Daily Current Affairs- 13th November 2025

Daily Current Affairs- 13th November 2025

Punjab Becomes First State to Implement Amended Bharat Net Scheme Statewide

In the News: Punjab achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first state in India to fully implement the amended Bharat Net Scheme across its entire territory. Chief Secretary KAP Sinha received the award from Ajay Kumar Kararha, CGM, BSNL Punjab Circle, marking a significant step toward digital inclusion in rural areas.

Key Points:

• Statewide Rollout Achievement: Punjab has emerged as the first state to successfully implement the amended Bharat Net Scheme throughout the entire state. Internet and broadband services have already reached 43 shadow areas, with only one village remaining to be covered by end of November 2025. This achievement demonstrates the state's commitment to bridging the digital divide and establishing a "one big digital family" with easy access to government services across all villages.
• Infrastructure Development: Over 1,000 kilometers of fiber-optic cables have been laid (more than ten times the distance between Ludhiana and Delhi), along with approximately 1,000 kilometers of HDD in 22 blocks of Punjab. The project commenced from Harsha Chinna block in Amritsar and is being executed with active coordination from various state government agencies and district-level officers, following a coordination meeting held under joint chairmanship of the Chief Secretary and Secretary of Telecom in June 2025.
• Border Monitoring and Governance: Under the Amended Bharat Net Project, BSNL Punjab operates the first State Network Operations Center (S-NOC) in India, enabling live monitoring of the border state from any location across the country. This technological advancement strengthens governance capabilities and supports e-governance and e-health services in rural sectors, with particular emphasis on monitoring even remote border villages like Ramkalwan in Pathankot District.
• Rural Transformation and Agricultural Empowerment: The scheme will revolutionize rural Punjab, where nearly 60% of the population depends on agriculture. Farmers will now access market prices, weather updates, and direct buyer connections from home, eliminating middlemen and enabling direct MSP and PM-KISAN scheme applications on mobile phones. Additionally, approximately 3 million children in government schools will access quality education comparable to urban institutions through online classes and IIT professor lectures, while remote healthcare areas can utilize telemedicine services from major hospitals like PGI Chandigarh.

Andhra Teen Selected for 2029 Space Mission Training — India’s Rising Space Star

In the News: Kunchala Kaivalya Reddy, a 17-year-old from Nidadavole in East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, was selected for an elite astronaut training programme with Titans Space Industries in Florida, making her one of India's rising talents in space exploration. The selection was officially confirmed through a personal email from the organization's CEO, Neil S. Lachman.

Key Points:

• Elite Selection Achievement: Kaivalya has been chosen among just 150 candidates selected from thousands of applications across 36 countries for the Titans Space Industries astronaut training programme. Her selection represents a remarkable milestone for Indian youth in space science and demonstrates India's growing presence in global space exploration.
• Rigorous Training Programme: The four-year training programme, scheduled from 2026 to 2029 in Florida, includes advanced spaceflight simulations, survival training in extreme conditions, technical instruction in orbital mechanics, spacecraft systems operations, and zero-gravity adaptation. The programme is designed to prepare candidates for actual space missions through comprehensive education covering all critical aspects of astronaut operations, from emergency procedures and psychological assessments to mission simulations and spaceflight operations supervised by veteran NASA astronaut William McArthur Jr., serving as Chief Astronaut at Titans Space.
• 2029 Space Mission Details: Upon successful completion of training, Kaivalya will participate in a historic space mission in 2029 aboard Titans Space's spaceplane. The mission will orbit Earth twice at an altitude of approximately 300 kilometers, with a total mission duration of five hours including approximately three hours of weightlessness experience. This mission represents a significant milestone in commercial space education and youth involvement in orbital science, marking India's participation in private sector space exploration initiatives.

New Emblem, New Vision: Maharashtra Unveils Agriculture Logo and Motto

In the News: The Maharashtra Agriculture Department launched a new logo and slogan after 38 years, unveiling its updated visual identity at a ceremony in Mumbai led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The motto, “Sashwat Sheti, Samruddha Shetkari” (Sustainable Farming, Prosperous Farmer), was selected through an inclusive state-wide competition reflecting a renewed focus on technology-driven and sustainable agriculture.

Key Points:

• Logo and Motto Launch: The department's updated logo and slogan were formally released by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne present. This marks the first branding update in 38 years, symbolizing a strategic shift in Maharashtra's approach to modern and resilient agriculture.​
• Public Participation and Selection: The slogan, “Sashwat Sheti, Samruddha Shetkari,” meaning “Sustainable Farming, Prosperous Farmer,” was chosen through an open public competition which drew over 1,700 entries, with creative evaluation handled by a committee under the Agriculture Commissioner. The winning logo was designed by Virendra Bhaidas Patil (Bhusawal) and the slogan authored by Siddhi Bharat Desai (Parbhani).​
• Policy and Symbolism: Leaders emphasized that the rebranding stands for technology-led progress, farmer empowerment, and sustainability. The initiative aims to inspire confidence in farmers, promote innovation, and connect with youth and agri-entrepreneurs. The department will use the emblem and motto across official communications, reflecting Maharashtra's commitment to integrating traditional wisdom with contemporary practices amid growing challenges in irrigation, climate adaptation, and market access for farmers.

India to Receive 8 Cheetahs from Botswana: A Major Step in Project Cheetah Revival

In the News: President Droupadi Murmu accepted the symbolic handover of eight cheetahs from Botswana’s President Duma Gideon Boko at the Mokolodi Nature Reserve, Gaborone. The new arrivals, comprising both adults and sub-adults, mark a milestone in India’s efforts to revive its cheetah population after an absence of decades, strengthening wildlife conservation alliances between India and Botswana.​​

Key Points:

• Translocation Milestone: The eight cheetahs from Botswana will soon be transported to India, joining the Cheetah Initiative project at Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh, following a quarantine period in Botswana. This marks the official start of a new phase in Project Cheetah, designed to restore the species to its historical habitat in India, which has recorded successes in previous years with cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa.​
• Ecological and Genetic Impact: Botswana’s gift is crucial for enhancing genetic diversity among the reintroduced cheetahs, as the country hosts one of Africa’s largest wild cheetah populations. The animals are well-adapted to savannah-like conditions similar to those in India, promising better chances for breeding and ecological adjustment. Their arrival supports India’s objectives to restore ecological balance, promote eco-tourism, and strengthen its wildlife frameworks.​​
• International Conservation Collaboration: The handover ceremony reflects deepening India–Botswana cooperation in conservation, with coordinated fieldwork by wildlife experts and veterinarians from both countries. Botswana's partnership underscores Africa’s engagement with India's conservation goals and offers hope for future transcontinental wildlife projects and scientific exchange. President Murmu's state visit also promoted broader bilateral ties in agriculture, health, technology, and defence, reaffirming both nations' commitment to protecting endangered species and advancing global biodiversity.​​
• Project Cheetah Achievements: Since the beginning of Project Cheetah in 2022, India has received eight cheetahs from Namibia, twelve from South Africa, and now eight from Botswana, with the total brought to 35 cheetahs including those born on Indian soil. Despite challenges, 26 cubs have been born in India, marking measurable progress toward cheetah revival and ecosystem restoration.​

Oman Joins UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Council

In the News: Oman secured membership in the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Council for the term 2025–2029, following an election at the 43rd UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. This achievement recognizes Oman's growing leadership in sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and international cooperation for balancing development and environmental stewardship.​

Key Points:

• Election and Representation: Oman’s election to the MAB Council marked a major stride for the Sultanate’s Environment Authority, reflecting consistent engagement and visible contribution to global biosphere reserve management. The selection followed sustained efforts to integrate national development with ecological preservation, in line with Oman Vision 2040 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).​
• Role and Responsibilities: As a member of the MAB Council, Oman will participate in shaping policies and strategies for biosphere reserves, promoting scientific research, expanding conservation areas, and fostering international collaboration. The council’s focus areas include conservation, youth and researcher empowerment, climate adaptation, and supporting innovative solutions for sustainable livelihoods worldwide.​
• Track Record and Global Standing: Oman’s leadership in biodiversity conservation is already demonstrated by its successful inscription of Al Sareen and Al Jabal Al Akhdar reserves in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Council membership allows Oman to share best practices, influence global policies, and enhance the visibility of sustainable development initiatives, reinforcing its strategic presence on international environmental platform.

Singapore Introduces World’s First Green Fuel Levy

In the News: Singapore announced it will become the first country in the world to impose a Green Fuel Levy on air passengers departing from its airports. The landmark measure, set to take effect for flights departing from October 1, 2026 (with tickets issued from April 1, 2026 onwards), aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels and support the city-state’s net-zero aviation goals.​

Key Points:

• Levy Rollout: The Green Fuel Levy will apply to all tickets sold from April 1, 2026, for flights departing Singapore starting October 1, 2026, covering economy, business, and first-class passengers. Levy amounts range from S$1 (for short-haul economy flights within Southeast Asia) to S$41.60 (for long-haul business/first-class flights to the Americas), with the charge determined by travel distance and cabin class. The levy appears as a distinct line item on tickets for full transparency and will not affect transit or humanitarian flights.​
• Environmental Impact: All funds raised from the levy will be used to purchase and supply sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which produces far fewer carbon emissions than traditional jet fuel and is typically made from waste oils or low-carbon sources. Singapore aims for SAF to constitute 1% of all jet fuel used at Changi and Seletar Airports in 2026, with targets ramping up to 3–5% by 2030. The measure is a core pillar of Singapore’s Sustainable Air Hub Blueprint, which sets a pathway to net-zero aviation emissions by 2050.​
• Global Leadership and Market Integration: The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and the Singapore Sustainable Aviation Fuel Company (SAFCo) will manage levy revenues and secure SAF supplies. Singapore’s pioneering strategy could inspire similar policies globally, fostering market shifts toward cleaner aviation and reaffirming its position as a leader in green transport innovation. The levy also extends to cargo shipments and chartered flights, with proportional charges based on distance and aircraft size

Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2025 Announced, Check The Complete List of Winners

In the News: The Sahitya Akademi announced the winners of the Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2025, honoring 24 authors for their outstanding contributions to children’s literature across Indian languages. The awards recognize books published between 2019 and 2023 and will be formally presented on Children’s Day at Triveni Auditorium, New Delhi, reflecting the Akademi’s commitment to uplifting creative storytelling and language diversity for young readers.​

Key Points:

• Award Details and Ceremony: Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2025 is conferred for excellence in children’s literature in 24 Indian languages, encompassing poetry, stories, novels, plays, and articles. Each winner receives an engraved copper plaque and a monetary award of ₹50,000. The decision was made by the Executive Board led by Sri Madhav Kaushik, ensuring a rigorous selection process covering creativity, educational value, and cultural impact.​
• Complete List of Winners by Language: Assamese: Mainaahantar Padya (Poetry), Surendra Mohan Das , Bengali: Ekhono Gaye Kanta Daye (Stories), Tridib Kumar Chattopadhyay , Bodo: Khanthi Bwswn Arw Akhu Danai (Stories), Binay Kumar Brahma , Dogri: Nanhi Tor (Poetry), P.L. Parihar ‘Shauq’, English: Dakshin: South Indian Myths and Fables Retold (Stories), Nitin Kushalappa MP, Gujarati: Tinchak (Poetry), Kirtida Brahmbhatt , Hindi: Ek Batey Barah (Non-fiction & Memoir), Susheel Shukla , Kannada: Notebook (Short Stories), K. Shivalingappa Handihal ,  Kashmiri: Shure Te Tchure Gyush (Short Stories), Izhar Mubashir, Konkani: Belabaicho Shanker Ani Heir Kanyo (Stories), Nayana Adarkar, Maithili: Chukka (Short Stories), Munni Kamat, Malayalam: Penguinukalude Vankaravil (Novel), Sreejith Moothedath, Manipuri: Angangshing-Gee Shannabungshida (Play), Shanto Mangang

Marathi: Abhaimaya (Poetry), Suresh Govindrao Sawant, Nepali: Shanti Van (Novel), Sangmu Lepcha, Sanskrit: Balvisvam (Poetry), Preeti Pujara, Santali: Sona Miru-ag Sandesh (Poetry), Haralal Murmu, Sindhi: Asmani Pari (Poetry), Heena Agnani ‘Heer,’Urdu: Qaumi Sitare (Articles), Ghazanfar Iqbal.​

• Genre and Regional Diversity: This year’s awardees represent a rich variety of genres—poetry, stories, plays, and novels—across diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The selections highlight the importance of nurturing children’s literature in regional languages and preserving India’s multicultural literary heritage.​
• Significance and Impact: The Bal Sahitya Puraskar promotes age-appropriate, educational, and culturally relevant literature for young Indian readers. The awards support language preservation and inspire new generations of writers to contribute to children’s literature, directly impacting literacy, creativity, and cultural understanding nationwide.​

Padma Awards 2026: From Bindra to Paes, Here Are India’s Sporting Icons in Focus

In the News: The list of Padma Awards 2026 was announced, recognizing exceptional achievements across fields, including notable athletes and sporting icons. Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra, tennis champion Leander Paes, and Olympic javelin star Neeraj Chopra headline this year’s roll of honour, reflecting national appreciation for sports excellence and global impact.​

Key Points:

• Awards Overview: The Padma Awards 2026 encompass Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri, jointly celebrating outstanding contributions in sports, arts, literature, medicine, and public service. Among hundreds of honorees, 23 are women, and several athletes are recognized specifically for inspiring youth and elevating India’s global sporting reputation.​
• Abhinav Bindra (Shooting): India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, Bindra receives the Padma Vibhushan for elevating Indian shooting on the world stage and promoting sports science and youth mentorship post-retirement.​
• Leander Paes (Tennis): Padma Vibhushan: for an illustrious career featuring 18 Grand Slam titles and forging India’s legacy in tennis as a champion and coach.​
• Neeraj Chopra (Athletics): Olympic javelin gold medalist, awarded Padma Bhushan for his global victories and role in inspiring new generations of athletes.​
• Mary Kom (Boxing): Recognized for achievements in women’s boxing and advocacy for sports development, awarded Padma Bhushan.​
• P.R. Sreejesh (Hockey): Padma Shri recipient, honored for his pivotal role in India’s Olympic bronze-winning hockey team and promoting grassroots hockey.​
• Broader Sporting Recognition: The awards also highlight contributors from wrestling, badminton, kabaddi, and other disciplines, reflecting diversity and the expansion of India’s medal-winning sports ecosystem. Many awardees actively mentor aspiring athletes and advocate for advanced training facilities and international cooperation in sports.