Daily Current Affairs Blog - November 10, 2025

For UPSC, SSC, Banking, State PSC & All Competitive Exams

🔥 BREAKING: PM Modi Inaugurates 150th Anniversary of Vande Mataram | India Signs Major Defence Partnership with USA | Hockey India Celebrates 100 Years | Karnataka Becomes First State with Paid Menstrual Leave 🔥

Introduction

Welcome to today's comprehensive current affairs update for November 10, 2025. Today's news covers several landmark developments that are highly relevant for all competitive examinations. The major highlights include Prime Minister Narendra Modi's inauguration of the year-long commemoration of the 150th anniversary of India's national song 'Vande Mataram', the historic India-US 10-year Defence Partnership Framework signed to strengthen Indo-Pacific security, and India's celebration of Hockey India's centenary marking 100 years of Indian hockey excellence. Additionally, Karnataka has made history by becoming India's first state to implement paid menstrual leave, while the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment partnered with Physics Wallah Foundation to provide free coaching for backward classes. On the international front, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya represented India at the World Summit for Social Development in Qatar, highlighting India's achievements in employment generation and social welfare. These developments span across governance, defence, sports, social welfare, and international relations - all crucial areas for your exam preparation.

1. NATIONAL NEWS & GOVERNANCE

1.1 PM Modi Inaugurates 150th Anniversary Celebration of 'Vande Mataram'

Date: November 7, 2025 | Location: New Delhi

Brief Description: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the year-long commemoration of the 150th anniversary of India's national song 'Vande Mataram' in New Delhi. This historic event marks the celebration of one of India's most iconic patriotic songs that played a pivotal role in the freedom struggle.

Context & Background: Vande Mataram was originally composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee on November 7, 1875 (on the auspicious day of Akshaya Navami), exactly 150 years ago. The song was written in Sanskritised Bengali and first published in Chatterjee's literary magazine 'Bangadarshan'. Later, it was included in his famous novel 'Anandamath' published in 1882. The song portrays Mother India (Bharat Mata) as a divine, strong, and nurturing figure. The novel Anandamath was set against the backdrop of the Sannyasi Rebellion in Bengal (1770s), where the song served as a rallying cry for the revolutionaries fighting against British colonial rule.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Vande Mataram: Translates to "I bow to thee, Mother" - a salutation to the motherland (India). It became a powerful symbol of Indian nationalism and resistance during the freedom movement.
• National Song vs National Anthem: While 'Jana Gana Mana' is India's National Anthem, 'Vande Mataram' holds equal status as the National Song. On January 24, 1950, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the then President of the Constituent Assembly, declared it as India's National Song.
• Anandamath: A Bengali novel by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee that depicted the Sannyasi Rebellion and became an inspiration for revolutionary movements.
• Akshaya Navami: An auspicious day in the Hindu calendar considered eternally prosperous, falling in the month of Kartik.

Historical Milestones:

• 1875: Vande Mataram composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee
• 1896: First sung publicly by Rabindranath Tagore at the Indian National Congress session in Calcutta
• 1905: Became the rallying cry during the Swadeshi Movement and Bengal Partition protests
• 1950: Declared as National Song of India by the Constituent Assembly
• 2025: 150th anniversary commemoration launched

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Important for questions on India's freedom struggle, national symbols, and cultural heritage
• Questions may be asked about the composer, year of composition, first public rendition, and constitutional status
• Relevant for General Studies Paper-I (Indian Heritage and Culture, History) in UPSC Mains
• Static GK question for SSC, Banking, and Railway exams on National Song and its composer
• The lyrical imagery - "Sujalam, Sufalam, Malayaja Sheetalam" (abundant in water, abundant in fruits, cooled by the southern breeze) - often appears in literature-based questions

Stakeholders:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi - Chief Guest at the inaugural event
• Ministry of Culture - Organizing the year-long celebrations
• Bankim Chandra Chatterjee - Original composer (1838-1894)
• Rabindranath Tagore - First public singer (1896)
• Indian citizens, especially youth - Target audience for the commemorative programs

Impact & Implications:

• Cultural Revival: Connects today's generation, especially youth, with India's revolutionary and spiritual heritage
• National Integration: Strengthens sense of patriotism and national unity through cultural celebrations
• Educational Value: School and college students will learn about freedom struggle through various programs planned throughout the year
• Tourism Boost: Various events across the country will promote cultural tourism

1.2 Karnataka Becomes India's First State with Paid Menstrual Leave

Date: November 2025 | Location: Karnataka

Brief Description: Karnataka has created history by becoming the first state in India to implement paid menstrual leave for women employees. This landmark decision promotes gender equality, women's health, and workplace inclusivity.

Context & Background: Menstrual leave is a policy that allows women to take time off from work during their menstrual periods without loss of pay. While countries like Japan (since 1947), South Korea, Indonesia, and Taiwan have had such provisions for decades, India has been slowly warming up to this idea. Several private companies in India, including Zomato and Swiggy, had already introduced period leave policies for their female employees. However, Karnataka is the first Indian state to implement this at the government level, setting a precedent for other states to follow.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Menstrual Leave: A workplace policy allowing women to take leave during menstruation, recognizing that many women experience pain, discomfort, and health issues during this time.
• Gender Equality in Workplace: Creating equal opportunities and supportive environments for women to work without discrimination based on biological factors.
• Workplace Inclusivity: Policies and practices that accommodate diverse needs of employees, including women's health requirements.
• Reproductive Health Rights: Recognition that women's reproductive health issues, including menstruation, deserve acknowledgment and support in professional settings.

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Important for questions on women's rights, gender equality, and social welfare schemes
• Relevant for UPSC GS Paper-II (Governance, Social Justice and International relations)
• Questions on latest state government initiatives for women's welfare in SSC and State PSC exams
• Can be linked to Constitutional provisions - Article 15(3) (special provisions for women and children)
• Useful for Essay and Ethics papers discussing gender sensitivity and workplace reforms

Stakeholders:

• Karnataka State Government - Policy implementer
• Women employees in Karnataka - Direct beneficiaries
• Women's rights organizations - Advocacy groups
• Employers and HR departments - Implementation authorities
• Other state governments - Potential adopters of similar policies

Impact & Implications:

• Health Benefits: Women can rest during painful periods, reducing health complications
• Productivity: Well-rested employees are more productive when they return to work
• Breaking Taboos: Normalizes discussion about menstruation in professional settings
• Policy Precedent: Other states may follow Karnataka's example
• Challenges: Concerns about potential discrimination in hiring practices, privacy issues, and implementation mechanisms need to be addressed

1.3 DoSJE Partners with Physics Wallah Foundation for Free Coaching

Date: November 7, 2025 | Location: New Delhi

Brief Description: The Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (DoSJE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Physics Wallah Foundation to provide free online coaching classes for students from backward classes, promoting educational equity and social justice.

Context & Background: India's Constitution mandates special provisions for socially and educationally backward classes (Articles 15(4), 15(5), and 16(4)). However, students from these communities often lack access to quality coaching for competitive examinations due to financial constraints. Coaching institutes charge hefty fees (often ranging from ₹1-3 lakhs for UPSC, JEE, NEET preparations), making them unaffordable for marginalized sections. The government has been taking various initiatives to bridge this gap, including the establishment of residential coaching academies and scholarship programs.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (DoSJE): A Union Ministry responsible for welfare of Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes, and senior citizens. It implements various schemes for their socio-economic empowerment.
• Physics Wallah (PW) Foundation: An EdTech platform founded by Alakh Pandey in 2016, known for providing affordable education, particularly for engineering and medical entrance exams. The foundation focuses on democratizing education through low-cost or free online courses.
• Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): A formal agreement between two parties outlining their mutual understanding and cooperation on specific objectives.
• Backward Classes: Communities that are socially, educationally, and economically disadvantaged, identified for affirmative action under the Constitution.

Government Schemes for Backward Classes (for Reference):

• Dr. Ambedkar Central Sector Scheme of Interest Subsidy: Interest subsidy on educational loans for OBC students
• Pre-Matric Scholarship: Financial assistance for SC/ST students in classes 9-10
• Post-Matric Scholarship: Support for SC/ST students pursuing higher education
• Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana: Construction of hostels for SC students
• Top Class Education for SC Students: Full financial support for SC students in top institutions

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Questions on latest government initiatives for social welfare and educational empowerment
• Relevant for UPSC GS Paper-II (Welfare schemes, Social Justice)
• Important for questions on Constitutional provisions for backward classes (Articles 15(4), 16(4), 340, 341, 342)
• EdTech sector and its role in education democratization - relevant for Economy and Social Development sections
• Public-private partnerships in education sector - governance topic

Stakeholders:

• Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment)
• Physics Wallah Foundation - Partner organization
• Students from SC, ST, OBC, and other backward classes - Beneficiaries
• Alakh Pandey - Founder and CEO of Physics Wallah
• Ministry of Education - Indirect stakeholder

Impact & Implications:

• Educational Access: Thousands of students from backward classes will get access to quality coaching without financial burden
• Level Playing Field: Reduces disparity between economically privileged and disadvantaged students in competitive exams
• Digital Empowerment: Promotes digital literacy and online learning among marginalized communities
• Social Mobility: Better education leads to better jobs, breaking the cycle of poverty
• Economic Model: Demonstrates how private EdTech companies can partner with government for social welfare

2. INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS & DIPLOMACY

2.1 India-US Sign 10-Year Defence Partnership Framework

Date: November 2025 | Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Brief Description: India and the United States unveiled a comprehensive 10-year Defence Partnership Framework, marking a transformative phase in their strategic cooperation to advance peace, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).

Context & Background: India-US defence relations have evolved significantly from the Cold War era when India followed a non-aligned foreign policy and was closer to the Soviet Union. The relationship began warming after India's economic liberalization in 1991 and received a major boost after the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Deal (2008). In 2016, the US designated India as a "Major Defence Partner" - a status unique to India that allows for advanced technology sharing, co-production, and co-development of defence equipment. This new 10-year framework builds upon previous agreements including the 2005 New Framework for Defence Relations, 2013 Joint Principles for Defence Cooperation, and the foundational defence agreements like LEMOA (2016), COMCASA (2018), and BECA (2020).

Key Concepts Explained:

• Defence Partnership Framework: A comprehensive policy document that provides strategic direction for long-term defence cooperation between two countries across multiple domains.
• Major Defence Partner (MDP): A unique designation given by the US to India in 2016, facilitating technology transfers and defence trade at a level comparable to that of America's closest allies and partners.
• Indo-Pacific Region: A geostrategic region comprising the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean, including countries of East Asia, South Asia, and Oceania. It has become the focal point of global geopolitics.
• ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus): A platform for ASEAN and its eight dialogue partners (Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, ROK, Russia, and the US) to strengthen security and defence cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. Established in 2010.

Foundational Defence Agreements (Must Remember):

• LEMOA (2016): Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement - Allows mutual use of military bases for refueling and replenishment
• COMCASA (2018): Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement - Enables transfer of encrypted defense communication equipment
• BECA (2020): Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement - Sharing of geospatial intelligence
• ISA (2023): Industrial Security Annex - Protects classified defense information shared between US and Indian defense companies

Key Pillars of the 10-Year Framework:

• Collaboration across all defence domains: land, maritime, air, space, and cyberspace
• Joint military exercises and training programs
• Defence technology sharing and co-production
• Intelligence sharing and maritime domain awareness
• Ensuring free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific
• Counter-terrorism cooperation

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Critical for UPSC GS Paper-II (International Relations, Bilateral agreements)
• Questions on India's defence partnerships, foundational agreements, and Indo-Pacific strategy
• Important for understanding India's foreign policy shift and strategic autonomy
• Relevant for Defence services exams (NDA, CDS) - India's defence cooperation
• Can be asked in context of QUAD, Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), and countering China's influence
• Important dates: 2016 (MDP status), 2020 (BECA), 2025 (10-year framework)

Stakeholders:

• India: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (signatory), Ministry of Defence
• United States: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (signatory), Department of Defense
• Other Indo-Pacific Nations: ASEAN countries, QUAD members (Japan, Australia), and regional partners
• Defence Industries: Indian and American defence manufacturers for co-production opportunities

Impact & Implications:

• Strategic Deterrence: Strengthens India's defence capabilities against regional threats, particularly from China
• Technology Transfer: Access to advanced US military technology, including in emerging domains like AI, cyber, and space
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: Co-production and co-development opportunities boost India's indigenous defence manufacturing under "Make in India"
• Regional Security: Enhanced maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and South China Sea
• Economic Benefits: Increased defence trade and investment opportunities
• Geopolitical Balancing: While strengthening US ties, India maintains its strategic autonomy (continuing defence cooperation with Russia, engaging with China through SCO and BRICS)
• Challenges: Managing relations with Russia (traditional defence partner), avoiding over-dependence on US, balancing strategic autonomy with alliance commitments

2.2 India's Participation in World Summit for Social Development (WSSD-2)

Date: November 4-6, 2025 | Location: Doha, Qatar

Brief Description: Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya led the Indian delegation at the 2nd World Summit for Social Development (WSSD-2) hosted by Qatar. India highlighted its achievements in employment generation, women's workforce participation, and social welfare initiatives.

Context & Background: The World Summit for Social Development is a major international conference organized under the auspices of the United Nations to address critical social issues including poverty eradication, employment generation, and social integration. The first World Summit was held in Copenhagen in 1995, which resulted in the Copenhagen Declaration and Programme of Action. These documents committed governments to goals and policy frameworks to eradicate poverty, achieve full employment, and foster social integration. The 2nd Summit in Doha brings together world leaders, policymakers, and international organizations to review progress and chart future courses for achieving social development goals, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

Key Concepts Explained:

• Social Development: A process of planned social change designed to promote the well-being of the population as a whole, encompassing economic development, social welfare, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
• Three Pillars of Social Development:
  • Employment: Creation of decent work opportunities and reduction of unemployment
  • Poverty Eradication: Elimination of absolute poverty and reduction of overall poverty levels
  • Social Integration: Creating inclusive societies that promote equality, respect diversity, and ensure participation of all groups
• Copenhagen Declaration (1995): A landmark agreement where 117 countries committed to making poverty eradication, full employment, and social integration central objectives of development policies.

India's Key Achievements Highlighted at WSSD-2:

• Employment Generation: Between 2016-17 and 2023-24, India created more than 170 million (17 crore) jobs - this is a massive achievement considering the global economic slowdown and COVID-19 pandemic impact
• Women's Employment: Women's workforce participation rate has doubled, indicating improved gender parity in economic opportunities
• Unemployment Rate: Decreased from 6% to 3.2%, showing improved job market conditions
• Skill Development: Programs like Skill India Mission, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) trained millions
• Social Security: PM-SYM (pension for workers), EPFO coverage expansion, Ayushman Bharat (health insurance)

Major Social Welfare Schemes (Must Remember):

• PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana: Free food grains to 80 crore beneficiaries
• PM-KISAN: Direct income support of ₹6000/year to farmers
• Ayushman Bharat: Health insurance covering 50 crore people
• PM Awas Yojana: Housing for all - built over 3 crore houses
• Jal Jeevan Mission: Tap water connections to 15 crore+ rural households
• MGNREGA: Employment guarantee scheme providing 100 days of wage employment

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Important for UPSC GS Paper-II (International organizations, India's role in global forums)
• Questions on India's social welfare initiatives and their outcomes
• SDG-related questions - India's progress on SDG 1, 8, 10
• Employment statistics and trends - important for Economy section
• Useful for Answer Writing and Essay - linking domestic policies with international commitments
• Women empowerment initiatives - relevant for Social Justice topics

Stakeholders:

• Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya - Ministry of Labour & Employment and Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports
• State of Qatar - Host nation
• 180+ dignitaries from various countries
• United Nations and affiliated organizations
• Indian citizens - beneficiaries of social development programs

Impact & Implications:

• Global Recognition: Highlights India's model of inclusive growth and social welfare
• Policy Learning: India can learn from best practices of other countries
• South-South Cooperation: Strengthens India's position as a leader among developing nations
• Investment Attraction: Positive employment data can attract more foreign investment
• SDG Progress: Demonstrates India's commitment to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030
• Diplomatic Relations: Strengthens India-Qatar bilateral ties (Qatar is crucial for India's energy security as it supplies significant LNG)

3. SPORTS & ACHIEVEMENTS

3.1 Hockey India Celebrates 100 Years of Indian Hockey

Date: November 7, 2025 | Location: Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi

Brief Description: Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the centenary celebrations of Indian Hockey, marking 100 years since India's first international hockey appearance in 1925. The event organized by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Hockey India launched a year-long celebration under the theme "100 Years of Indian Hockey: India ka Game".

Context & Historical Background: Hockey is considered India's national game (though there's no official declaration). India made its international hockey debut in 1925. The golden era of Indian hockey began with India's first Olympic gold medal in Amsterdam 1928, where the legendary Major Dhyan Chand made his Olympic debut. Between 1928 and 1980, India dominated world hockey, winning 8 Olympic gold medals - an unparalleled achievement in the sport. However, after the 1980 Moscow Olympics, Indian hockey faced a decline due to various factors including the shift from natural grass to astroturf, inadequate infrastructure, and administrative issues. The sport witnessed a resurgence in recent years with improved infrastructure, professional leagues like Hockey India League (HIL), and better training facilities.

India's Olympic Hockey Glory (Must Remember):

• 1928 Amsterdam: 1st Gold - Debut Olympics, won all matches, scored 29 goals without conceding any
• 1932 Los Angeles: 2nd Gold - Defeated USA 24-1 in final
• 1936 Berlin: 3rd Gold - Dhyan Chand's legendary performance, defeated Germany 8-1
• 1948 London: 4th Gold - First Olympics after independence
• 1952 Helsinki: 5th Gold - Defeated Netherlands 6-1
• 1956 Melbourne: 6th Gold - Last appearance of Balbir Singh Sr.
• 1964 Tokyo: 7th Gold - After missing 1960
• 1980 Moscow: 8th Gold - Last Olympic gold
• 2020 Tokyo (2021): Bronze - After 41 years, India won an Olympic medal
• 2024 Paris: Bronze - Back-to-back Olympic medals after decades

Hockey Legends (Important for Exams):

• Major Dhyan Chand (1905-1979): "The Wizard" or "The Magician" - Scored over 1000 goals, 3 Olympic golds (1928, 1932, 1936). His birthday (August 29) is celebrated as National Sports Day. Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is India's highest sporting honor, named after him since 2021.
• Balbir Singh Sr. (1923-2020): 3 Olympic golds (1948, 1952, 1956), scored 5 goals in 1952 Olympic final - still a record
• Dhanraj Pillay: Modern era legend, represented India in 4 Olympics (1992, 1996, 2000, 2004)
• P.R. Sreejesh: Legendary goalkeeper, led India to Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 bronze medals
• Manpreet Singh & Harmanpreet Singh: Current captains of men's team

Key Concepts Explained:

• Hockey India: The national governing body for field hockey in India, established in 2009 (replacing Indian Hockey Federation). It is affiliated with the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
• Sports Authority of India (SAI): An apex national sports body established in 1984 under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. It operates various schemes including Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), Khelo India, and SAI Training Centers.
• Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium: Previously known as National Stadium, renamed in 2002 in honor of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. Located in New Delhi, it hosted the 2010 Commonwealth Games hockey events.
• Hockey India League (HIL): A professional field hockey league in India, inspired by IPL, which has helped in talent identification and providing international exposure to Indian players.

Recent Achievements of Indian Hockey:

• 2020 Tokyo Olympics: Bronze medal (Men's) after 41 years - defeating Germany 5-4
• 2024 Paris Olympics: Bronze medal (Men's) - defeating Spain 2-1
• 2022 FIH World Cup: Joint third place finish
• 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games: Silver (Men's), Bronze (Women's)
• FIH Pro League: Regular participation and competitive performances
• Junior World Cup 2021: Bronze medal by Indian junior team