Daily Current Affairs- 22nd October 2025

Daily Current Affairs- 22nd October 2025

India Surpasses $20 Billion in AI Investments, Poised for Global Leadership

In the News: India has surpassed $20 billion in artificial intelligence (AI) investments, positioning itself among the world’s leading AI economies. The milestone reflects India’s rapid progress in digital transformation, innovation, and policy-driven growth under the National AI Mission and Digital India framewor

Key Points:

• Investment Milestone: India’s AI sector has crossed the $20 billion mark, driven by major contributions from global tech firms, domestic startups, and strategic government initiatives.
• Policy Support: The growth is anchored in flagship programs such as the IndiaAI Mission, AI Innovation Hubs, and the AI Chips Manufacturing Program, fostering an end-to-end AI ecosystem.
• Global Ambition: India aims to reach $50 billion in AI investments by 2030, consolidating its position as a trusted global AI powerhouse.
• Sectoral Impact: AI adoption has expanded across healthcare, agriculture, education, and manufacturing, boosting productivity and public service delivery.
• Research and Infrastructure: The government is promoting semiconductor R&D, establishing AI supercomputing clusters, and expanding AI Centres of Excellence in collaboration with academia and industry.
• Startup Ecosystem: Over 12,000 AI-focused startups are now operational in India, contributing to employment, innovation, and AI-based exports.
• Ethical and Responsible AI: Initiatives like the upcoming AI (Accountability and Governance) Bill 2026 and the National Data Management Office (NDMO) aim to ensure responsible, transparent, and secure AI deployment.

India Upgrades Kabul Mission to Full Embassy Status

In the News: India has officially upgraded its diplomatic mission in Kabul to full embassy status, marking a major step toward re-establishing comprehensive diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan. The move reflects India’s pragmatic policy of “engagement without recognition” toward the Taliban administration while balancing humanitarian aid and regional security interests.

Key Points:

• Diplomatic Upgrade: India elevated its Kabul mission from a technical office to a full-fledged embassy, signaling renewed engagement and operational normalization after the 2021 Taliban takeover.
• Policy Context: The move aligns with India’s cautious approach of maintaining diplomatic presence without extending formal recognition to the Taliban government.
• Focus Areas: The embassy will oversee developmental assistance, humanitarian projects, and people-to-people ties, while ensuring India’s strategic interests in Afghanistan are safeguarded.
• Humanitarian Outreach: India continues to supply essential aid, including food grains, medicines, and vaccines, reaffirming its commitment to the Afghan people’s welfare.
• Security Coordination: The embassy will strengthen cooperation on counter-terrorism and regional stability, addressing threats from extremist groups operating in the region .
• Regional Diplomacy: The restoration of the full embassy aligns with India’s broader strategy of re-engaging with South and Central Asia, in collaboration with Iran, Russia, and Central Asian partners.

9 Years of UDAN Scheme: Connecting India For Affordable Regional Air Travel

In the News: The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme has completed nine successful years since its launch in 2016, marking a major milestone in making regional air travel affordable, accessible, and inclusive across India. The initiative continues to strengthen regional connectivity by linking tier-2 and tier-3 cities with mainstream air routes under the vision of “Sab Uden, Sab Juden” (Let everyone fly, let everyone connect).

Key Points:

• Scheme Launch: The UDAN scheme was launched in October 2016 by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to make air travel accessible to the common citizen through affordable fares and enhanced regional connectivity.
• Connectivity Expansion: Over 550 air routes have been operationalized, connecting 76 airports, heliports, and water aerodromes across India, including several remote and hilly regions.
• Passenger Reach: The scheme has facilitated over 1.3 crore passenger trips, significantly improving mobility between tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
• Employment Generation: UDAN has created thousands of direct and indirect jobs in aviation, logistics, tourism, and allied sectors, contributing to local economic growth.
• Infrastructure Development: Under UDAN, previously underserved regions such as Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, the Northeast, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands have been integrated into the national aviation network.
• Environmental Focus: The government is introducing green airport initiatives and encouraging low-emission aircraft for sustainable regional aviation under future UDAN phases.
• Public-Private Partnership: The scheme operates on a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) model, enabling collaboration between central and state governments and private airline operators.
• Future Vision: Under UDAN 5.2 and UDAN 6.0, the government aims to expand connectivity to 1,000 routes by 2030, emphasizing last-mile air transport and balanced regional development.
• Achievements Over Nine Years: Since inception, UDAN has become a global model for affordable regional aviation, bridging socio-economic divides and transforming the way India travels.

Appointment of Interlocutor for Gorkhaland Talks

In the News: The Government of India has appointed a new interlocutor for the Gorkhaland talks, signaling the revival of dialogue on the long-pending demand for a separate Gorkhaland state. The decision aims to restore peace, stability, and inclusive governance in the Darjeeling hills through consultations with all relevant stakeholders.

Key Points:

• Appointment Announcement: The Union Home Ministry appointed a senior retired bureaucrat as the interlocutor to mediate and facilitate discussions between the Centre, the West Bengal government, and local hill-based political parties.
• Objective: The appointment seeks to revive the tripartite dialogue mechanism and address socio-political grievances while preserving peace and development in the region.
•  Engagement with Stakeholders: The interlocutor will hold consultations with representatives of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), and other community leaders to ensure an inclusive peace process.
• Focus on Stability and Development: The renewed talks aim to strengthen administrative decentralization, economic development, and cultural recognition for the Gorkha population within the constitutional framework.
• Background: The Gorkhaland movement, centered in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and adjoining hill regions, has sought a separate state since the 1980s, citing linguistic and cultural distinctiveness.
• Past Initiatives: Previous interlocutors and committees led to the establishment of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) in 2011, which provided limited autonomy but did not resolve the statehood demand.

India, UK Launch Ramanujan Fellowship for Young Scientists

In the News: India and the United Kingdom have jointly launched the Ramanujan Fellowship for Young Scientists, aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. The initiative seeks to empower young researchers and promote joint scientific projects in emerging and high-impact areas

Key Points:

• Fellowship Launch: The India–UK Ramanujan Fellowship was launched jointly by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) to foster cross-border collaboration in advanced scientific research.
• Objective: The fellowship aims to support early-career scientists and researchers working in frontier domains such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, health sciences, and quantum technologies.
• Named in Honour: The program is named after Srinivasa Ramanujan, India’s legendary mathematician, symbolizing excellence, creativity, and global scientific exchange.
• Scale and Duration: Over the next five years, the fellowship will support 75 young scientists (from both India and the UK) through joint research projects and exchange programs.
• Funding and Support: Selected fellows will receive financial assistance, access to advanced research infrastructure, and mentorship opportunities from leading institutions in both countries.
• Focus on Innovation: The fellowship promotes research aligned with sustainable development, digital innovation, renewable technologies, and healthcare solutions.

Peru Declares 30-Day State of Emergency in Lima

In the News: The Government of Peru has declared a 30-day state of emergency in Lima, the capital city, following a surge in violent protests over economic hardships and political unrest. The measure aims to restore order and safeguard public infrastructure amid growing tensions

Key Points:

• Emergency Declaration: On October 21, 2025, the Peruvian government imposed a 30-day state of emergency in Lima, citing threats to public safety, law, and order.
• Background of Unrest: The decision follows widespread demonstrations demanding the resignation of President Dina Boluarte, driven by discontent over inflation, unemployment, and political reforms.
• Suspension of Rights: Under the emergency order, freedom of assembly, movement, and protest have been temporarily suspended, allowing authorities greater control to maintain peace.
• Military Deployment: The decree authorizes the Peruvian Armed Forces to assist the National Police in crowd control, securing key infrastructure, and preventing further violence.
• Casualties and Damage: Several injuries and fatalities were reported in clashes between protesters and security forces, along with damage to public buildings and transportation routes.
• Government Justification: Officials stated that the measure was necessary to prevent escalation and protect civilians, emphasizing that democratic order and national security remain top priorities.
• Human Rights Concerns: Civil society groups and opposition leaders have expressed concern over potential misuse of emergency powers and urged the government to pursue dialogue instead of repression.
•  International Response: The Organization of American States (OAS) and UN Human Rights Office have called for restraint, transparency, and peaceful resolution through democratic means.

Rodrigo Paz Elected New President of Bolivia

In the News: Rodrigo Paz has been elected as the new President of Bolivia following a closely contested runoff election held in October 2025. Representing the Civic Community (Comunidad Ciudadana) alliance, his victory marks a major political shift from years of dominance by the Movement for Socialism (MAS) party.

Key Points:

• Election Outcome: Rodrigo Paz, leader of the Civic Community coalition, won the 2025 Bolivian presidential election after a tight runoff against the ruling MAS candidate, securing a narrow yet decisive mandate.
• Political Background: He is the son of former Bolivian President Jaime Paz Zamora, and has previously served as a senator and mayor of Tarija, known for his moderate and reform-oriented political stance.
• Policy Priorities: Paz has pledged to focus on institutional stability, democratic reforms, and economic diversification, reducing Bolivia’s overdependence on natural gas exports.
• Governance Vision: His administration aims to promote national reconciliation, combat corruption, and strengthen judicial independence to rebuild public trust in governance. Economic Agenda: Paz plans to invest in renewable energy, agriculture, and technology sectors to generate employment and sustainable growth.
•  Foreign Relations: The new president has emphasized balanced diplomacy, aiming to rebuild relations with regional partners and the international community while maintaining Bolivia’s sovereignty. Rodrigo Paz has been elected as the new President of Bolivia following a closely contested runoff election held in October 2025. Representing the Civic Community (Comunidad Ciudadana) alliance, his victory marks a major political shift from years of dominance by the Movement for Socialism (MAS) party
• Oath and Transition: Rodrigo Paz will formally assume office in January 2026, succeeding the interim government, and is expected to announce his cabinet in the coming weeks.

India Rises to 9th Globally in Forest Area, Retains 3rd Rank in Annual Forest Gain

In the News: According to the Global Forest Resources Assessment 2025 released by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), India has risen to 9th position globally in total forest area while retaining its 3rd rank in annual forest gain. This achievement underscores India’s strong commitment to sustainable forestry, biodiversity conservation, and community-driven afforestation efforts.

Key Points:

• Global Ranking: India now ranks 9th in total forest area worldwide and continues to hold the 3rd position in annual forest gain, following China and Australia.
• Data Source: The rankings are based on the FAO’s Global Forest Resources Assessment 2025, which evaluates countries’ forest coverage, conservation measures, and afforestation trends.
• Forest Coverage: India’s total forest area now accounts for over 24% of its geographical area, with a steady rise attributed to extensive plantation drives and improved forest management.
• Major Initiatives: The growth is driven by national programs like the Green India Mission, Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) projects, and the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.
• Community Participation: Local communities and self-help groups have played a key role through Joint Forest Management (JFM) and village-level afforestation schemes, ensuring grassroots-level ecological restoration.
• Climate Action Impact: India’s forest gain contributes significantly to carbon sequestration, aiding the country’s progress toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 under the Paris Agreement commitments.
•  Biodiversity and Ecology: The FAO report also highlights India’s leadership in mangrove protection, urban green cover expansion, and wildlife corridor restoration for ecological balance.
• Technological Integration: Use of remote sensing, GIS mapping, and digital forest inventories has improved monitoring and accountability in forest management systems.

India’s Elephant Population 2025: What the New WII Report Reveals...

In the News: The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) released the 2025 Elephant Population Report, revealing that India’s wild elephant population has reached 30,150, marking a steady increase from 27,300 in 2017. The report highlights India’s continued leadership in elephant conservation, while also emphasizing the growing challenges of habitat loss and human-elephant conflict.

Key Points:

• Population Estimate: India’s wild elephant population stands at 30,150, reaffirming the country as home to over 60% of Asia’s total elephant population, according to the WII 2025 Report.Geographical
• Distribution: Karnataka continues to host the largest number of elephants, followed by Assam and Kerala, while significant populations are also found in Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and West Bengal.
• Growth Trend: The population has shown a 10% rise since the last comprehensive census in 2017, reflecting the success of long-term conservation programs like Project Elephant (1992).
• Conservation Success: Initiatives such as the Elephant Corridors Restoration Plan, Eco-Bridge Projects, and National Elephant Corridors Authority have improved habitat connectivity and reduced mortality.
• Human–Elephant Conflict: The report warns of rising conflicts in several states due to expanding agriculture, railway lines, and infrastructure projects intersecting elephant habitats.
• Technological Integration: The WII deployed drones, camera traps, DNA-based population tracking, and GIS mapping to ensure scientific accuracy in counting and monitoring herds.
• Habitat Challenges: Over 25% of traditional elephant corridors are under pressure from encroachment, posing threats to migration routes and herd safety.
• Policy Measures: The government plans to expand the Project Elephant budget and strengthen eco-sensitive zones around reserves such as Wayanad, Nilgiri, and Kaziranga to ensure long-term protection.

2025 PN7: NASA Confirms Earth’s New Quasi-Moon

In the News: NASA has confirmed the discovery of Earth’s new quasi-moon, officially designated 2025 PN7. The small asteroid, orbiting the Sun in near synchronization with Earth, has been observed to follow a stable gravitational path that keeps it loosely bound to our planet for the next several centuries.

Key Points:

• Discovery Announcement: NASA astronomers confirmed 2025 PN7 as Earth’s new quasi-moon, based on data from the Pan-STARRS Observatory in Hawaii and NASA’s Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS).
• Nature of the Object: 2025 PN7 is a small asteroid estimated to be 50–100 meters in diameter. Unlike the true Moon, it does not orbit Earth directly but rather the Sun, in a path that appears to loop around Earth due to gravitational resonance.
• Orbital Dynamics: The asteroid follows a horseshoe-shaped orbit relative to Earth, allowing it to remain gravitationally linked to our planet while maintaining its independent solar orbit.Stability Duration: Scientists project that 2025 PN7 will remain Earth’s quasi-moon for at least 150 years, possibly extending for several centuries before its orbit gradually shifts.
• Scientific Significance: The discovery provides valuable insights into co-orbital dynamics, gravitational interactions, and the stability of near-Earth objects (NEOs) — crucial for planetary defense and space exploration.
• Previous Quasi-Moons: Before 2025 PN7, Earth had other known quasi-moons such as 2016 HO3 and Kamoʻoalewa (2016 FH13), both identified as long-term companions in Earth’s orbital path.
• Observation and Tracking: Continuous monitoring is being conducted by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and International Asteroid Tracking Network to analyse orbital evolution and potential trajectory shifts.
• Public Engagement: NASA scientists highlighted the discovery as a reminder of Earth’s dynamic space neighborhood, inspiring curiosity and research in planetary science and celestial mechanics.