Source: TH Context: The 11th edition of the India–Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise “Mitra Shakti XI–2025” has commenced at the Foreign Training Node, Belagavi (Karnataka). The exercise underscores the two nations’ shared commitment to strengthening regional security, military cooperation, and interoperability under UN peacekeeping mandates. About Exercise Mitra Shakti XI – 2025: ‘Mitra Shakti’ is a bilateral joint military exercise held annually between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army. It aims to enhance defence cooperation, improve interoperability, and foster mutual understanding between the two forces in conducting sub-conventional and peacekeeping operations. Nations Involved: Aim:
Exercise Malabar 2025
Source: PIB Context: Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri has reached Guam in the Northern Pacific Ocean to participate in Exercise Malabar 2025, reaffirming India’s commitment to maritime cooperation, regional stability, and strategic interoperability among the Quad nations — India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. About Exercise Malabar 2025 Exercise Malabar is a multilateral naval exercise that brings together the navies of India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. It serves as a premier platform to enhance maritime security coordination, interoperability, and joint operational capabilities among the participating nations in the Indo-Pacific region. Origin: History and Evolution: Nations Involved: 2025 Host:
Rural Unemployment Down, Urban Joblessness Up – PLFS Report
Source: TH Context: The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) for July-September 2025 highlights trends in employment, unemployment, and sectoral distribution across rural and urban India. Key Highlights:
Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh 2025
Source: PIB Context: Nationwide celebrations under Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh 2025 have commenced to mark two significant milestones — the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, revered as Dharti Aaba, and 150 years of the national song “Vande Mataram.” About Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh 2025 Organisations Involved: Aim:
Plant Genome Saviour Awards
Source: PIB Context: A national recognition scheme instituted under Section 39(1)(iii) of PPV&FRA. Honors farmers and communities conserving traditional and endangered plant varieties. Purpose: 2025 Recipients: Significance:
Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act (PPV&FRA), 2001
Source: PIB Context: Aim: Key Features of PPV&FRA Act, 2001
Federal Bank Launches ‘Bharat Surotsav’
Context: Federal Bank unveiled ‘Bharat Surotsav’, a signature cultural initiative celebrating India’s music and dance heritage, in Chennai. The launch highlights the bank’s efforts to connect with audiences through arts and culture while reinforcing its brand identity. Key Highlights:
SEBI to Deliberate on Conflict of Interest Report in December 2025
Context: Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) plans to discuss an expert panel report on conflict of interest regulations for its senior officials at the next board meeting on December 17, 2025. The move follows governance scrutiny after conflict-of-interest allegations against former SEBI chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, which involved claims of undisclosed offshore investments (refuted by Buch and her husband). Why the Review Now? 1. Governance Concerns 2. Need for Enhanced Transparency What the Expert Panel Report Covers SEBI’s expert committee has submitted recommendations including: 1. Stricter Disclosure Requirements 2. Cooling-Off & Recusal Rules 3. Higher Monitoring & Internal Audits 4. Clarity on Permissible Investments
Sebi to Revamp Settlement Rules, Curb Penalties
Context: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has launched a review of its case settlement rules to simplify calculations, address concerns about inflated penalties, and make the process more accessible for market participants. What Is the Case Settlement Framework? SEBI’s settlement mechanism allows individuals or entities accused of market violations to settle cases by paying a settlement amount without undergoing lengthy litigation.It helps: Key Objectives
SEBI Proposes to Simplify Offer Documents
Context: Current offer documents for IPOs and FPOs are often lengthy and complex, making it difficult for retail investors to read and engage meaningfully. Key Proposals: Significance:
