Daily current affairs:November 17, 2025

Long Description : India Ratings & Research (Ind-Ra) has forecasted India’s GDP growth at 7.2% for the second quarter (July–September) of FY26, highlighting robust private consumption and a resilient services sector as key drivers. The agency noted that while real GDP growth remains strong, nominal GDP growth may have slipped below 8%, impacting government tax collections. Investment demand is estimated at 7.5% year-on-year, and exports are expected to reach a 13-quarter high. The projection reflects India’s ability to navigate global headwinds and maintain economic stability.

Long Description : The Electronics Development Fund (EDF), launched by the Government of India, has supported 128 startups with an investment of ₹257.77 crore. The fund functions as a Fund of Funds, investing in professionally managed venture and angel funds that provide risk capital to startups in electronics, nanoelectronics, and IT. The supported startups are working in frontier areas such as IoT, robotics, drones, healthtech, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. The EDF aims to reduce electronics import dependence and strengthen India’s position in global electronics value chains.

Long Description : The Indian Army has set up three new garrisons at Dhubri (Assam), Kishanganj (Bihar), and Chopra (West Bengal) to enhance surveillance and operational readiness in the Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken’s Neck.” This narrow strip connects mainland India to the northeastern states and is vital for national security. The move is part of a broader strategy to plug tactical gaps, improve rapid response, and integrate real-time intelligence. The Trishakti Corps oversees the corridor’s defence, with regular combat exercises and aerial security provided by Rafale and MiG fighter jets.

Long Description : The Ministry of Rural Development has removed 27 lakh ineligible workers from the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) database following a nationwide e-KYC verification drive. The move aims to weed out ghost beneficiaries and ensure that benefits reach genuine workers. The government claims that this will improve transparency and efficiency in the scheme, which is a key social welfare program for rural employment.

Long Description : India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) held high-level talks to review the roadmap for a proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The discussions focused on enhancing trade, investment, and market access between India and EAEU member states. The proposed FTA aims to boost bilateral trade, reduce tariffs, and facilitate smoother movement of goods and services. Both sides agreed to continue negotiations and explore areas of mutual interest.

Long Description : The Supreme Court is set to hear a plea demanding stricter enforcement of measures to prevent stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. The petition seeks a comprehensive action plan to address air pollution caused by agricultural waste burning, which severely affects Delhi and surrounding regions. The court is expected to direct state governments and central agencies to implement effective solutions and monitor compliance.

Long Description : The government is enhancing mechanisms for accessing climate finance to fund green initiatives and climate resilience projects. The move aims to streamline the process for states and organizations to secure international climate funds, such as those from the Green Climate Fund. Improved access will help India meet its climate targets and support sustainable development.

Long Description : The newly notified Digital Personal Data Protection Rules are under scrutiny for their potential impact on the right to information and privacy. Critics argue that the rules may undermine transparency and accountability, while the government maintains that they are necessary for data security. The debate centers on balancing privacy with the need for public access to information.

Long Description : India’s archery team has recorded its best-ever performance at the Asian Archery Championships 2025, winning multiple medals and setting new national records. The achievement highlights the growing strength of Indian archery on the international stage and is expected to inspire more youth to take up the sport.

Long Description : The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) will conduct a comprehensive assessment of 101 major cities on parameters such as infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and local economic growth. The exercise aims to evaluate the effectiveness of urban development schemes and identify areas for improvement. The findings will inform future policy decisions and resource allocation.

Long Description : India has failed to meet its target of eliminating tuberculosis (TB) by 2025, as set under the National Strategic Plan. Experts attribute the shortfall to gaps in healthcare delivery, lack of awareness, and challenges in reaching vulnerable populations. The government is now reviewing its strategies and scaling up interventions to accelerate progress.

Long Description : Regulators are intensifying scrutiny of cryptocurrency and cryptoexchange platforms amid rising concerns about money laundering, financial fraud, and the impact on financial stability. The government is considering stricter regulations to ensure transparency and protect investors. The debate also includes discussions on the potential for a central bank digital currency (CBDC).

Long Description : India and Qatar held high-level discussions to enhance bilateral cooperation in trade, energy, and security. Both countries agreed to deepen economic ties, explore new investment opportunities, and collaborate on regional security issues. The talks also covered areas such as energy security and people-to-people exchanges.

Long Description : National Press Day was observed on 16 November 2025 to recognize the vital role of the media in upholding democracy and freedom of expression. The day was marked by events and discussions on the challenges and responsibilities of the press in the digital age.

Long Description : Exercise GARUDA 25 was conducted as a major tri-service military exercise involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The exercise aimed to improve joint operational readiness, interoperability, and coordination among the services. It included live-fire drills, simulated combat scenarios, and strategic planning exercises.

Long Description : India’s agricultural exports achieved a record value of $52 billion in FY 2024–25, reflecting a 6.4% year-on-year growth. The increase was driven by strong global demand for Indian farm products and improved logistics. The government aims to further boost agri-exports through policy reforms and infrastructure development.