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CURRENT AFFAIRS : BANKING, FINANCE & BUSINESS

Union Cabinet Extends Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units (CGFMU) Scheme Until March 2031

• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the continuation of the Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units (CGFMU) for five years up to 31 March 2031 on 11 November 2026.

Key Highlights :

• The CGFMU, launched in January 2016, provides credit guarantee coverage to Lending Institutions (LIs) against default risk through the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC).
• The scheme aims to promote collateral-free lending to micro-enterprises and strengthen entrepreneurship under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY).
• As of September 2026, more than 60.36 crore loans, amounting to ₹43.34 lakh crore, had been sanctioned by lending institutions since the launch of PMMY.
• The Union Cabinet approved a ₹5,000 crore corpus to facilitate approximately ₹12.6 lakh crore in loans over the next five years.
• The scheme provides credit guarantee support for PMMY loans up to ₹20 lakh extended to eligible micro-enterprises.
• It also covers overdraft facilities up to ₹10,000 provided by banks under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY)
• The scheme additionally covers Self-Help Group (SHG) portfolio loans ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh.
• Guarantee coverage is linked to the disbursement amount for working capital limits and the outstanding amount for term loans to reflect the actual risk exposure of lending institutions.
• The guarantee fee for PMMY loans has been reduced from 1% per annum to 0.75% per annum to encourage lending to micro-enterprises.
• The guarantee fee for SHG loans remains unchanged at 25% for the first year and 0.50% in subsequent years.
• The extended scheme will apply to all PMMY loans sanctioned during the 16th Finance Commission period (FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31).
• The continuation of CGFMU is expected to facilitate ₹12.6 lakh crore in loans over the next five years, supporting the establishment and expansion of micro-enterprises.
• The scheme promotes financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and employment generation by enabling aspiring entrepreneurs, especially youth, to access formal banking credit without collateral.
• The scheme will help create a new generation of entrepreneurs and job creators by supporting young people in establishing and growing their businesses.

Reserve Bank of India Introduces New Cybersecurity Rules for Non-Bank PSOs with Mandatory 6-Hour Reporting and Launches Three Surveys

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the Master Directions on Cyber Resilience and Digital Payment Security Controls for Non-bank Payment System Operators (PSOs) on 5 November 2026 to strengthen cybersecurity and digital payment security.
• The directions were issued under Section 10(2), read with Section 18, of the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act, 2007.
• The directions aim to improve the safety and security of payment systems by strengthening information security preparedness and cyber resilience.
• The new directions are effective immediately for large and medium non-bank PSOs, while small PSOs have been given time until 1 April 2028 to comply.

Key Highlights :

• The revised framework covers National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), card networks, payment aggregators, Prepaid Payment Instrument (PPI) issuers and White-Label ATM Operators (WLAOs).
• PSOs must report cyber incidents to the RBI and the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) within six hours of detection.
• Reportable incidents include cyberattacks, critical system outages, internal frauds and settlement delays.
• PSOs must obtain the source code of critical applications purchased from external vendors or arrange for the source code to be held in escrow to prevent service disruptions.
• If a PSO does not own the source code, it must obtain a developer's certificate confirming that the application contains no vulnerabilities, malware or hidden communication channels.
• Developers must issue a fresh security certificate whenever changes are made to the application.
• Every PSO must submit an annual system audit report within two months of the end of its financial year.
• For PSOs following the April–March financial year, the annual system audit report must be submitted by 1 June.
• To prevent conflicts of interest, an auditor and its related entities must not have provided any services to the PSO during the previous two financial years.
• Auditors must identify and report differences between the actual processes followed by PSOs and the processes submitted to the RBI during their authorisation applications.
• PSOs must resolve pending audit observations within three months.
• White-Label ATM Operators (WLAOs) using shared ATM switch services must ensure that their third-party service providers comply with RBI-prescribed cybersecurity requirements through contractual arrangements.
• Agreements with third-party ATM switch providers must allow the RBI to conduct on-site and off-site supervision.
• Security measures include blocking remote connections from external machines to ATM switch networks and preventing unauthorised backdoor access.
• The directions retain a mandatory 12-hour cooling-off period after customers change their registered mobile number or email address.
• The RBI has repealed six earlier circulars, including one issued in 2009, and consolidated their requirements into a single set of directions.

Patna Municipal Corporation Becomes Bihar’s First Urban Local Body to Raise Funds Through NSE-Listed Municipal Bonds

• The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) became the first Urban Local Body (ULB) in Bihar to raise funds through municipal bonds, mobilising approximately ₹199.99 crore from the capital market.
• The municipal bonds were issued through private placement on 30 October 2026 via the National Stock Exchange (NSE) Electronic Bidding Platform (EBP).
• The bond issue attracted bids worth over ₹205 crore, which was more than twice the base issue size.
• The municipal bonds carry an annual coupon rate of 9.20% with a tenure of 10 years.
• The funds raised will be utilised to execute 18 development projects across 15 locations in Patna, Bihar.
• The planned projects include two vending zones, two marriage halls, one parking facility, one commercial complex, one hotel and one community centre.
• Municipal bonds are debt securities issued by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), such as municipal corporations, to raise funds from investors for public infrastructure and civic development projects.

Indian Overseas Bank Introduces Digital Rupee App with Programmable Central Bank Digital Currency Functionality

• Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), a public sector bank, launched its ‘IOB Digital Rupee’ mobile application to enable customers to conduct transactions using India's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
• The application supports Programmable Central Bank Digital Currency (PCBDC) functionality for the purpose-specific disbursement and utilisation of government grants and benefits.
• The application allows customers to maintain Digital Rupee wallets (e₹) and perform instant Peer-to-Peer (P2P) and Peer-to-Merchant (P2M)
• The IOB Digital Rupee application supports Unified Payments Interface (UPI) interoperability, providing customers with an additional digital payment option alongside existing UPI applications.
• The application offers a secure, accessible and user-friendly mobile interface for conducting digital transactions.
• The PCBDC facility supports efficient delivery of Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT), government-sponsored benefits and targeted financial assistance through CBDC.
• Digital Rupee (e₹) is India's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) issued by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and recognised as legal tender for digital payments.
• The retail Digital Rupee pilot was launched by the RBI on 1 December 2022.

About Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) :

• Established : 10 February 1937 by Ct. M. Chidambaram Chettyar.
• Headquarters : Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• Tagline : is “Good People to Bank With.”

Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India Forms Two Working Groups to Develop Ind Accounting Standards-Aligned Risk-Based Capital Framework for Insurers

• The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) constituted two working groups, one each for life and non-life insurance, to develop a Risk-Based Capital (RBC) framework aligned with Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS).
• The initiative aims to shift India's insurance sector from the existing factor-based solvency regime to a risk-sensitive capital framework, ensuring financial stability and policyholder protection.
• Ind AS-based financial statements will serve as the foundation for the RBC framework, with clearly defined, transparent and evidence-based adjustments wherever required for prudential purposes.
• The working groups aim to achieve convergence between the RBC framework and Ind AS, using a single set of underlying data, models and valuation assumptions across insurers.
• The proposed RBC framework will be transparent, comparable across insurers, resistant to arbitrage and proportionate, with a realistic implementation timeline.
• Under the RBC framework, an insurer's capital requirement will be determined according to the risks it carries, measured using an economic (market-consistent) balance sheet.
• The Life Insurance Working Group is a 13-member group convened by Jamuna Choudhary.
• The Life Insurance Working Group includes CFOs or appointed actuaries from LIC, SBI Life, HDFC Life, ICICI Prudential Life, Bajaj Life, Tata AIA, Kotak Life, Bandhan Life and Aditya Birla Life, along with Munich Re and the Institute of Actuaries of India.
• The Non-Life Insurance Working Group is a 12-member group convened by Parmeshwar Shelke.
• The Non-Life Insurance Working Group includes representatives from New India Assurance, ICICI Lombard, Bajaj General, SBI General, Tata AIG, Niva Bupa, IndusInd General and Kiwi General, along with Swiss Re and the Institute of Actuaries of India.
• IRDAI advised insurers to prepare their financial statements in accordance with Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS) from 1 April 2026.

About IRDAI:

• Headquarters (HQ): Hyderabad, Telangana, India
• Chairperson:Ajay Seth
• Founded: 1999 

CURRENT AFFAIRS : INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Signs India-Saudi Arabia Haj Agreement 2027, Retaining India’s Pilgrim Quota at 1,75,025

• Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Minority Affairs (MoMA) and Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA), visited Saudi Arabia from 6 to 9 November 2026.
• He was accompanied by the Joint Secretary (Haj), Ministry of Minority Affairs, and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Haj Committee of India.
• During the visit, India and Saudi Arabia signed the Bilateral Haj Agreement-2027 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
• Under the agreement, India's Haj pilgrim quota was fixed at 1,75,025 pilgrims, unchanged since 2025.
• The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in Haj management, logistical arrangements and pilgrims' welfare.
• Kiren Rijiju held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Arabia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, at the Jeddah Superdome to review Haj-2027 preparations and logistical arrangements for Indian pilgrims.
• Rijiju attended the inaugural ceremony of the 6th Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah.
• He also participated in the Ministerial Conference chaired by Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, reaffirming India's cooperation with Saudi Arabia for Haj-2027.
• Kiren Rijiju interacted with Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region.
• He attended the Noor-e-Diwali celebration at India House, Jeddah, and appreciated the contributions of the Indian diaspora to India-Saudi Arabia relations.
• He also visited important Haj-related and cultural sites in Jeddah.

About Saudi Arabia:

• Capital: Riyadh
• Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
• Crown Prince: Mohammed bin Salman

CURRENT AFFAIRS: NATIONAL AND STATE NEWS

Andhra Pradesh Secures 2nd Rank in Access Equality Index 2026, Tops Socio-Economic Security Pillar

• Andhra Pradesh secured 2nd rank among 28 states in the Access Equality Index (AEI) 2026, released by the Centre for New Economics Studies (CNES) of O.P. Jindal Global University.
• Goa topped the national ranking with a score of 0.68, followed by Andhra Pradesh with 0.66. Other state rankings and scores included:
• Sikkim: 0.63
• Kerala: 0.60
• Tamil Nadu: 0.57
• Telangana: 0.57

Key Highlights

• The index assesses states across five foundational pillars: basic infrastructure, healthcare, education, socio-economic security and legal services. It combines data from 23 domains and 60 indicators, with equal weightage assigned to each pillar.
• Andhra Pradesh secured 1st rank nationally in the socio-economic security pillar, with a score of 0.69, significantly ahead of second-ranked Goa, which scored 0.50. The state also secured leading positions across the other four pillars.
• The report highlighted Andhra Pradesh's performance in relation to its per capita income. Although the state ranked 13th nationally in per capita income, it secured 2nd position in providing access and opportunities to its population.
• Based on its economic standing, Andhra Pradesh's expected Access Equality Index score was 0.51, whereas its actual score was 0.66, resulting in a positive difference of +0.15 points.
• This +0.15-point positive difference was the highest recorded among Indian states, exceeding the corresponding differences for Kerala (+0.07) and Himachal Pradesh (+0.06). The finding highlights the role of governance in converting available economic resources into public services and opportunities.
• The index measures grassroots access to essential facilities and services, including drinking water, sanitation, housing, clean energy, quality healthcare, educational institutions, institutional credit, pensions, insurance and judicial services.
• Reacting to the findings, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu stated that the rankings validated the State Government's dual-engine approach, which focuses on attracting industrial investments and creating wealth while ensuring that the benefits of economic growth reach every household.

About Andhra Pradesh:

• Chief Minister: Chandrababu Naidu
• Governor: S. Abdul Nazeer
• Capital: Amaravati
• National Parks: Papikonda National Park, Sri Venkateswara National Park, Rajiv Gandhi (Rameswaram) National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Coringa, Kolleru, Krishna, Kambalakonda, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuaries

Bihar’s Ranivas Mound in East Champaran Declared an Archaeological Site of National Importance by the Central Government

• The Central Government has declared the Ranivas Mound, an ancient archaeological site located at Kesariya in East Champaran district, Bihar, a site of national importance through a Gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Culture.
• The site covers 1.63 acres and is owned by the Bihar Government. The final notification was dated 4 November 2026 and signed by Yadubir Singh Rawat, Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
• Copies of the proposed notification were made available to the public on 8 June 2026. No objections were received from any person regarding the proposed declaration.

Key Highlights

• A copy of the notification was displayed at a conspicuous location in accordance with Section 4(1) of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958. The final declaration was made under Section 4(3) of the Act.
• A recommendation to include the Ranivas Mound as a centrally protected monument was sent to the ASI headquarters in New Delhi in 2021.
• Under the existing procedure, proposals and recommendations submitted by regional ASI circles are examined by a team at the organisation's headquarters before a final decision is taken. For suitable proposals, a provisional notification is issued first, followed by a final Gazette notification.
• The inclusion of new archaeological sites under ASI protection is an ongoing process based on recommendations received from its regional circles. Centrally protected monuments and sites in Bihar fall under the jurisdiction of the ASI Patna Circle.
• As of February 2026, the Central Government had informed Parliament that 3,686 sites across India were under the care of the ASI.
• Bihar currently has 70 centrally protected sites under the ASI Patna Circle, one of the oldest regional circles in India. It was earlier known as the Mid-Eastern Circle and, before that, the Buddhist Circle, reflecting the presence of important Buddhist monuments in the region.
• The ruins of the ancient Nalanda University in Bihar, which are protected by the ASI, are recognised as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site.
• Other important centrally protected sites in Bihar include:
• Tomb of Sher Shah Suri and Tomb of Hasan Shah Suri.
• Rohtasgarh Fort in Rohtas district.
• Kumrahar, Bulandibagh and Sandalpur archaeological sites.
• Mir Ashraf ki Masjid in Patna.
• Ancient mound at Bargaon, Nalanda.
• Sculptures of Hindu deities carved on the northern and eastern faces of rocks at Kauvadol Hill, Kurisarai, Gaya.
• Ashokan Pillar at Lauriya Areraj, East Champaran.
• Vikramshila Monastery in Bhagalpur.
• The ancestral house of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India's first President, at Ziradei in Siwan district, was declared a protected monument on 27 May 1991, following its provisional notification on 30 October 1990.
• The Shiva Temple in Gaya was notified by the ASI in 1996. According to an ASI official's statement in September 2022, no new site in Bihar had been brought under ASI protection since then until the Ranivas Mound proposal.
• An ASI official stated that the first notifications for the Bihar region covered eight to nine sites in 1909.
• The Patna Circle earlier administered archaeological sites in Jharkhand and several areas of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Following the formation of Jharkhand in 2000, the Ranchi Circle was established in 2003. A separate Sarnath Circle was created in 2013 to manage sites in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
• The Archaeological Survey of India was established in 1861, with Alexander Cunningham as its first head.

About Bihar:

• Chief Minister: Samrat Choudhary
• Governor: Syed Ata Hasnain
• Capital: Patna
• National Parks: Valmiki National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Valmiki, Bhimbandh, Kaimur, Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuaries

Union Cabinet Extends Stand-Up India Scheme Until 2031 with ₹4,111 Crore Credit Guarantee Corpus to Support 2.5 Lakh New Entrepreneurs

• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the continuation of the Stand-Up India Scheme for another five years, until 31 March 2031.
• The extended scheme aims to provide financial assistance to an additional 2.5 lakh entrepreneurs from women, Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) communities, promoting entrepreneurship and inclusive economic growth.
• The Cabinet also approved a Credit Guarantee Corpus of ₹4,111 crore to strengthen the scheme's lending framework and improve access to institutional finance for eligible borrowers.

Key Highlights

• Launched in April 2016, the Stand-Up India Scheme has facilitated loans to more than 2.75 lakh women, SC and ST entrepreneurs so far. Its continuation aims to enable more entrepreneurs from these communities to establish and expand their businesses.
• Under the scheme, eligible women, SC and ST entrepreneurs can obtain loans to establish greenfield enterprises (new businesses) in the manufacturing, services and trading sectors, as well as activities allied to agriculture.
• The loan is available either as a composite facility, combining working capital and a term loan, or as a term loan.
• The eligible loan amount ranges from above ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore and can cover up to 85% of the project cost.
• The scheme provides 85% credit guarantee coverage of the loan amount to strengthen lenders' confidence and facilitate the flow of institutional credit. A standard guarantee fee of 0.50% is applicable.
• The continuation of the scheme aims to improve access to formal credit for entrepreneurs who face difficulties in securing finance, encourage self-employment, expand business opportunities and increase the participation of women and SC and ST communities in India's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
• With a target of reaching at least 2.5 lakh additional beneficiaries over the next five years, the extended scheme aims to strengthen financial inclusion and promote broad-based economic development.

Ministry of Home Affairs Relaxes Passport and Travel Document Requirements for Specific Categories of Foreign Nationals Under Immigration and Foreigners Amendment Order 2026

• The Ministry of Home Affairs issued the Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) (Amendment) Order, 2026 through the Official Gazette, relaxing passport and travel document requirements for specified categories of foreign nationals residing in or entering India.
• The amendment introduces a definition of the Visa Manual, referring to the manual issued by the Central Government from time to time, which contains instructions relating to visas, immigration and other connected matters.
• Indian citizens travelling to Nepal or Bhutan by land or air are exempt from the passport requirement, provided they produce any one of the identity documents specified in the Visa Manual before an Immigration Officer and furnish any information requested by the officer.

Key Highlights

• Similar passport exemptions apply to citizens of Nepal and Bhutan entering or exiting India, subject to the prescribed identity and information requirements.
• The exemptions also cover registered Sri Lankan Tamil nationals who took shelter in India on or before 9 January 2015.
• Members of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force travelling on official duty, along with their family members accompanying them on Government transport, are covered under the exemptions.
• Foreign crew members of military vessels visiting India for repairs are also exempt, provided they possess valid military identification documents and obtain the required Military Ship Repair Permits.
• Members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan who were compelled to seek shelter in India due to religious persecution or fear of persecution are exempt from passport and travel document requirements, provided they entered India on or before 31 December 2024. They must, however, obtain an appropriate category of visa to continue their stay in India.
• Certain Pakistani nationals who entered India on or before 31 December 2009 with the intention of permanent residence are also covered. This exemption applies to those who have been unable to renew their passports because they do not possess a Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) issued by Pakistan.
• Certain male members of the Muslim community who were originally Indian citizens, migrated to Pakistan after Partition during the period from 15 August 1947 to 31 December 1965, and returned to India on or before 31 December 2009, are also included in the exempted category.
• The amendment further covers persons of Indian origin who acquired Malaysian or Singaporean citizenship and returned to India on or before 31 December 2009, using passports issued by either country that have since expired and cannot be renewed.

Government Releases ₹77.98 Crore for 755 Senior Citizen Welfare Projects Under Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana

• The Central Government released ₹77.98 crore as Grant-in-Aid to 755 projects under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC), a component of the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY), for the quarter ending 30 September 2026 in the financial year 2026–27.
• According to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, the financial assistance aims to strengthen service delivery, assisted institutional care and other welfare interventions for senior citizens.

Key Highlights

• AVYAY is a flagship scheme of the Ministry based on the principles of ‘Ageing with Dignity’ and ‘Ageing in Place’, which seek to ensure that older persons live with respect, security and independence.
• India's senior citizen population is projected to reach 23 crore by 2036, highlighting the growing need for comprehensive and accessible care and support systems.
• According to Census 2011, India had 10.38 crore people aged 60 years and above, comprising 5.11 crore males and 5.27 crore females. The Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) highlights functional limitations among a substantial proportion of older persons, emphasising the need for reliable healthcare, care services and community-based support.
• Launched in 2021, AVYAY subsumed and expanded the earlier National Action Plan for Senior Citizens (NAPSrC) by bringing multiple senior citizen welfare interventions under a unified umbrella scheme.
• The scheme aims to promote active ageing by facilitating shelter, food, healthcare and recreational services. It also strengthens the capacities of governments, non-governmental organisations, local bodies and communities to support older persons.
• ‘Ageing with Dignity’ focuses on respectful and empowering care that recognises the lifelong contributions of senior citizens, while ‘Ageing in Place’ enables older persons to continue living safely in their own homes and communities through suitable home modifications and specialised community-based services.
• The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, through the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, acts as the nodal authority for AVYAY and is responsible for policy formulation, financial assistance, monitoring and overall implementation.
• State and Union Territory Governments implement the State Action Plan for Senior Citizens (SAPSrC) component by preparing and executing welfare action plans according to their respective requirements, with financial support from the Ministry.
• At the district level, committees chaired by the District Collector or District Magistrate select eligible indigent beneficiaries and monitor senior citizen homes, strengthening local-level identification of needs and oversight of welfare services.

Sonia Gandhi Releases 544-Page Memoir Belonging A Journey of Love, Reveals Political Experiences and Pranab Mukherjee’s Prime Ministerial Ambition

• Congress Parliamentary Party chief Sonia Gandhi released her 544-page memoir, “Belonging: A Journey of Love”, published by HarperCollins India.
• A special event to mark the release will be held on 16 November 2026 at the ITC Maurya Hotel, New Delhi.
• It will be attended by her children, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and close associates of the Gandhi family. The event will be invitation-only.
• The memoir traces Sonia Gandhi's journey from her birth in Italy and life in the United Kingdom (UK) to meeting and marrying former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, moving to India and entering political life. It also recounts incidents from the corridors of power.

Key Highlights

• Sonia Gandhi revealed that in 2010, former President Pranab Mukherjee suggested that it was time for a change in leadership, which she understood as a hint of his long-held desire to become Prime Minister. This occurred when Mukherjee was reportedly having differences with Congress leader P. Chidambaram.
• She stated that she had very limited direct interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while acknowledging some common ground with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader.
• She rejected criticism that she had acted as a “back-seat driver” during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's tenure.
• Sonia Gandhi is the second leader from the Nehru-Gandhi family to write a memoir, after former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, whose An Autobiography was published in 1936.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: MOUS AND AGREEMENT

IB Solar Partners with Three German Companies to Establish Centre of Excellence for Advanced Solar Technology in Greater Noida

• IB Solar signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three leading German companies — centrotherm international AG, RENA Technologies GmbH and ISC Konstanz — to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) at the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
• The agreement was signed during the Bharat Renewable Energy (RE) Summit, organised by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), with a focus on technology, research and development (R&D) and skill development.

Key Highlights

• The collaboration aims to strengthen India's renewable energy manufacturing ecosystem through advanced research, technological innovation, knowledge exchange and skill development by combining Indian manufacturing expertise with German technological capabilities.
• The proposed Centre of Excellence will serve as a platform for collaborative research, technology development and innovation. Its key focus areas include:
• Improving solar manufacturing processes and product efficiency.
• Developing advanced solar technologies.
• Promoting knowledge sharing between industries and research institutions.
• Strengthening indigenous solar manufacturing capabilities.
• The initiative aims to bridge the gap between research and industrial applications, accelerate the commercial use of technological advancements and improve the global competitiveness of India's renewable energy manufacturing sector.
• The collaboration is supported by three organisations:
• National Solar Energy Federation of India (NSEFI).
• Bundesverband Solarwirtschaft e. V. (BSW).
• Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.
• These organisations have facilitated India-Germany cooperation by bringing together industry stakeholders and research institutions to promote solar manufacturing and research and development.
• Through this partnership, IB Solar and its German partners aim to convert research outcomes into industrial capabilities, accelerate innovation, introduce advanced international technologies in India and strengthen the country's self-reliant solar manufacturing ecosystem.

Ministry of Minority Affairs Signs MoUs to Provide Skill Training to 9,600 Candidates Under PM VIKAS Scheme

• The Ministry of Minority Affairs organised “Samavesh Se VIKAS – Implementation Review and Stakeholder Dialogue” at Samrasta Hall, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
• The event brought together over 80 participants, including Shri Shyama Prasad Roy, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, and Ms. Neha Giri, Director, Ministry of Minority Affairs, along with representatives of Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs) and other stakeholders.

Key Highlights

• The discussions focused on reviewing the implementation progress of Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS), addressing implementation challenges and identifying measures to improve training quality, placements and overall scheme outcomes.
• The event witnessed the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) under PM VIKAS with three organisations:
• Pithampur Auto Cluster (PAC) – Will provide skill training to 2,400 candidates in Madhya Pradesh in industry-relevant job roles, including Electric Vehicle Service Technician, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Milling Programmer, Warehouse Associate and Supply Chain Executive (Sustainability).
• Centre of Excellence in Maritime & Shipbuilding (CEMS) – Will train 6,300 candidates across Karnataka, Puducherry, Maharashtra, Telangana, West Bengal, Odisha and Gujarat in job roles such as Business Analyst, Warehouse Supervisor, Artificial Intelligence Technocrat and Guest Service Executive (Front Office), among others.
• Institute of Entrepreneurship Development (IED) – Will provide training to 900 candidates in Uttar Pradesh as Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installers (Suryamitra), preparing them for employment opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
• Separately, on 3 November 2026, the Ministry of Minority Affairs signed an MoU with the Central University of Kashmir under the Traditional Skill component of PM VIKAS.
• Under this partnership, 120 candidates will receive training as willow craft artisans in Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir, through a 390-hour training programme. The initiative aims to preserve traditional craftsmanship and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
• A PIA-wise implementation review examined the progress of the scheme and challenges faced by implementing agencies.
• The event also discussed strengthening quality assurance through independent monitoring by the Quality Council of India (QCI) and the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM Bangalore).
• Technology-driven solutions were discussed, including BlueDot for improving placement outcomes and Voice Artificial Intelligence (Voice AI) for collecting candidate feedback. These solutions were presented by the EkStep Foundation.
• The role of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in the skill development ecosystem was also discussed, with emphasis on strengthening industry linkages and improving employment opportunities.
• ITIHАAS – Indian Traditions and Heritage Society presented “Upskilling for Youth in Heritage and Tourism”, highlighting opportunities to develop skills among young people in heritage and tourism-related sectors and create livelihood opportunities by connecting skill development with India's cultural heritage.
• The event concluded with an interactive dialogue involving Ministry officials, stakeholders and PIAs to share field-level experiences, discuss implementation challenges and recommend measures to improve the delivery and effectiveness of PM VIKAS.
• Through PM VIKAS, the Ministry aims to improve access to quality skill development, strengthen industry partnerships and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for youth from minority communities.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

Pedro Alliana Takes Oath as Paraguay’s President After Santiago Peña’s Impeachment

• Pedro Alliana, former Vice-President of Paraguay and a member of the National Republican Association (ANR), also known as the Colorado Party, was sworn in as the new President of Paraguay.
• He assumed office following the removal of former President Santiago Peña by the Senate through impeachment proceedings.
• Pedro Alliana will complete the existing 2023–2028 presidential term, which ends on 15 August 2028.
• He served as the Governor of Ñeembucú Department from 2008 to 2013.
• He represented the Ñeembucú Department in the Chamber of Deputies for two consecutive terms, from 2013–2018 and 2018–2023.
• He was elected President of the National Republican Association (ANR) in 2015 and formally proclaimed in 2016, serving in the position until 2023.
• He served as President of the Chamber of Deputies from 2019 to 2022.
• He served as Vice-President of Paraguay from 2023 to 2026.

About Paraguay :

• Capital : Asunción
• Currency : Guaraní

CURRENT AFFAIRS : DEFENCE NEWS

Ministry of Defence Signs ₹498 Crore Contract for INS Betwa Refit and Re-powering

• The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract worth ₹498.58 crore with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) for the Normal Refit and Re-powering of INS Betwa on 11 November 2026.
• The contract was signed in New Delhi in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
• INS Betwa is a Brahmaputra-class guided-missile frigate of the Indian Navy.
• Under the contract, INS Betwa will undergo a major propulsion system transformation, replacing its existing steam-based propulsion system with a diesel-engine-based propulsion system.
• The refit will also include the installation of a modernised weapon suite to upgrade its combat capabilities and enhance its operational effectiveness.
• The project will strengthen India's indigenous ship repair and maintenance ecosystem, particularly in complex propulsion system transformation and naval platform modernisation.
• The project is expected to involve more than 50 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and generate significant employment opportunities in India's shipbuilding and ancillary industries.
• The project will support the Government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives and strengthen indigenous naval maintenance capabilities.
• INS Betwa, named after the Betwa River, was first commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1960 as an indigenously designed and built guided-missile frigate with a steam propulsion system.
• In 2004, the frigate underwent an upgrade with the indigenously designed and developed Electronic Modular Command and Control Application (EMCCA) Combat Management System to integrate various weapons and sensors.
• In December 2016, INS Betwa met with an accident at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, suffering critical damage and subsequently undergoing life-saving repairs.

Army Chief Delivers Cavalry Memorial Address at the 2026 Mechanised Forces Symposium

• General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), delivered an address on “Vision for Future Warfighting in the Indian Subcontinent” at the Mechanised Forces Symposium 2026 on 11 November 2026 at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
• The two-day symposium (11–12 November 2026) was organised by the Cavalry Officers’ Association in collaboration with the Directorate General of Mechanised Forces.
• The symposium brought together senior serving officers, veterans, defence scientists, industry representatives and strategic thinkers to discuss the changing nature of warfare.
• General Dhiraj Seth highlighted the Indian Army's transformation through innovation, technological adaptation and organisational agility, while keeping the Yoddha (soldier) at its core.
• The COAS emphasised jointness and integration across the three Armed Services and multiple operational domains as essential for future warfare.
• He reiterated the Indian Army's commitment to Aatmanirbharta through indigenous defence capability development and stronger partnerships with industry and academia.
• Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh, Director General of Mechanised Forces, delivered the keynote address on “Contemporary Mechanised Warfare in the Indian Context”, highlighting the shift towards an integrated, network-enabled and autonomous combat ecosystem.
• The symposium witnessed the unveiling of the book “Armour 2040: Steel, Silicon & The Future Battlespace”, authored by Lt Gen AB Shivane (Retd).
• Major discussion themes included Artificial Intelligence (AI), autonomous kill chains, manned-unmanned teaming, integrated drone warfare, next-generation combat systems and multi-domain mechanised operations.
• The symposium will conclude on 12 November 2026 with a valedictory fireside discussion on “Indian Mechanised Forces 2035: Transforming for the Future Operational Environment”.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Technology Development Board-Department of Science & Technology Provides ₹64.05 Crore Research, Development and Innovation Funding to Astrome for Indigenous AI-ELINT Satellite Constellation Development

• The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, signed an agreement with Astrome Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru, Karnataka, to provide financial support of ₹64.05 crore under the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund.
• The project has a total cost of ₹128.11 crore and aims to develop an indigenous Space-Based Artificial Intelligence-enabled Electronic Intelligence (AI-ELINT) constellation for national security applications.
• The project will receive financial support through Optionally Convertible Debt (OCD).
• The programme aims to advance critical technologies from Technology Readiness Level (TRL)-4 to TRL-9.
• The project focuses on developing and deploying AI-ELINT microsatellites in the 50 kg class as part of a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation.
• The AI-ELINT constellation will integrate three key technologies: Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) payload, AI-based ground processing software and inter-satellite communication links.
• The ELINT payload will detect and analyse signals across a broad frequency range for intelligence-gathering applications.
• The AI-based ground processing software will enable efficient processing and analysis of information collected by the satellite constellation.
• The inter-satellite communication links will enable satellites to exchange information and operate as an integrated network.
• The proposed constellation aims to provide persistent surveillance, wider geographical coverage and increased observation frequency for national security.
• The project includes technology development, engineering, integration, testing and validation to achieve TRL-9.
• The project falls under the Deep Technology sector, with Space Technology as its sub-sector.
• The initiative combines satellite engineering, electronic intelligence, artificial intelligence and secure space-based communications to strengthen India's indigenous space-based intelligence capabilities.

Indian Space Research Organisation Successfully Tests Cryogenic Engine for Upcoming GSLV-F19 Mission Carrying NVS-04 Satellite

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted a 200-second flight acceptance test of the cryogenic engine for its upcoming Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F19) mission on 5 November 2026.
• The test was conducted at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu (TN).
• The cryogenic engine demonstrated normal steady-state operation, with its performance matching the pre-test predictions.
• Both the Main Engine (ME) and Gas Generator (GG) ignited as expected during the test.
• Following the successful test, the cryogenic engine will be integrated into the cryogenic stage of the GSLV-F19 launch vehicle.
• The GSLV-F19 mission is scheduled to launch the NVS-04 navigation satellite in 2027.
• NVS-04 is the fourth navigation satellite in India's second-generation NVS series.
• NVS-04 is designed to strengthen India's regional satellite navigation capabilities under the indigenous Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC)
• NavIC is India's indigenous regional satellite navigation system.

About ISRO:

• Established: 15 August 1969
• Headquarters: Bangalore, Karnataka
• Chairman: V. Narayanan

India and Norway Collaborate on Technologies to Convert Industrial Waste into Resources for Sustainable Construction

• The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), India, jointly with SINTEF, Norway, and the Research Council of Norway, organised the India–Norway Dialogue on “Waste to Resource Solutions in the Cement and Construction Sector” on 10 November 2026 at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
• The dialogue aimed to strengthen India–Norway cooperation in sustainable waste management, resource recovery and circular economy solutions in the cement and construction sectors.
• The dialogue aligned with the vision of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, following their meeting in May 2026, when India–Norway relations were elevated to a Green Strategic Partnership.

Key Highlights :

• The Green Strategic Partnership focuses on circular economy, clean technology and research cooperation.
• The inaugural session was addressed by Rama Swami Bansal (Head, ISTAD, CSIR Headquarters), Dr. Arvinn Gadgil (Royal Norwegian Embassy), Dr. Kåre Helge Karstensen (Chief Scientist, SINTEF) and Prof. R. Pradeep Kumar (Director, CSIR-CBRI).
• The dialogue emphasised the transition from a linear economy to a circular economy by converting construction and industrial waste into valuable resources.
• Major waste materials discussed for resource recovery included Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste, steel slag, fly ash, red mud and other industrial residues.
• A technical session on “Safe Destruction of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Hazardous Waste” was led by Kåre Helge Karstensen (SINTEF) and Dr. Ramesh Kumar (CSIR-NEERI).
• The technical session explored cement kiln co-processing as an environmentally sound method for treating suitable hazardous waste, including POPs, DDT and PCB-contaminated materials.
• CSIR-NEERI presented India's National Implementation Plan under the Stockholm Convention, along with the 2025 C&D Waste Rules, related regulations and the inventory of legacy POPs.
• SINTEF, Norway, highlighted the potential of cement kilns to destroy hazardous organic contaminants under controlled high-temperature conditions while replacing conventional fossil fuels with waste-derived alternative fuels.
• The discussions highlighted the importance of technical protocols, controlled industrial trials, emission monitoring and regulatory compliance for safe hazardous waste treatment.
• Research initiatives by CSIR-CRRI and CSIR-AMPRI showcased the utilisation of fly ash, copper slag, red mud, plastic waste and steel grit in road construction, geopolymer concrete, specialised aggregates and value-added construction products.
• A dedicated session on C&D waste recycling was led by Christian John Engelsen of SINTEF, highlighting international best practices such as recycled aggregate-based construction products, mobile recycling units and improved impurity-removal techniques.
• S. K. Singh (CSIR-CBRI) delivered a presentation titled “Using Slags and Other By-products in Construction”, highlighting their potential in sustainable construction materials.
• The dialogue identified priority areas for future cooperation, including 2–3 joint India–Norway research proposals, pilot-scale hazardous waste treatment projects and technical guidelines for disposing of DDT- and PCB-contaminated waste.
• Other priority areas included developing waste-derived construction materials and strengthening industry–academia partnerships.
• The dialogue concluded with a commitment to strengthen bilateral research and technological cooperation, promote circular construction practices and accelerate the transition towards sustainable and resource-efficient cement and construction sectors.

About Norway :

• Prime Minister : Jonas Gahr Støre
• Capital : Oslo
• Currency : Norwegian krone

Indian National Science Academy Endorses G20 Science Academies’ Joint Statement, Reaffirming Support for Science-Based Solutions to Global Challenges

• The Indian National Science Academy (INSA), an institution of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), participated in the Science20 (S20) 2026 process and endorsed the Joint S20 Statement on 10 November 2026.
• The Joint S20 Statement was released by the science academies of G20 countries under the leadership of the S. National Academy of Sciences (NAS).
• The statement focuses on using advanced technologies to strengthen preparedness and response to natural hazards and disasters.
• The statement will be presented to the G20 ahead of the G20 Summit scheduled in Miami, Florida, in December 2026.
• The S20 2026 initiative aims to promote science-based approaches, global cooperation and technology-driven disaster preparedness and resilience.
• The statement highlights the use of Earth Observation, Remote Sensing, Early Warning Systems, Digital Twins, Drone Technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve disaster management and decision-making.
• It addresses natural hazards such as heavy rainfall, earthquakes, droughts, wildfires and extreme heat and cold events.
• The Joint S20 Statement identifies five key areas of action:

1. Strengthening data collection and understanding of risk through improved observation systems and reliable hazard-related data.
2. Enabling safe, secure and equitable access to data and technology through data sharing, common standards and interoperability.
3. Building local skills and capacity and designing context-specific solutions through education, training, workforce development and community engagement.
4. Strengthening human decision-making and governance through human oversight, transparency, accountability and effective risk communication.
5. Advancing international and cross-sector collaboration among governments, academia, industry, civil society, communities and international organisations.

• The statement emphasises that technology should complement rather than replace human expertise in disaster preparedness and management.
• It highlights the need to address gaps in data availability, infrastructure, technical capacity and institutional coordination to ensure effective technology deployment.
• INSA will communicate the statement's recommendations to relevant national stakeholders and promote cooperation among scientific experts, research institutions and government agencies.
• The Royal Society of the United Kingdom will lead the S20 engagement process in 2027.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: RANKING AND INDEX

Andhra Pradesh Tops India’s First Ease of Vehicle Ownership Index 2026, Uttar Pradesh Ranks Last

• Andhra Pradesh secured the first position in India's inaugural Ease of Vehicle Ownership Index (EVOI) 2026, scoring 5.91 out of 10, followed by Kerala (5.74). Uttar Pradesh ranked last with 2.47 points.
• The index was jointly released by IndiaTech.org and Consumer VOICE to assess how easily citizens and dealers can buy, sell and transfer ownership of pre-owned vehicles across 15 states and Union Territories.

Key Highlights

• The states covered account for more than 85% of India's organised pre-owned vehicle market.
• No state scored above 6 out of 10, indicating widespread administrative and procedural challenges.
• The index evaluates six key areas:
• Policy and regulatory framework.
• Digital infrastructure.
• Process efficiency.
• Transparency and accountability.
• Institutional ecosystem and dealer support.
• Cost and affordability.
• The assessment was based on a survey of over 1,000 buyers and sellers, industry interviews and reviews of regulatory procedures. Cost and affordability emerged as the weakest assessment area, with 12 of the 15 states scoring below 3.5 in this category.
• Manual verification, administrative procedures and informal payments can increase vehicle ownership-transfer expenses to nearly 10 times the statutory fees. In Bihar, the additional transfer cost can reach approximately ₹13,000–₹14,000 beyond the official VAHAN fee.
• The time required for Registration Certificate (RC) transfers varies considerably across states. It takes approximately 7–10 days in Andhra Pradesh, while it can exceed 30 days in Uttar Pradesh.
• Applicants in 13 states are still required to submit physical documents at Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), even after completing online applications.
• Road tax rates also differ significantly between states. For a petrol car worth ₹6 lakh, the applicable road tax ranges from 3% in Uttar Pradesh to 14% in Karnataka and Telangana.
• The survey identified major challenges in vehicle ownership transfers:
• 39% of sellers had pending RC transfers even after selling their vehicles.
• Only 9.6% completed ownership transfers within two weeks.
• 61.5% discovered the requirement for an in-person RTO visit only after reaching the office.
• 28.1% received traffic challans or legal notices even after handing over their vehicles.
• The index report was launched by Harsh Malhotra, Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways.
• The report recommended reforms to improve vehicle ownership transfers across India, including:
• Introducing statutory deadlines for completing ownership transfers.
• Increasing the acceptance of digital documents.
• Automating bank integration with VAHAN for faster processing of vehicle-related transactions.
• Strengthening enforcement of the Deemed Ownership framework.
• Introducing a ‘One Bharat, One Road Tax’ system.
• Standardising digital road tax refund procedures.
• India's pre-owned vehicle market is projected to grow from USD 36.4 billion in 2025 to USD 73.5 billion by 2030, highlighting the need for simpler, transparent and efficient ownership-transfer procedures.

Goa’s Palolem Beach Ranks 6th in Global Beach Index 2026, Only Asian Beach in the Top 25

• Palolem Beach, located in South Goa, India, secured 6th rank in the Global Beach Index 2026, becoming the only Asian beach to feature in the global top 25.
• Palolem Beach is known for its crescent-shaped coastline, palm-lined bay, calm swimming waters and thatched-roof restaurants. During the peak tourist season, the beach becomes a vibrant destination with several restaurants along its shoreline.

Key Highlights

• The nearest airports are Dabolim Airport and Manohar International Airport, while Madgaon Junction is the closest major railway station.
• According to the Global Beach Index 2026 website, the beaches were selected through a combination of expert nominations, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) data, European Union (EU) programme data and an in-depth analysis of 100,000 reviews. The selected beaches represent 14 countries across four continents.
• The top 10 beaches in the Global Beach Index 2026 are:
1. Trunk Bay – St. John, United States Virgin Islands; recognised for its striking blue waters and strong recommendations from beach experts.
2. Elafonissi Beach – Greece; known for its crystal-clear blue waters and scenic coastline.
3. Grace Bay Beach – Turks and Caicos; famous for its powder-soft sand, warm Caribbean waters and offshore barrier reef. April to June is considered an ideal period to visit.
4. Flamenco Beach – Culebra Island, Puerto Rico; known for its white sand, turquoise waters and swimming and snorkelling opportunities. It is part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge.
5. Golden Horn Beach (Zlatni Rat) – Croatia; famous for its unusual shape and scenic Adriatic coastline near Bol on Brač Island.
6. Palolem Beach – Goa, India; the only Asian beach included in the global top 25.
7. Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge – St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands; an important nesting ground for endangered leatherback and hawksbill turtles and threatened green sea turtles. Volunteers support conservation activities.
8. Playa Balandra – La Paz, Mexico; known for its shallow waters, which allow visitors to walk across the bay.
9. Praia da Falésia – Portugal; features a long stretch of golden sand backed by striking red and orange cliffs.
10. Eagle Beach – Aruba; recognised for its wide shoreline, soft white sand and the island's famous fofoti trees, frequently featured in tourism photographs.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: SPORTS NEWS

India Finishes 5th at 2026 World Armwrestling and World Para Armwrestling Championships with 59 Medals

• India finished 5th overall among 65 participating countries at the 47th World Armwrestling Championships 2026 and the 28th World Para Armwrestling Championships 2026, held in New Delhi.
• The Indian contingent won 59 medals, comprising 9 gold, 19 silver and 31 bronze medals.
• Russia topped the overall medal standings, followed by Kazakhstan and Türkiye, while India secured the 5th position.

Key Highlights

• The 2026 championship was hosted in India for the first time, providing Indian athletes an opportunity to compete before a home crowd.
• India achieved its planned top-five performance target three years ahead of schedule. The People’s Armwrestling Federation of India and Pro Panja League had initially set targets of a top-10 finish in 2026 and a top-five finish within the following three years.
• Indian para armwrestlers contributed significantly by winning 26 medals, including 2 gold, 10 silver and 14 bronze medals. India also secured 5th position in the para armwrestling standings.
• Important Indian medal winners included:
• Jincymol Sebastian – Won two gold medals in both arms in the Grand Master Women’s 80 kg category.
• Yogesh Choudhary – Won gold in the Master Women’s above 80 kg right-arm event and bronze in the left-arm event.
• Shoukath VT – Won gold in the Master Men’s under-60 kg right-arm event and bronze in the left-arm event.
• Madhura K N – Won bronze in the Senior Women’s 70 kg right-arm category.
• India's total medal contribution across different divisions was:
• Para athletes: 26 medals.
• Sub-junior, junior and youth categories: 20 medals.
• Masters and grand masters: 12 medals.
• Senior category: 1 medal.
• The medals across para, youth, junior, senior, master and grand master divisions highlighted India's performance across different age groups and competition categories.
• The championships were organised under the World Armwrestling Federation, with support from India's national armwrestling organisations.
• The People’s Armwrestling Federation of India and Pro Panja League are working to develop a structured pathway for athletes from local competitions to international events.

CURRENT AFFAIRS : OBITUARIES

Renowned Sitar Maestro and Padma Shri Recipient Pandit Manilal Nag Passed away at 87

• Renowned Indian classical sitar maestro and Padma Shri awardee Pandit Manilal Nag, a distinguished exponent of the Bishnupur Gharana of Hindustani Classical Music, passed away at the age of 87 in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).
• He was born on 16 August 1939 in Bankura, West Bengal.
• He received the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, in the field of Art in 2020.
• He received his initial sitar training from his father, Sangeetacharya Gokul Nag, a renowned exponent of the Bishnupur Gharana.
• He made his concert debut in 1954 and later became one of the leading exponents of the Bishnupur Gharana.
• He performed at several prestigious music festivals and contributed to preserving the Bishnupur Gharana through teaching and mentoring.
• He was associated with the ITC Sangeet Research Academy, Kolkata, from 2005 to 2011 as part of its Instrumental Music Division.
• He received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2001 for Hindustani Instrumental Music.
• He was awarded the Senior Fellowship in 2005 by the Ministry of Culture.
• He received the Honorary Gold Medal in 2008 from the Asiatic Society, Kolkata.
• He received the Alauddin Purashkar in 2012 and Banga Bibhushan in 2015 from the Government of West Bengal.

Former Indian Women's Hockey Head Coach Gurdial Singh Bhangu Passed away at 86

• Former Chief Coach of the Indian Women's Hockey Team, Gurdial Singh Bhangu, passed away at the age of 86 in Surrey, Canada.
• He was born on 3 October 1941 in Lyallpur (now Faisalabad, Pakistan).
• He received the Dronacharya Award in 2000, India's highest sports coaching honour, becoming the first hockey coach to receive the award.
• He played hockey at the university level and joined the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Patiala, Punjab, in 1965.
• At NIS, Patiala, he received coaching training under legendary hockey players Major Dhyan Chand and Balkishan Singh.
• Between 1972 and 1976, he served as the Chief Coach of the Nigerian Women's Hockey Team, guiding Nigeria to its first Women's Hockey World Cup qualification in 1976.
• He became the Chief Coach of the Indian Women's Hockey Team in 1998, following India's 12th-place finish at the Women's Hockey World Cup.
• Under his guidance, India won the silver medal at the 1998 Asian Games held in Bangkok, Thailand.
• His coaching laid the foundation for India's historic gold medal victory at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester, England.

CURRENT AFFAIRS: IMPORTANT DAYS

National Legal Services Day 2026 Observed on 9 November to Promote Access to Free Legal Aid

• National Legal Services Day is observed annually on 9 November across India to commemorate the implementation of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, which came into force on 9 November 1995.
• The day aims to promote awareness of the availability of free legal aid and ensure access to justice for people who cannot afford legal services.
• On this occasion, State Legal Services Authorities organise legal awareness programmes across the country to educate people about free legal assistance and the services provided by Legal Services Authorities.
• Awareness campaigns are also conducted annually to inform the public about the various legal services available to them.

World Science Day for Peace and Development 2026 Observed on 10 November with the Theme “Common Ground Through Science Diplomacy”

• World Science Day for Peace and Development is observed annually on 10 November to highlight the beneficial contributions of science to society and promote public awareness of the role of science and technology in sustainable development and peace.
• The 2026 theme is “Common Ground Through Science Diplomacy”.
• The first World Conference on Science was held in 1999 in Hungary, coordinated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the International Council for Science (ICSU).
• During the conference, participating delegations recognised the importance of public awareness of science and agreed on the need to dedicate a special day or week to science.
• The conference participants developed an action plan called the Science Agenda – Framework for Action to promote scientific literacy. The UNESCO Executive Body subsequently endorsed the observance of World Science Day for Peace and Development.
• In 2001, initiatives were undertaken to strengthen the relationship between science and society by regularly informing people about developments in science and technology.
• World Science Day for Peace and Development was first observed in 2002, under the guidance and support of UNESCO. Government organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), research institutions and educational institutions, including schools, colleges and universities, participated in the observance.

Daily CA One- Liner: November 13

• Andhra Pradesh secured 2nd rank among 28 states in the Access Equality Index (AEI) 2026, released by the Centre for New Economics Studies (CNES) of P. Jindal Global University
• The Central Government has declared the Ranivas Mound, an ancient archaeological site located at Kesariya in East Champaran district, Bihar, a site of national importance through a Gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Culture
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the continuation of the Stand-Up India Scheme for another five years, until 31 March 2031.
• The Ministry of Home Affairs issued the Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) (Amendment) Order, 2026 through the Official Gazette, relaxing passport and travel document requirements for specified categories of foreign nationals residing in or entering India
• The Central Government released ₹77.98 crore as Grant-in-Aid to 755 projects under the Integrated Programme for Senior Citizens (IPSrC), a component of the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY), for the quarter ending 30 September 2026 in the financial year 2026–27
• Congress Parliamentary Party chief Sonia Gandhi released her 544-page memoir, “Belonging: A Journey of Love”, published by HarperCollins India
• IB Solar signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three leading German companies — centrotherm international AG, RENA Technologies GmbH and ISC Konstanz — to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) at the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh
• The Ministry of Minority Affairs organised “Samavesh Se VIKAS – Implementation Review and Stakeholder Dialogue” at Samrasta Hall, Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi
• Andhra Pradesh secured the first position in India's inaugural Ease of Vehicle Ownership Index (EVOI) 2026, scoring 91 out of 10, followed by Kerala (5.74). Uttar Pradesh ranked last with 2.47 points.
• Palolem Beach, located in South Goa, India, secured 6th rank in the Global Beach Index 2026, becoming the only Asian beach to feature in the global top 25
• India finished 5th overall among 65 participating countries at the 47th World Armwrestling Championships 2026 and the 28th World Para Armwrestling Championships 2026, held in New Delhi
• National Legal Services Day is observed annually on 9 November across India to commemorate the implementation of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, which came into force on 9 November 1995
• World Science Day for Peace and Development is observed annually on 10 November to highlight the beneficial contributions of science to society and promote public awareness of the role of science and technology in sustainable development and peace
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the continuation of the Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro Units (CGFMU) for five years up to 31 March 2031 on 11 November 2026.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the Master Directions on Cyber Resilience and Digital Payment Security Controls for Non-bank Payment System Operators (PSOs) on 5 November 2026 to strengthen cybersecurity and digital payment security.
• The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) became the first Urban Local Body (ULB) in Bihar to raise funds through municipal bonds, mobilising approximately ₹199.99 crore from the capital market.
• Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), a public sector bank, launched its ‘IOB Digital Rupee’ mobile application to enable customers to conduct transactions using India's Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
• The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) constituted two working groups, one each for life and non-life insurance, to develop a Risk-Based Capital (RBC) framework aligned with Indian Accounting Standards (Ind AS).
• Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Minority Affairs (MoMA) and Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA), visited Saudi Arabia from 6 to 9 November 2026.
• Pedro Alliana, former Vice-President of Paraguay and a member of the National Republican Association (ANR), also known as the Colorado Party, was sworn in as the new President of Paraguay.
• The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract worth ₹498.58 crore with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) for the Normal Refit and Re-powering of INS Betwa on 11 November 2026.
• General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), delivered an address on “Vision for Future Warfighting in the Indian Subcontinent” at the Mechanised Forces Symposium 2026 on 11 November 2026 at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
• The Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, signed an agreement with Astrome Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru, Karnataka, to provide financial support of ₹64.05 crore under the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund.
• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted a 200-second flight acceptance test of the cryogenic engine for its upcoming Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F19) mission on 5 November 2026.
• The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), India, jointly with SINTEF, Norway, and the Research Council of Norway, organised the India–Norway Dialogue on “Waste to Resource Solutions in the Cement and Construction Sector” on 10 November 2026 at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
• The Indian National Science Academy (INSA), an institution of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), participated in the Science20 (S20) 2026 process and endorsed the Joint S20 Statement on 10 November 2026.
• Renowned Indian classical sitar maestro and Padma Shri awardee Pandit Manilal Nag, a distinguished exponent of the Bishnupur Gharana of Hindustani Classical Music, passed away at the age of 87 in Kolkata, West Bengal (WB).

Former Chief Coach of the Indian Women's Hockey Team, Gurdial Singh Bhangu, passed away at the age of 86 in Surrey, Canada.