Current Affairs - Places

The Second World Summit for Social Development took place in Doha, Qatar, from November 4–6, 2025. The event culminated in the adoption of the Doha Political Declaration, which reaffirmed global commitments to eradicate poverty, ensure decent work, and promote inclusive growth. The summit served as a key international platform to review progress on social development goals outlined in the original Copenhagen Declaration of 1995. India, represented by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, actively participated in discussions highlighting challenges faced by the Global South, especially those linked to development disparities and the transformative role of emerging technologies.

The International Conference on “Libraries Empowering Communities – Global Perspectives” was organised at Kanakakkunnu Palace in Thiruvananthapuram on November 2–3, 2025, commemorating 80 years of Kerala’s library movement initiated by the P. N. Panicker Foundation. The event gathered librarians, policymakers, and global experts to discuss the evolving role of libraries in promoting literacy and access to knowledge. Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan highlighted libraries as “temples of learning,” emphasizing their importance in fostering digital literacy, critical thinking, and combating misinformation in the modern age of technology and information overload.

The International Salinity Conference 3.0, WE-CARE 2025, was inaugurated at the ICAR–Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CCARI) in Old Goa. The event gathers 150 delegates from India and several SAARC and AARDO member nations, including Japan, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Dubai, Oman, Kenya, Ghana, Zambia, Gambia, Eswatini, and Lebanon. Hosting the conference in Goa highlights its role as an important hub for international collaboration in addressing global salinity issues, promoting research exchange, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices across diverse regions.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the 'Deep Sea Fishing Vessels' at Mazgaon Dock in Mumbai under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. This initiative aims to enhance the fishing infrastructure and boost marine productivity. Over the next five years, the government plans to distribute 200 deep-sea fishing vessels on a cooperative basis across India. The program is a major step toward empowering fishermen, modernizing the fisheries sector, and improving the livelihoods of coastal communities while promoting sustainable fishing practices.

The Bajrang Setu, India’s first glass suspension bridge, is being built in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand. Set to open by December 2025, it will replace the historic Laxman Jhula, which was closed in 2019 due to safety concerns after nearly a century of service. The new bridge spans 132 meters and features glass walkways on both sides, allowing pedestrians to enjoy breathtaking views of the Ganga River. Designed with modern engineering standards, Bajrang Setu combines safety, durability, and visual appeal. Beyond improving connectivity, it is expected to boost tourism, local business, and Rishikesh’s reputation as a spiritual and adventure destination.