upsc current affairs for 22 November 2025

by Vajiram & Ravi - 22 November 2025

Vajiram & Ravi provides Daily upsc current affairs for 22 November 2025, tailored for aspirants. We cover all relevant news and events crucial for the exam, ensuring you stay updated & well-prepared.

Interstellar Objects

November 22, 2025
Interstellar Objects

Interstellar Objects Latest News

Recently, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) released new images of Comet 3I/Atlas, an interstellar object that astronomers have determined is billions of years old.

About Interstellar Objects

  • Interstellar objects are celestial bodies that originate outside the solar system, and travel through it.
  • These objects are not gravitationally bound to a star.
  • They can come from other solar systems and be thrown into interstellar space (the area between the stars) due to collisions or be slingshotted by a planet’s or star’s gravity.
    • 1I/ʻOumuamua(2017), 2I/Borisov (2019) and Comet 3I/Atlas are the recently known interstellar objects.

Characteristics of Interstellar Objects

  • Origin: They originate from outside our solar system, often from other star systems or the interstellar medium.
  • Hyperbolic Orbit: They basically move in an open-ended hyperbolic orbit, where there is a perihelion point but no aphelion.
  • Speed: These objects move at such great speeds that the Sun’s gravitational pull is not able to slow them down enough during their outbound leg.

Significance of Interstellar Objects

  • Insights into other star systems: Interstellar objects can provide clues about the formation and evolution of other star systems.
  • Understanding planetary formation: They can help us understand how planets form and evolve in different environments.

Source: IE

Interstellar Objects FAQs

Q1: What are interstellar objects?

Ans: Objects that originate from outside our Solar System

Q2: Why are interstellar objects significant?

Ans: They offer insights into planetary formation and organic chemistry.

Pharmacogenomics

November 22, 2025
Pharmacogenomics

Pharmacogenomics Latest News

Pharmacogenomics transforms drug therapy from a one-size-fits-all approach to precision medicine, tailoring treatments to individual genetic profiles.

About Pharmacogenomics

  • It is the study of how an individual's genetic inheritance affects the body's response to drugs.
  • Origin of the Word: The term comes from the words pharmacology and genomics and is thus the intersection of pharmaceuticals and genetics.
  • It is part of the growing medical areas of genomic medicine and precision medicine (also called personalized medicine).
  • This is a treatment that’s personalized based on your genes, environment and lifestyle.
  • Pharmacogenomics is currently used in
    • Oncology: Tailoring cancer therapies based on tumour genetics and patient DNA.
    • Cardiology: Adjusting blood thinner dosages based on genetic variants.
    • Psychiatry: Selecting the right antidepressant with minimal side effects.
    • Infectious Diseases: Predicting patient response to antiviral treatments.

Importance of Pharmacogenomics

  • Improving safety: It improves drug safety, enhances therapeutic outcomes, and reduces healthcare costs associated with adverse drug reactions.
  • Targeted drug development: Some conditions are caused by specific changes in a gene. Pharmacogenomics can help researchers discover new medications that directly target the gene change.

Source: TH

Pharmacogenomics FAQs

Q1: What is Pharmacogenomics?

Ans: It is the study of genetic variations and their impact on drug responses.

Q2: What is the primary goal of Pharmacogenomics?

Ans: Its goal is to personalize medicine based on genetic profiles.

Joint Crediting Mechanism

November 22, 2025
Joint Crediting Mechanism

Joint Crediting Mechanism Latest News

Recently, the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change participated in the 11th Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) Partner Countries’ Meeting.

About Joint Crediting Mechanism

  • It was first proposed by the Government of Japan and was officially launched in 2013.
  • Aim: It is a Japanese initiative that aims to facilitate diffusion of leading decarbonizing technologies and infrastructure through investment by Japanese entities and contributes to sustainable development of partner countries.
  • It’s a bilateral mechanism which is being implemented in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
    • The JCM contributes to the achievement of both countries’ NDC (Nationally Determined Contribution) by evaluating Japan’s contributions in a quantitative manner and acquiring the part of credit.
  • It operates under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
  • It complements other existing mechanisms, such as the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and Joint Implementation (JI).
  • India is one of the 31 partner countries of the Joint Crediting Mechanism.
  • Focus Area of Joint Crediting Mechanism
    • This mechanism focuses on priority sectors which includes renewable energy with storage, sustainable aviation fuel, compressed biogas, green hydrogen and green ammonia, and in hard-to-abate sectors.

Source: PIB

Joint Crediting Mechanism FAQs

Q1: What is the primary purpose of Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM)?

Ans: To promote sustainable development through cooperation.

Q2: What is the primary objective of the UNFCCC?

Ans: To stabilize atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases

Indian Pond Heron

November 22, 2025
Indian Pond Heron

Indian Pond Heron Latest News

Recent citizen-science data from Visakhapatnam suggests that pond herons and cattle egrets may be undertaking regular seasonal journeys along the East coast, reviving a 30-year-old mystery from Chennai.

About Indian Pond Heron

  • Indian Pond Heron or paddybird (Ardeola grayii) is a small heron of Old World origins belonging to the family Ardeidae.
  • It acquires maroon hair like plumes on back and a long occipital crest during breeding season.
  • Appearance
    • They appear stocky with a short neck, short thick bill and buff-brown back. 
    • During the breeding season, its plumage exhibits shades of chestnut, while in non-breeding periods, it adopts a more subdued appearance with greyish-brown feathers.
  • Habitat: It prefers many types of shallow aquatic habitats, fresh of salt, natural or human made.
  • Distribution:  It is mainly found in Iran and east to Pakistan, India, Burma, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. 
  • Behavior
    • They are semi-colonial breeders and sometimes form communal roosts, often in avenue trees over busy urban areas.
    • They are known for their solitary and secretive nature,
    • They are often seen standing motionless at the water’s edge, patiently waiting to ambush their prey. 
  • Diet: The primary food of these birds includes crustaceans, aquatic insects, fishes, tadpoles and sometimes leeches.

Conservation Status of Indian Pond Heron

  • IUCN Red List: Least Concern.
  • Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule IV.

Source: TH

Indian Pond Heron FAQs

Q1: What is the primary habitat of the Indian Pond Heron?

Ans: Wetlands

Q2: What is the conservation status of the Indian Pond Heron?

Ans: Least Concern

Inland Waterways Authority of India

November 22, 2025
Inland Waterways Authority of India

Inland Waterways Authority of India Latest News

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) recently signed a series of major agreements valued at about ₹3,000 crore to boost cargo movement, passenger transport and river-based tourism in the Northeast.

About Inland Waterways Authority of India

  • It is a statutory body established under the Inland Waterways Authority of India Act (IWAI), 1985.
  • It came into existence on 27th October 1986 for the development and regulation of inland waterways for shipping and navigation. 
  • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways
  • The Authority primarily undertakes projects for development and maintenance of inland water transport (IWT) infrastructure on national waterways through grants received from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
  • It also takes up techno-economic feasibility studies and prepares proposals for the declaration of other waterways as National Waterways. 
  • It also advises the Central Government on matters related to IWT and assists States in the development of the IWT sector.
  • Headquarters: Noida, Uttar Pradesh
  • The Authority also has its regional offices at Patna, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Kochi and sub-offices at Allahabad, Varanasi, Farakka, Sahibganj, Haldia, Swroopganj, Hemnagar, Dibrugarh, Dhubri, Silchar, Kollam, Bhubaneshwar, and Vijayawada.

Source: DDN

Inland Waterways Authority of India FAQs

Q1: The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) was established under which Act?

Ans: Inland Waterways Authority of India Act, 1985

Q2: Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) functions under which nodal ministry?

Ans: Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways

Q3: Where is the headquarters of Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) located?

Ans: Noida, Uttar Pradesh

Q4: What is the primary function of Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI)?

Ans: IWAI primarily undertakes projects for development and maintenance of inland water transport (IWT) infrastructure on national waterways.

CISF to Oversee Security at 250 Indian Seaports Under New Unified Framework

November 22, 2025
CISF

CISF Latest News

  • The Union Government has appointed the CISF as the security regulator for more than 250 seaports to strengthen coastal security. 
  • The move aims to bring private cargo-handling ports under a single, sovereign security framework and ensure a uniform, standardised security architecture across India’s maritime infrastructure.

Seaport Security in India: A Brief Overview

  • Seaport security in India is a critical component of national security, economic stability, and international trade, particularly as the ports handle a vast majority of the country's international trade.

Key Framework and Organisation

  • International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code: India's port security measures are largely compliant with the mandatory ISPS Code, a global framework established after 9/11 to safeguard ships and port facilities from terrorism and other threats.
  • Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) - The New Regulator: In a significant recent reform, the Government of India has designated the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as the Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) for ports.

Challenges to Port Security

  • The security environment in the maritime domain presents several ongoing challenges:
    • Non-standardised Security: Historically, security arrangements at many non-major ports lacked uniformity and expert oversight, which the new CISF mandate aims to address.
    • Transnational Threats: Ports remain vulnerable to non-traditional threats, including:
      • Maritime Terrorism
      • Smuggling and Drug Trafficking (Ports are often routes for large hauls of narcotics).
      • Cyberattacks on port IT infrastructure and systems.
    • Infrastructure Gaps: Ensuring uniform, high-quality infrastructure and sufficient skilled manpower across over 250 ports remains an operational challenge.

Centre Brings All Seaports Under Uniform Security Oversight

  • To strengthen coastal security, the Union Government has appointed the CISF as the central security regulator for more than 250 seaports, including private cargo-handling ports. This brings all ports under a unified security architecture.
  • In the first phase, 80 export-import (EXIM) ports will be placed under CISF control for access management, cargo screening, and waterfront patrolling. 
  • CISF will function as a “sovereign security force” at these sites.

CISF to Conduct New Security Assessments

  • For all EXIM ports CISF will carry out:
    • Port Facility Security Assessments (PFSA)
    • Port Facility Security Plans (PFSP)
  • This will ensure compliance with global standards and eliminate vulnerabilities.

Hybrid Security Model for Port Operations

  • A new multi-layered model has been proposed:
    • CISF → core security roles (access control, patrolling, screening)
    • State Police / SISF / Private Security → non-core duties (traffic, gate operations)
  • This ensures uniformity while optimising manpower across port ecosystems.

Mandatory CISF-Led Training for Private Port Security

  • A structured training programme—modeled on aviation security—will be implemented.
  • CISF will train and certify all private security staff deployed at EXIM ports.
  • The government plans to create a specialised Port Security Training Institute to build long-term capacity, standardise certifications, and professionalise the port security workforce.

Why the Change Matters

  • India has over 250 seaports, including 80 EXIM ports that handle international trade through customs clearance, cargo movement, storage and logistics. 
  • Until now, security across non-major ports was fragmented and inconsistent.
  • Many ports currently rely on private security agencies or local police, resulting in uneven security standards. 
    • CISF already secures the 13 major ports across multiple coastal states.
  • By expanding CISF’s mandate to regulation, assessment, planning and training, India aims to build secure, efficient and globally compliant EXIM gateways, boosting economic competitiveness and supporting its growing maritime footprint.

Source: TH | HT

CISF FAQs

Q1: Why has the government assigned CISF to secure over 250 seaports?

Ans: The government aims to establish a uniform, sovereign security architecture to address security gaps at private and non-major ports, improving accountability, assessment, and oversight nationwide.

Q2: What will CISF’s role be at the 80 EXIM ports?

Ans: CISF will manage core functions such as access control, cargo screening, and waterfront patrolling while conducting fresh security assessments and preparing Port Facility Security Plans.

Q3: What is the hybrid security model for ports?

Ans: Under this model, CISF manages core security duties, while State Police, SISF, or private agencies handle non-core tasks like traffic operations, improving efficiency and layered security.

Q4: Why is mandatory CISF-led training being introduced?

Ans: Training ensures uniform skill standards for private security personnel deployed at ports, following an aviation-style certification system to uphold national and international security norms.

Q5: How will this reform strengthen India’s maritime security?

Ans: By standardising procedures, assessments, and training across 250+ seaports, India builds a cohesive, high-quality security system vital for coastal protection and global trade competitiveness.

New Guidelines to Define Obscenity in Online Content

November 22, 2025
Online Content

Online Content Latest News

  • The Union government has proposed new guidelines defining “obscenity” and other prohibited content for digital platforms under the Information Technology Rules, 2021. 
  • The proposal aims to introduce explicit definitions and expand the Code of Ethics to cover social media platforms, OTT streaming services, and digital news platforms.

Background of the Proposed Amendment

  • The Supreme Court, while hearing a case arising from a controversy surrounding comedian Samay Raina and content featuring an explicit joke, had asked the government to devise guidelines that balance free speech under Article 19(1)(a) with reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2). 
  • In response, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting submitted a detailed note proposing new regulatory measures.
  • These proposals come amid rising concerns over sexual content, deepfakes, harmful speech, and digital misinformation, prompting the government to strengthen oversight of online platforms.

Key Features of the Proposed Obscenity Guidelines

  • Introducing a New Definition of “Obscene Digital Content”
    • The amendment seeks to explicitly define obscenity for the first time within the IT Rules. The definition incorporates elements from:
      • Section 67 of the IT Act,
      • Cable TV Programme Code,
      • Indian Penal Code (now Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita).
    • This would mark one of the most sweeping shifts in online content regulation, extending traditional broadcast-like restrictions to digital spaces.
  • Expansion of the Code of Ethics
    • The proposal adds a comprehensive “Obscenity” chapter under the Code of Ethics applicable to curated content (OTT platforms) and digital news platforms. Online platforms would be required to avoid content that:
      • Offends “good taste or decency”,
      • Depicts indecent, vulgar, suggestive, repulsive, or offensive themes,
      • Presents criminality as appealing,
      • Shows visuals or words reflecting a snobbish or slandering attitude toward regional, ethnic, or linguistic groups.
    • A total of 17 such restrictions are proposed. 
  • Alignment with Cable Television Standards
    • Digital rights advocates note that the government has transposed the Cable TV Programme Code, originally meant for regulated broadcast TV, onto digital platforms.
  • Requirement for OTT Compliance with the Cinematograph Act
    • OTT platforms may be required to ensure content is fit for “public exhibition”, similar to films certified under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.
    • Although officials claim this applies only to OTTs, the draft amendment does not explicitly make this distinction.
  • Revival of IT Rules 9(1) and 9(3)
    • Rules 9(1) and 9(3), which enforce the Code of Ethics, were stayed by the Bombay High Court.
    • Despite this, the note seeks to revive and expand these rules, raising constitutional concerns.
  • Application of the “Community Standards Test”
    • The Supreme Court’s test from Aveek Sarkar v. State of West Bengal would be used to assess obscenity. Content would pass this test if:
      • A reasonable person with contemporary community standards does not find that it appeals to lustful or voyeuristic interests, and
      • The content has literary, scientific, artistic, or political value.
    • Digital rights advocates, however, warn that the broad nature of the proposed rules could lead to overreach and arbitrary censorship.

Criticism

  • Digital rights organisations have flagged several risks:
    • Overbroad Definitions: The proposed language could classify a wide range of content as obscenity.
    • Executive Overreach: Critics argue that the government is attempting to expand its regulatory powers through the IT Rules rather than parliamentary amendments.
    • Impact on Free Speech: Ambiguous standards like “good taste” may violate free speech protections.
    • Overlap with Pending Court Cases: Several parts of the IT Rules are already stayed or under judicial scrutiny.

Implications for Digital Platforms

  • If approved by the Court:
    • Platforms will need stricter content moderation and compliance processes.
    • OTT platforms may face film-like certification requirements.
    • Social media platforms may need to filter content deemed indecent, vulgar, or objectionable proactively.
    • Digital publishers could face increased regulatory oversight affecting news and commentary.
  • The amendment could sharply reshape India’s digital content ecosystem, bringing it closer to a broadcast-style regulatory framework.

Source: TH | IE

Online Content FAQs

Q1: What prompted the government to propose new obscenity guidelines?

Ans: A Supreme Court directive during a case involving objectionable online content led the government to draft detailed guidelines.

Q2: Which platforms will the new rules apply to?

Ans: Social media platforms, OTT streaming services, and digital news publishers.

Q3: What laws influence the new definition of obscenity?

Ans: Section 67 of the IT Act, Cable TV Programme Code, and provisions of the IPC/Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Q4: Will OTT platforms require film-like certification?

Ans: The proposal suggests OTT content must align with the Cinematograph Act, though officials claim this will apply selectively.

Q5: What test will be used to judge obscene content?

Ans: The Community Standards Test from the Supreme Court’s Aveek Sarkar judgment.

India’s Agriculture Exports Surge Despite U.S. Tariff Barriers

November 22, 2025
Agriculture Exports

Agriculture Exports Latest News

  • India’s agricultural exports have grown significantly faster than its overall merchandise exports. 
  • In April–September 2025, farm exports rose by 8.8%, reaching $25.9 billion, compared to $23.8 billion in the same period of 2024. 
  • This growth far outstripped the 2.9% increase in total goods exports during the same period.
  • The trend is consistent with the previous financial year (2024–25), when agricultural exports increased by 6.4% (from $48.8 billion to $52 billion), while overall merchandise exports saw only a marginal 0.1% rise.

Key Drivers of India’s Export Growth

  • Strong Performance by Major Agri-Export Segments - India’s agricultural export growth in 2025-26 has been led by non-basmati rice, buffalo meat, marine products, coffee, and fruits & vegetables — each surpassing or nearing previous record levels.
  • Non-Basmati Rice: Growth After Lifting of Export Curbs - Export buoyancy is largely due to the removal of restrictions imposed in 2022–23 to contain food inflation. With good monsoons and high government stocks, non-basmati rice exports are on track to exceed the record $6.5 billion achieved last year.
  • Buffalo Meat: Set to Break Decade-Old Record - Buffalo meat exports may surpass the 2014-15 peak of $4.8 billion, supported by rising demand in key markets.
  • Marine Products: Rising Despite Trump Tariffs - Marine product exports rose 17.4% in April–September 2025 and could exceed the historic $8.1 billion (2022-23). Despite the 58% U.S. tariff, exports grew from $3.4 billion to $4 billion, as exporters diversified into China, Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, EU, and Canada.
  • Coffee Exports: Driven by High Global Prices - Coffee exports more than doubled from $739 million (2019-20) to $1.8 billion (2024-25) and may exceed $2 billion this year. The rise is driven mainly by soaring global prices as ending stocks fall to a 25-year low, rather than higher volumes.
  • Fruits & Vegetables: Consistent Growth in Fresh and Processed Form - Both fresh and processed fruits & vegetables continue steady export growth.

Global Food Prices as the Main Driver

  • The FAO Food Price Index declined from 119.1 (2013-14) to 90 (2015-16), stayed below 100 until 2019-20, then shot up to 102.4, 133.1, and 140.6 in the next three years.
  • As global prices softened afterward, India’s farm exports also dipped to $48.8 billion (2023-24) and $52 billion (2024-25).
  • Export clampdowns on wheat, rice, sugar, onions, and de-oiled rice bran — imposed to control domestic inflation — further contributed to the fall in shipments.

Outlook for 2025–26: Prices and Tariffs to Shape Performance

  • Export performance for the second half of 2025-26 will hinge on:
    • Global Commodity Prices
      • FAO index in October 2025 was 126.4, far below the 2022 post-Ukraine peak of 160.2.
      • Subindices for cereals (103.6) and sugar (94.1) hit multi-year lows.
      • Low global prices usually depress India’s agri-export value.
    • Trump Tariffs
    • US tariffs have begun to hurt: Marine products (26.9%); Spices (45.1%); Basmati rice (17.8%) (September YoY to the US).
  • Signs of Improvement: Tariff Rollback and Possible Trade Deal
    • There are positive developments:
      • A potential India–US trade deal may materialise before year-end.
      • The US President has rolled back tariffs on several food products — including spices, coffee, tea, and fresh fruits — directly benefiting Indian exporters.

Rising Farm Imports Outpace Overall Import Growth

  • India’s agricultural imports grew 5.9% in April–September 2025 (from $18.4 bn to $19.5 bn), outpacing overall imports, which rose 4.5% during the same period.
  • Unlike exports, India’s farm imports are not diversified and remain dominated by just a few commodities, primarily:
    • Vegetable oils
    • Pulses
    • Fresh fruits
    • Raw cotton

Vegetable Oils: India’s Top Import Item

  • Vegetable oil imports soared 13.5% in April–September 2025.
  • Imports are likely to approach the record $20.8 bn level of 2022–23.
  • This remains India’s single largest agricultural import.

Pulses: Imports Decline After Previous Surge

  • Pulses imports hit an all-time high of $5.5 bn in 2024–25.
  • In 2025–26, they have fallen sharply due to:
    • A bumper domestic crop
    • Reimposition of import duties lifted earlier during high inflation.

Fresh Fruit Imports Expand Rapidly

  • Fresh fruit imports crossed $3 bn in 2024–25.
  • April–September 2025 imports were $1.5 bn.
  • The US is now the dominant supplier, accounting for 50.4%, thanks to high demand for:
    • Almonds
    • Pistachios
    • Walnuts
    • Other dry fruits

Raw Cotton: India Turns Net Importer

  • India has shifted from being a net exporter to a net importer of raw cotton.
  • Imports are expected to exceed $1.5 bn this fiscal.
  • The key reason: domestic yield stagnation due to the absence of new technologies post-Bt cotton.

Source: IE

Agriculture Exports FAQs

Q1: Why are India’s agricultural exports outperforming overall merchandise exports?

Ans: Strong growth in non-basmati rice, buffalo meat, seafood, coffee, and fruits & vegetables has pushed agricultural exports ahead of total exports despite global price volatility.

Q2: How did exporters manage U.S. tariff pressures?

Ans: Seafood exporters diversified to China, Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, EU, and Canada, offsetting the sharp tariff shock from the U.S. while sustaining overall export momentum.

Q3: What role did global food prices play in the export trend?

Ans: A surge in global food prices boosted export values earlier, but recent price declines have moderated growth, especially for commodities linked to international price cycles.

Q4: How have India’s coffee exports doubled in five years?

Ans: Rising global prices due to low ending stocks, rather than higher volumes, drove the value of India’s coffee exports from $739 million to $1.8 billion.

Q5: Which agricultural imports have grown the fastest in recent years?

Ans: Vegetable oils, fresh fruits, and raw cotton have driven import growth, with India becoming a major U.S. market for dry fruits and shifting to net cotton imports due to yield stagnation.

Four Labour Codes Implemented – A Transformative Shift in India’s Labour Landscape

November 22, 2025
Four Labour Codes

Four Labour Codes Latest News

  • The Government of India notified all Four Labour Codes, consolidating 29 Central labour laws into a simplified, modern regulatory framework. 
  • This marks one of the most significant labour reforms since Independence, aimed at improving labour welfare, social security, workplace safety, and ease of doing business.

consolidated codes

Background

  • Four labour codes: Code on Wages, 2019; Industrial Relations (IR) Code, 2020; Code on Social Security, 2020; and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSHWC) Code, 2020.
  • Pending implementation: These codes were pending implementation due to protests by Central Trade Unions (CTUs). Despite resistance, the Centre has now operationalised them.
  • Systemic reforms introduced:
    • Gender-neutral work policies
    • Uniform safety standards
    • Streamlined contract labour regulation
    • India-wide ESIC and EPFO coverage
    • National floor wages
    • Move towards formalisation of labour market

Key Features of the Four Labour Codes

  • Universal social security and expanded coverage:
    • First-time statutory recognition of gig workers, platform workers, and aggregators.
    • ESIC expanded to all districts, including hazardous units.
    • Aadhaar-linked Universal Account Number (UAN) - fully portable benefits for migrant workers.
    • Accident compensation extended to commuting accidents.
    • Social security contributions - aggregators to contribute 1–2% of annual turnover (capped at 5%).
  • Wages, minimum pay and timely payment:
    • National Floor Wage introduced.
    • Mandatory timely wage payments across establishments.
    • Wage structure redefined to increase basic pay component, enhancing provident fund and gratuity provisioning.
  • Women workers’ rights and safety:
    • Women allowed to work night shifts, underground mines, heavy machinery operations—with consent and safety conditions.
    • Equal pay for equal work mandated.
    • Free annual health check-up for workers aged over 40.
  • Fixed term employment (FTE):
    • Workers can be hired for a fixed duration without compromising benefits.
    • FTE employees get - same wages as permanent workers; medical, leave, and social security benefits; and gratuity eligibility after one year (earlier 5 years).
  • Simplifying compliance and improving Ease of Doing Business:
    • Single registration, licence and return system.
    • Inspector-cum-facilitator model for supportive compliance.
    • Two-member tribunals for faster dispute resolution.
    • National OSH Board to harmonise safety standards.

Stakeholder Responses

  • Government:
    • Most comprehensive labour-oriented reform since Independence.
    • Codes will formalise employment, ensure global alignment, and improve worker protections.
  • Industry: CII welcomed the Codes as a “historic milestone," aiding a predictable labour regime and boosting economic growth.
  • Trade unions (CTUs):
    • Termed the Codes: “Anti-worker, pro-employer”, “Declaration of war on working masses”
    • Concern areas - FTE misuse, restrictions on the right to strike, retrenchment norms.
    • Nationwide protests planned for 26 November.
  • Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS): Partially supportive - backs Codes on Wages & Social Security but wants changes in OSHWC and IR Codes.

Challenges and Concerns

  • CTUs: Oppose curtailment of strike rights, retrenchment rules, and fear dilution of worker protections.
  • Implementation capacity: Labour is a Concurrent Subject—requires State cooperation. Many States are still finalising rules; implementation asymmetry is likely.
  • Risk of FTE misuse: Fear that employers may replace permanent jobs with fixed-term contracts.
  • Gig worker social security: Turning provisions into effective schemes remains a challenge. Past initiatives like e-Shram saw poor follow-through.
  • Clarity on wage floor: National Floor Wage requires new methodology and agreements across States.

Way Forward

  • Strengthening consultation mechanisms: Revive the Indian Labour Conference (ILC) for consensus-building. Continuous dialogue with unions, employers and States.
  • Capacity building for States: Technical and financial support to implement new digital compliance systems.
  • Clear scheme design for gig workers: Transparent rules for aggregator contribution. Seamless portability using UAN.
  • Monitoring and preventing misuse of FTE: Strong checks to avoid replacing permanent jobs with FTE roles.
  • Awareness campaigns: Workers, especially in informal sectors, need awareness of new rights.

Conclusion

  • The implementation of the Four Labour Codes represents a historic restructuring of India’s labour governance framework. 
  • By consolidating 29 outdated laws, the Codes aim to create a future-ready labour ecosystem that promotes worker welfare, social security, gender equality, and ease of doing business.
  • However, implementation challenges, trade union resistance, and risks of misapplication remain significant. 
  • Effective stakeholder engagement and transparent rule-making will be crucial for the Codes to fulfil their objective of creating an inclusive, formalised, and equitable labour market in India.

Source: TH | IE

Four Labour Codes FAQs

Q1: What is the significance of the Four Labour Codes?

Ans: It consolidated 29 archaic laws into a unified framework to enhance social security, formalisation, worker safety, and ease of doing business.

Q2: How the Labour Codes aim to extend social security to gig and platform workers?

Ans: The Social Security Code provides first-time statutory recognition to gig/platform workers and mandates aggregator contributions.

Q3: What are the concerns raised by trade unions regarding the Labour Codes?

Ans: Trade unions argue that the Codes dilute worker rights through restrictive strike provisions, flexible retrenchment norms, etc.

Q4: How does the introduction of Fixed Term Employment (FTE) impact labour market flexibility and worker welfare?

Ans: FTE offers employers flexibility while ensuring workers receive benefits equal to permanent staff, including gratuity after one year.

Q5: What is the role of the National Floor Wage under the Code on Wages?

Ans: The National Floor Wage sets a nationwide minimum benchmark, reducing inter-state wage disparities and ensuring timely, uniform wage payments.

Enceladus

November 22, 2025
Enceladus

Enceladus Latest News 

Scientists analyzing NASA Cassini data recently identified previously unknown organic compounds in ice particles emitted from Saturn's moon Enceladus.

About Enceladus

  • It is the second nearest of the major regular moons of Saturn and the brightest of all its moons. 
  • It is Saturn's sixth-largest moon. 
  • It was discovered in 1789 by the English astronomer William Herschel and named for one of the Giants (Gigantes) of Greek mythology.
  • It measures about 500 km in diameter.
  • It orbits Saturn in a prograde, nearly circular path at a mean distance of 238,020 km.
  • Enceladus is tidally locked with Saturn, keeping the same face toward the planet. 
  • It continually spews out a concoction of water and simple organic chemicals into space.
  • Its surface, which reflects essentially all of the light that strikes it (compared with about 7 percent for Earth’s Moon), is basically smooth but includes cratered and grooved plains. 
  • The surface is almost pure water ice, with trace amounts of carbon dioxide, ammonia, and light hydrocarbons.
  • Because Enceladus is coated in clean, highly reflective ice, it has the brightest surface of any object in our solar system.
  • Like other icy moons that orbit gas giants, it's thought that Enceladus maintains a liquid subsurface ocean through tidal heating. 
  • It is one of the most promising potential sites in the solar system for hosting life.
  • Scientists believe Enceladus possesses the chemical ingredients needed for life and has hydrothermal vents releasing hot, mineral-rich water into its ocean, the same type of environment that may have spawned Earth’s first living organisms.

Key Facts about Cassini Spacecraft

  • It is a joint project of NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Italian space agency (ASI).
  • Cassini was a sophisticated robotic spacecraft sent to study Saturn and its complex system of rings and moons in unprecedented detail.
  • It was launched on October 15, 1997. It was one of the largest interplanetary spacecraft.
  • The mission consisted of NASA’s Cassini orbiter, which was the first space probe to orbit Saturn, and the ESA’s Huygens probe, which landed on Titan, Saturn’s largest moon.

Source: SD

Enceladus FAQs

Q1: Enceladus is a moon of which planet?

Ans: Saturn

Q2: Who discovered Enceladus in 1789?

Ans: It was discovered in 1789 by the English astronomer William Herschel.

Q3: What is the approximate diameter of Enceladus?

Ans: 500 km

Q4: What primarily makes Enceladus the brightest object in the Solar System?

Ans: Surface of clean, reflective water ice.

Key Facts about Seychelles

November 22, 2025
Key Facts about Seychelles

Seychelles Latest News

Recently, Seychelles was included as the sixth member of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC).

About Seychelles

  • Location: It is an archipelagic island country located in the western Indian Ocean.
  • It is located to the northeast of Madagascar and east of mainland Africa. 
  • Other major islands near Seychelles include Comoros and Mauritius to the south, and Maldives to the east.
  • It consists of an archipelago of 115 islands (only 8 are permanently inhabited).

Geographical Features of Seychelles

  • It is composed of two main island groups: the Mahé group which are mountainous granitic islands and a second group are coralline islands. 
  • Mahe Group is volcanic with a narrow coastal strip and rocky, hilly interior; others are relatively flat coral atolls, or elevated reefs; sits atop the submarine Mascarene Plateau.
  • Highest Point: The highest point in Seychelles is Morne Seychellois.
  • Climate: The climate is tropical oceanic, with little temperature variation during the year.
  • Capital City: Victoria

What is the Colombo Security Conclave?

  • It is a regional security grouping comprising India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles.
  • Objective: To promote regional security by addressing transnational threats and challenges of common concern to the member states.
  • CSC brings together National Security Advisors (NSAs) and Deputy NSAs of the member countries.
  • Secretariat: Colombo, Sri Lanka

Source: ET

Seychelles FAQs

Q1: Where is Seychelles located?

Ans: Indian Ocean

Q2: What is the capital of Seychelles?

Ans: Victoria

Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary

November 22, 2025
Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary

Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary Latest News

Poachers have killed two bison recently at the Chilfi East Range of the Bhoramdev Sanctuary at Kawardha in Chhattisgarh.

About Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Bhoramdeo Wildlife Sanctuary, is located in the Kawardha district of Chhattisgarh.
  • It was notified in the year 2001. 
  • It is part of the larger Maikal range of the Satpura hills, which is known for its unique ecosystem. 
  • It is part of the Kanha-Achanakmar Corridor, which connects Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh with Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary in Chhattisgarh. 
  • Named after the famous Bhoramdeo Temple situated nearby, the sanctuary covers an area of approximately 352 sq.km.
    • Bhoramdeo Temple, an ancient temple complex dating back to the 7th to 11th centuries, was built by the Nagvanshi dynasty. 
    • The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is often referred to as the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh,”.
  • The sanctuary’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills, dense forests, and numerous streams.
  • The region surrounding Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is inhabited by various tribal communities, including the Baiga, Gond, and Kanwar tribes.
  • Rivers: This wildlife sanctuary is the origin of the Fen and Sankari rivers.
  • Vegetation: The sanctuary’s diverse ecosystem includes tropical moist and dry deciduous forests. 
  • Flora: Lush forests of Saaj, Sal, Tendu, and Nilgiri trees.
  • Fauna: It is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and various species of deer and birds.

Source: ETVB

Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary FAQs

Q1: Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which state of India?

Ans: Chhattisgarh

Q2: Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary is part of which major hill range?

Ans: It is part of the larger Maikal range of the Satpura hills.

Q3: Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary derives its name from which nearby famous temple?

Ans: Bhoramdeo Temple

Q4: Which tribal communities predominantly inhabit the region around the Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary?

Ans: Baiga, Gond, and Kanwar tribes.

Sagar Kavach

November 22, 2025
Sagar Kavach

Sagar Kavach Latest News

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully conducted the comprehensive Coastal Security Exercise Sagar Kavach-02/25 along the Maharashtra and Goa coastline recently.

About Sagar Kavach

  • It is a biannual coastal security drill led by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) that tests and improves coastal security mechanisms against asymmetric threats. 
  • A wide range of central and state agencies, including the Indian Navy, State Police, Marine Police, Fisheries, Customs, etc., are part of this exercise. 
  • The exercise aims to assess the preparedness of all participating agencies in handling coastal security emergencies, preventing attacks on vital coastal installations, and further strengthening the multi-layered Coastal Security Network. 
  • During the exercise, security forces are split into a "Red team" that simulates infiltrators and a "Blue Team" that detects and neutralises them, assessing inter-agency coordination and response times.
  • The key activities of the Sagar Kavach drill generally include heightened surveillance, boat patrols, vehicle checks, and simulated attacks on vital installations to strengthen the country's coastal security framework. 
  • Recognizing the pivotal role of fishermen in coastal security, the exercise emphasizes the need for their active involvement.
  • Fishermen are urged to promptly report any unknown vessels operating in proximity to the coast to the ICG.

Source: ANI

Sagar Kavach FAQs

Q1: Sagar Kavach is a coastal security exercise led by which organization?

Ans: Indian Coast Guard

Q2: How frequently is the Sagar Kavach coastal security drill conducted?

Ans: Biannually

Q3: What is one of the primary objectives of the Sagar Kavach exercise?

Ans: The exercise aims to assess the preparedness of all participating agencies in handling coastal security emergencies.

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