Current Affairs - November 8, 2025 Current Affairs

World Radiography Day is celebrated annually on November 8 to mark the discovery of X-rays by German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895. The day honours radiographers and radiologists for their critical role in healthcare, highlighting how imaging technologies such as X-rays, CT, MRI, and AI-driven diagnostics revolutionize medical science by enabling early detection and accurate treatment. It also emphasizes the importance of safety, precision, and compassionate care in radiological practices. Observed globally since 2007, the day reminds the world of radiography’s essential contribution to saving lives and advancing modern medicine.

Sheetal Devi, an 18-year-old para-archer from Jammu and Kashmir, made history by becoming the first Indian para-athlete to join the able-bodied national archery team. Born with phocomelia, a condition that left her without arms, she adapted her technique to shoot using her legs and shoulders. Her remarkable performances—winning medals at the Asian Para Games, World Championships, and Paralympics—earned her a spot in the compound women’s team for the Asia Cup 2025 in Jeddah. Her selection reflects a monumental step toward inclusivity, merit-based recognition, and breaking barriers in Indian sports.

China has commissioned its third and most advanced aircraft carrier, Fujian, marking a significant milestone in its naval modernization and maritime power projection. Launched in November 2025 at Sanya Port, Hainan, the Fujian is China’s first flat-deck carrier equipped with the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS)—a cutting-edge technology previously used only by the U.S. Navy. With a displacement of around 80,000 tonnes and all-electric propulsion, it enables smoother and faster aircraft launches, enhancing strike range and combat readiness. The Fujian joins Liaoning and Shandong in China’s carrier fleet, showcasing Beijing’s growing ambitions in the South China Sea and Indo-Pacific region.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) signed a $1 billion agreement with General Electric (GE) for the supply of 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines, which will power 97 LCA Tejas Mk 1A fighter jets of the Indian Air Force. This deal marks a crucial milestone in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence manufacturing and strengthens the indigenous aircraft production ecosystem. The F404 engines are known for their reliability, high performance, and compatibility with advanced fighter systems. This partnership not only supports Tejas Mk 1A production but also paves the way for future collaboration on F414 engines for the LCA Mk 2, enhancing India’s aerospace capabilities.

The next All India Tiger Estimation (AITE) will be conducted in 2026, marking it as the world’s largest wildlife survey. India, home to over 75% of the global wild tiger population, will use a mix of ground tracking, satellite technology, and AI-based camera traps to ensure scientific accuracy and ecosystem-wide assessment. Building on the 2022 survey that recorded 3,682 tigers, the 2026 census aims to evaluate not just tiger numbers but also habitat health, prey density, and human-wildlife interactions. With participation from over 60,000 forest personnel, this massive operation reinforces India’s leadership in global wildlife conservation.

Raahul VS became India’s 91st Chess Grandmaster after an impressive performance at the 6th ASEAN Individual Championship 2025, where he clinched the title with a round to spare. His victory highlights India’s continued dominance and depth in global chess. Raahul had earlier achieved his International Master title in 2021 and demonstrated consistent progress toward the GM title through his exceptional tournament performances. This accomplishment follows recent successes by Illamparthi AR and S Rohith Krishna, showcasing a strong new generation of Indian chess players achieving international recognition and strengthening India’s position as a powerhouse in the chess world.

The United States conducted the Minuteman III ICBM test (GT-254) from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, on November 5, 2025. The test involved launching an unarmed missile toward the central Pacific near the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site (Kwajalein Atoll) to validate reliability, accuracy, and readiness of the US land-based nuclear deterrent. The launch also verified the Airborne Launch Control System (ALCS) using an E-6B aircraft, ensuring redundant command-and-control capability. While the timing drew global attention due to concurrent nuclear policy debates, US officials clarified that it was a routine operational readiness test supporting strategic stability and deterrence credibility.

India’s first Digital Museum of Tribal Freedom Fighters was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Nava Raipur, Atal Nagar, Chhattisgarh. Officially named the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial and Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum, it honours tribal warriors who resisted British rule and contributed to India’s independence movement. The museum uses cutting-edge digital technology, including VFX projections, QR-coded storytelling, and interactive screens, to create an immersive educational experience. It celebrates figures like Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh and showcases historic tribal revolts such as the Halba Rebellion and Bhumkal Movement, promoting both cultural preservation and tourism in Nava Raipur.

The State Bank of India (SBI) achieved a landmark milestone by surpassing $100 billion in market capitalisation and ₹100 trillion in total business, marking a historic first in India’s banking history. This achievement highlights SBI’s dominant position in retail, SME, and corporate lending, backed by strong Q2 FY26 financial performance and 12.7% year-on-year credit growth. With total deposits around ₹55.9 lakh crore and advances of ₹44.2 lakh crore, SBI’s robust digital transformation, improving asset quality, and investor confidence have propelled it into the elite global banking league. Headquartered in Mumbai, SBI continues to be the backbone of India’s financial ecosystem.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off four new Vande Bharat Express trains from Varanasi, marking a significant milestone in India’s ongoing railway modernization efforts. The newly launched routes include Banaras–Khajuraho, Lucknow–Saharanpur, Firozpur–Delhi, and Ernakulam–Bengaluru. These trains are designed to enhance regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and offer modern comfort through energy-efficient and high-speed rail technology. The initiative strengthens intercity travel, boosts tourism, and supports economic growth across northern and southern India. Each route strategically connects cultural, commercial, and technological hubs, aligning with the government’s broader vision for efficient and self-reliant rail infrastructure.