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Prateek Madhav, Co-Founder and CEO of the Assistive Technology Foundation (ATF), was honoured with the National Award for Individual Excellence by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu, recognizing his impactful contributions to the assistive technology landscape in India. His efforts have enabled over one million persons with disabilities by strengthening the AT ecosystem, supporting more than 500 assistive technology startups, and accelerating numerous ventures focused on inclusion. This recognition highlights his dedication to advancing disability empowerment on a national scale.

INS Savitri, an indigenously built Offshore Patrol Vessel constructed by Mazagon Dock Ltd, Mumbai, arrived at Port Louis, Mauritius as part of an operational deployment. Commissioned on 7 June 1990, the vessel operates under the Eastern Naval Command based at Visakhapatnam. Equipped with a 40×60 Bofors Gun and a helicopter deck for Chetak helicopter operations, INS Savitri is designed for aerial surveillance, search and rescue, and patrol missions. Its visit to Mauritius underscores India’s commitment to maritime cooperation, regional security, and fostering strong bilateral ties with Indian Ocean nations.

The anti-tunnelling system has been deployed along the Punjab–Jammu Border, an area known for challenges such as weapon and drug smuggling, as well as attempts at terrorist infiltration. The system’s ability to generate real-time alerts strengthens surveillance and enhances the BSF’s operational effectiveness. This deployment forms part of a broader security strategy demonstrated during the BSF’s Diamond Jubilee, which highlighted several major operations, including anti-drone measures, large-scale seizures, and the arrest of intruders. By integrating advanced detection technologies, the BSF aims to create a more secure and better-monitored border environment.

The International Day Against Unilateral Coercive Measures is observed on December 4, following a resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly in June 2025. The day draws global attention to the negative humanitarian, economic, and legal impacts of unilateral sanctions imposed by one state on another outside the mandate of international law and the UN Charter. Such measures—whether trade embargoes, asset freezes, or financial restrictions—can severely affect access to essential services like healthcare, food, and housing, especially in developing nations. By recognizing this day, the international community aims to promote multilateral dialogue, uphold human rights, protect state sovereignty, and discourage coercive economic practices that undermine global peace and equitable development.

National Milk Day is observed annually on November 26 to honour the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the Father of India’s White Revolution. The day celebrates his pivotal role in transforming India from a milk-deficient nation to the world’s largest milk producer, contributing nearly 25% of global milk output. National Milk Day highlights achievements in dairy production, livestock care, and rural livelihoods, as well as initiatives like Operation Flood, the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, and the National AI Programme. The observance also emphasises women’s empowerment in dairy cooperatives and India’s advancements in infrastructure, technology, and GST reforms within the dairy sector.

National Pollution Prevention Day is observed every year on December 2 in India to honour the memory of the thousands of people who lost their lives in the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy. The disaster occurred due to the leakage of the toxic chemical Methyl Isocyanate (MIC) from a pesticide plant, making it one of the world’s most devastating industrial pollution incidents. This observance serves as a reminder of the need for strict safety regulations, responsible industrial practices, and heightened public awareness to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Jakarta has overtaken Tokyo to become the world’s most populous city, with an estimated population of 42 million in 2025, according to the UN World Urbanisation Prospects report. This change results from updated UN methodology that standardises urban population measurements and accounts for functional urban areas, including urban sprawl and regional connectivity. Jakarta’s rapid urban growth reflects broader trends in Asian megacities, where nine of the ten largest cities are located. The report highlights the increasing significance of urbanisation globally, with nearly half the world’s population now residing in cities, and projections indicating continued urban concentration by 2050.

India has entered into a landmark agreement to source a significant portion of its LPG imports—about 10%—from the United States starting in 2026. This structured deal marks a strategic shift in India’s energy procurement pattern, as it has traditionally relied heavily on West Asian suppliers such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait. By diversifying its supply chain, India aims to strengthen its energy security, reduce dependence on a single region, and explore competitive pricing options based on the Mont Belvieu benchmark used in the US. The move also supports broader diplomatic and trade objectives between the two countries.

India and Bahrain jointly launched a real-time cross-border payment system linking India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with Bahrain’s Electronic Funds Transfer System (EFTS) through Fawri+. This initiative, facilitated by the NPCI International and BENEFIT, and guided by the RBI and Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), marks a significant milestone in fintech cooperation between the two nations. The integration enables instant, secure, and low-cost remittances, advancing digital financial inclusion. Building upon the 2019 MoU and the 2024 Joint Commission pledge, the partnership deepens economic engagement and strengthens people-to-people and financial connectivity between India and Bahrain.

The UAE emerged as the third-largest humanitarian donor in 2025, contributing an impressive $1.46 billion, which accounts for 7.2% of all aid recorded by the UN’s Financial Tracking Service. This milestone highlights the UAE’s expanding global role in both emergency response and long-term development initiatives. Its contributions support critical areas such as food, water, medical assistance, post-conflict recovery, education, and clean energy projects. Led by visionary leadership prioritizing humanitarian responsibility, the UAE’s commitment reflects a blend of rapid crisis intervention and sustainable development, reinforcing its standing as a reliable and impactful global humanitarian partner.

Saudi Arabia received the Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status from the United States, marking a major elevation in their strategic relationship. This designation provides access to advanced American defence technologies, preferential military cooperation, joint training programs, and participation in research and development initiatives. The announcement coincided with a landmark defence and technology partnership that includes the sale of F-35 fighter jets, advanced tanks, and expanded security collaboration in the Gulf region. Additionally, agreements on civil nuclear energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals further deepen the bilateral ties, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals and reshaping regional strategic dynamics.

The storm responsible for the widespread damage, severe flooding, and loss of life across parts of Portugal and Wales was named Claudia. It brought intense rain, strong winds, and hazardous conditions that led authorities to issue amber alerts in several Portuguese districts, including Algarve, Beja, and Setubal. In Wales, the storm’s impact was equally serious, with rivers overflowing and causing significant flooding, especially in Monmouth. Events like these highlight the increasing vulnerability of regions to extreme weather, emphasizing the need for preparedness, timely warnings, and resilient infrastructure to mitigate the effects of such natural disasters.

The approved scheme centres on building a robust domestic ecosystem for manufacturing Rare Earth Permanent Magnets, which are crucial for advanced technologies including electric vehicles, defence systems, renewable energy equipment, and high-precision industrial applications. By promoting complete value-chain integration—from oxide conversion to finished sintered magnets—the programme aims to reduce India’s heavy import dependence, especially amid global supply chain constraints dominated by China. The scheme’s incentive structure, long-term duration, and phased implementation are designed to attract major investors, enhance self-reliance, support clean mobility, and strengthen India’s path toward energy security and strategic technological independence.

WHO introduced its first clinical guideline for the use of GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide to support long-term obesity management. These medicines, added to the Essential Medicines List in 2025, are recommended alongside lifestyle interventions that include dietary improvements, increased physical activity, and sustained medical follow-up. WHO advised caution regarding the use of these drugs during pregnancy due to insufficient data. With over one billion people worldwide affected by obesity and millions of deaths occurring annually, the guideline aims to provide structured, evidence-based global direction for managing this growing public health challenge.

Lakshya Sen emerged victorious at the 2025 Australian Open Super 500 in Sydney, defeating Japan’s Yushi Tanaka in straight games, 21-15, 21-11. This marked his first title of the year and his third career Super 500 win. Ranked World No. 14, Sen dominated the final with tactical precision and composure, closing the match in just 38 minutes. His journey to the title included challenging quarterfinal and semifinal matches, but he maintained focus and capitalised on his opponent’s errors in the final. This victory boosts his ranking, enhances morale, and sets a strong foundation for upcoming international tournaments.

Virat Kohli achieved a historic milestone by scoring his 52nd ODI century during the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi on November 30, 2025. This achievement allowed him to surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s long-held record of 49 ODI centuries, making Kohli the player with the most hundreds in the history of One-Day Internationals. His century also marked his sixth ODI hundred against South Africa, showcasing his remarkable consistency. With a total of 83 international centuries, Kohli stands second only to Tendulkar. His excellence, longevity, and unparalleled run-chasing ability reinforce his legacy as one of cricket’s greatest-ever batsmen.

The first-ever Ramakrishna Mission College in Northeast India was inaugurated in Meghalaya, marking an important step toward strengthening educational infrastructure in the region. The inauguration by the state’s Chief Minister highlights Meghalaya’s commitment to expanding academic opportunities and improving access to quality higher education. Establishing such an institution in Nongthymmai, Mawsmai, Sohra not only supports local students but also contributes to the broader goal of uplifting educational standards across the Northeast. This initiative reflects a growing focus on inclusive development, skill enhancement, and empowering youth through modern academic facilities rooted in the values and service ethos of the Ramakrishna Mission.

A recent Scientific Reports study identified the presence of uranium (U-238) in breast milk samples collected from multiple districts in Bihar. Researchers used ICP-MS technology to test 40 samples, all of which showed detectable levels of uranium, raising concerns about potential exposure risks for infants. The highest concentrations were found in districts like Katihar and Khagaria, reaching up to 5.25 µg/L. These findings highlight the need for thorough investigation into environmental contamination sources, improved water safety measures, and targeted public health interventions to protect vulnerable populations, especially nursing mothers and infants.

The Union Finance Minister launched several developmental initiatives in Nagaland, reflecting the government's focus on strengthening infrastructure and financial inclusion in the Northeast. A new Industrial Training Institute was inaugurated in Kiphire to enhance local skill development. Additionally, ₹9 lakh was released under SBI’s CSR initiatives to support training programmes. During a Credit Outreach Programme, nine new bank branches were virtually launched across the region, and sanction letters were issued to beneficiaries. Loans totalling ₹28.02 crore were distributed to 350 individuals, demonstrating a significant push toward economic empowerment and improved access to banking services in the state.

The Union Minister of Science & Technology visited IIT Bombay to inaugurate its new Liquid Helium Facility, a major advancement for India’s quantum research ecosystem. This facility supports ultra-low-temperature experiments essential for cutting-edge quantum technologies, including superconductivity, quantum computing, sensing, and advanced materials research. The institute has also developed pioneering tools such as QMagPI—the nation’s first portable magnetometer—and India’s first indigenous Quantum Diamond Microscope for nanoscale magnetic imaging. These innovations place IIT Bombay at the forefront of India’s quantum mission, strengthening national capabilities in cryogenics, defence applications, healthcare diagnostics, and high-precision scientific instrumentation.