Current Affairs 26/12/2025
1. How much increase has been recorded in Rabi crop sowing area in 2025–26?
Answer : 8 lakh hectare
Increase in Rabi Crop Sowing Area in 2025–26
India has recorded a significant increase of about 8 lakh hectares in the Rabi crop sowing area during the 2025–26 agricultural season, reflecting a positive trend in the farming sector. This growth highlights improved agricultural planning, favorable climatic conditions, and supportive government measures.
The expansion in Rabi sowing has been supported by adequate soil moisture, timely rainfall in the preceding monsoon season, and improved availability of irrigation facilities. Crops such as wheat, barley, gram, mustard, and pulses have seen higher coverage, contributing to overall agricultural stability.
Government initiatives, including minimum support prices (MSP), better access to quality seeds and fertilizers, and continuous farmer awareness programs, have played a crucial role in encouraging farmers to expand cultivation. Additionally, improved market prospects and export demand for certain Rabi crops have boosted farmer confidence.
This increase in Rabi crop area is expected to strengthen food security, stabilize market prices, and contribute positively to rural incomes. Overall, the growth of 8 lakh hectares in Rabi sowing during 2025–26 indicates a resilient and progressive outlook for India’s agricultural economy.
2. Which is the third indigenous stealth watercraft of the Indian Navy?
Answer : INS Andeep
INS Andeep: The Third Indigenous Stealth Watercraft of the Indian Navy
INS Andeep is the third indigenous stealth watercraft inducted into the Indian Navy, marking an important milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Designed and built in India, this advanced watercraft strengthens the Navy’s coastal and littoral operational capabilities.
INS Andeep features stealth technology, which significantly reduces its radar, infrared, and acoustic signatures. This enables the vessel to operate effectively in sensitive maritime zones while avoiding detection. The watercraft is specially designed for high-speed operations, making it suitable for patrolling, surveillance, insertion of special forces, and quick-response missions.
The induction of INS Andeep reflects the growing capability of India’s domestic shipbuilding industry and its ability to deliver technologically sophisticated platforms. Indigenous development not only reduces dependence on foreign suppliers but also enhances strategic autonomy and operational flexibility for the armed forces.
Overall, INS Andeep represents a major advancement in India’s naval modernisation efforts, contributing to maritime security, coastal defence, and rapid operational readiness of the Indian Navy.
3. Supreme Court gave a uniform legal definition to which mountain range?
Answer : Aravalli
Supreme Court and the Aravalli Mountain Range
The Supreme Court of India has provided a uniform legal definition to the Aravalli mountain range, an important step aimed at strengthening environmental protection and regulatory clarity. The Aravallis are one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance across north-western India.
By laying down a uniform legal definition, the Court sought to remove ambiguities that existed due to varying interpretations by different states and authorities. This definition helps in ensuring consistent application of environmental laws, particularly in matters related to mining restrictions, land use, forest conservation, and urban development.
The Aravalli range acts as a natural barrier against desertification, especially preventing the expansion of the Thar Desert, and supports groundwater recharge and biodiversity. The Supreme Court’s intervention reinforces the constitutional duty to protect the environment and promotes sustainable development.
Overall, the uniform legal definition of the Aravalli by the Supreme Court is a significant judicial step toward safeguarding a vital ecological system from degradation and unregulated exploitation.
4. Where was the two-day Pesa Mahotsav 2025 held?
Answer : Visakhapatnam
Pesa Mahotsav 2025 Held in Visakhapatnam
The two-day Pesa Mahotsav 2025 was held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The event brought together policymakers, economists, industry experts, startups, and financial institutions to deliberate on key issues related to financial literacy, digital payments, investment awareness, and inclusive economic growth.
Visakhapatnam, an emerging financial and industrial hub on India’s eastern coast, provided an ideal setting for the Mahotsav. The programme featured panel discussions, exhibitions, interactive sessions, and public outreach activities, aimed at enhancing understanding of money management and strengthening trust in formal financial systems.
The event highlighted India’s progress in digital finance and fintech innovation, while also emphasizing the need to extend financial services to underserved sections of society. Overall, hosting Pesa Mahotsav 2025 in Visakhapatnam underlined the city’s growing importance in national economic and financial discourse.
5. When is National Farmers’ Day observed?
Answer : 23 December
National Farmers’ Day in India
National Farmers’ Day is observed every year on 23 December in India. The day marks the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister, who is widely regarded as a champion of farmers’ welfare and rural development.
The observance highlights the vital role of farmers in ensuring food security and sustaining the national economy. On this day, various programmes, seminars, and awareness campaigns are organized across the country to recognize farmers’ contributions and to discuss issues related to agriculture, rural livelihoods, and sustainable farming practices.
By celebrating National Farmers’ Day on 23 December, India reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and improving the socio-economic conditions of farmers.
6. How much reconstruction aid did India announce for Sri Lanka ?
Answer : $450 Million
India Announces $450 Million Reconstruction Aid for Sri Lanka
India has announced $450 million in reconstruction assistance for Sri Lanka, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the island nation’s recovery and long-term stability. The aid forms part of India’s broader neighbourhood-first policy and reflects deep-rooted historical, cultural, and economic ties between the two countries.
The reconstruction assistance is aimed at revitalising critical infrastructure, supporting livelihood restoration, and strengthening essential public services. Priority sectors include housing, transport connectivity, community development, and capacity-building initiatives that directly benefit affected populations. The funding is designed to complement ongoing development projects and ensure timely, targeted outcomes.
India’s support also underscores its role as a reliable development partner in the Indian Ocean region, especially during periods of economic stress. By focusing on sustainable reconstruction and inclusive growth, the assistance seeks to enhance resilience, promote social welfare, and contribute to Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.
Overall, the $450 million reconstruction aid highlights India’s proactive regional engagement and its commitment to fostering stability, prosperity, and cooperative development in South Asia.
7. Who presented the National Science Awards 2025?
Answer : President Draupadi Murmu
National Science Awards 2025
The National Science Awards 2025 were presented by the President of India, Smt. Draupadi Murmu. The awards ceremony recognized outstanding contributions by scientists and researchers across various fields of science and technology.
By conferring the awards, the President highlighted the critical role of scientific innovation and research in national development, technological self-reliance, and societal progress. The event also underscored India’s commitment to promoting excellence in science, encouraging young researchers, and strengthening the country’s scientific ecosystem.
The presentation of the National Science Awards 2025 by President Draupadi Murmu reflects the nation’s respect and recognition for its scientific community and their contributions to India’s growth and global standing.