Current Affairs 14/12/2025
1. What was the theme of the 3rd meeting of the India–Malaysia Joint Working Group (JWG)?
Answer : Counter-terrorism & International Crime
India–Malaysia Joint Working Group (JWG): Focus on Counter-Terrorism and International Crime
The 3rd meeting of the India–Malaysia Joint Working Group (JWG) underscored the growing strategic partnership between the two nations in the field of internal security. The meeting was held with the central theme of Counter-terrorism and International Crime, reflecting shared concerns over evolving security challenges in the region and beyond.
During the discussions, both sides exchanged views on emerging terrorist threats, cross-border crimes, cyber-enabled criminal activities, and mechanisms to curb transnational organized crime. Emphasis was laid on intelligence sharing, capacity building, legal cooperation, and the use of advanced technologies to prevent and investigate criminal networks.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of coordinated action against terrorism financing, radicalization, drug trafficking, and human trafficking. By strengthening institutional cooperation between law enforcement and security agencies, India and Malaysia reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining regional stability and global security.
Overall, the 3rd JWG meeting served as a vital platform to deepen bilateral cooperation, enhance mutual trust, and develop joint strategies to effectively combat counter-terrorism and international crime in an increasingly interconnected world.
2. India started pilot testing of Mirai FCEV of which company?
Answer : Toyota
India Begins Pilot Testing of Toyota’s Mirai Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV)
India has initiated pilot testing of the Mirai Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) developed by Toyota, marking a significant step toward the adoption of hydrogen-based mobility solutions in the country. The pilot project reflects India’s growing focus on clean and sustainable transportation aligned with its long-term decarbonization goals.
The Toyota Mirai operates on hydrogen fuel cell technology, generating electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water vapor as the only by-product. This makes the vehicle a zero-emission alternative to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles and an important complement to battery electric mobility.
The pilot testing aims to evaluate the performance, safety, efficiency, and feasibility of hydrogen-powered vehicles under Indian road and climatic conditions. It also provides valuable insights into the development of hydrogen infrastructure, including refuelling systems, operational costs, and maintenance requirements.
By partnering with Toyota for this pilot initiative, India is strengthening its engagement with global automobile manufacturers in advanced clean technologies. The project supports the objectives of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which envisions hydrogen as a key energy carrier for reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy security.
Overall, the pilot testing of Toyota’s Mirai FCEV represents a forward-looking move in India’s transition toward sustainable mobility and highlights the country’s commitment to exploring innovative solutions for a cleaner transportation ecosystem.
3. Special roll observers were appointed to monitor which process?
Answer : Electoral Roll Revision (SIR)
Appointment of Special Roll Observers for Electoral Roll Revision (SIR)
The appointment of Special Roll Observers reflects a focused effort to ensure transparency, accuracy, and inclusiveness in the Electoral Roll Revision, particularly under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. This step has been taken to strengthen the integrity of electoral rolls, which form the foundation of free and fair elections.
Special roll observers are entrusted with overseeing the revision process at the ground level. Their role includes monitoring the addition of eligible voters, deletion of ineligible or duplicate entries, correction of errors, and ensuring compliance with prescribed guidelines. They also review the work of electoral officials to ensure that the process is carried out in a uniform and impartial manner.
The observers help address challenges such as migration, urbanization, and demographic changes that often impact voter lists. By providing independent oversight, they enhance public confidence in the electoral system and reduce the scope for discrepancies or grievances.
Overall, the deployment of special roll observers during the Electoral Roll Revision (SIR) underscores the commitment of election authorities to maintaining accurate voter records, safeguarding democratic processes, and ensuring that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to participate in elections.
4. What budget was approved for Census 2027?
Answer : ₹11,718
Government Approves Budget for Census 2027
The Government has approved a budget of ₹11,718 crore for the conduct of Census 2027, underscoring the importance of this nationwide exercise for evidence-based governance and policy formulation. The allocation reflects the scale and complexity involved in carrying out one of the largest administrative and statistical operations in the world.
The Census serves as the primary source of comprehensive data on population size, demographic composition, socio-economic conditions, housing, and other key indicators. The approved budget will support extensive preparatory activities, field operations, data collection, processing, and dissemination of results across the country.
A significant portion of the allocation is expected to be utilized for modernizing census operations, including the use of digital tools, training of enumerators, logistics, and public awareness campaigns. These measures aim to improve efficiency, accuracy, and timeliness while reducing manual errors.
The Census 2027 data will play a crucial role in planning and implementation of welfare schemes, allocation of resources, delimitation exercises, and long-term development strategies. The approved budget of ₹11,718 crore highlights the government’s commitment to strengthening statistical systems and ensuring reliable data for informed decision-making at all levels of governance.
5. Which ministry signed an MoU with Amazon for PM Vishwakarma artisans?
Answer : Ministry of MSME
Ministry of MSME Signs MoU with Amazon to Support PM Vishwakarma Artisans
The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Amazon to strengthen market access and digital integration for artisans covered under the PM Vishwakarma scheme. This collaboration represents a significant step toward empowering traditional artisans and craftsmen by connecting them with modern e-commerce platforms.
Under the MoU, PM Vishwakarma artisans will receive support in areas such as onboarding onto Amazon’s marketplace, digital training, product listing, branding, packaging, and logistics. The initiative aims to help artisans scale their businesses, enhance product visibility, and reach a wider national and global customer base.
The partnership aligns with the government’s broader objective of promoting entrepreneurship, formalization, and digital adoption among MSMEs. By leveraging Amazon’s technological infrastructure and global reach, artisans will be better positioned to increase their incomes and sustain traditional skills in a competitive market environment.
Overall, the MoU between the Ministry of MSME and Amazon reinforces the commitment to inclusive growth, combining public policy support with private sector expertise to create new opportunities for PM Vishwakarma artisans across India.
6. Who approved the increased MSP for the 2026 season?
Answer : Union Cabinet
Union Cabinet Approves Increased Minimum Support Price (MSP) for the 2026 Season
The Union Cabinet has approved an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for the 2026 agricultural season, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding farmers’ incomes and ensuring remunerative prices for their produce. The decision is a key policy measure aimed at strengthening the agricultural sector and enhancing rural economic stability.
The revised MSPs are intended to provide a fair return to farmers by covering the cost of production and offering a reasonable margin, thereby reducing income uncertainty caused by market fluctuations. By assuring a guaranteed price, the MSP mechanism encourages farmers to continue cultivation and make informed cropping decisions.
The Cabinet’s approval also supports food security objectives by ensuring adequate procurement of essential crops for the public distribution system and strategic reserves. Additionally, the MSP increase is expected to boost rural purchasing power, contributing positively to overall economic growth.
Overall, the Union Cabinet’s decision to raise MSPs for the 2026 season reflects a balanced approach to farmer welfare, agricultural sustainability, and national food security, while reinforcing confidence among the farming community.
7. What is the objective of the Coal Bridge Policy?
Answer : Availability & optimal use of coal
Coal Bridge Policy: Ensuring Availability and Optimal Use of Coal
The Coal Bridge Policy has been introduced with the primary objective of ensuring the availability and optimal utilization of coal to meet the country’s growing energy and industrial requirements. The policy plays a crucial role in bridging supply gaps and maintaining continuity in coal supply, particularly for power generation and core industries.
Under this policy, mechanisms are put in place to facilitate efficient allocation and movement of coal from available sources to demand centers. It aims to address temporary shortages, logistical challenges, and regional imbalances in coal availability, thereby supporting uninterrupted operations of thermal power plants and other coal-dependent sectors.
The Coal Bridge Policy also emphasizes efficient resource management by promoting better planning, coordination, and utilization of existing coal stocks. By optimizing the use of domestic coal resources, the policy contributes to energy security and reduces the risk of disruptions in electricity generation.
Overall, the Coal Bridge Policy serves as an important instrument in strengthening the energy supply chain, ensuring stable coal availability, and supporting economic activities while making efficient use of a critical natural resource.
8. Who paid tribute to Vinayak Damodar Savarkar?
Answer : Home Minister Amit Shah
Home Minister Amit Shah Pays Tribute to Vinayak Damodar Savarkar
Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute to Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, remembering his contributions to India’s freedom struggle and nationalist thought. The tribute highlighted Savarkar’s role as a freedom fighter, social reformer, writer, and ideologue who played a significant part in shaping modern Indian political consciousness.
Savarkar is widely known for his revolutionary activities against British colonial rule and for enduring long years of imprisonment. His writings and ideas influenced generations of nationalists and continue to be discussed in the context of India’s struggle for independence and nation-building.
By paying homage, the Home Minister acknowledged Savarkar’s sacrifices and emphasized the importance of remembering freedom fighters who contributed to India’s independence through diverse paths and ideologies. The tribute also reflected the government’s effort to recognize historical figures who played pivotal roles in strengthening the spirit of nationalism.
Overall, the gesture served as a reminder of Savarkar’s enduring legacy in India’s history and his impact on the country’s political and social discourse.