Current Affairs - November 22, 2025 Current Affairs

India expanded its Visa-on-Arrival facility in November 2025 specifically for nationals of the UAE, allowing them entry through Cochin, Calicut, and Ahmedabad in addition to six existing airports. This policy move strengthens bilateral relations, supports tourism, and enhances business connectivity between the two nations. With a significant Indian expatriate population living in the UAE and frequent travel for medical care, trade, and cultural ties, the expansion reduces procedural barriers and improves travel convenience. It also aligns with India’s goal of deepening regional partnerships, promoting economic cooperation, and supporting people-to-people engagement through simplified immigration procedures.

Fátima Bosch from Mexico won the Miss Universe 2025 crown, emerging victorious among more than 100 global contestants. Hosted in Thailand, the event showcased cultural performances, strong advocacies, and impressive stage presence from participants worldwide. Bosch stood out for her confidence, intelligence, and commitment to impactful social initiatives. She was crowned by Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, the outgoing Miss Universe 2024. Her performance in interviews, advocacy presentations, and stage segments solidified her as a deserving winner. Her victory also reflects Mexico’s continued excellence in international pageantry, inspiring audiences and fellow contestants across the globe.

Jitendra Gohil has been appointed as the Chief Investment Officer of Bajaj Alternate Investment Management Ltd., marking a significant strategic move for the company as it strengthens its position in the rapidly expanding alternative investment market in India. With nearly two decades of experience in financial markets, including senior roles at Credit Suisse India and Kotak Alternate Asset Managers, Gohil brings deep expertise in macroeconomics, portfolio management, and wealth strategy. His appointment supports Bajaj’s long-term vision of expanding its alternative investment fund offerings and building a strong leadership team under Lakshmi Iyer to compete effectively in the ₹15 trillion AIF industry.

The Punjab State Scheduled Castes Commission has taken a landmark step by inaugurating India’s first dedicated courtroom exclusively for Scheduled Caste-related cases. This initiative aims to streamline hearings and reduce delays that disproportionately affect marginalised communities seeking justice. By creating a specialised space equipped with modern infrastructure, the Commission enhances both efficiency and accessibility. The move also reflects Punjab’s commitment to social equity, as it plans to introduce an Online Court System to support virtual appearances, minimizing travel barriers for rural and remote complainants. This reform sets an important precedent for other states to strengthen SC grievance-redressal mechanisms.

Goa served as the venue for the inauguration of the WAVES Film Bazaar 2025, held alongside the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Panaji. The event, inaugurated by Dr. L Murugan on 20 November 2025, is one of South Asia’s most significant film industry platforms, bringing together filmmakers, producers, distributors, festival programmers, and financiers. As the 19th edition of the Film Bazaar, it offered global opportunities for Indian creators through co-production markets, screenwriters’ labs, viewing rooms, and industry masterclasses. Hosting this major event in Goa underscores the state’s long-standing importance as India’s cultural and cinematic hub, especially during IFFI.

November 20 is the date on which National Philosophy Day 2025 is observed, aligning with the third Thursday of November, which is recognised globally as World Philosophy Day. This day celebrates the enduring value of philosophy in fostering critical thinking, dialogue, and intellectual exploration. It underscores the importance of philosophy in addressing modern challenges by encouraging reflection, open-mindedness, and respect for diverse perspectives. Established by UNESCO in 2002 and officially recognised in 2005, the day serves to remind societies of the power of philosophical inquiry in promoting peace, tolerance, and global understanding. Through discussions, events, and educational activities, it inspires people to question, learn, and engage meaningfully with the world.

Turkey has been chosen to host COP31 in 2026 following a diplomatic compromise with Australia that resolved a long-standing dispute over the hosting rights. Under this arrangement, Turkey will oversee the logistical responsibilities and hold the summit’s Presidency, while Australia will take charge of leading intergovernmental negotiations. This decision helps maintain the continuity of global climate discussions during a crucial period when the world is focusing on strengthening climate finance, advancing adaptation mechanisms, supporting vulnerable island nations, and keeping the 1.5°C climate target within reach. The agreement also demonstrates how collaborative diplomacy can prevent procedural deadlocks in major international forums.

Switzerland and Ireland have been selected as the country partners for the Hornbill Festival 2025, marking an important step in expanding the festival’s global reach. Their participation follows meetings between Nagaland’s Chief Minister and the ambassadors of both nations, during which cultural collaboration and deeper bilateral engagement were discussed. These partnerships will enrich the festival with diverse artistic expressions, including folk music, public art, and cultural exchanges. By welcoming global partners, the Hornbill Festival enhances its position as an international cultural convergence, strengthens cultural diplomacy, boosts tourism, and supports Nagaland’s economic and creative ecosystems.

November 21 is observed annually as World Television Day, highlighting the profound influence television has had on global communication, education, and culture. Recognised by the United Nations, this day honours the medium's role in shaping public opinion, fostering cultural exchange, and supporting social development. Television has evolved from an educational tool into a powerful global platform that raises awareness about critical issues such as climate change, human rights, health, and poverty. Even in an era dominated by digital media, television remains a trusted source of information and a unifying force that connects diverse audiences across countries and cultures.

Seychelles became the newest member of the Colombo Security Conclave during the 7th NSA-level meeting held in New Delhi on 20 November 2025. Its entry significantly strengthens regional cooperation across the Indian Ocean, especially in areas such as maritime security, counter-terrorism, cyber security, and disaster relief. As a strategically located island nation, Seychelles adds depth to collective efforts in monitoring sea lanes, preventing trafficking, and boosting maritime domain awareness. Its participation also reinforces diplomatic relations with India and other member nations, while reflecting the Conclave’s growing relevance and expansion as a multilateral security framework in the Indo-Pacific region.