Daily Current Affairs – 27-11-2025
Important Days
Indian Organ Donation Day 2025
India observes Indian Organ Donation Day every year to promote awareness about organ and tissue donation and to honour the contributions of deceased donors. The observance was initiated in 2010 by the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Historically, the day was celebrated on November 27, but from 2023 onwards, it has been shifted to August 3, commemorating the anniversary of India’s first successful deceased-donor heart transplant conducted on August 3, 1994.
International News
3.5 Billion-Year-Old Crater on Mars Named After Indian Geologist M.S. Krishnan
A 3.5 billion-year-old crater on Mars has been officially named after M.S. Krishnan, a pioneering Indian geologist, following approval by the International Astronomical Union (IAU). The naming proposal was submitted by Asif Iqbal Kakkassery, Assistant Professor in Geology at Government College, Kasaragod, and Rajesh V.J., Department of Earth and Space Sciences, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram. Along with “Krishnan Crater,” the IAU has also approved several Kerala-based names for smaller Martian landforms such as Valiamala, Thumba, Bekal, Varkala, and Periyar. The plain inside the Krishnan Crater has been named Krishnan Palus, and the channel cutting across it has been named Periyar Vallis. Dr. M.S. Krishnan, born in Thanjavur in 1898, was the first Indian Director of the Geological Survey of India (GSI). The findings and naming details were published in the international journal Meteoritics & Planetary Science.
Direct Flight Services to Resume Between Pakistan and Bangladesh
The direct flight service between Pakistan and Bangladesh is set to resume in December 2025, strengthening bilateral connectivity between the two nations. According to Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Junayed Rahman Khan, Mahan Air will operate three weekly flights between Pakistan and Karachi, while Fincom and Air Sial, two private Pakistani airlines, have also received permission from the Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority to operate on this route. This renewed air link follows the reactivation of the direct cargo transport service between the two countries, which began in December 2024. With increasing trade relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh, plans are also underway to start direct cargo ship services soon. The new interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, which came to power after the resignation of Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, has been taking steps to improve diplomatic and economic relations with Pakistan, including initiatives to simplify the visa process for travelers under this service.
Union Cabinet Approves ₹7,280 Crore Scheme for Rare Earth Magnet Production
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹7,280 crore scheme to promote the domestic production of rare earth permanent magnets, which are used in electric vehicles, aerospace, electronics, medical equipment, and defense systems. The scheme, announced on November 26, 2025, will involve five companies selected through global tenders, with a combined production capacity of 6,000 metric tonnes per year. Each company will have an annual capacity of 1,200 metric tonnes for the next five years. The scheme will run for seven years, with the first two years allocated for establishing integrated manufacturing facilities and the next five years focused on production-linked incentives for magnet sales. The initiative aims to reduce India’s dependence on China, which currently dominates the global rare earth magnet market, and strengthen self-reliance in critical minerals and technology. The Cabinet also approved two railway projects worth ₹2,781 crore in Gujarat and Maharashtra, including the doubling of the Suvara–Kankonia line and the new Panvel–Karjat and Nagoth–Karjat lines in Mumbai. Additionally, the Cabinet sanctioned the Phase-2 extension of the Pune Metro Rail Project in Maharashtra at a cost of ₹9,857.85 crore, covering 31.635 km with 28 elevated stations, to be completed in five years under the supervision of Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
India–Slovenia Consultations to Promote Trade and Investments
The 10th Session of the India–Slovenia Joint Committee for Trade and Economic Cooperation was held in New Delhi on November 26, 2025, to discuss measures to enhance bilateral trade and investment between the two countries. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in key sectors such as agriculture, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, transportation, energy, tourism, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), Ayurveda, and traditional medicine. Both nations emphasized the importance of accelerating the conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union, ensuring a fair and mutually beneficial framework. It is notable that Slovenia is a member of the European Union, and this consultation aims to deepen India–EU economic relations through enhanced trade partnerships and investment opportunities.
Cyclone ‘Senyar’
The low-pressure area that developed over the Strait of Malacca intensified into a deep depression, and on 26 November 2025 it further developed into Cyclone Senyar. The cyclone moved west-southwest, crossed the Indonesian coast after affecting the Strait of Malacca and adjoining northwestern Indonesian regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that the cyclone had no impact on Tamil Nadu. The Malacca Strait is a narrow sea passage connecting the Andaman Sea (Indian Ocean) and the South China Sea (Pacific Ocean); it lies between the Indonesian island of Sumatra (on the west) and the Malay Peninsula (Malaysia and southern Thailand) (on the east), with Singapore at its southern tip. The name “Senyar” was contributed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) under the regional cyclone-naming system, and “Senyar” means “lion.”
Tamil Nadu News
Chief Minister Inaugurates Memorial for Freedom Fighter Maaveeran Pollan in Erode
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated a memorial for freedom fighter Maaveeran Pollan at Jayaramapuram in Modakurichi taluk, Erode district. The memorial, constructed at a cost of ₹4.90 crore, showcases weapons used by Maaveeran Pollan, who served as a commander in the army of Theeran Chinnamalai during the freedom struggle. The Chief Minister also honoured the descendants of Maaveeran Pollan and distributed free house-site pattas to them. A documentary film on the life and bravery of Pollan was screened at the event. The memorial stands as recognition of Pollan’s contribution to the Indian freedom movement and his role in resisting British colonial rule in Tamil Nadu.
Personalities, Awards and Events
Vyjayanthimala Bali Receives Dr. Mrs. YGP Award for Cultural Excellence
Actor and former MP Vyjayanthimala Bali received the Dr. Mrs. YGP Award for Cultural Excellence during the birth centenary celebrations of educationist Dr. (Mrs.) Y.G. Parthasarathy (YGP) held in Chennai, organized by Bharat Kalachar. The award was conferred in recognition of her contribution to art and culture. The event also witnessed participation from prominent personalities including Actor Rajinikanth, Bharatanatyam exponent Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, Carnatic musician Lalgudi G.J.R. Krishnan, and members of the Y.G.P. family. Cultural performances such as light music, dramas, and Bharatanatyam dances were part of the celebration, highlighting Dr. YGP’s legacy in promoting education and cultural excellence.
Ambresh Prasad Appointed as Executive Director of Union Bank
The Central Government has appointed Ambresh Prasad, former General Manager of Punjab National Bank, as the Executive Director of Union Bank of India, a public sector bank. As per the government notification dated November 24, 2025, he will serve for a period of three years or until his retirement on October 31, 2028, whichever is earlier. Ambresh Prasad has over 32 years of experience in the banking sector and has served in various roles at the branch, zonal, and head office levels. He is known for his expertise in corporate credit, credit appraisal, monitoring, and transaction supervision. His appointment strengthens the leadership of Union Bank of India, which plays a significant role in the country's public sector banking operations.
Chennai Metro Rail Receives International Transport Project Award
The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) received the Global Energy and Environment Award for Sustainable Urban Transport at the Global Sustainable Development Summit 2025 held in New Delhi. The award was presented to CMRL Managing Director M.A. Siddique in recognition of the company’s environmental initiatives. The Chennai Metro implemented several eco-friendly measures, including monitoring and controlling air pollution, noise, and vibrations, as well as using environmentally sustainable construction materials. The award recognized these ongoing efforts in promoting green transportation systems. It is notable that CMRL had also received the same international award in 2024.
Economy News
Japanese Firms Sign MoU to Establish Research Centre at IIT Madras
The Japanese companies alfaTKG Co Ltd and OHKUMA IND Co Ltd have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Centre (AMTDC) to establish a joint research centre for paperless manufacturing at the IIT Madras Research Park. The collaboration aims to introduce Japanese expertise in industrial automation, robotics, mechatronics, and AI-driven manufacturing to Indian industries, particularly benefiting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) adopting digital transformation. The centre will serve as a hub for collaborative research and development, involving IIT Madras faculty, students, and industry experts, and will deploy GAIA, an AI-enabled manufacturing platform developed by alfaTKG, for pilot production demonstrations. The MoU was signed by Toshio Takagi, President and CEO of alfaTKG Co Ltd, Katsuichi Kobori, President and CEO of OHKUMA IND Co Ltd, and N. Ramesh Babu, Secretary of AMTDC and Head of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Madras. The initiative marks a significant step in strengthening India–Japan industrial collaboration and promoting AI-based smart manufacturing solutions in India.
National News
UIDAI Deletes 2 Crore Aadhaar Numbers of Deceased Persons
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has deleted over 2 crore Aadhaar numbers belonging to deceased individuals as part of a nationwide database clean-up initiative to maintain accuracy and prevent misuse of identity cards. The action was undertaken in coordination with the Registrar General of India (RGI), State Governments, Union Territories, the Public Distribution System (PDS), and the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP). The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology stated that UIDAI has introduced a system to ensure that the Aadhaar number of a deceased person cannot be misused. The ‘My Aadhaar’ website now enables family members to deactivate the Aadhaar number of a deceased person after submitting the death certificate, currently available in 25 States and Union Territories. UIDAI is also working with death registration offices across India to integrate Aadhaar verification with death registration databases, thereby enhancing transparency and preventing fraudulent Aadhaar use.
India – A Reliable Destination for Investors
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, inaugurated the ‘V’ Engine Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Centre of Safran, a leading aircraft maintenance company, located in Hyderabad, Telangana, through video conferencing on November 26, 2025. The centre has been established with an initial investment of ₹1,300 crore and will begin operations in 2026. The initiative was developed under the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation to make India a global hub for aircraft engine maintenance. Currently, 85% of India’s MRO work is carried out abroad, increasing operational costs and downtime. The establishment of this domestic facility aims to strengthen India’s aviation infrastructure, promote self-reliance in the aviation sector, and reduce foreign exchange expenditure. Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia stated that the initiative could help save about ₹13,03,843 crore (USD 15 billion) in repair and foreign exchange expenses. The project also supports the government’s broader ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and industrial reform initiatives, making India a trusted investment destination and growing manufacturing hub.
Nation’s First Indigenous Shipping Management System Established at IIT Chennai
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Chennai has developed the nation’s first indigenous shipping traffic management system for ports. The system was created by researchers from the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC) at IIT Chennai and has been implemented at the Vizhinjam International Port in Kerala. The project was developed in line with the requirements of the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The indigenous system enhances data security, provides solutions for operational challenges, and reduces financial risks associated with private vendors. It also promotes technological self-reliance in the Indian maritime sector by minimizing import dependency and encouraging the indigenization of technology and expertise in port operations.
‘Bharat Taxi’ App to be Introduced Soon
The Central Government is set to launch a new mobile application named ‘Bharat Taxi’ for auto and call taxi services across India. The app aims to provide the public with fixed and affordable fares, reducing dependency on private ride-booking apps that charge higher rates during peak hours. The initiative is being developed under the supervision of the Transport Department, and trial runs are currently underway. The app is expected to be launched for public use within a few weeks. The project seeks to ensure a transparent and uniform fare system for both auto-rickshaw and taxi passengers, addressing long-pending demands for fare regulation and fair earnings for drivers. The ‘Bharat Taxi’ app will function as a nationwide public transport booking platform, marking a major step in providing affordable urban mobility options under the Central Government’s transport reform measures.
Sports News
Ahmedabad Named Host of 2030 Commonwealth Games
The Commonwealth Sport (CS) officially announced that Ahmedabad will host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, marking the return of the event to India after 20 years since the 2010 Delhi Games. The decision, made during the CS General Assembly held in Glasgow, confirmed Ahmedabad’s selection over Abuja, Nigeria. The Indian delegation was led by Gujarat Sports Minister Harsh Sanghavi and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president P.T. Usha. The event will coincide with the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games, strengthening India’s prospects to bid for the 2036 Olympics. The Gujarat Sports Department announced that construction work will begin in April 2026 at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave and Gujarat Police Academy, including facilities like an athletics stadium and a shooting range. The Government of India has already secured funding, and the infrastructure is expected to be completed by late 2028 or early 2029. Ahmedabad is also set to host the 2029 World Police and Fire Games, with October likely to be the preferred month for the Commonwealth Games, aligning with the festive season of Navratri and Diwali.