Current Affairs 21/10/2025
1. Who wrote the book ‘The Brahmastra Unleashed’?
Answer : T. Sivanandan
The book “The Brahmastra Unleashed” authored by T. Sivanandan is a thought-provoking work that blends the wisdom of ancient Indian philosophy with modern strategic and leadership concepts. The author uses the metaphor of the Brahmastra—a powerful mythical weapon—to symbolize knowledge, discipline, and inner strength as the true sources of human empowerment.
Sivanandan presents a visionary perspective on how ethical leadership, strategic clarity, and self-awareness can transform individuals and organizations. The book encourages readers to cultivate intellectual power and moral conviction to face contemporary challenges effectively. It stands as an inspiring guide for professionals, leaders, and thinkers striving for excellence with integrity.
2. Which country did India make a joint announcement with to strengthen the Mercosur-India trade agreement?
Answer : Brazil
India and Brazil have jointly announced their decision to strengthen the Mercosur-India Trade Agreement, a move that highlights the growing economic cooperation between Asia and South America. Originally signed in 2004, the agreement between India and the Mercosur bloc—comprising Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay—aims to promote trade liberalization and enhance economic ties across regions.
The renewed effort focuses on expanding the trade basket, reducing tariffs, and simplifying regulatory procedures to facilitate smoother exchange of goods and services. Key sectors expected to benefit include agriculture, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, automobiles, and information technology.
Both India and Brazil emphasized the importance of a balanced and inclusive trade framework that supports sustainable development and mutual economic growth. The joint announcement also aligns with India’s broader goal of diversifying its trade partnerships and strengthening its presence in the Latin American market, while Brazil seeks to deepen cooperation with one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies.
This strategic collaboration marks a new chapter in India–Mercosur relations, paving the way for increased investment, innovation, and shared prosperity between the two regions.
3. Which became the first Indian state to launch menstrual leave policy in both government and private sectors?
Answer : Karnataka
Karnataka has made history by becoming the first Indian state to implement a menstrual leave policy across both government and private sectors. This landmark initiative represents a major step forward in promoting women’s health, workplace equality, and gender-sensitive policies in India.
Under this policy, women employees are entitled to paid menstrual leave, recognizing the physical and emotional challenges faced during menstruation. By extending this benefit to the private sector as well, Karnataka has set a progressive example for other states to follow, ensuring that women across all workplaces receive equal care and support.
The initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to women empowerment, inclusive employment practices, and workplace well-being. Experts believe this move will encourage greater participation of women in the workforce, reduce absenteeism due to health-related issues, and foster a more compassionate and productive work environment.
With this pioneering decision, Karnataka has positioned itself as a leader in advancing gender equity and social reform in India.
4. Where did Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurate the third production line of Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter aircraft?
Answer : Nasik
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the third production line of the Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter aircraft at Nasik, Maharashtra, marking a significant milestone in India’s journey toward defence self-reliance under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
The new production line, established by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), aims to increase the annual manufacturing capacity of Tejas aircraft to meet the growing requirements of the Indian Air Force. With this expansion, India strengthens its indigenous capability in designing, developing, and producing advanced combat aircraft.
The Tejas LCA Mk1A is a state-of-the-art, lightweight multirole fighter jet equipped with advanced avionics, radar systems, and weapon integration capabilities. The aircraft has been designed to enhance India’s air defence preparedness while reducing dependence on foreign imports.
During the inauguration, the Defence Minister emphasized the importance of boosting the domestic aerospace ecosystem and promoting innovation in defence manufacturing. The new facility at Nasik is expected to generate high-skilled employment opportunities and further establish India as a global hub for aerospace and defence production.
5. Where was the 3rd meeting of India and Central Asian Security Council held?
Answer : Bishkek
The 3rd meeting of the India–Central Asia National Security Advisers (NSAs) was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, bringing together senior security officials to strengthen regional cooperation and address shared security challenges. The meeting focused on enhancing collaboration in counterterrorism, border security, cybersecurity, and combating extremism, with an emphasis on maintaining peace and stability in the Central Asian region.
India reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Central Asian countries to promote regional security and sustainable development under the framework of the India–Central Asia Dialogue. The discussions also highlighted the importance of connectivity projects, trade linkages, and energy cooperation as strategic tools for regional growth.
The meeting in Bishkek served as an important platform for deepening mutual trust, improving intelligence sharing, and reinforcing India’s strategic partnership with the Central Asian nations. It reflects India’s continued focus on Central Asia as a key pillar of its extended neighbourhood policy and its vision for a secure, stable, and prosperous Eurasian region.
6. In which state is the Kati Bihu festival celebrated?
Answer : Assam
The Kati Bihu festival is a significant cultural celebration in the northeastern state of Assam, observed in mid-October during the growth phase of the paddy crop. It is one of the three major Bihu festivals—alongside Bohag Bihu (celebrated in April) and Magh Bihu (celebrated in January)—and is also known as Kaati Bihu or Kongali Bihu, reflecting a period of scarcity and solemnity in the agricultural calendar.
During Kati Bihu, earthen lamps called ‘sakis’ are lit at the base of paddy fields, in homes, and on granaries to invoke protection and prosperity, symbolizing hope for a bountiful harvest. Farmers also perform rituals and offer prayers to local deities, particularly Lakshmi and Bathou, seeking blessings for fertile crops, family well-being, and protection from natural calamities.
The festival is also marked by community gatherings, folk songs, and traditional dances, which strengthen social cohesion and preserve Assam’s rich cultural heritage. In some regions, people offer special food items to the spirits of ancestors, reflecting the festival’s spiritual and agrarian significance.
Kati Bihu is not only a celebration of agriculture but also a reminder of the deep bond between humans and nature. It highlights the importance of sustainable farming, environmental awareness, and cultural continuity in Assam, making it a unique festival that blends devotion, tradition, and communal harmony.
7. In which city was the 8th National Nutrition Month concluded?
Answer : Dehradun
The 8th National Nutrition Month was successfully concluded in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, highlighting the importance of balanced diets, healthy lifestyles, and nutritional awareness across India. Organized as part of ongoing national efforts to combat malnutrition and promote wellness, the event brought together experts, policymakers, and health professionals to discuss strategies for improving nutrition at both community and individual levels.
The conclusion ceremony in Dehradun featured interactive sessions, workshops, and awareness campaigns focusing on maternal and child health, dietary diversity, and prevention of lifestyle-related diseases. Special emphasis was placed on educating the public about locally available nutritious foods, supplementation programs, and initiatives to reduce micronutrient deficiencies.
By hosting the event in Dehradun, the government aimed to strengthen regional outreach, encourage community participation, and reinforce India’s commitment to the National Nutrition Mission (POSHAN Abhiyaan). The 8th National Nutrition Month served as a platform to celebrate progress, share best practices, and motivate citizens to adopt healthier dietary habits for a more nutritionally secure nation.