Current Affairs 16/12/2025
1. When is National Energy Conservation Day 2025 observed?
Answer : 14 December
National Energy Conservation Day
National Energy Conservation Day is observed every year on 14 December in India to promote awareness about the importance of conserving energy and using it efficiently. The day is organized by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, as part of the nation’s broader efforts to ensure sustainable development and energy security.
The observance highlights the need to reduce energy wastage, adopt energy-efficient technologies, and encourage responsible consumption across industries, institutions, and households. Various programs such as seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and awareness campaigns are conducted nationwide to educate citizens on energy-saving practices and innovations.
On this occasion, the National Energy Conservation Awards are also presented to industries, organizations, and individuals who have made significant contributions toward energy efficiency and conservation. By promoting efficient energy use, National Energy Conservation Day supports India’s goals of reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy costs, and safeguarding natural resources for future generations.
2. What was the approved amount in the first meeting of the National Makhana Board?
Answer : ₹476 Crore
First Meeting of the National Makhana Board
The National Makhana Board held its first official meeting with the objective of strengthening the development and promotion of the makhana (fox nut) sector in India. During this meeting, a Central Sector Scheme with an approved outlay of ₹476 crore was sanctioned, marking a significant step toward institutional support for this traditional crop.
The approved funds are aimed at the comprehensive development of the makhana value chain, including research and development, production of quality seeds, farmer training, post-harvest management, value addition, and marketing support. Special emphasis has been placed on improving productivity, ensuring better income for farmers, and enhancing export potential.
Makhana cultivation is primarily concentrated in states such as Bihar, where it serves as a major source of livelihood for thousands of farmers. The initiatives approved in the first meeting are expected to modernize cultivation practices, strengthen infrastructure, and promote sustainable growth of the sector.
The establishment and active functioning of the National Makhana Board reflect the government’s commitment to supporting niche agricultural products, boosting rural livelihoods, and expanding India’s presence in global agri-food markets.
3. Who was appointed as BJP’s National Executive President?
Answer : Nitin Naveen
Appointment of BJP’s National Executive President
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) appointed Nitin Naveen as its National Executive President, marking an important organizational development within the party’s central leadership. The appointment reflects the party’s emphasis on strengthening its internal structure and ensuring effective coordination at the national level.
Nitin Naveen is a senior BJP leader known for his long-standing association with the party and his experience in both organizational and legislative roles. He has been recognized for his grassroots connect, administrative capabilities, and contribution to party-building activities over the years. His elevation to a key national post underlines the leadership’s confidence in his ability to manage organizational responsibilities efficiently.
As National Executive President, Nitin Naveen is expected to play a crucial role in policy coordination, organizational planning, and strengthening the party’s presence across states. The appointment is seen as part of BJP’s broader strategy to reinforce leadership depth and prepare the organization for upcoming political and electoral challenges.
Overall, this decision highlights the BJP’s focus on experienced leadership and structured governance within the party framework.
4. Who honored the winners of NDEA 2025?
Answer : President Droupadi Murmu
National Digital Education Awards (NDEA) 2025
The winners of the National Digital Education Awards (NDEA) 2025 were formally honored by President of India, Droupadi Murmu, underscoring the national importance of digital innovation in the education sector. The awards recognize outstanding contributions by individuals and institutions in leveraging digital technologies to enhance access, quality, and effectiveness of education.
The NDEA aims to encourage the adoption of technology-driven teaching and learning practices, promote digital inclusion, and highlight best practices in e-learning, online assessment, and educational innovation. Awardees are selected for their impactful use of digital tools to improve learning outcomes and expand educational opportunities, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
President Droupadi Murmu, while honoring the winners, emphasized the role of digital education in empowering students, bridging learning gaps, and preparing India’s youth for a technology-driven future. The event reflects the government’s continued commitment to transforming the education ecosystem through innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable digital solutions.
5. Where did India win its first Squash World Cup gold medal?
Answer : Final
India’s First Squash World Cup Gold Medal
India created a historic milestone in squash by winning its first-ever Squash World Cup gold medal in the final of the tournament. This landmark achievement marked a significant breakthrough for Indian squash on the global stage and highlighted the country’s growing competitiveness in the sport.
The gold medal victory in the final showcased exceptional skill, composure, and teamwork by the Indian players against top international opponents. It reflected years of structured training, improved infrastructure, and increased focus on nurturing squash talent at the national level.
This triumph is regarded as a turning point for squash in India, inspiring young athletes and bringing greater recognition to the sport. Winning the gold medal in the World Cup final has strengthened India’s reputation in international squash and is expected to encourage further investment and participation in the game.
6. When was the 75th death anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel observed?
Answer : 15 December
75th Death Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
The 75th death anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was observed on 15 December to pay tribute to one of India’s foremost national leaders and architects of national unity. Popularly known as the “Iron Man of India,” Sardar Patel played a decisive role in the political integration of more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union after Independence.
On this occasion, leaders and citizens across the country remembered his unparalleled contribution to nation-building, his firm leadership, and his commitment to unity and integrity. Various commemorative events, memorial lectures, and tribute ceremonies were organized to highlight his life, ideals, and administrative vision.
The observance of his 75th death anniversary served as a reminder of Sardar Patel’s values of discipline, national unity, and good governance, which continue to inspire India’s democratic and administrative framework even today.
7. Which agreement between India and Oman was approved?
Answer : Free Trade Agreement
India–Oman Free Trade Agreement
India and Oman approved a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as part of their efforts to strengthen bilateral economic and strategic relations. The agreement aims to enhance trade flows, improve market access, and promote greater cooperation across key sectors of the economy.
The India–Oman FTA is designed to reduce or eliminate tariffs on a wide range of goods, facilitate smoother trade procedures, and encourage investments between the two countries. It is expected to benefit sectors such as manufacturing, energy, agriculture, logistics, and services, while also supporting small and medium enterprises by opening new export opportunities.
Beyond trade, the agreement reflects the deepening partnership between India and Oman, built on long-standing cultural ties, maritime links, and cooperation in areas such as energy security and regional stability. The approval of the Free Trade Agreement marks an important step toward expanding India’s economic engagement with the Gulf region and strengthening Oman’s role as a key trading partner in West Asia.