Daily current affairs:November 21, 2025

Long Description : The Indian government implemented the Code on Wages, Industrial Relations Code, Social Security Code, and Occupational Safety & Working Conditions Code, unifying 29 existing labour laws into four comprehensive regulations. This move aims to improve working conditions, boost formal employment, and ease compliance for businesses. Key highlights include annual health check-ups for workers, fixed-term employee gratuity, and broader social security nets. However, several trade unions have called for nationwide protests on November 26, demanding withdrawal of these codes over concerns regarding workers' rights and procedural clarity.

Long Description : Indian defence manufacturing registered a 174% jump since 2014–15, clocking ₹1.54 lakh crore this fiscal, with exports rising to ₹23,622 crore. Over 16,000 MSMEs and 462 industrial licences expanded the sector, while reforms such as DAP 2020 and DPM 2025 accelerated procurements. The Defence Industrial Corridors (UPDIC, TNDIC) attracted investments of ₹9,145 crore, signifying a robust push towards self-reliance and indigenous capacity-building in defence production.

Long Description : India will receive FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank guided missiles and M982A1 Excalibur precision-guided artillery under the deal. These weapons will enhance India's precision strike abilities and mobile anti-armour operations, solidifying Indo-US defence cooperation and supporting modernisation goals. The agreement complements India's focus on strategic deterrence and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Long Description : In the 2025 state elections, Nitish Kumar returned to power with a decisive victory for the BJP-led NDA, winning 202 out of 243 seats. The Mahagathbandhan secured only 35 seats. The swearing-in marks Nitish Kumar’s historic tenth term, underscoring his enduring influence in Bihar politics. Maithili Thakur, at 25, became the youngest MLA, highlighting generational change in state politics.

Long Description : As the world’s second-largest fish producer and top global shrimp exporter, India marked World Fisheries Day with initiatives for mariculture, smart harbour guidelines, reservoir fisheries, and digital traceability. Marine product exports rose by 11% year-on-year, reaching US$0.90 billion. The government released compendiums and traceability norms to support sustainable growth and value addition, empowering fishermen and boosting the blue economy.

Long Description : Punjab set up its first special courtroom for SC-related cases under the State Scheduled Castes Commission, aiming for expedited hearings and timely disposal. Chairperson Jasvir Singh Garhi launched this initiative, with an upcoming online court system planned for virtual appearances, improving justice delivery for SC complainants, especially from remote areas. The model is proposed for wider adoption across states.

Long Description : Representing developing countries’ interests, India reiterated the need for differentiated responsibilities at COP30, phasing out fossil fuels gradually based on economic realities. The Indian delegation called for technology transfer, climate finance, and protection of indigenous rights while supporting global multilateral agreements like the Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement. India’s position strengthens its leadership in climate governance and sustainable development.

Long Description : DigiArivu aims to empower students and teachers by building interactive learning environments with digital equipment, introducing STEM modules, and providing structured training for educators. Leveraging BaLA (Building as Learning Aid) designs, the program focuses on hands-on learning and digital pedagogy to improve conceptual understanding and tech literacy among school children. The initiative dovetails government efforts to modernise education infrastructure.

Long Description : The guidelines focus on optimising fisheries in reservoirs, emphasising scientific methods, sustainability, and market-linked traceability. This move is part of India’s broader blue economy strategy, aiming to empower fisher communities with technology, increase yield, and enhance seafood exports. Best practices for mariculture and smart harbours were also launched, supporting long-term growth.

Long Description : With marine exports rising from US$0.81B to US$0.90B, India consolidates its status as a leading fish and shrimp producer. The export surge is attributed to streamlined regulations, value addition strategies, and compliance with global traceability standards, as articulated in the government’s blue economy framework outlined on World Fisheries Day.

Long Description : In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court explained the boundaries of state governor power related to bill assent and return. The verdict addresses longstanding disputes in states where bills were withheld or delayed, strengthening legislative independence and upholding constitutional checks and balances. The clarification is likely to impact future Centre-state relations and major legislation.

Long Description : Marking progress in space sector reforms, the upcoming PSLV Oceansat launch will be the first carried out entirely by a private consortium for ISRO. The Oceansat satellite aims to enhance ocean resource mapping, climate monitoring, and disaster prediction. This model supports “Make in India” policies, opens global business for Indian firms, and accelerates technological advances in satellite engineering.

Long Description : In its presidency year, India will host BRICS meetings such as summits, delegations, and youth forums across multiple states and UTs to promote regional participation and showcase local achievements. This approach builds on the recent G20 model, strengthening India’s diplomatic outreach, federal collaboration, and capacity for international events while stimulating local economies.

Long Description : In response to rising contamination, Central Pollution Control Board and state governments will begin systematic quarterly testing to identify pollution sources, assess damage to river ecosystems, and propose targeted interventions. This step aims to restore aquatic health and ensure compliance with environmental norms, following complaints of drain water intrusion and deteriorating water quality.

Long Description : FSSAI’s order targets misleading products labelled as ‘ORS drinks,’ which do not meet official ORS formulation standards and can confuse consumers seeking medical-grade solutions for dehydration. The move mandates state authorities and e-commerce platforms to withdraw such products promptly, ensuring better regulation and upholding public health standards.

Long Description : The National Consultation aims to address issues like overcrowded prisons and inadequate health support experienced by women inmates, who constitute 4.3% of India’s prison population. The session seeks to develop actionable recommendations for policy reforms, funding allocations, and rehabilitation programs to protect women prisoners’ rights and welfare.