Source: PIB Context: The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the draft questionnaire for the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises (ASUSE) 2026. The survey aims to capture critical data on the health and dynamics of unincorporated, non-agricultural enterprises across India. Key Features of ASUSE Objectives of ASUSE 2026
India Launches First Indigenous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vessel in Varanasi
Source: TH Context: On 11 December 2025, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated India’s first fully indigenous hydrogen fuel-cell vessel at Namo Ghat, Varanasi. The vessel is a pilot project by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) aimed at promoting clean energy in inland water transport and advancing India’s net-zero emission goals. Key Features:
CITES Marks 50 Years at CoP20 in Samarkand
About CITES CoP20(Samarkand, Uzbekistan, 2025) Major Outcomes
ISRO to Launch US Commercial Satellite BlueBird-6
Source: TOI Context: In a major boost to Indo-US space collaboration, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its heaviest American commercial satellite, BlueBird-6, on December 15, 2025, from the Sriharikota spaceport. The launch vehicle LVM3 (Bahubali) will place the 6.5-tonne satellite into low-Earth orbit (LEO). Key Highlights About BlueBird-6
ADB Raises India’s FY26 Growth Forecast to 7.2%
Source: TOI Context: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) raised India’s GDP growth forecast for FY26 to 7.2%, up 70 basis points from its earlier estimate of 6.5%, citing strong domestic consumption supported by recent tax cuts. The growth projection for FY27 remains unchanged at 6.5%. Key Highlights: FY26 Growth Forecast Comparisons Institution Earlier Forecast (%) Revised Forecast (%) ADB 6.5 7.2 Fitch 6.9 7.4 Crisil 6.5 7.0 SBI Research 6.3 7.6 CareEdge 6.9 7.5 IDFC Bank 6.8 7.6 Kotak Mahindra 6.5 7.8
RBI Talks to Banks on Uniform Fee Disclosure and Removal of Overlaps
Source: ET Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has initiated discussions with authorised banks to ensure uniform disclosure of fees and to address overlaps in retail foreign exchange (forex) services. This move aims to enhance transparency for retail users in transactions involving forex cash, tom (next-day settlement) and spot contracts. Key Highlights: Previous Norms Proposed Measures
PFRDA Expands Investment Universe for Pension Funds
Source: BS Context: The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has revised investment norms for private pension funds, allowing broader diversification to optimize returns. The changes came into effect immediately with the circular issued on December 10, 2025. Previous Norms Key Changes Implications
RBI Likely to Maintain Repo Rate at 5.25% Through FY27: Fitch
Source: ET Context: The Reserve Bank of India is expected to keep its policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25% through the next fiscal year after a 25-basis-point cut earlier this month, according to BMI, part of Fitch Solutions. Key Highlights: Economic Rationale Risks and Considerations
SEBI Plans Consolidated Financial Asset Statement
Source: Mint Context: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is exploring the creation of a consolidated statement of all financial assets of an individual, in collaboration with other financial sector regulators. The move is aimed at simplifying access to investment information and empowering households with a holistic view of their financial holdings. Key Highlights:
SEBI Eases Re-KYC Process for NRIs
Source: Mint Context: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has relaxed the re-KYC process for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), making it easier for them to update their KYC details without being physically present in India. Key Highlights:
