Daily Current Affairs- 23rd October 2025

Daily Current Affairs- 23rd October 2025

8th Pay Commission: Salary Hike, Fitment Factor, and Pay Matrix Explained

In the News:  The Government of India announced preparations for the constitution of the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC), which will recommend revised pay structures for over 48 lakh central government employees and 67 lakh pensioners. The recommendations of the new commission are expected to take effect from January 1, 2026, continuing the decade-long cycle of pay revisions initiated under the 7th CPC in 2016.

Key Points:

• Commission Formation: The 8th Pay Commission is expected to be formally constituted by early 2026 to review and revise the pay matrix, allowances, and pensions of central government employees. Its terms of reference will include salary rationalization, inflation adjustment, and welfare benefits in line with current economic conditions.
• Fitment Factor Revision: The fitment factor, a key determinant of salary hikes, is projected to rise from 2.57 to around 3.0, implying an average 20–25% increase in basic pay. This factor serves as a multiplier applied to the existing basic pay to compute the new pay level under the revised matrix.
• Pay Matrix Structure: The upcoming pay matrix will continue the simplified rationalized framework introduced by the 7th CPC, which consolidated grade pay and pay bands into a single table. The revised matrix will ensure uniform increments, transparency, and parity across different levels of service.
• Allowances and Pensions: Alongside the revision of basic pay, the 8th CPC is also expected to review dearness allowance (DA), house rent allowance (HRA), transport allowance, and pension formulas to reflect rising living costs and economic realities. This will particularly benefit retirees by enhancing post-service income stability.

Kerala to Be Declared India’s First Extreme Poverty-Free State

In the News:  Kerala was declared India’s first extreme poverty-free state, marking a major milestone in the country’s social development landscape. The achievement comes under the ‘Nava Keralam’ Mission, which focused on identifying and rehabilitating families living in extreme poverty through targeted welfare programs. Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the initiative reflects Kerala’s continued leadership in human development, inclusivity, and welfare governance.

Key Points:

• Historic Milestone: Kerala has become the first state in India to successfully eradicate extreme poverty after uplifting more than 64,000 families identified as living below the extreme poverty line. The announcement follows a comprehensive review of poverty alleviation outcomes across all 14 districts.
• Nava Keralam Mission: The poverty-free declaration forms part of the Nava Keralam (New Kerala) Mission, a multi-sectoral poverty eradication program launched by the Kerala government. It integrates interventions across housing, healthcare, education, nutrition, and livelihood creation to ensure sustainable social inclusion.
• Data-Driven Approach: Using a data-backed identification process, the state government mapped households facing multiple deprivations — including lack of housing, health coverage, education, and income opportunities — and designed customized rehabilitation plans for each. Key Interventions: The initiative provided pucca housing, free healthcare access, educational assistance, and skill-based employment programs. It also integrated beneficiaries into ongoing welfare schemes such as Kudumbashree, Ayyankali Urban Employment Guarantee, and Karunya Health Scheme.
• Partnership with UNDP: The United Nations Development Programme played a pivotal role in supporting the monitoring and evaluation framework, ensuring that progress was measurable and outcomes were sustainable. The collaboration set a model for global best practices in localized poverty eradication.

Centre Offers Article 371 to Ladakh Amid Statehood Talks

In the News: The Government of India offered Article 371-type constitutional safeguards to Ladakh during ongoing talks with regional representatives demanding full statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule. The proposal was made to address concerns over the protection of land, jobs, and cultural identity in the Union Territory, which has been seeking greater autonomy since its separation from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.

Key Points:

• Government Proposal: The Centre has proposed extending Article 371-type provisions to Ladakh, ensuring constitutional protection for local rights similar to those enjoyed by several northeastern states. The move aims to preserve Ladakh’s distinct demography, environment, and traditional livelihoods.
• Negotiations and Stakeholders: The offer emerged during formal discussions with the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) — two key organizations representing diverse regional and religious communities. Both groups have been at the forefront of the movement demanding statehood, Sixth Schedule protection, and local self-governance.
• Rationale for Article 371-Type Safeguards: Unlike the Sixth Schedule, which applies to tribal autonomous councils in the Northeast, Article 371 provisions allow for region-specific constitutional protections without altering the Union Territory’s administrative structure. The Centre believes this framework better balances local aspirations with national security considerations, given Ladakh’s strategic location.
• Scope of Protection: The proposed safeguards include the protection of land ownership, employment opportunities, and cultural and linguistic heritage of the local population. Special provisions are expected to restrict non-residents from acquiring land and ensure priority for locals in government recruitment and development programs.

Jammu and Kashmir Revives 150-Year-Old Darbar Transfer After Four-Year Hiatus

In the News: The Jammu and Kashmir administration revived the 150-year-old Darbar Move tradition after a four-year hiatus. The historic practice, originally introduced by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1872, involves the biannual transfer of the Union Territory’s capital between Srinagar and Jammu. The move was reinstated to restore administrative balance, promote regional inclusion, and honor the cultural legacy of the erstwhile princely state.

Key Points:

• Revival of the Tradition: The Darbar Move, which had been suspended since 2021 following the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir into a Union Territory, has now been officially reinstated. Government offices will shift to Jammu during the winter and return to Srinagar in the summer, mirroring the pre-2020 administrative pattern.
• Historical Background: The tradition dates back to 1872 when Maharaja Ranbir Singh initiated the practice to maintain accessibility and governance across the two geographically and climatically distinct regions. It symbolized unity, administrative continuity, and the equal importance of both capitals in the governance structure.
• Reason for Revival: The decision to restore the Darbar Transfer was driven by the objective of balancing development and governance between Jammu and Kashmir regions. It also reflects the government’s intent to preserve a historic institution that fosters regional harmony and administrative outreach.
• Administrative Process: Under the revived system, key departments and offices will now alternate between Jammu and Srinagar every six months. The arrangement will ensure direct public engagement, effective grievance redressal, and logistical coordination across both regions.

Kerala: First Underwater Tunnel to link Vypin and Fort Kochi

In the News: The Kerala government announced India’s first underwater road tunnel project, which will connect Vypin Island and Fort Kochi beneath the Vembanad Lake. The project, developed by the Kerala Road and Infrastructure Development Corporation (KRIDC), is designed to ease traffic congestion, improve inter-island connectivity, and promote sustainable urban mobility in the Kochi region.

Key Points:

• Project Announcement: The Kerala government approved the construction of the country’s first underwater twin-tube road tunnel, linking Vypin and Fort Kochi. The project aims to provide a faster and more efficient alternative to the existing ferry services that currently handle most of the cross-channel movement.
• Engineering Design: The tunnel will span approximately 3 kilometers beneath the Vembanad Lake and feature four lanes to accommodate two-way vehicular traffic. It will be constructed using advanced immersed tunnel technology, ensuring safety, durability, and minimal disruption to the lake’s ecosystem.
• Project Cost and Model: Estimated at ₹1,950 crore, the tunnel will be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The government expects to complete the project within five years from the commencement of construction.
• Infrastructure and Connectivity Benefits: Once completed, the tunnel will drastically reduce travel time between Vypin and Fort Kochi, relieving traffic congestion on existing roads and ferry routes. It will also enhance connectivity to major commercial and tourism hubs in the Greater Kochi area, boosting economic activity and regional mobility.
• Environmental and Safety Considerations: The project includes comprehensive environmental impact assessments and safety mechanisms to ensure minimal ecological disturbance to Vembanad Lake, one of India’s largest and most biodiverse wetlands. Advanced monitoring systems will be integrated to manage air circulation, emergency evacuation, and water intrusion.

Global Multidimensional Poverty Index 2025

In the News: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) jointly released the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) 2025. The report provides a comprehensive measure of global poverty beyond income, assessing deprivations in health, education, and living standards across 100 countries. The 2025 edition reveals that 1.1 billion people worldwide still live in multidimensional poverty, with significant progress recorded in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Key Points:

• Global Overview: The 2025 MPI highlights that while the world has made notable gains in reducing poverty over the past decade, multidimensional poverty remains deeply entrenched in regions with low human development. Approximately 80% of the global poor live in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, with deprivation concentrated in nutrition, sanitation, and housing.
• India’s Progress: India continues to demonstrate major improvements, with around 230 million people lifted out of multidimensional poverty between 2005 and 2022. The national MPI has declined sharply from 27.5% in 2015–16 to 11.2% in 2022–23, driven by enhanced access to clean cooking fuel, sanitation facilities, nutrition, and education. Rural areas accounted for the majority of this reduction, reflecting the impact of targeted welfare schemes.
• Key Deprivations: Globally, the most significant deprivations were observed in nutrition, child mortality, housing, and access to clean energy. The report warns that climate change and conflict could reverse hard-won progress unless countries strengthen social protection and resilience systems.
• Policy Implications: The 2025 MPI underscores the need for integrated policy approaches that go beyond income-based poverty measures. It calls for investments in education, healthcare, housing, and sustainable livelihoods to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and inequality.
• Measurement Framework: The MPI assesses poverty through 10 indicators across three dimensions — health, education, and living standards — providing a multidimensional picture of deprivation. Each dimension carries equal weight, ensuring a balanced evaluation of human well-being.
• Global Outlook: The UNDP emphasized that sustained progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), requires renewed international cooperation and inclusive growth strategies. The report identifies digital inclusion, climate adaptation, and gender equality as critical drivers of future poverty reduction.

New Zealand Plans Social Media Ban for Under-16s

In the News:  The New Zealand government announced plans to ban social media access for individuals under the age of 16, citing growing mental health concerns and the negative influence of online platforms on young users. The proposal, led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, aims to safeguard children from cyberbullying, harmful content, and addiction associated with prolonged digital exposure. The legislation is expected to be introduced in Parliament in early 2026 following public consultations.

Key Points:

• Policy Announcement: The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit children below 16 years of age from creating or maintaining accounts on major social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and X (formerly Twitter). The move follows increasing global concern about the psychological and social effects of early exposure to social media.
• Digital Age Verification: As part of the proposal, technology companies will be mandated to implement robust age-verification systems using government-approved digital IDs or secure third-party mechanisms. Non-compliant platforms may face significant fines and regulatory penalties.
• Mental Health Protection: The initiative stems from research linking excessive social media use among teenagers to rising cases of anxiety, depression, body-image issues, and sleep disorders. The government emphasized that this step is part of a broader youth well-being strategy to foster healthier lifestyles and offline engagement.
• Prime Minister’s Statement: PM Christopher Luxon highlighted that the proposal reflects a “moral responsibility” to protect children from harmful digital environments and encourage stronger parental oversight. He noted that the policy prioritizes mental resilience over digital dependence.
• Public and Expert Reactions: The proposal has generated mixed reactions. Mental health advocates and educators have praised it as a bold and necessary reform, while critics argue it may infringe on digital rights and place excessive responsibility on tech companies. Parents’ groups have called for balanced implementation with strong education and awareness programs.
•  Global Context: New Zealand joins a growing list of countries, including France and the United States, considering age-based restrictions on social media. The move reflects a worldwide policy shift toward regulating online content to protect minors, signaling a new phase in digital governance and child safety legislation.

Saudi Arabia Abolishes Kafala System What It Means?

In the News: Saudi Arabia officially abolished the decades-old Kafala (sponsorship) system, marking one of the most significant labor reforms in the country’s history. The announcement was made under the framework of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s national modernization and diversification initiative. The reform introduces a new labor framework aimed at safeguarding migrant workers’ rights, improving labor market transparency, and aligning national laws with international human rights standards.

Key Points:

• End of Kafala System: The Kafala system, which had been in place for over seven decades, tied the legal residency of foreign workers to their employers, often leading to exploitation, limited mobility, and restrictions on basic rights. Its abolition represents a transformative shift toward a more equitable labor structure.
• New Labour Framework: Under the new reform, migrant workers can now change employers freely after contract completion or with prior notice, without needing employer consent. They can also obtain exit and re-entry visas independently, providing them greater autonomy and dignity in their employment conditions
• Workers’ Rights and Protections: The reform introduces digital grievance mechanisms, transparent wage protection systems, and clear employment contracts. These measures aim to reduce cases of abuse, unpaid wages, and forced labor while ensuring accountability among employers.
• Alignment with Vision 2030: The abolition of the Kafala system forms a core part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 agenda, which seeks to modernize the Saudi economy, expand labor participation, and improve global perceptions of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record.
• Impact on Migrant Workforce: The decision affects millions of migrant workers, primarily from South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the Philippines. The reform enhances their legal rights, mobility, and access to justice, significantly improving living and working conditions.
• Global and Regional Significance: International organizations such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) and human rights groups have hailed the move as a landmark reform. It sets a precedent for other Gulf countries to undertake similar labor system transformations, promoting fair migration and ethical employment practices across the region.

Indian-Origin Historian Sunil Amrith Wins British Academy Book Prize for “The Burning Earth”

In the News: Indian-origin historian Sunil Amrith was awarded the prestigious British Academy Book Prize for Global Cultural Understanding 2025 for his acclaimed work “The Burning Earth: A Story of Climate Change in the Global South.” The award recognizes exceptional contributions that deepen public understanding of global cultures and societies. The announcement was made in London, marking a moment of pride for India’s academic and literary community.

Key Points:

• About the Winner: Sunil Amrith, a Professor of History at Yale University, is known for his groundbreaking research on migration, environmental change, and the interconnected histories of South and Southeast Asia. His works bridge environmental studies and human history, offering a global perspective rooted in Asian experiences.
• About the Book: “The Burning Earth” explores the human and ecological consequences of climate change in the Global South, focusing on regions such as South Asia and Southeast Asia. Through historical analysis and vivid storytelling, the book examines how environmental transformations, inequality, and colonial legacies have shaped the lives and livelihoods of millions.
• Themes and Insights: The book draws connections between climate change, migration, and inequality, arguing that the roots of today’s environmental crises lie in historical patterns of exploitation and imbalance between the Global North and South. It presents a compelling call for rethinking development and environmental policy through a more equitable lens.
• Award Ceremony: The ceremony was held in London and attended by leading scholars, writers, and cultural figures. The jury praised “The Burning Earth” for its originality, depth of research, and capacity to bridge the gap between academic history and urgent public discourse on climate change.

India Unveils FIDE World Cup 2025 Logo and Anthem

In the News: India officially unveiled the logo and anthem for the FIDE World Cup 2025 at a grand ceremony in Chennai. The event, attended by five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand and Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, marked a significant milestone in India’s journey as a global chess powerhouse. The tournament will be hosted in Chennai from August 10 to 25, 2025, celebrating India’s deep-rooted association with the ancient game of Chaturanga, the origin of modern chess.

Key Points:

• Launch Event: The official logo and anthem of the FIDE World Cup 2025 were unveiled in Chennai by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the All India Chess Federation (AICF). The ceremony reflected India’s pride in hosting one of the world’s most prestigious chess tournaments for the first time.
• Symbolism of the Logo: The logo design draws inspiration from India’s cultural heritage and the intricate geometry of the chessboard, blending the elegance of Indian art with the precision and strategy that define the game. It represents both tradition and modernity, emphasizing India’s role in reviving the global chess legacy.
• Anthem Theme: The official anthem celebrates India as the “Home of Chess,” tracing the game’s origins to ancient Chaturanga. It carries a message of unity, intellect, and global harmony, highlighting chess as a symbol of strategic thought and cultural connection across nations.
• Dignitaries Present: The event featured prominent figures including Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, and senior officials of the FIDE and AICF. Their presence underscored the significance of India’s growing influence in international chess governance and organization.
• Tournament Overview: The FIDE World Cup 2025 will bring together elite players from across the globe, including reigning world champions, top-rated grandmasters, and emerging prodigies. The matches will be held in Chennai, reinforcing the city’s identity as the chess capital of India.

Neeraj Chopra Honoured as Lieutenant Colonel in Territorial Army

In the News: Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army. The recognition was bestowed during a special ceremony held at the Army Headquarters in New Delhi, acknowledging his outstanding achievements in athletics and his role in elevating India’s global sporting stature.

Key Points:

• Honorary Rank Recognition: The Indian Army awarded Neeraj Chopra the honorary title of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, joining a select group of distinguished civilians recognized for their contributions to the nation in various fields.
• Ceremonial Event: The investiture ceremony took place at the Army Headquarters in New Delhi, where senior Army officials lauded Chopra’s discipline, perseverance, and dedication—values that align closely with the ethos of the armed forces.
• Contribution to National Pride: The honorary commission acknowledges Neeraj Chopra’s monumental role in inspiring India’s youth and promoting national unity through sports. His Olympic victory in Tokyo 2020 made him the first Indian to win a gold medal in athletics, significantly uplifting India’s sporting prestige
• Previous Military Honors: Similar honorary ranks have been conferred upon exceptional personalities such as cricketers Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Kapil Dev, reflecting the Army’s tradition of recognizing excellence that brings glory to the nation.