Current Affairs 21/11/2025
1. What honour was awarded to Indian art director Theeta Tharrini by the French government?
Answer : Order of Arts and Letters
French Government Confers ‘Order of Arts and Letters’ on Indian Art Director Thota Tharrani
In a distinguished recognition of artistic excellence, the French Government has bestowed upon renowned Indian art director Thota Tharrani the prestigious Order of Arts and Letters (Ordre des Arts et des Lettres). This honour stands among France’s most respected civilian awards, granted to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the fields of art, culture, and literature.
Tharrani, celebrated for his exceptional craftsmanship in art direction and production design, has long been regarded as one of India’s most accomplished creative minds. His work across Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema has not only defined visual standards but also elevated the artistic quality of numerous landmark films. With a career spanning several decades, his mastery in set creation, aesthetic detailing, and visual storytelling has earned the admiration of filmmakers and audiences alike.
The French Government’s recognition highlights the global appreciation of Tharrani’s contribution to cinema and the arts. It also reflects the growing international interest in Indian artistic talent, which continues to influence and enrich the world’s cultural landscape.
By receiving the Order of Arts and Letters, Thota Tharrani joins a distinguished list of global artists whose work has transcended borders and inspired generations. This honour marks yet another milestone in his illustrious career and brings pride to the Indian artistic community.
2. Sagar Defence won which challenge?
Answer : Accelerating the Autonomous Robotics Revolution
Sagar Defence Wins the “Accelerating the Autonomous Robotics Revolution” Challenge
In a proud moment for India’s defence innovation ecosystem, Sagar Defence has emerged victorious in the “Accelerating the Autonomous Robotics Revolution” challenge. The competition, held under a prestigious international platform, aimed to identify cutting-edge solutions in the field of autonomous robotics and advanced defence technologies.
Sagar Defence’s achievement reflects the organisation’s growing stature as a leading developer of unmanned and autonomous systems, including maritime drones, aerial platforms, and robotic solutions tailored for defence and industrial applications. Their winning entry demonstrated both technical sophistication and practical utility, aligning with the global movement towards autonomous technologies in modern warfare and critical operations.
The challenge sought to encourage breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, robotics, and autonomous navigation. By securing top honours, Sagar Defence has not only highlighted India’s rising capability in defence technology but has also strengthened the country’s presence on the international stage of innovation.
This recognition stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to research, precision engineering, and indigenous development. It further reinforces India’s ambition to become a global hub for next-generation defence technologies.
3. TDC and IIT Delhi signed an MoU for collaboration in which area?
Answer : Telecom Standardization
TEC and IIT-Delhi Sign MoU for Collaboration in Telecom Standardisation
In an important move to bolster indigenous innovation and technical competency in telecommunications, the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) — the technical arm of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India — has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT-Delhi). The collaboration is focused on telecom standardisation, ushering in a new chapter for joint research and development.
Under the terms of the MoU, both institutions will engage in joint studies, share technical expertise, and contribute actively to the formulation of India-specific telecommunication standards and test frameworks. The aim is to harmonise India’s telecom outputs with global standards while keeping sovereignty and innovation firmly in view.
Particularly notable is the focus on emerging network technologies — including next-generation networks such as 5G and beyond, optical communication systems, and non-terrestrial networks (NTNs). By working together, the two organisations hope not only to advance research in these domains but also to lend India a greater voice in international standard-setting bodies such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and 3GPP.
The MoU further envisages technical contributions in areas such as Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualisation (NFV), and intelligent network management driven by artificial intelligence. These initiatives underscore the deepening convergence between telecommunications and cutting-edge information technology.
This bilateral effort is aligned with India’s broader strategic goals, including the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, by promoting home-grown telecom solutions and reducing dependence on foreign technologies. The partnership is also expected to help train a new generation of engineers and researchers, equipping them with the skills necessary to address future challenges in network interoperability, security, and efficiency.
Thus, the TEC–IIT-Delhi MoU in the field of telecom standardisation represents a forward-looking alliance. It promises not only to strengthen India’s research base in advanced telecommunications but also to position the nation more prominently within the global ecosystem of telecom norm-setting.
4. What was organized in India to promote interoperable digital health systems?
Answer : A high-level summit
India Organises High-Level Summit to Advance Interoperable Digital Health Systems
In a significant step toward strengthening the nation’s digital health ecosystem, India organised a high-level summit aimed at promoting interoperable digital health systems across the country and the broader region. The event brought together government representatives, technology experts, health-sector leaders, and international partners to deliberate on the future of digital healthcare.
The summit highlighted the importance of building health platforms that can seamlessly communicate with one another, ensuring that medical records, patient data, and healthcare services are accessible, secure, and portable across diverse systems. This vision of interoperability is central to improving service delivery, enhancing clinical decision-making, and reducing administrative burdens in the health sector.
Discussions at the summit also emphasised the role of emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital public infrastructure—in shaping the next phase of India’s health transformation. Participants stressed the need for robust frameworks, data standards, and collaborative policy development to support interoperable systems that serve both urban and rural populations.
By organising this high-level gathering, India reaffirmed its commitment to a modern, integrated health information system that aligns with global best practices. The summit stands as an important milestone in the country’s journey toward building a digitally empowered and inclusive healthcare framework.
5. Nitish Kumar took oath as Bihar Chief Minister for which time?
Answer : 10th
Nitish Kumar Takes Oath as Bihar Chief Minister for the 10th Time
In a remarkable chapter of Bihar’s political history, Shri Nitish Kumar has taken oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the tenth time, marking yet another milestone in his long and influential public life. The swearing-in ceremony, held in Patna, was attended by senior political leaders, dignitaries, and officials, reflecting the significance of the occasion.
Nitish Kumar’s repeated return to the Chief Minister’s office is a testament to his enduring presence in the state’s political landscape. Over the decades, he has been associated with various developmental initiatives, administrative reforms, and governance strategies aimed at improving infrastructure, social welfare, and law and order in Bihar.
His tenth oath-taking underscores both his political adaptability and the confidence reposed in him by his party and allies at various junctures. It also highlights the dynamic and shifting alliances that have shaped Bihar’s political journey in recent years.
As he begins yet another term, expectations remain high regarding the continuity of governance, developmental priorities, and the stability of the state administration. Observers note that his vast experience may play a crucial role in addressing the challenges that lie ahead.
6. Indian Army acquired digital print technology for which purpose?
Answer : Counterfeit Note Detection
Indian Army Acquires Digital Print Technology for Counterfeit Note Detection
In a noteworthy step toward strengthening national security and ensuring financial safety within sensitive operational zones, the Indian Army has acquired advanced digital print technology specifically designed for counterfeit note detection. This move reflects the Army’s commitment to modernising its internal systems and safeguarding its personnel against the risks posed by forged currency.
The newly adopted technology is expected to enhance the Army’s capability to identify fake notes with greater accuracy and speed, particularly in regions where suspicious financial activities pose a threat to security operations. By integrating this system into daily procedures, the Army aims to reduce the circulation of counterfeit currency that may be linked to illegal networks or disruptive elements.
This technological advancement also underscores the increasing importance of digital tools in financial verification processes. The Army’s initiative serves as a strong example of how defence forces are adapting to evolving challenges through innovation and the adoption of state-of-the-art solutions.
The procurement of digital print technology marks an important step in reinforcing vigilance, improving operational preparedness, and supporting broader national efforts to combat financial fraud and counterfeiting.