Current Affairs - December 30, 2025 Current Affairs

Poland has unveiled an ambitious $2.2 billion initiative to construct a multi-layered anti-drone defensive system along its 700-kilometre border with Belarus and Ukraine. The project aims to counter emerging aerial threats by integrating advanced electronic warfare measures, such as drone jamming, with kinetic defence systems including cannons, machine guns, and missiles. The construction will take place in phases, with initial operational capability expected within six months and full completion targeted within two years. This move reflects Poland’s growing focus on strengthening border security amid evolving regional security challenges in Eastern Europe.

The Supreme Court reaffirmed that the right to personal liberty, which includes the right to hold or renew a passport, flows from Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The Court emphasised that personal liberty is not a concession granted by the State but a fundamental constitutional obligation. In the Mahesh Agarwal vs Union of India case, it clarified that the mere pendency of criminal proceedings cannot automatically deprive an individual of passport rights. Any restriction on such rights must follow due process of law and meet constitutional standards, reinforcing the expansive and protective scope of Article 21.

Sonam Yeshey created a historic milestone in international cricket by becoming the first bowler ever to claim eight wickets in a single T20 International match. Representing Bhutan, he achieved this remarkable feat during the third T20I against Myanmar on December 26, 2025. Bowling with exceptional control and pace, he recorded extraordinary figures of 8 wickets for just 7 runs in his full quota of four overs, including a maiden over. His spell dismantled Myanmar’s batting lineup, restricting them to only 45 runs and helping Bhutan secure a dominant victory and an unassailable lead in the series.

Aryaman Finance Ltd is the entity that obtained registration from the Reserve Bank of India on December 24, 2025, as a Type II Non-Banking Financial Institution, classified as a non-deposit taking Investment and Credit Company. This regulatory approval allows the company to legally operate in the lending and credit space. With this development, the parent company, Aryaman Financial Services Ltd, gains the ability to diversify its business operations beyond merchant banking. The RBI license is significant because it marks a strategic expansion into regulated financial activities, strengthening the group’s overall financial services portfolio.

The successful maiden flight test of the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR-120) was conducted at Chandipur in Odisha. This location houses the Integrated Test Range, a key facility operated by the Defence Research and Development Organisation for testing advanced missile and rocket systems. The trial marked an important milestone in India’s defence capabilities, as the Pinaka LRGR-120 demonstrated its maximum strike range of 120 km. Conducting the test at Chandipur ensured precise tracking and evaluation of the rocket’s performance, accuracy, and guidance systems, reinforcing India’s growing expertise in indigenous long-range guided weapon technologies.

Rajasthan launched the ‘e-Swasthya Samvad’ digital platform on December 28, 2025, with the objective of improving transparency, communication, and coordination in the field of medical education. The initiative facilitates regular interaction between medical staff, administrators, and students through video conferencing sessions held twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. A key feature of the platform is the mandatory submission of action-taken reports within 72 hours for all decisions taken during these interactions. This mechanism ensures accountability, timely follow-up, and more efficient governance in medical institutions across the state.

China conducted large-scale live-fire military exercises around Taiwan under the code name “Justice Mission 2025” on December 29, 2025. The drills involved the deployment of 89 aircraft and 28 naval vessels, demonstrating significant military coordination and capability. These exercises were designed to simulate a blockade of Taiwan’s ports, highlighting China’s strategic intent in the region. Beijing characterised the operation as a stern warning in response to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and support from Japan. The drills underscore heightened geopolitical tensions in the Taiwan Strait and China’s assertive posture in regional security affairs.

Zhang Damo made history by becoming the first painter to be honoured with the 2025 Most Achieved Chinese Award (MACA), an award previously given to eminent figures from science and architecture. He is widely recognised for his distinctive ink painting style that combines meticulous detailing with freehand expression, blending ancient Eastern philosophy with modern artistic aesthetics. Beyond his artistic achievements, Zhang Damo has played a significant role in promoting Chinese culture globally. Serving as the Chief Artist of the UN Peace Boat, he has spent more than three decades acting as a cultural ambassador, using art to foster cross-cultural understanding and international dialogue.

The first-ever camera-trap evidence of a Clouded Leopard in Kakoi Reserve Forest was recorded in the state of Assam on December 28, 2025. This sighting is significant as it confirms the presence of this elusive and vulnerable species in smaller forest patches beyond major national parks. The Clouded Leopard, scientifically known as Neofelis nebulosa, is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and enjoys the highest level of legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The finding highlights the ecological importance of reserve forests in conserving endangered wildlife.

The Bombay High Court clarified that using civilian awards such as the Bharat Ratna or Padma awards as prefixes or suffixes to a person’s name violates Article 18(1) of the Indian Constitution. Article 18(1) prohibits the State from conferring titles, ensuring equality among citizens. Although these awards are constitutionally valid as honours recognizing excellence, they are not titles and must not be treated as such. Misuse of these honours as name attachments undermines the constitutional principle of equality and can lead to forfeiture under Regulation 10, reinforcing the need for strict compliance with constitutional values.