Daily current affairs:October 26, 2025

Long Description : In a bid to enhance financial security for central government staff, the Centre has extended two flagship investment schemes—LC75 and BLC. This move will encourage disciplined investments, providing better returns and social security. The updated provisions are expected to be rolled out in the coming months, with revised guidelines enabling easier access and digital enrollment. Analysts note that this step aligns with broader reforms to strengthen employee welfare and digitization in government service benefits.

Long Description : The MoWCD has introduced the ‘1515’ helpline, providing dedicated support for POSHAN Abhiyaan and PMMVY, India’s major nutrition and maternal benefit programs. The helpline will assist beneficiaries, stakeholders, and officials in resolving queries, offering real-time updates on schemes, entitlements, and complaint redressal. Launching this from November, the ministry aims to improve outreach, transparency, and tracking of services, especially in remote areas. It’s part of India’s digital push for accessible government welfare.

Long Description : The Ministry of Mines has recognized the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET) as new Centres of Excellence under the National Centre for Mineral Materials (NCMM). This designation supports advanced research in critical minerals and materials, fostering innovation and indigenous capabilities. These institutes will lead collaborations, promote technology transfers, and support government initiatives for self-reliance in strategic minerals—vital for electronics, renewable energy, and defence sectors.

Long Description : The Reserve Bank of India has rolled out its second edition of HaRBInger, a global hackathon focused on developing solutions for digital banking safety and financial inclusion. Teams from across the world can submit innovative ideas and prototypes addressing challenges like payment security, anti-fraud measures, and financial accessibility for underserved segments. Winners will gain opportunities for incubation, funding, and collaboration with Indian banks. The hackathon aims to nurture fintech talent and drive India’s leadership in digital banking.

Long Description : To support Kerala’s healthcare sector improvement, the World Bank has sanctioned a $280 million loan for the Kerala Health System Improvement Project (KHSIP). The project focuses on strengthening primary healthcare access, modernizing infrastructure, and upskilling medical personnel. The initiative will enhance service quality, digital records, and health management systems while expanding coverage, especially in rural and coastal areas. Kerala authorities welcome this as a major boost to their public health ambitions.

Long Description : At the UNCTAD-16 meeting in Geneva, Indian delegates joined discussions on trade facilitation, digital economy, and sustainable development. The event highlighted global economic inequalities, climate impact on development, and digital transformation in trade. India advocated for inclusive trade policies and multilateral cooperation, emphasizing technology-driven growth and equitable market access. The session’s outcomes will inform India’s international economic strategy and key reforms ahead of WTO talks.

Long Description : The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) held its 4th plenary in Paris, with India reaffirming commitments to the global fight against money laundering and terror financing. Delegates discussed emerging risks from cryptocurrencies, changes in AML regulations, and cross-border collaboration. India pushed for stronger compliance from regional partners and digital forensics to tackle illicit flows. Insights from this meeting will steer future amendments in banking and anti-terror legislation.

Long Description : Renowned conservationist Vivek Menon has been selected as chair of the IUCN SSC, marking a milestone for Asian leadership in global conservation. Menon will spearhead efforts to protect threatened species, promote best practices, and foster collaboration with governments and NGOs. His election reflects India’s growing role in international biodiversity and conservation policy. Menon’s priorities include community-driven conservation and scaling up efforts for critically endangered flora and fauna.

Long Description : At a high-level meeting in Thimpu, India and Bhutan reinforced their partnership in border security and management. The talks focused on preventing illegal crossings, tackling smuggling, and promoting joint surveillance along sensitive border areas. Delegates agreed to strengthen technical cooperation and improve information sharing. The outcomes aim to enhance stability, support local livelihoods, and expand bilateral security cooperation.

Long Description : Indian defence PSU BEML has signed an MoU with Italy’s Tesmec S.p.A. to bring state-of-the-art surface mining and trenching solutions for India’s mining sector. The collaboration aims to reduce import dependency, foster manufacturing efficiency, and make available cutting-edge machinery for infrastructure and mining projects. BEML will lead technology transfer, assembly, and maintenance, boosting the Make in India industry initiative and technical skilling.

Long Description : City Union Bank launched multiple innovative digital payment solutions, including a secure UPI platform and biometric-based authentication services, during the Global FinTech Fest. These products are designed to improve customer security, ease of access, and transaction efficiency. The new tools align with India’s fintech expansion and digital banking adoption, focusing on rural market inclusion and small businesses.

Long Description : The Indian Coast Guard commissioned two new Fast Patrol Vessels, ‘ICGS Ajit’ and ‘ICGS Aparajit’, built at Goa Shipyard. These ships are equipped with state-of-the-art navigation, surveillance, and disaster response capabilities, aimed at securing India’s maritime borders and supporting search and rescue operations. Their deployment will improve coastal readiness, anti-smuggling enforcement, and protection against maritime threats.

Long Description : NASA astronomers have observed asteroid 2025 PN7, which has been classified as a quasi-moon due to its close and stable orbit around Earth. Though not an actual new moon, its trajectory makes it a unique companion, posing no threat to Earth. This discovery helps scientists study gravitational dynamics, asteroid movement, and could inform future planetary defence strategies.

Long Description : The prestigious BWF World Junior Championships concluded in Guwahati, highlighting India’s growing influence in world badminton. Young athletes from over 30 countries competed in singles and doubles events, with Indian players making semi-final appearances. The event boosted local tourism, sports infrastructure, and showcased Assam’s capacity to host international sporting events, contributing to India’s sports development vision.

Long Description : Odisha’s Revenue and Disaster Management department has mobilized teams and resources across eight districts after IMD warnings about the potential impact of Cyclone Montha. Relief measures, evacuation plans, and urgent communication channels have been activated. Authorities are coordinating with central agencies to mitigate risks, ensure readiness of shelters, and prioritize safety of vulnerable populations. Updates are issued regularly for effective disaster risk management.

Long Description : The Election Commission will conduct Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls nationwide, aiming for updated and accurate voter data ahead of elections. State ECs will oversee booth-level operations, corrections, and fresh registrations, ensuring higher inclusivity and transparency. A press conference to detail the process is scheduled for Monday. This step is crucial for strengthening electoral integrity and democratic participation.

Long Description : The electronics industry is witnessing exponential growth in export volumes, boosted by the iPhone manufacturing boom and local supply chains. Data suggests electronics will soon surpass petroleum as the nation’s second-largest export category. The sector’s momentum is driven by policies supporting production-linked incentives, FDI, and innovation, helping India emerge as a key player in the global electronics market, reducing import dependency.

Long Description : The government’s Rs 7,300 crore scheme to boost domestic rare earth magnet production is challenged by China’s strict export restrictions on essential processing technologies. India aims for self-reliance in electronics and renewable energy supply chains, intensifies R&D, and explores alternative sources. Policymakers emphasize collaborations with partners in Australia, US, and the EU to secure resources and overcome supply bottlenecks.

Long Description : Major north Indian cities, including Delhi, are experiencing peak air pollution due to post-harvest stubble burning and weather conditions. Thick smog restricts visibility and increases respiratory problems among at-risk groups. Authorities urge residents to limit outdoor exposure, deploy air purifiers, and implement stricter measures against polluters. Health experts stress urgent action to address chronic pollution sources affecting millions.

Long Description : Taking the next leap in telecom, India hosted the International 6G Symposium as part of India Mobile Congress 2025, outlining its ambitious 6G Vision 2030. The event showcased India’s self-reliant 4G stack, targeted export readiness, and collaborations to secure 10% of global 6G patents by 2035. Experts discussed building a robust, indigenous infrastructure and the role of academia-industry partnerships for affordable, secure next-gen connectivity.