Current Affairs - October 31, 2025 Current Affairs

‘Ex Trishul’ is a large-scale tri-service exercise conducted by India along its Western Front, which borders Pakistan. The exercise brings together the Army, Navy, and Air Force to enhance interoperability, coordination, and joint combat readiness. Held across Gujarat and Rajasthan from October 30 to November 10, 2025, it focuses on integrated operations involving land, sea, and air components. With over 20,000 troops and advanced assets like Rafale jets, Arjun tanks, and naval destroyers, the exercise demonstrates India’s preparedness, technological strength, and commitment to maintaining security and strategic stability along its western border region.

The International Salinity Conference 3.0, WE-CARE 2025, was inaugurated at the ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI) in Old Goa. The event gathers 150 delegates from India and several SAARC and AARDO member nations, including Japan, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Dubai, Oman, Kenya, Ghana, Zambia, Gambia, Eswatini, and Lebanon. Hosting the conference in Goa highlights its role as an important hub for international collaboration in addressing global salinity issues, promoting research exchange, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices across diverse regions.

Namitbir Singh Walia from Jalandhar, Punjab, achieved the prestigious International Master (IM) title after securing fourth place at the 3rd Annemasse International Masters Tournament in France. His consistent performance, including winning the Senior State FIDE Rating Open Chess Championship earlier this year, highlights his dedication and growing prominence in Indian chess. With this achievement, Namitbir becomes Punjab’s second International Master, following Dushyant Sharma, who earned the title in 2022. His success marks a significant milestone for the state’s chess community and inspires emerging players to aim for international recognition.

The ‘Cyber Jago’ programme was launched by the Punjab Police’s Cyber Crime Division with the objective of educating government school students about internet safety and responsible online behavior. The initiative also emphasizes the role of teachers and parents in building awareness through open discussions on online risks and preventive measures. As a statewide effort, Cyber Jago aims to safeguard the younger generation from cyber threats, empowering them with knowledge to navigate the digital world securely while fostering a culture of responsible internet usage across Punjab.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first-ever air shipment of GI-tagged Indi and Puliyankudi Limes to the United Kingdom. This historic consignment consisted of 350 kg of Indi Lime from Vijayapura, Karnataka, and 150 kg of Puliyankudi Lime from Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu, totaling 500 kg. The successful export signifies a major milestone in expanding the global reach of India’s unique GI-tagged horticultural products, strengthening trade ties and promoting regional produce in international markets.

India and the United States signed a landmark 10-year Defence Framework Agreement in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This agreement marks a significant step in strengthening the US–India Major Defence Partnership by outlining long-term cooperation in areas such as defence technology, joint military exercises, and information sharing. The framework aims to enhance strategic collaboration between the two nations while contributing to regional and global security. The choice of Malaysia as the signing venue underscores its importance as a neutral ground for fostering international defence partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.

Rohit Sharma, at 38 years and 182 days, created history by becoming the oldest player to top the ICC Men’s ODI batting rankings. This remarkable achievement marked his first time reaching the No. 1 position in the ODI charts. By doing so, Rohit surpassed the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who held the previous record at 38 years and 73 days in 2011. He achieved this milestone by overtaking Shubman Gill, reaffirming his consistency, experience, and dominance in world cricket even in the later years of his career.

In a historic semi-final of the 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup held at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai, India defeated Australia by 5 wickets to secure a place in the final against South Africa. Chasing a mammoth target of 339 runs, India recorded the highest successful run chase in Women’s ODI history. Jemimah Rodrigues’ unbeaten 127 and Harmanpreet Kaur’s crucial 89 anchored the innings, while contributions from Richa Ghosh and Amanjot Kaur sealed the win. This victory marked India’s first appearance in a World Cup final since 2017 and ended Australia’s long unbeaten streak in the tournament.

World Cities Day is observed annually on October 31 to raise global awareness about the challenges and opportunities of urbanization while promoting sustainable and inclusive city development. Initiated by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 68/239, the day marks the conclusion of “Urban October,” an initiative led by UN-Habitat. The 2025 theme, “People-Centred Smart Cities,” emphasises leveraging technology and innovation to improve urban living standards, enhance sustainability, and prioritise human well-being. The 2025 global event, hosted in Bogotá, Colombia, aims to encourage cooperation and innovation for building resilient, inclusive, and prosperous cities worldwide.

National Unity Day, also known as Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, is celebrated every year on October 31 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Iron Man of India.” The day honours his crucial role in integrating over 560 princely states into a unified India after independence. In 2025, the celebration marks the 150th anniversary of Patel’s birth, with nationwide events such as the Run for Unity and cultural programs emphasizing patriotism, unity, and national integrity. This date also symbolises Patel’s enduring legacy in building a strong and united Indian nation.

Justice Surya Kant has been appointed as the 53rd Chief Justice of India, with his tenure beginning on November 24, 2025, following the retirement of Justice BR Gavai. The appointment was approved by President Droupadi Murmu based on the collegium’s recommendation. Justice Surya Kant, currently a Supreme Court judge, is known for his contributions to constitutional law, social justice, and human rights. Before his elevation, he served as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court and as a judge at the Punjab and Haryana High Court. His leadership is expected to guide key judicial reforms and enhance justice delivery efficiency in India.