Daily current affairs:October 26, 2025

Long Description : The National Crisis Management Committee reviewed preparedness for an impending cyclone over the Bay of Bengal. IMD forecasts the system will intensify into a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds up to 110 km/h by October 28. States including Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha have been alerted to deploy rescue forces, pre-position relief materials, and suspend fishing activities. The NDRF and Coast Guard are on standby for rapid deployment. The Centre emphasized zero casualties and minimal property loss through early evacuation and coordination.

Long Description : After five negotiation rounds, India and the US are nearing an agreement on a strategic trade deal covering tariffs, agricultural exports, and digital policy alignment. According to Commerce Ministry officials, most concerns have been resolved, and both sides seek “balanced outcomes” ensuring mutual economic benefit. The deal aims to offset tensions stemming from recent US sanctions on Russian oil companies and tariffs on Indian goods. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal reaffirmed that India will negotiate only in alignment with national interests, rejecting deadline-based pressure.

Long Description : The logistics sector in India reached a valuation of $36 billion in 2025, showing rapid advancement owing to better infrastructure, express delivery networks, and the digitalization of supply chains. With growing e-commerce penetration, logistics firms are upgrading technology and warehouse management to meet demand. The government’s logistics policy focuses on integration with ports, industrial corridors, and rail freight for efficiency. Projected growth could push the market up to $70 billion by 2030, significantly supporting employment and GDP growth.

Long Description : To meet its COP28 climate commitments, India launched “Mission Urja,” aiming for a renewable capacity of 600 GW by 2030, focusing on solar, wind, and green hydrogen. Power Minister R.K. Singh announced incentives for rooftop solar adoption, local manufacturing, and battery storage. The mission emphasizes decentralized energy models, reducing fossil fuel dependency, and improving energy access in rural areas. The government will also set up “Renewable Parks” across 10 states to attract investment and create green jobs.

Long Description : A five-judge constitutional bench of the Supreme Court will hear petitions challenging the Centre’s ordinance that modifies the panel responsible for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners. The ordinance replaces the Chief Justice of India with a cabinet minister in the selection committee. Petitioners argue it undermines institutional independence. The Centre defended it as an administrative reform to ensure accountability. The hearing is scheduled for November 1.

Long Description : ISRO has begun the final design phase of Chandrayaan-4, India’s first lunar sample-return mission. The mission will involve a lander, ascent module, and re-entry capsule to bring moon soil back to Earth for scientific study. Chairman S. Somanath said that mission integration and ground testing will start in mid-2025, with a targeted launch window in early 2026. The mission builds upon Chandrayaan-3’s success, marking India’s first attempt at an interplanetary sample return.

Long Description : Data from the Controller General of Accounts showed that India’s fiscal deficit stood at ₹8.2 lakh crore by September 2025, nearly half of the budget estimate for the year. Capital expenditure grew 19% year-on-year, while tax revenue collection remained steady. However, disinvestment targets lagged at only 28% of the annual goal. Economists noted that continued government spending on infrastructure and welfare schemes could widen the deficit slightly, but fiscal consolidation remains on track for FY26.

Long Description : According to Tracxn data, AI startups in India attracted $1.4 billion in funding in the first nine months of 2025 — a 35% increase compared to last year. Major investments flowed into generative AI, automation, and healthcare applications. Bengaluru and Pune emerged as top hubs for AI innovation. Experts say investor interest continues due to strong enterprise demand and government incentives under the “AI for Bharat” initiative. The sector is expected to cross $2 billion in funding by year-end.

Long Description : The Reserve Bank of India has issued comprehensive guidelines for digital lending platforms to ensure transparency and consumer safety. The new framework mandates that loan disbursals and repayments must occur only through regulated bank accounts, banning fund flows through third-party apps. Fintech firms must disclose all charges upfront and store data only within India. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das emphasized that the move aims to curb predatory lending practices and safeguard borrowers from unauthorized digital loan apps.

Long Description : The strategy emphasizes integrating AI in education, healthcare, agriculture, and industry while developing talent pipelines and promoting R&D investments. Collaboration between government, academia, and industry will ensure ethical AI deployment and enhance global competitiveness. PM Modi highlighted the initiative as crucial for India’s leadership in AI-driven growth and future technologies.

Long Description : The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) announced that India’s renewable energy capacity has reached 185 GW in 2025, with solar at 105 GW and wind at 70 GW. Accelerated auctions and policy incentives aim to achieve the 200 GW target by year-end. The government also encourages hybrid projects, energy storage, and private investments to strengthen grid stability. This expansion contributes to India’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions and achieve net-zero targets by 2070.

Long Description : The Indo-Russian joint exercise “INDRA 2025” involved army, air, and naval drills to enhance operational coordination. Both nations focused on counterterrorism, logistics, and cyber-defence scenarios. Officials highlighted that such exercises strengthen strategic ties, encourage knowledge sharing, and improve combat readiness. The drill also tested communication systems, interoperability protocols, and disaster-response coordination between armed forces.

Long Description : The Ministry of Commerce announced agreements covering trade facilitation, mutual recognition of standards, and tariff reductions. The pacts aim to enhance market access, attract foreign direct investment, and support sectors including IT, agriculture, and manufacturing. Officials emphasized long-term economic partnership and regional integration to strengthen India’s position in Southeast Asia.

Long Description : The Ministry of Commerce announced that 100 new products will be added under the scheme in various states, focusing on handicrafts, agro-products, and local textiles. The initiative will support skill development, cluster-based manufacturing, and market linkages for small producers. By connecting rural products to e-commerce and export markets, the scheme aims to generate employment and boost local economies.