Daily current affairs:November 16, 2025

Long Description : National Press Day 2025 was marked across India with events, seminars, and public awareness drives emphasising the significance of journalism in upholding democratic values. Government officials recognized the contribution of media professionals in disseminating authentic information and fighting misinformation. The day promotes ethical reporting, media literacy, and the independence of editorial practices, with several state-level activities advocating for press freedom and the strengthening of media institutions.

Long Description : With coalition negotiations concluded, Nitish Kumar retains his position as Bihar’s Chief Minister. The cabinet formula was agreed upon at a meeting featuring Union Home Minister Amit Shah, ending weeks of speculation about leadership changes. The state government is expected to be formed within three days, consolidating alliances and addressing key regional policy agendas. This clarity in political leadership is vital for sustained governance and ongoing development schemes in Bihar.

Long Description : The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has rolled out a long-term mission with an overall allocation of ₹25,060 crore over six years, aiming to boost India’s annual exports to USD 2 trillion by 2030. The strategy includes modernising logistics, supporting new exporters, and reducing import dependence with export monitoring systems. This move is expected to create data-driven policy feedback, help meet strategic trade targets, and enhance overall competitiveness in global markets.

Long Description : Recent reports by health agencies and World Bank stress the dire consequences of air pollution, which results in approximately 1.6 million deaths per year in India, mainly affecting children and the elderly. India’s urban population faces hazardous standards, with Delhi’s AQI often exceeding 450—comparable to smoking 20–25 cigarettes daily. Air pollution’s direct cost is estimated at 1.4% of total GDP per year, fueling policy debates on emissions control and preventive actions.

Long Description : India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra, a Fitch subsidiary) forecasts a 7.2% GDP growth rate for July-September 2025 (Q2 FY26), primarily led by strong private consumption and growth in services. The nominal GDP growth would be below 8%, impacting tax revenue. The agency noted private consumption grew 8% year-on-year and investment demand at 7.5%. This data is crucial for budget planning, economic policy, and banking sector decisions.

Long Description : The Reserve Bank of India, responding to export sector challenges, issued guidelines allowing banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) to extend moratorium facilities for exporters. These measures aim to cushion exporters from disruptions in demand, supply chains, and rising global uncertainties. By providing financial relief, RBI targets sustained export growth, employment, and stability in foreign exchange earnings for the country.

Long Description : The Cabinet approved an Employment Linked Incentive Scheme with benefits for employers hiring new staff, intending to create up to 4.1 crore first-time jobs. Employers receive up to Rs 3,000 per new hire for two years, with special advantages for manufacturing. The scheme will be closely monitored to ensure sustained employment and aims to stimulate formalisation, with additional outlay for development clusters and skill initiatives. This scheme aligns with national goals to reduce unemployment among youth.

Long Description : The Union Cabinet authorized new funding worth Rs 1,920 crore for the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, directed at modern infrastructure upgrades such as storage, food processing, and transportation. An expedited sanction of Rs 920 crore will be made for upcoming agri-processing projects until FY 2025-26. The aim is to enhance farmers’ income, reduce post-harvest losses, and boost India’s competitiveness in the global agri-market.

Long Description : Citing increased domestic production, the government authorised 1.5 million tonnes of sugar exports for FY26 to balance market demand-supply and optimize farmer income. The move follows industry appeals and global pricing trends, ensuring adequate reserves while opening new markets. The Food Ministry will monitor quota implementation and international sales, crucial for the agricultural economy and export diversification.

Long Description : Retailers and FMCG companies reported delayed purchases and hesitancy among customers as GST rate cut announcements were paused. The delayed reforms caused a short-term decline in demand, with the business outlook remaining cautious. Experts have urged the Finance Ministry to resume GST adjustments to restore optimism and stimulate retail growth, especially before the upcoming festive season when consumption traditionally spikes.

Long Description : The Reserve Bank of India gave its nod for the appointment of S Krishnan, a seasoned banker, as Chairman of Jammu & Kashmir Bank. Krishnan's elevation is expected to bolster the bank's governance, enhance transparency, and improve credit delivery to the region’s unique economic sectors. The appointment comes as the bank seeks to expand its digital footprint and customer base, particularly in emerging segments.

Long Description : According to data released by the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), India’s exports in this sector fell by 31% during October 2025, largely attributed to weak global demand and volatile currency markets. Major industry bodies have requested additional government support, tax exemption, and marketing initiatives to revive export levels. This downturn affects small-scale manufacturers and workers dependent on this sector for livelihoods.

Long Description : The Lok Sabha Winter Session will convene from December 1 to 19, 2025, with critical legislative business on the agenda including The Income-Tax Bill, employment schemes, and agri-policy reforms. The session will also consider fiscal recommendations and review budget proposals for upcoming quarters. Stakeholders anticipate major policy shifts in taxation, digital economy, and employment generation during these debates.

Long Description : On the night of 14 November, a blast at the Nowgam police station in Jammu & Kashmir led to nine fatalities and multiple injuries. The incident prompted swift action from local and central security agencies, who are investigating the cause and potential links to terrorism. The blast sent shockwaves throughout the region, and state authorities have heightened security in sensitive zones, while calls for improved safety measures and compensation for victims are under way.

Long Description : Delhi faced a severe air pollution crisis as AQI levels surged past 450, prompting the government to enforce emergency measures. Schools were closed, non-essential activities restricted, and public advisories issued for health safety. Experts attribute the spike to stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollutants, with winter exacerbating smog formation. The state has also deployed air purifiers and increased urban greening efforts to mitigate the crisis.

Long Description : South Africa secured victory against India in the first Test match, defeating India by 30 runs. The match exposed shortfalls in India's batting resilience and bowling strategy, with critics calling for improvements before upcoming matches. The defeat is seen as a wake-up call for team management, who must revisit squad combinations and readiness to retain competitiveness in the cricket season, impacting rankings and fan expectations.