Current Affairs 02/12/2025
1. Recently in news, ‘BIRSA 101’ is related to which of the following?
Answer : CRISPR Gene Therapy
BIRSA 101: India’s Indigenous Breakthrough in CRISPR Gene Therapy
‘BIRSA 101’ has recently been in the news as a landmark achievement in India’s medical and biotechnology landscape. It represents the country’s first fully indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy, developed to treat Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a severe hereditary blood disorder that disproportionately affects tribal and economically weaker populations.
Developed using the engineered CRISPR system enFnCas9, BIRSA 101 enables precise correction of the genetic mutation responsible for SCD. The therapy involves extracting a patient’s stem cells, editing the faulty gene, and reinfusing the corrected cells—allowing the body to produce healthy red blood cells. This advancement places India among a select group of nations capable of designing and deploying advanced gene-editing treatments.
A key highlight of BIRSA 101 is its affordability and indigenous innovation. Global CRISPR therapies are often priced in crores, making them inaccessible for many. However, BIRSA 101 has been developed with the goal of significantly reducing treatment costs, ensuring wider access for patients, especially in underserved communities.
This milestone not only demonstrates India’s growing competence in frontier biomedical technologies but also marks an important step toward self-reliance in advanced healthcare solutions. BIRSA 101 is expected to pave the way for further gene-editing therapies addressing other genetic diseases in the future.
2. At the 56th IFFI, the film ‘Time of the Earth’ won the Golden Peacock Award. It belongs to which country?
Answer : Vietnam
‘Time of the Earth’ Wins Golden Peacock at the 56th IFFI: A Vietnamese Triumph
At the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), the prestigious Golden Peacock Award was conferred upon the film ‘Time of the Earth’, marking a significant achievement for Vietnamese cinema on the global stage. The award underscores IFFI’s commitment to celebrating diverse cinematic voices from around the world.
Directed with a compelling artistic vision, ‘Time of the Earth’ stood out for its powerful narrative, nuanced storytelling, and exceptional visual craftsmanship. The film explores the relationship between humanity and nature, portraying themes of resilience, cultural identity, and environmental harmony—elements that resonated strongly with the international jury.
The recognition of a Vietnamese production at one of Asia’s most influential film festivals highlights the growing prominence of Vietnam’s film industry, which has been steadily gaining international acclaim for its creativity and thematic depth.
The Golden Peacock Award for ‘Time of the Earth’ thus not only celebrates cinematic excellence but also reinforces India’s role in promoting global cultural exchange through the platform of IFFI.
3. India unveiled which indigenous training aircraft?
Answer : Hansa-3 NG
Hansa-3 NG: India’s New Indigenous Training Aircraft
India has recently unveiled the Hansa-3 NG, a fully indigenous next-generation training aircraft developed by CSIR–National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL). Designed as a modern, cost-efficient platform for basic pilot training, Hansa-3 NG represents a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in the aviation sector.
The aircraft is a two-seater, all-composite trainer, engineered with an emphasis on safety, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance. Its lightweight airframe, advanced glass-cockpit avionics, and improved aerodynamic features make it suitable for both Private Pilot Licence (PPL) and Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) training. It is powered by the Rotax 912 iSc3 engine, known for reliability and low operational costs—an important advantage for flying clubs and training academies.
Hansa-3 NG’s development comes at a time when India faces a growing demand for trained pilots due to rapid expansion in the civil aviation sector. By offering a domestically developed alternative to imported training aircraft, it reduces dependency on foreign platforms while enabling more accessible and affordable pilot training within the country.
The unveiling of Hansa-3 NG signals India’s progress in aerospace manufacturing, innovation, and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. Its entry into the aviation ecosystem is expected to strengthen the nation’s pilot-training pipeline and support long-term growth in the aviation industry.
4. India and ADB signed loan agreements worth how much?
Answer : 800 million USD
India and ADB Sign USD 800 Million Loan Agreements to Boost Infrastructure and Development
India has signed loan agreements worth USD 800 million with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), marking a significant step forward in strengthening the nation’s infrastructure, energy security, and skill development landscape. These agreements form part of India’s ongoing strategy to collaborate with global financial institutions to accelerate sustainable and inclusive growth.
A substantial portion of the financing is directed toward enhancing power distribution and agricultural solarization in Maharashtra, reflecting India’s commitment to clean energy transition and improved rural power reliability. Another major component supports the Indore Metro Rail Project, aimed at advancing urban mobility through modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation systems. Additionally, funding has been allocated for the Gujarat Skill Development Programme, which seeks to modernize training infrastructure and expand opportunities for youth in emerging sectors.
These multi-sectoral investments align with India’s long-term development agenda, promoting economic resilience, technological readiness, and improved quality of life. The collaboration with ADB continues to reinforce India’s broader mission of building robust infrastructure, fostering human capital development, and achieving sustainable progress across states.
5. India was re-elected to the Executive Board of which organisation for 2025-29?
Answer : UNESCO
India Re-elected to UNESCO Executive Board for the 2025–29 Term
India has been re-elected to the Executive Board of UNESCO for the 2025–29 term, reaffirming its influential role in shaping global policies in education, culture, science, and communication. The Executive Board is one of UNESCO’s three constitutional organs and plays a central part in steering the strategic direction and governance of the organisation.
India’s re-election reflects the international community’s continued confidence in its constructive contributions, leadership, and commitment to UNESCO’s mandate. Over the years, India has actively advanced initiatives in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, promoting inclusive and quality education, strengthening digital literacy, and supporting scientific cooperation among member states.
This renewed term enables India to participate directly in overseeing programme implementation, budget allocation, and policy decisions that impact global cultural preservation and knowledge-sharing efforts. It also enhances India’s voice in key multilateral discussions on issues such as climate education, heritage conservation, ethical use of AI, and sustainable development priorities.
India’s presence on the UNESCO Executive Board for 2025–29 underscores its growing diplomatic footprint and dedication to strengthening international cooperation in building a more educated, culturally enriched, and interconnected world.
6. When is World AIDS Day observed?
Answer : 1 December
World AIDS Day: Observed on 1 December
World AIDS Day is observed every year on 1 December to raise global awareness about HIV/AIDS, honour those who have lost their lives to the disease, and support individuals living with HIV. Established in 1988, it was the first-ever global health day, reflecting the international community’s commitment to combating the epidemic.
The day serves as a platform to promote prevention, testing, treatment access, and anti-stigma initiatives. Governments, health organisations, and civil society across the world use this occasion to highlight progress made in HIV research, improve public understanding, and reaffirm efforts toward achieving the global goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat.
World AIDS Day thus symbolises solidarity, remembrance, and a renewed pledge to create a healthier and more inclusive world.
7. Who inaugurated the Saras Aajeevika Food Festival 2025?
Answer : Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Saras Aajeevika Food Festival 2025: A Celebration of Rural Entrepreneurship and Culinary Heritage
The Saras Aajeevika Food Festival 2025 was formally inaugurated by Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister for Rural Development, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. Held at Sunder Nursery in New Delhi, the festival highlights India’s diverse culinary culture while showcasing the growing strength of women-led rural enterprises.
Organised under the Ministry of Rural Development’s flagship Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), the event brings together hundreds of women entrepreneurs from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the country. Over 60 stalls have been set up, featuring an extensive range of traditional dishes, organic products, regional snacks, and unique local flavours that reflect India’s rich gastronomic traditions.
The participation of more than 300 “Lakhpati Didis” emphasises the mission’s success in promoting rural livelihoods and empowering women through sustainable income generation. The festival not only offers visitors a chance to savour authentic cuisine from various states but also creates a national platform for rural women to expand market access, enhance brand visibility, and showcase their entrepreneurial capabilities.
Saras Aajeevika Food Festival 2025 stands as a testament to India’s commitment to inclusive development, celebrating both cultural heritage and the transformative role of women in the rural economy.
8. What position did India secure in World Skills Asia Competition 2025?
Answer : 8th
India Secures 8th Position at WorldSkills Asia Competition 2025
India achieved 8th place at the WorldSkills Asia Competition 2025, reflecting the country’s growing emphasis on skill development and vocational training. The competition, held in a multinational arena, brings together the best young professionals from across Asia to showcase expertise in diverse trades, including manufacturing, IT, construction, and creative industries.
Indian participants demonstrated strong performance in multiple skill categories, highlighting the effectiveness of national skill development programs such as the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and other initiatives under the Skill India Mission. The achievement underscores India’s commitment to enhancing employability, technical expertise, and global competitiveness of its workforce.
By securing the 8th position, India has not only strengthened its standing in the Asian skill ecosystem but also set a benchmark for future international competitions, inspiring young professionals to pursue excellence in vocational and technical fields.