National – India
New Delhi air quality remains very poor
Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) remained in the “very poor” to “severe” category, with 19 monitoring stations recording readings above 300.
This spells significant health risk and adds to policy focus on environment-pollution control and public health.
For exam purposes: important for static general awareness (GA) on air pollution, CPCB monitoring, government’s action.
Urban unemployment rises, overall rate steady
According to latest data, India’s unemployment rate held at 5.2% in October 2025 for persons aged 15 years and above.
Rural unemployment declined slightly (to ~4.4 %) whereas urban unemployment surged to around 7.0%.
Labour force participation (LFPR) rose to ~55.4%.
These numbers are vital for economy section: labour market trends, urban-rural divide, employment statistics.
Tel Aviv – Israel – India sign ToR for Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
India and Israel formally signed the Terms of Reference (ToR) to begin negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement.
The FTA is being planned in two phases so that early benefits can reach trade communities.
Focus areas: goods, services, investment, technology transfer, simplification of customs procedures.
For competitive exams: bilateral trade treaties, strategic partnerships, significance for Indian economy.
Narendra Modi meets Sanae Takaichi of Japan at G20 summit
On the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, India’s Prime Minister met the Japanese Prime Minister to reaffirm the India-Japan Special Strategic & Global Partnership.
Key thematic areas: defence and security, trade & investment, AI & critical minerals, semiconductors, innovation.
Significance: shows India’s growing global engagement and relevance for exams focusing on foreign policy and global partnerships.
Lucknow hosts 19th National Jamboree of Bharat Scouts & Guides
The week-long (23-29 Nov) event has the theme “Sashakt Yuva Viksit Bharat” (Empowered Youth, Developed India).
Activities include blood-donation camp, science exhibitions, cultural programmes, Global Village.
Useful for exam GA under youth affairs, national events, government initiatives for youth empowerment.
International
India’s Africa outreach continues
As part of India’s strategic focus with the Global South, visits to African countries are planned, enhancing ties with oil- and mineral-rich nations.
Significance: for India’s diplomacy, economic and strategic interests globally. Good for networked current affairs.
Sports & Others
Tour de Thar – India’s first desert endurance cycling race
Held on 23 November 2025 in Bikaner, Rajasthan, covering 100 km, 200 km, 300 km formats; over 2,500 cyclists from India & abroad.
Theme: #CycleForZeroHunger — for every km cycled, nutritious “Poshan Packs” are donated to children in rural “Nand Ghar” centres.
This event brings in links between sport, social cause, nutrition, rural development — ideal for the sports + social section in exam prep.
Why These Developments Matter for Banking & Competitive Exams
Economic indicators such as unemployment rate are key for banking exam economics section and general awareness.
International trade agreements (like India-Israel FTA) and bilateral ties help in questions on foreign policy, trade, strategic partnerships.
National events (youth jamboree) and environment-health issues (Delhi air quality) add to static + current affairs segments.
Sports for a cause demonstrate linkages between policy/social objectives and sports — often asked in competitive exams.
Key Facts for Quick Revision
National unemployment rate in October 2025: 5.2%.
Urban unemployment rose to ~7.0%.
India-Israel signed ToR for FTA; implementation planned in two phases.
India-Japan reaffirmed partnership; sectors include AI / semiconductors / defence.
Delhi air quality: many stations recorded AQI >300 (“severe”).
Youth event: National Jamboree of Bharat Scouts & Guides begins 23 Nov in Lucknow.
Sports: Tour de Thar cycling event in Bikaner on 23 Nov for hunger-free campaign.
