Current Affairs - November 9, 2025 Current Affairs

James D. Watson was an American molecular biologist who, along with Francis H.C. Crick, discovered the double helix structure of DNA in 1953 — a groundbreaking model that transformed the study of genetics. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1962 for this discovery. Watson later became the director of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and led the Human Genome Project, contributing to the mapping of over 3 billion base pairs of human DNA. His legacy, while marked by controversy, remains central to modern molecular biology.

Six new butterfly species have been discovered in Arunachal Pradesh’s Siang Valley, highlighting the region’s exceptional ecological diversity. This discovery establishes a biological link between Tibet’s Yarlung Tsangpo and India’s Brahmaputra basin, emphasizing the shared evolutionary and environmental characteristics of the two regions. The finding also underscores the importance of community-based conservation efforts, which play a crucial role in protecting this biodiversity hotspot from threats like hydropower projects and climate change. Such studies not only expand scientific knowledge of Himalayan fauna but also strengthen global conservation strategies for fragile mountain ecosystems.

Atomesus is an Indian AI platform developed by the Indus Valley Group, designed to be the world’s most affordable and secure homegrown AI system. Built by young innovators with ISRO-linked experience, it employs a hybrid intelligence model that merges proprietary technologies with India-based secure integration. The project emphasises data sovereignty and aims to democratise access to AI for students, startups, and enterprises worldwide. By focusing on affordability, accessibility, and local innovation, Atomesus seeks to position India as a global leader in ethical and inclusive artificial intelligence development.

The Ramnami tribe originates from Chhattisgarh and is renowned for its unique devotional practice of inscribing the name “Ram” on their bodies and homes as an expression of faith. Founded in the 19th century by Parsuram Bhardwaj, the community emphasises devotion, equality, and rejection of caste hierarchy. They follow a formless concept of divinity and uphold gender equality as part of their spiritual philosophy. Each year, the tribe celebrates their faith through the Bhajan Mela in Sarsiwa, where devotees gather to sing hymns from the Ramcharitmanas and honour the “Ram” jayostambh, symbolizing unity and devotion.

#AFarmerCan is a global campaign launched by UPL to celebrate farmers as central figures in driving climate resilience and sustainable agriculture. Introduced ahead of COP30 in Brazil, the campaign shares 20 farmer stories worldwide, demonstrating how local practices can contribute to global climate goals. UPL’s initiative is built on a four-pillar framework — Pay, Protect, Procure, Promote — designed to empower and reward climate-smart farming. By highlighting the critical role of farmers in environmental stewardship, the campaign aims to shift public perception and promote a more sustainable and equitable global food system.

Japan partnered with the United States to establish a joint framework focused on securing and strengthening the supply chains of critical minerals and rare earth elements essential for advanced technologies such as electric vehicles, batteries, and renewable energy systems. The agreement emphasises coordinated investment, fair market practices, and resilient bilateral supply chains across the stages of extraction, separation, and processing. Through this collaboration, both countries aim to reduce dependency on single-source suppliers, diversify global mineral resources, and enhance economic and strategic stability in the rapidly evolving clean technology and semiconductor sectors.

National Legal Services Day is observed annually on November 9 to commemorate the enforcement of the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, which came into effect on this day in 1995. The day highlights India’s commitment to ensuring equal access to justice for all, especially the poor and disadvantaged. It promotes awareness about citizens’ legal rights and strengthens mechanisms for free legal aid through the three-tier system — National, State, and District Legal Services Authorities. The observance reinforces the principle that justice must be affordable, accessible, and inclusive for every citizen.

The European Union has established 2040 as the target year to achieve a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 1990 levels. This goal includes an allowance for up to 5% of reductions through foreign carbon credits, effectively making domestic cuts 85%. The agreement introduces a carbon credit pilot phase (2031–2035), aiming to balance environmental responsibility with economic realities. Although the plan demonstrates strong climate ambition, some critics express concern that the flexibility provided by carbon credits may weaken the EU’s overall emission integrity. Nonetheless, the 2040 goal marks a critical step toward carbon neutrality.

Angola is the African nation partnering with India to strengthen cooperation in defence and energy sectors. India is finalising a USD 200 million Line of Credit to assist Angola’s defence modernisation, reflecting growing strategic and developmental ties. The two countries are also expanding their USD 5 billion energy partnership, primarily driven by oil trade, which plays a crucial role in India’s energy security. This collaboration aligns with India’s broader South-South cooperation framework, aimed at fostering sustainable development, capacity building, and mutual growth with partner nations across Africa and the Global South.

Uttarakhand celebrates its Foundation Day every year on November 9, commemorating its creation as India’s 27th state in the year 2000, after being carved out of Uttar Pradesh. Originally named Uttaranchal, it was officially renamed Uttarakhand in 2007 to reflect its cultural and historical identity. In 2025, the state observes its Silver Jubilee (25 years) of formation with grand celebrations highlighting its progress in tourism, education, infrastructure, and sustainability. Known as Devbhoomi, or the Land of the Gods, Uttarakhand holds immense spiritual and ecological significance in India’s landscape.