1. National Developments
India’s Monetary Policy Outlook
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra indicated that the key policy rates are expected to remain low for a prolonged period in view of sustained economic growth and subdued inflation trends.
India’s inflation was recorded at 0.71% in November 2025, with projections forecasting a rise to around 2.9% in early 2026 yet still within RBI’s comfort zone.
GDP growth surged to 8.2% in Q3 2025 but is projected to moderate to 6.7% in upcoming quarters.
Emphasis remains on financial stability, non-interventionist currency posture, and calibrated regulatory easing to support credit growth.
Launch of Sahakar Sarathi for Rural Cooperative Banks
Sahakar Sarathi — a Shared Service Entity — has been operationalised to modernise and strengthen Rural Cooperative Banks across India.
Established after regulatory approval, the entity has an authorised capital of ₹1,000 crore.
Ownership is equally shared (33.33% each) among NABARD, National Cooperative Development Corporation, and participating Rural Cooperative Banks, aiming to modernise technology and service delivery.
Civilisational Dialogue Conclave, Delhi
Civilisational Dialogue: Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam conclave held on 16 December 2025 in New Delhi, jointly organised by CSIR–Jamia Millia Islamia & MAKAIS, Kolkata.
Scholars and experts discussed global peace, security, and the role of shared civilisational values in addressing international challenges.
National Grievance Redressal Achievement
India’s Centralised Public Grievance Redressal and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), overseen by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, has reportedly reduced pending public grievances by approximately 74% since 2021.
2. International Relations & World Affairs
PM Modi’s Strategic Visit to Muscat, Oman
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Muscat, Oman on 17 December 2025 for a state visit, building on earlier engagements in Jordan and Ethiopia.
The bilateral focus extends beyond traditional oil cooperation to strategic partnerships in trade, energy, and security, aligning with India’s broader Gulf strategy.
UNESCO Cultural Heritage Session in New Delhi
The 20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage convened in New Delhi, focusing on global cultural preservation through shared heritage.
3. Economy, Finance & Banking Sector
RBI-Approved Strategic Stake Acquisition
Reserve Bank of India has approved the HDFC Bank Group’s acquisition of up to 9.5% stake in IndusInd Bank, marking a significant consolidation move in the Indian banking segment.
SEBI’s Financial Product Innovation
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has approved the National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) to launch a Mutual Fund platform, enabling broader retail participation in commodity-linked investment products.
4. Science, Innovation & Public Health
AI-Based Public Health Initiative
India has launched a nationwide AI-enabled Diabetic Retinopathy screening programme to facilitate early detection and management of diabetes-related eye diseases through community-level health outreach.
Indigenous Technological Advancements
India showcased its first indigenous 64-bit Dual-Core Microprocessor ‘DHRUV64’, strengthening national capabilities in semiconductor design and self-reliance in critical technology domains.
5. Appointments, Honours & Awards
Raj Kumar Goyal Appointed Chief Information Commissioner
Raj Kumar Goyal (Retired IAS) was sworn in as the Chief Information Commissioner of India’s Central Information Commission.
Ponduru Khadi Recognised with GI Tag
Ponduru Khadi (Andhra Pradesh) was awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag, recognising its unique artisanal qualities.
6. Sports & Entertainment
India U-19 Asia Cup Cricket Achievement
India U-19 Cricket Team delivered a comprehensive victory over Malaysia in the U-19 Asia Cup (specific scorelines and match details pending).
Messi’s India Tour of 2025
Lionel Messi’s 2025 India Tour concluded with events across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi featuring fan interactions and exhibition matches.
The opening event in Kolkata faced crowd control issues while later matches progressed smoothly, highlighting high public engagement in football culture.
7. Tourism and Environment
Uttarakhand Snow Leopard Tour Initiative
Uttarakhand Government launched a Snow Leopard Tour pilot in Gangotri National Park to promote winter tourism and wildlife conservation.
The initiative includes adventure tourism, local homestays, and festival events, with completion aimed by 20 December 2025.
8. Observances & Cultural Events
Vijay Diwas (16 December)
Vijay Diwas commemorates India’s 1971 victory over Pakistan, marked with tributes to armed forces and veterans across the nation.
9. Key Facts for Competitive Exams
Inflation (Nov 2025): 0.71%; projected rise to 2.9%
GDP Growth Q3 2025: 8.2%
Sahakar Sarathi capital: ₹1,000 crore
RBI low-rate outlook
GI Tag: Ponduru Khadi
Chief Information Commissioner: Raj Kumar Goyal
Vijay Diwas history: 93,000 POW surrender in 1971
