Banking, Finance & Economy
IDFC FIRST Bank signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FPSB India as an Approved Corporate Partner — aiming to upskill its wealth-management and private banking staff through professional certification programs and strengthen financial-planning services.
The interlinkage process between India’s digital payment infrastructure (NPCI / UPI) and the European real-time payment system (TIPS) continues to be under discussion — a move that could soon facilitate seamless cross-border remittances between India and the Euro-zone.
S&P Global Ratings maintained its forecast for India’s GDP growth at 6.5% for FY26 and projected it to rise to 6.7% in FY27 — reflecting confidence in strong domestic demand, stable macroeconomic conditions, and government-driven infrastructure and reform push. Inflation is expected to moderate, benefiting investors and borrowers alike.
National Affairs
The nation observed Constitution Day (26 November), marking the adoption of the Indian Constitution — a day recognised annually to reinforce constitutional values and civics awareness.
Commemorations were held across India for the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur. A major event took place at the Red Fort in New Delhi. The day was observed with widespread reverence; banks in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh declared a holiday to mark “Shaheedi Diwas.”
Continued scrutiny on transparency: In Madhya Pradesh, the District Magistrate’s office acknowledged a mistake after names allegedly linked to certain political organizations appeared on a BLO (Booth Level Officer) assistant list — the appointments are to be reviewed and corrected.
On the aviation front, Air India has reinstated its codeshare agreement with Air Canada effective from 2 December 2025 — a move that will improve connectivity between India and Canada, offering seamless bookings and unified baggage protocols.
International Developments
Global economic linkages — the proposed UPI–TIPS interlinkage (as noted above) indicates India’s push to integrate domestic digital payments with global financial systems, signifying a step toward easier remittances and stronger financial ties with Europe.
The macroeconomic optimism underlined by S&P lends support to India’s standing in global financial markets and may influence foreign investor sentiment, currency flows, and cross-border capital movement.
Sports & Major Sporting Events
In a landmark decision, **Ahmedabad (Amdavad) has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. The announcement — made at the Commonwealth’s 2025 General Assembly in Glasgow — marks a significant moment for India’s sporting infrastructure ambitions. The 2030 centenary Games are expected to feature a broad array of sports and give a major boost to sports development, infrastructure, and international visibility for India.
