Current Affairs 25/12/2025
1. Which is the Indian Navy’s largest waterjet warship commissioned in Chennai?
Answer : Anjadip
INS Anjadip: The Indian Navy’s Largest Waterjet-Propelled Warship
The commissioning of INS Anjadip at Chennai marks a significant advancement in the Indian Navy’s coastal and littoral warfare capabilities. Distinguished as the largest waterjet-propelled warship in the Indian Navy, Anjadip represents a successful blend of modern naval technology and indigenous shipbuilding expertise.
INS Anjadip is an Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), specifically designed to operate in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and near-shore regions. Such platforms are vital for safeguarding India’s long coastline, ports, and sensitive maritime installations from submarine and asymmetric threats.
A notable feature of Anjadip is its waterjet propulsion system, which provides superior manoeuvrability, reduced draft, and enhanced operational safety in confined waters. This propulsion technology allows the vessel to operate effectively where conventional propeller-driven warships face limitations, thereby improving the Navy’s responsiveness in coastal defence scenarios.
The warship is equipped with advanced sensors and weapon systems optimized for anti-submarine operations in shallow waters. In addition to its primary ASW role, *INS Anjadip is capable of performing coastal patrol, surveillance, and maritime security missions, making it a versatile asset in the Indian Navy’s operational fleet.
From an industrial perspective, *INS Anjadip reflects India’s growing emphasis on indigenous defence production. Built with substantial domestic content, the vessel showcases the maturity of India’s naval design and construction ecosystem and aligns with the national vision of self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
In essence, the induction of INS Anjadip strengthens the Indian Navy’s ability to secure its coastal waters and underscores India’s steady progress in developing technologically advanced, mission-specific warships through indigenous capabilities.
2. With which country has India partnered to develop the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal in Gujarat?
Answer : Netherlands
India–Netherlands Partnership for the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), Lothal
India has partnered with the Netherlands for the development of the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal in Gujarat, a site of immense archaeological and historical significance dating back to the Indus Valley Civilisation. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to preserving maritime heritage and promoting cultural exchange.
The partnership was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of India and the Government of the Netherlands. Under this agreement, the Netherlands—renowned for its long maritime tradition and expertise in museum design, water management, and heritage conservation—will provide technical guidance and advisory support. Institutions such as the National Maritime Museum, Amsterdam, are involved in offering expertise in curation, exhibition design, conservation practices, and visitor engagement.
The NMHC is envisioned as the largest maritime museum complex in the world, showcasing India’s rich maritime history, ancient trade links, shipbuilding traditions, navigation techniques, and coastal cultures. The complex aims to integrate modern technology with historical scholarship to create an educational and tourism-oriented hub of global standards.
This India–Netherlands cooperation not only strengthens bilateral cultural ties but also contributes to heritage-based tourism, academic research, and public awareness of India’s maritime legacy.
3. Who has recently been honoured with a prestigious cultural award of France?
Answer : Ravi DC
Ravi DC Honoured with Prestigious French Cultural Award
Ravi DC, Publisher and Managing Director of DC Books, has recently been honoured with one of France’s most prestigious cultural recognitions, the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters). The award was conferred by the French Government in recognition of his outstanding contributions to literature, publishing, and cultural exchange.
The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, instituted by the French Ministry of Culture, is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the enrichment of arts and literature and to the promotion of French culture worldwide. Receiving this honour places Ravi DC among a distinguished group of global intellectuals, artists, and cultural ambassadors.
Ravi DC has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s contemporary publishing landscape through DC Books, one of the country’s most respected publishing houses. Under his leadership, DC Books has actively promoted world literature in Indian languages, particularly Malayalam, and has facilitated the translation and dissemination of notable French literary works in India.
This recognition highlights Ravi DC’s sustained efforts in strengthening Indo-French cultural ties and advancing literary dialogue across borders. The award also underscores the growing importance of cultural diplomacy and the role of publishing in fostering mutual understanding between nations.
4. Whose 123rd birth anniversary was observed on 23 December 2025?
Answer : Chaudhary Charan Singh
123rd Birth Anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh Observed on 23 December 2025
On 23 December 2025, India observed the 123rd birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister of the country and a stalwart leader known for his enduring commitment to the welfare of farmers and rural communities. Born on 23 December 1902, Chaudhary Charan Singh played a pivotal role in shaping India’s agrarian policies and championed the cause of the rural population, earning him the title of the “Champion of Farmers.”
Throughout his political career, he was associated with land reforms, agricultural development, and the empowerment of small farmers, laying the foundation for policies that continue to influence India’s rural economy. He also held various key positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Union Home Minister, contributing significantly to India’s governance and socio-economic reforms.
The observance of his birth anniversary serves not only as a tribute to his life and legacy but also as a reminder of his enduring vision for a prosperous and self-reliant rural India. Various government bodies, educational institutions, and farmer organisations marked the day with ceremonies, seminars, and discussions reflecting on his contributions to Indian society.
5. Which programme was organised in Indore to mark the birth centenary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee?
Answer : Shunya Se Shatak
“Shunya Se Shatak” Programme Organised in Indore to Mark Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Birth Centenary
In Indore, Madhya Pradesh, the programme “Shunya Se Shatak” was organised to commemorate the birth centenary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This initiative celebrated the life, vision, and legacy of one of India’s most respected leaders, highlighting his contributions to national development, politics, and public life.
The event showcased Vajpayee’s transformational leadership, statesmanship, and literary contributions, reflecting on his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a towering figure in Indian politics. Through speeches, discussions, and cultural presentations, “Shunya Se Shatak” emphasised Vajpayee’s enduring philosophy of inclusive growth, national unity, and democratic values.
Organised by government institutions and local cultural organisations, the programme also aimed to inspire the younger generation by promoting the ideals and vision that Vajpayee championed throughout his career. It served as a fitting tribute to a leader whose oratory, pragmatism, and commitment to India’s progress continue to influence public discourse.
6. Which state government has launched a conservation initiative to protect smooth-coated otters in the Cauvery river delta?
Answer : Tamil Nadu government
Tamil Nadu Government Launches Conservation Initiative for Smooth-Coated Otters in Cauvery Delta
The Tamil Nadu government has initiated a dedicated conservation programme to protect the smooth-coated otters (Lutrogale perspicillata) in the Cauvery river delta, recognising their ecological significance and the threats they face due to habitat degradation and human activities. The initiative is part of the state’s broader efforts to preserve wetland ecosystems and promote biodiversity conservation.
Smooth-coated otters are apex predators in freshwater ecosystems, playing a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance by regulating fish populations and contributing to healthy aquatic habitats. The Cauvery delta, known for its rich biodiversity and extensive network of rivers and wetlands, provides a critical habitat for these otters.
The programme includes habitat restoration, community engagement, awareness campaigns, and scientific monitoring to ensure the survival and well-being of the species. By involving local communities, authorities aim to reduce human-wildlife conflict and foster a sense of stewardship for wildlife conservation.
This initiative highlights the Tamil Nadu government’s commitment to sustainable environmental management and the preservation of India’s unique freshwater fauna, positioning the state as a leader in wildlife conservation and ecological restoration efforts.
7. Which festival will be organised in Visakhapatnam by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Tribal Affairs?
Answer : PESA festival
PESA Festival to Be Organised in Visakhapatnam by Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Tribal Affairs
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Tribal Affairs has announced the organisation of the PESA (Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas) Festival in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The festival is designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and crafts of tribal communities from across the country, particularly those residing in Scheduled Areas.
PESA, originally legislated to empower tribal communities through local self-governance and participatory development, serves as the framework for this festival. The event will feature traditional art forms, handicrafts, tribal music and dance performances, and exhibitions of local produce, providing a platform for indigenous communities to highlight their socio-cultural and economic contributions.
The festival also aims to promote awareness about tribal rights, local governance initiatives, and sustainable development practices, encouraging interaction between policymakers, community leaders, and the public. By organising the PESA Festival, the Ministry seeks to strengthen tribal empowerment, preserve cultural identity, and foster inclusive growth in India’s Scheduled Areas.