi DeeCee Receives French Chevalier Honour: Ravi DeeCee, MD & CEO of DC Books, was conferred Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
- The honour was presented by French Ambassador Thierry Mathou at the French Embassy in New Delhi.
- Reason for Ravi DeeCee’s French Honour: DC Books published Malayalam translations of major French authors and promoted cultural exchange.
- Initiatives include Vagamon Writers Residency and Kerala Literature Festival.
- About Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres: Established in 1957 by France’s Ministry of Culture, it recognises contributions to arts and literature.
- The order has three ranks: Commandeur, Officier and Chevalier.
- Notable Indian Chevalier Awardees: Previous Indian recipients include Nandita Das, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.
- Publishers like Pramod Kapoor and Aditi Maheswari have also been honoured.
- Jay Shah Wins Transformational Leader Award: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah received the Transformational Leader of the Year Award.
- The recognition highlights reforms in sports governance and growth of women’s cricket.
- Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025: President of India presented Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
- The award honours scientists for excellence in science, technology and innovation.
SPORTS NEWS
- ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup 2025: The 12th ACC Men’s U-19 Asia Cup was held in Dubai (UAE) from 12–21 December 2025.
- Pakistan defeated India by 191 runs in the final at ICC Academy Ground.
- Khelo India Tribal Games Logo Launched: Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled the logo, theme song and mascot of the first Khelo India Tribal Games.
- The event will be held from 14 February 2026 in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh.
- Alpine SG Pipers Win Global Chess League 2025: Alpine SG Pipers won the 3rd Global Chess League by defeating Triveni Continental Kings in Mumbai.
- The tournament was organised by FIDE in partnership with Tech Mahindra.
- Global Chess League 2025 Highlights: The franchise-based rapid chess league was held from 14–23 December 2025 with a USD 1 million prize pool.
- PBG Alaskan Knights finished third while Alireza Firouzja won Men’s Player of the Tournament.
- East Bengal FC Wins SAFF Women’s Club Title: East Bengal FC won the inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship.
- The victory strengthened India’s dominance in regional women’s football.
- Smriti Mandhana Creates T20I History: Smriti Mandhana became the first Asian woman to score 4,000 runs in T20 Internationals.
- The milestone highlights India’s rise in women’s cricket.
- Sukhman Singh Wins IGU Amateur Championship: Sukhman Singh won the 124th Indian Golf Union Amateur Championship.
- The event is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious amateur golf tournaments.
- India Tops WADA Doping Violations List: India topped the WADA doping violations list for the third consecutive year.
- Athletics recorded the highest number of cases, raising concerns over sports ethics.
- Praggnanandhaa Wins Global Chess League Title: R Praggnanandhaa emerged victorious in the Global Chess League 2025.
- The win highlights India’s growing prominence in world chess.
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi Sets Cricket Record: Fourteen-year old Vaibhav Suryavanshi scored a 36-ball century in List-A cricket.
- He became the youngest Indian to score a List-A hundred.
- Bilaspur to Host Khelo India Tribal Games: Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh will host the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games.
- The initiative promotes inclusion and development of tribal athletes.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
- ISRO Completes Gaganyaan Drogue Parachute Tests: ISRO successfully completed qualification tests of drogue parachutes for the Gaganyaan Crew Module.
- The tests were conducted at DRDO’s TBRL Rail Track Rocket Sled facility in Chandigarh.
- Asian Youth Para Games 2025 Held in Dubai: The 5th Asian Youth Para Games were held from December 7–14, 2025 in Dubai, UAE.
- India ranked 7th with 102 medals, while Uzbekistan topped the tally.
- Highlights of Asian Youth Para Games 2025: The Games featured 11 para-sports with participation from 35 countries and over 1,500 athletes.
- A total of 25 records were broken, including 9 world records.
- BWF World Tour Finals 2025 Conclude in China: The HSBC BWF World Tour Finals 2025 were held in Hangzhou, China from December 17–21.
- South Korea’s An Se-young and France’s Christo Popov won women’s and men’s singles titles respectively.
- Indian Milestone at BWF World Tour Finals: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won bronze in men’s doubles.
- They became the first Indian men’s doubles pair to medal at the BWF World Tour Finals.
- East Bengal FC Wins SAFF Women’s Club Championship: East Bengal FC won the inaugural SAFF Women’s Club Championship 2025 in Kathmandu.
- They defeated Nepal’s APF FC 3–0 to become India’s first women’s club to win an international title.
- ISRO Launches BlueBird Block-2 Satellite: ISRO launched the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite aboard LVM3 M6 from Sriharikota.
- The mission was executed under a commercial agreement with AST SpaceMobile via NSIL.
- James Webb Telescope Discovers New Exoplanet: The James Webb Space Telescope discovered a rare lemon shaped exoplanet.
- The finding challenges existing theories of planetary formation.
- CRISPR Centre of Excellence Announced: A Letter of Intent was signed to establish a Centre of Excellence for CRISPR research.
- The initiative supports biotechnology innovation and India’s bio-economy goals.
- NASA Loses Contact with MAVEN Orbiter: NASA lost communication with its MAVEN Mars Orbiter launched in 2013.
- Efforts are ongoing to restore contact with the spacecraft.
- Indian Railways Deploys AI for Wildlife Safety: Indian Railways enhanced AI-based surveillance along tracks to prevent wildlife accidents.
- The system uses cameras to detect animal movement in real time.
- IIT Delhi Launches AILA: IIT Delhi introduced AILA, an Autonomous AI Lab Assistant.
- The tool supports data analysis, experiment planning and automation in research.
- Russia Plans Nuclear Plant on Moon: Russia announced plans to build a nuclear power plant on the Moon by 2036.
- The project aims to support long-term lunar missions and research infrastructure.