Current Affairs 23/12/2025
1. Mikla Benthos belongs to Germany and will become the world’s first wheelchair user to travel to space on
Answer : Blue Origin’s NS-37 mission
Mikla Benthos, a citizen of Germany, is set to create history by becoming the world’s first wheelchair user to travel to space. She will undertake this landmark journey aboard Blue Origin’s NS-37 mission, a suborbital spaceflight operated by the private aerospace company founded by Jeff Bezos.
This mission is significant not only for its technological achievement but also for its strong message of inclusivity and accessibility in space exploration. By enabling a wheelchair user to participate in human spaceflight, Blue Origin highlights the evolving nature of space programs, where diversity and equal opportunity are increasingly being emphasized.
The NS-37 mission is part of Blue Origin’s New Shepard program, which is designed to carry passengers beyond the Kármán line, the internationally recognized boundary of space. Mikla Benthos’s participation represents a milestone in the history of space travel and sets a powerful precedent for people with disabilities worldwide, demonstrating that space exploration is gradually becoming more inclusive and representative of humanity as a whole.
2. Which state has approved the Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act?
Answer : Jharkhand
The state of Jharkhand has taken a significant step toward safeguarding the rights of gig economy workers by approving the Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act. With this approval, Jharkhand has joined the growing list of Indian states recognizing the need for a legal and social security framework for workers engaged through digital platforms such as ride-hailing, food delivery, and e-commerce services.
The Act aims to ensure the registration of platform-based gig workers, thereby formally acknowledging their contribution to the state’s economy. Once registered, workers will become eligible for various welfare measures, including social security benefits, insurance coverage, and financial assistance during emergencies. The legislation seeks to address long-standing concerns related to job insecurity, lack of benefits, and absence of institutional support faced by gig workers.
By introducing this law, the Jharkhand government has demonstrated its commitment to inclusive growth and labour welfare in the digital age. The Act is expected to improve working conditions, enhance economic stability for gig workers, and serve as a model for other states considering similar reforms in the rapidly expanding platform-based economy.
3. The United States has launched Operation Hawkeye against terrorists in
Answer : Syria
The United States has launched Operation Hawkeye as part of its counter-terrorism efforts in Syria, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to combating extremist organizations operating in the region. The operation is aimed at identifying, tracking, and neutralizing terrorist networks that pose a threat to regional stability and international security.
Operation Hawkeye involves a combination of intelligence gathering, precision strikes, and coordinated actions with allied forces. Through advanced surveillance and targeted military operations, the United States seeks to disrupt terrorist command structures, prevent regrouping of militants, and reduce their operational capabilities within Syrian territory.
This operation highlights the continued strategic importance of Syria in global counter-terrorism policy. By launching Operation Hawkeye, the United States underscores its resolve to prevent the resurgence of terrorist groups and to support broader efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security in the Middle East.
4. Morocco won the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 held in
Answer : Qatar
Morocco emerged victorious at the FIFA Arab Cup 2025, which was successfully held in Qatar, reaffirming the country’s growing strength in international football. The tournament brought together top Arab nations and showcased high-quality competition, drawing significant global attention.
Qatar once again demonstrated its capability as a world-class sporting host, building on its experience from previous international football events. The state-of-the-art stadiums, advanced infrastructure, and smooth organization contributed to the successful conduct of the tournament.
Morocco’s triumph in the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 is a landmark achievement that reflects the nation’s consistent investment in football development and youth training. The victory not only enhances Morocco’s stature in Arab and African football but also inspires future generations of players across the region.
5. The Regional AI Impact Conference was held in the state of
Answer : Odisha
The Regional AI Impact Conference was held in the state of Odisha, marking an important step in promoting the adoption and responsible use of artificial intelligence at the regional level. The conference brought together policymakers, technology experts, industry leaders, academics, and startups to discuss the transformative potential of AI across various sectors.
Key discussions at the conference focused on the application of artificial intelligence in governance, healthcare, education, agriculture, and public service delivery. Emphasis was placed on ethical AI, data security, skill development, and the need to build inclusive AI ecosystems that benefit both urban and rural communities.
By hosting the Regional AI Impact Conference, Odisha highlighted its commitment to digital innovation and emerging technologies. The event reinforced the state’s vision of leveraging AI-driven solutions for sustainable development, improved governance, and economic growth, positioning Odisha as an emerging hub for technology-led progress in India.
6. The Black-capped Capuchin monkeys in the news have been imported by India from
Answer : South Africa
The Black-capped Capuchin monkeys, recently in the news, have been imported by India from South Africa as part of a regulated wildlife and zoological exchange initiative. These monkeys, known for their intelligence and social behavior, are a species of New World monkeys originally native to parts of South America.
The import has been carried out in accordance with international wildlife conservation norms, including guidelines under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Such transfers are generally undertaken for purposes such as scientific research, conservation breeding, education, and zoological display, ensuring genetic diversity and better species management.
This development highlights India’s engagement in global cooperation for wildlife management and conservation. It also brings attention to the importance of strict biosecurity measures, ethical handling, and long-term care of exotic species to maintain ecological balance and uphold animal welfare standards.
7. Hansi has been declared the 23rd district of
Answer : Haryana
Hansi has been officially declared the 23rd district of Haryana, marking an important administrative milestone for the state. The creation of Hansi as a separate district aims to strengthen local governance and improve the efficiency of public administration.
With district status, Hansi will now have its own administrative setup, including district-level offices for revenue, law and order, education, health, and other essential services. This move is expected to bring government services closer to the people, reduce administrative burden on existing districts, and accelerate regional development.
The declaration of Hansi as Haryana’s 23rd district reflects the state government’s focus on balanced regional growth and better governance. It is anticipated to boost infrastructure development, enhance service delivery, and contribute to overall socio-economic progress in the region.