Current Affairs - November 17, 2025 Current Affairs

India engaged with Canada in the 7th Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment to advance cooperation across various strategic sectors. The meeting focused on deepening collaboration in critical minerals, clean energy, aerospace, and dual-use technologies—areas that are increasingly important for both economic growth and security. The dialogue also emphasised the need for resilient and diversified supply chains, particularly in agriculture, to support long-term economic stability. Through such dialogues, both nations aim to build a stronger partnership that promotes trade expansion, technology sharing, and sustainable development, reflecting their shared commitment to mutually beneficial economic ties.

India’s Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for people aged 15 and above reached 55.4% in October, reflecting a sustained rise over four consecutive months. This figure represents the proportion of individuals who are either working or actively seeking work and is measured under the Current Weekly Status (CWS). The improvement highlights growing engagement in the labour market, particularly in rural regions where participation rose to 57.8%. Although urban participation saw a minor dip to 50.5%, the overall national increase signals strengthening economic activity, broader employment opportunities, and a gradual recovery in workforce involvement across different regions and sectors.

S Krishnan, a highly experienced banking professional, has been appointed as the part-time chairman of J&K Bank for the term spanning November 13, 2025, to March 26, 2028. His extensive background includes serving as Managing Director and CEO of Punjab & Sind Bank as well as Tamilnad Mercantile Bank, where he contributed significantly to restructuring, digital expansion, and operational improvements. As an existing independent director on the board of J&K Bank, he brings valuable insights into the bank’s functioning. His appointment is expected to enhance governance, strengthen compliance frameworks, and support financial inclusion and digital initiatives across Jammu & Kashmir and neighboring regions.

The Supreme Court has instructed the state of Jharkhand to officially designate the Saranda Forest as a wildlife sanctuary, recognizing its exceptional ecological and cultural importance. Saranda, located in the West Singhbhum district, is Asia’s largest natural Sal forest and a habitat for numerous endangered species such as the sal forest tortoise, four-horned antelope, Asian palm civet, and wild elephants. It also sustains several Adivasi communities whose livelihoods and cultural heritage are intertwined with the forest. The sanctuary status will provide legal protection under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, helping control mining pressures, prevent habitat loss, and promote sustainable conservation practices involving local communities.

Chandrayaan-4, India’s first lunar sample-return mission, is scheduled for launch in 2028 as part of ISRO’s expanded roadmap for deep space exploration. The mission is expected to collect and bring back lunar soil and rock samples, placing India among the few nations capable of executing such a technically advanced operation. The timeline aligns with ISRO’s broader goals, which include tripling spacecraft production, increasing launch frequency, advancing human spaceflight through the Gaganyaan program, and establishing the initial module of an Indian Space Station by 2028. These efforts collectively strengthen India’s scientific capabilities and elevate its position in the global space sector.

Operation SOUTHERN SPEAR was launched by the United States to counter narco-terrorist networks operating across Latin America. The initiative is overseen by the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), which supervises a broad region covering South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The operation focuses on disrupting criminal organizations, dismantling drug-trafficking operations, and strengthening security partnerships throughout the Western Hemisphere. By targeting these transnational threats, the effort aims to safeguard regional stability and protect the U.S. homeland. The mission underscores the strategic importance of collaborative security measures and highlights ongoing efforts to confront complex criminal and terrorist networks operating across international borders.

Ambaji Marble, primarily found in the Banaskantha district of north Gujarat, has earned recognition through the grant of a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. This marble is renowned for its milky white appearance, high calcium content, and exceptional durability. Its mining heritage dates back over a thousand years and is associated with the construction period of the iconic Dilwara Jain Temple in Mount Abu. The GI Tag not only acknowledges its unique qualities and historical relevance but also helps preserve its identity while promoting regional craftsmanship. This recognition supports local miners, enhances market value, and protects the stone from imitation.

National Press Day is observed annually on November 16 to commemorate the establishment of the Press Council of India, an institution created to preserve the freedom of the press and maintain high journalistic standards. The day highlights the importance of an independent and responsible media in a democratic society. Various laws and reforms, including the Working Journalists Act of 1955 and the more recent Press and Registration of Periodicals Act 2023, help safeguard journalist rights and modernise media governance. Initiatives like the Press Sewa Portal further enhance transparency and streamline the registration of periodicals, contributing to a more efficient and accountable media ecosystem.

Ravindra Jadeja achieved a rare all-rounder milestone by becoming only the fourth cricketer in Test history to record over 4000 runs and 300-plus wickets. This remarkable accomplishment places him in an elite group that includes Kapil Dev, Ian Botham, and Daniel Vettori. Jadeja reached the milestone during the India vs South Africa Test match held at Eden Gardens, showcasing his consistency, skill, and longevity in the longest format of the game. His contributions extend beyond batting and bowling, as he is also celebrated for his exceptional fielding. This achievement further solidifies his standing as one of the greatest modern all-rounders in international cricket.

International Students’ Day is observed annually on November 17 to honour the courage and sacrifice of Czech students who stood against Nazi oppression in 1939. The day marks the brutal crackdown in Prague, during which nine student leaders were executed, more than 1,200 students were deported to concentration camps, and all Czech universities were shut down. Declared officially in 1941 by the International Students’ Council in London, the observance is significant because it is the only global day dedicated exclusively to students. It highlights the importance of academic freedom, student rights, and the enduring role of youth in resisting injustice and promoting social change.

Bangladesh recently became the 5th member of the Colombo Security Conclave, an evolving regional security platform aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation and collaborative security efforts in the Indian Ocean region. The Conclave initially grew out of a trilateral security framework involving India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, established to coordinate maritime activities and address emerging security challenges. Over time, the group expanded to include Mauritius as a member and Seychelles as an observer, reflecting its growing strategic importance. With Bangladesh joining, the Conclave now represents a broader coalition committed to regional stability, enhanced information sharing, and coordinated responses to common security concerns.

National Epilepsy Day 2025 in India will be observed on November 17, a day dedicated to educating the public about epilepsy, its symptoms, and available treatments. The observance aims to dispel long-standing myths and stigma surrounding the condition by promoting awareness and understanding. Healthcare institutions, neurologists, and volunteer organisations conduct workshops, awareness drives, and health camps to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and consistent treatment. Since epilepsy affects millions globally and a significant number in India, this day plays a crucial role in encouraging timely medical consultation, reducing discrimination, and strengthening community support for individuals living with epilepsy.