November 29, 2025 - Current Affairs

India Secures Third Rank in Asia Power Index 2025

November 29, 2025

The ranking is a reassurance about India assuming the third position at the Asia Power Index 2025 and solidifies its rising power as a strategic, economic and diplomatic player in the Indo-Pacific. The index rates the nations on the basis of military power, economic power, the level of diplomacy, resilience and future capacities. The rise of India is associated with sound economic development, broadening defence alliances, leadership positions all over the world, and increased regional access. Its performance also speaks of the rising soft-power influence, technological development, and aggressive foreign policies. Placing India in third place, it is an important force of balance in the new geopolitical situation in Asia and its growing role in developing the regional stability and cooperation.

What is the Asia Power Index?

The Asia Power Index scales the balance of influences of the nations within the Indo-Pacific area.
It measures the countries based on eight indicators, which include economic capability, military capability, resilience, future resources, economic relationships, defence networks, diplomatic influence and cultural influence.
The countries are rated according to 100 points.
The first one would be the United States, and then China.
The score of India is approximately 40 points in the 2025 position.
The small island and low-influence countries are on the bottom of the lists.

Best PYQ Based Question Asked In Exams

Exam / Paper	Year	Question	Correct Answer
SSC CGL (Tier-1)	2023	India’s rank in the Global Innovation Index 2022 was?	40th
SSC CHSL	2022	Which country topped the Human Development Index (HDI) 2021-22?	Switzerland
RRB NTPC	2021	The World Happiness Report 2021 ranked India at which position?	139th
UPSC Prelims	2020	The Ease of Doing Business Report is published by which organisation?	World Bank
Banking (IBPS PO)	2021	India’s ranking in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2020 was?	10th
State PSC (UPPSC)	2022	Which country topped the Global Hunger Index 2021?	Ireland
SSC MTS	2021	India’s ranking in the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2022 was?	180th
TNPSC Group 2	2019	The Corruption Perception Index is released by which organisation?	Transparency International
SSC GD	2022	In the Global Firepower Index 2022, India’s military strength rank was?	4th
MPSC	2020	Which country topped the Global Competitiveness Index?	Singapore
Kerala PSC	2021	The Global Peace Index is prepared by which institute?	Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP)
OSSSC	2023	India’s position in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2023 is?	8th
SSC Stenographer	2021	India’s rank in the Global Gender Gap Index 2021?	140th
UPSC Prelims	2023	The World Press Freedom Index is published by?	Reporters Without Borders
RRB Group D	2022	India’s rank in the Logistics Performance Index 2023 is?	38th

Expected Question For Asia Power Index

Which organisation releases the Asia Power Index each year?

A. World Economic Forum
B. Lowy Institute
C. IMF
D. World Bank
Correct Answer: B. Lowy Institute

What was India’s score in the Asia Power Index 2025?

A. 55.2
B. 20.5
C. 40.0 (approx.)
D. 72.1
Correct Answer: C. 40.0 (approx.)

The Asia Power Index evaluates countries on how many indicators?

A. 4
B. 6
C. 8
D. 10
Correct Answer: C. 8

Which of the following is NOT an indicator in Asia Power Index?

A. Economic Capability
B. Military Capability
C. Space Exploration Capability
D. Diplomatic Influence
Correct Answer: C. Space Exploration Capability

Asia Power Index is primarily related to which region?

A. Europe
B. Indo-Pacific
C. Middle East
D. Latin America
Correct Answer: B. Indo-Pacific

Conclusion

India takes the third position in the Asia Power Index 2025 is an indicator of its increasing strategic and economic power in the Indo-Pacific. The position indicates the growing military potential and diplomatic influence and the robust economy of India. This realization supports the position of India as a dominant regional force in influencing the balance and cooperation in Asia.

Amit Shah Pays Tribute to Mahatma Jyotiba Phule on his Death Anniversary

November 29, 2025

Union Home Minister Amit Shah fully supported the commemoration of social reformist Mahatma Jyotiba Phule's death anniversary by paying him a heartfelt tribute, recognising his unparalleled contributions to social justice, education, and the empowerment of the oppressed. Shah highlighted Phule's forward-thinking, which led to the education of women, the eradication of caste discrimination, and the realisation of equality in Indian society. His points emphasised that Phule's ideas continue to inspire, especially in terms of democratic values and welfare-based governance of India. By honouring Phule, Amit Shah reaffirmed the importance of the government in promoting inclusive growth, empowering marginalised groups, and preserving the reformist legacy in India. The tribute demonstrates strong respect for a reformer who transformed Indian society.

Contribution of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule

In 1848, became the first pioneer in women's education by founding the first girls' school of India at Pune together with Savitribai Phule.
Fronted social reformations against caste discrimination, untouchability and social injustice.
In 1873, he founded the Satyashodhak Samaj to increase equality and improve the downtrodden.
Embarked on widow remarriage and struggled against child marriage and social vices.
Activism and awareness of the rights of farmers, labourers and lower caste groups.
Taken as a ground-breaker in social democracy and inclusive development in India.

Important PYQs Based Question For Jyotiba Phule

Exam / Year	Question	Correct Answer
UPSC Prelims 2017	Who founded the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873?	Jyotiba Phule
SSC CGL 2020	Jyotiba Phule is associated with which social reform?	Women’s education and caste reform
MPSC 2018	In which city did Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule start the first girls' school?	Pune
TNPSC Group 2 (2019)	What was the primary aim of Satyashodhak Samaj?	To promote social equality and uplift the oppressed classes
RRB NTPC 2021	Jyotiba Phule worked for the upliftment of which section of society?	Lower-caste communities and marginalised groups
SSC CHSL 2022	What is Jyotiba Phule’s famous book that criticises caste discrimination?	Gulamgiri
Kerala PSC 2020	Jyotiba Phule's birth anniversary is celebrated on which date?	11 April
UPPSC 2016	Jyotiba Phule advocated for which major social reform?	Widow remarriage
BPSC 2023	Who is known as the ‘Father of Indian Social Revolution’?	Jyotiba Phule
SSC GD 2021	Which organisation was founded by Jyotiba Phule in 1873?	Satyashodhak Samaj

Conclusion

Amit Shah hails Mahatma Jyotiba Phule on the anniversary of his death. It is worth noting that the nation still reveres one of the visionary reformists who championed equality, education and social justice. The source of Phule is still quite applicable as India is progressing towards a more inclusive and empowered society. When one recalls his contributions, it continues to encourage people to encourage the underprivileged and create a better, progressive and enlightened society.

Riyadh Metro Breaks Guinness World Record as Longest Driverless Metro Network

November 29, 2025

The Riyadh Metro became the record-holder, approved by Guinness World Records to be the longest fully driverless metro system in the world. The network is more than just a feat in urban transit history, stretching over 176km, comprising six integrated lines and 85 stations. This announcement highlights how Riyadh is investing in modern and sustainable infrastructure as part of its overall vision of urban mobility as part of Saudi Vision 2030. The Riyadh Metro will also transform the norm of public transportation all over the world with advanced automation.

Riyadh Metro’s Global Recognition for a Landmark Project

Riyadh Metro is an officially certified Guinness World Record holder of the lengthiest full driverless metro network in 2025.
The network covers a distance of 176km, and there are 6 inbuilt integrated lines and 85 well-placed stations, which provide full connectivity of the city.
It is an urban mobility and automation, and smart transport solution.
The project complies with Saudi Vision 2030, which focuses on sustainable development as well as on innovations and effective mass transportation.
Riyadh Metro is a world standard in the operation of a driverless metro and modern infrastructure.
It features the technological rise, safety and environmental concerns in mass transport.

PYQs-Based Questions About Metro

Exam / Paper	Question / Statement	Correct Answer
SSC JE Civil Eng. (23 Mar 2021)	Which metro service started India’s first fully automated driverless train service in December 2020?	Delhi Metro
TNPSC Group 4 (2019)	Which metro-rail corporation initiated the world’s first 100% solar-powered metro network in India?	Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC)
Kerala SET-Paper 1 (2019)	Which is the largest metro-rail network in India?	Delhi Metro
ITBP Constable Tradesman exam (Jan 2021)	Which metro became India’s second-largest operational metro rail network?	Hyderabad Metro
OSSSC Prelims (11 Oct 2025)	India currently ranks what among the world’s largest metro-rail networks by total network length?	Third
UPSC Prelims / GK	Where did the first metro train in India run?	Kolkata Metro (started 24 Oct 1984)
UPSC Mains / GK	Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) was established in which year?	1995
SSC CGL / GK	Who is known as “Metro Man” for his major contributions to Indian metro-rail development?	E. Sreedharan
UPSC Prelims / GK	In which year did Delhi Metro begin operations (first segment)?	2002 (first line opened 24 December 2002)
SSC CHSL / GK	Which city had the first metro in India?	Kolkata
MPSC / GK	Which metro network in India uses regenerative braking for energy efficiency?	Delhi Metro
RRB / Group D / GK	India’s first elevated metro line was inaugurated in which city?	Mumbai Metro Line 1
State PCS / GK	Which metro network became India’s first fully automated metro in terms of signalling?	Mumbai Metro Line 2B
TNPSC Group 2 / GK	Which Indian metro is partially driverless with CBTC signalling?	Delhi Metro Aqua Line
SSC CPO / GK	Who received the Padma Shri for contributions to India’s metro rail development?	E. Sreedharan
Kerala PSC / GK	Which metro in India is considered the greenest due to solar power usage?	Kochi Metro

Expected Question For Riyadh Metro

Riyadh Metro is part of which national initiative of Saudi Arabia?

A) Vision 2025

B) Saudi Vision 2030

C) Future Cities Program

D) NEOM Project

Answer: B) Saudi Vision 2030

The Riyadh Metro network features which technologies?

A) Driverless operation

B) Automated ticketing

C) Smart signalling

D) All of the above

Answer: D) All of the above

Riyadh Metro contributes to which aspects of urban development?

A) Sustainable transport

B) Reduced congestion

C) Economic growth

D) All of the above

Answer: D) All of the above

When was the NEOM Project announced?

A) 2015

B) 2017

C) 2018

D) 2020

Answer: B) 2017

What is the total area of the NEOM Project?

A) 15,000 sq km

B) 26,500 sq km

C) 30,000 sq km

D) 20,000 sq km

Answer: B) 26,500 sq km

Conclusion

Riyadh Metro, making the Guinness World Record of the longest driverless metro system in the world, is a historic breakthrough in the urban transformation of Saudi Arabia. It demonstrates how the Kingdom can be concerned with smart mobility, tech innovation and sustainable infrastructure as Vision 2030, and make Riyadh a next-generation Taxi City.

Vietnamese Film ‘Skin of Youth’ Bags Golden Peacock Award

November 29, 2025

The Vietnamese film Skin of Youth, directed by Ash Mayfair, has won the Golden Peacock Award for Best Feature Film at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025. It is a transgender drama set in the period between the 1990s and Saigon, exploring a tragic romance between a transgender sex worker and an underground cage fighter against societal discrimination and adversity. The film received praise and recognition from the jury for its powerful story, vibrant visuals, and emotionally touching scenes, marking a significant milestone in the history of Vietnamese cinema on the global stage.

Key Facts of Golden Peacock Award

The Institute of Directors (IOD) in India created the Golden Peacock Award in 1991.
It appreciates corporate excellence, institutional leadership, and high governance in the non-profit, public and non-profit sectors.
Over 25 countries submit more than 1,000 applications every year to the award.
The free winners get a trophy and a certificate and can use the Peacock Golden logo within a year.
The selection is on a three-level evaluation by independent assessors and the Grand Jury based on international standards.

Exam-Related Question about Golden Peacock Award (PYQs)

Exam / Paper	Year	Question	Answer
Staff Selection Commission (SSC JE Civil Engineering)	2019	The prestigious Golden Peacock Awards are conferred for contribution in the field of ___.	Corporate Governance and Sustainability
Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC Group 2)	2015	The Indian airport, which bagged the prestigious Golden Peacock National Award for the year 2015, is.	Delhi International Airport
Madhya Pradesh Professional Examination Board (MP Vyapam AAO)	2018	The Golden Peacock Award for the best film is awarded at which of the following film festivals?	International Film Festival of India (IFFI)
Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC, Group C)	2018	Which film was awarded the ‘Golden Peacock’ Award in the 48th International Film Festival of India?	120 Beats per Minute

Expected Question Related to Golden Peacock Award

Q1. Who directs the Vietnamese film Skin of Youth, which won the Golden Peacock in 2025?

A) Robin Campillo

B) Ash Mayfair

C) Ruben Östlund

D) Kim Jee-woon

✔ Answer: B) Ash Mayfair

Q2. The Golden Peacock Award trophy symbolises:

A) National pride and cinematic excellence

B) Best commercial success

C) Highest box-office collection

D) Popular vote

✔ Answer: A) National pride and cinematic excellence

Q3. Where was the Golden Peacock Award presented in 2025?

A) Mumbai

B) New Delhi

C) Goa

D) Kolkata

✔ Answer: C) Goa

Q4. Which of the following is TRUE about the 2025 Golden Peacock Award winner?

A) First Indian transgender film to win

B) First Vietnamese transgender drama to win

C) First European film to win in Asia

D) Awarded at Cannes Film Festival

✔ Answer: B) First Vietnamese transgender drama to win

Q5. The first Golden Peacock Award for Best Film was given in which year?

A) 1961

B) 1965

C) 1970

D) 1975

✔ Answer: B) 1965

Conclusion

The Golden Peacock Awards 2025 were in recognition of excellence in both the film and corporate industries. Film-wise wise Vietnam Skin of Youth took the award of Best Feature Film (Best Movie), and other impressive winners included 120 Beats Per Minute (France) and The Square (Sweden/Egypt). Adani Enterprises and other Indian organisations received participation in corporate awards as the best in governance, sustainability, and business excellence. The awards demonstrate the Indian effort in enhancing the international movie industry, corporate leadership and innovation at the global front, incorporating culture and economy.

India Launches Operation Sagar Bandhu to Support Sri Lanka After Cyclone Ditwah

November 29, 2025

Cyclone Ditwah, Operation Sagar Bandhu, with the aim of providing urgently needed humanitarian aid to the cyclone-stricken Sri Lanka, was launched by India on 28 November 2025. The Indian naval ships, INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri, under the mission delivered important relief supplies including dry rations, fresh foodstuffs and ready-to-eat items among other important needs of the stricken communities. A second consignment of close to 12 tons of humanitarian aid was also flown via an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft, indicating the fast disaster reaction of India. The act demonstrates the fact that India takes its neighbourhood first policy and the maritime vision seriously and is willing to assist the partners in crushing crisis in the region.

Highlights of Operation Sagar Bandhu

Launched on 28 November 2025 to assist Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah by India.
INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri, loaded with a necessary supply of relief materials, were put into action by the Indian Navy.
Brought in dry rations, fresh food, ready-to-eat food and emergency supplies.
Approximately 12 tons more humanitarian aid were transported by the Indian Air Force C-130J.
Mission implemented through the policy of the Neighbourhood First by India.
Shows the ability of India to respond fast and its personal commitment to humanitarian efforts in the region.

Previous Years Exam-Wise Questions

Exam / Paper	Question	Correct Answer
SSC Scientific Assistant (Physics), 24 Nov 2017	“Which operation was launched by the Union Ministry of External Affairs on 14 September 2017 in Bangladesh to help Rohingya refugees?”	Operation Insaniyat
SSC CHSL – Previous Year	“What was the name of the operation launched by India to help Bangladesh in solving the Rohingya crisis?”	Operation Insaniyat
UGC NET Political Science, 11 Oct 2022	MCQ matching: “Operation Raahat – Yemen” and “Operation Maitri – Nepal.”	Operation Raahat → Yemen; Operation Maitri → Nepal
TNPSC Group 2 (2015)	“What is the name given to India’s relief and rescue mission in quake-hit Nepal?”	Operation Maitri

Expected Questions For Upcoming Exams

Q1.Cyclone Hamoon (2025) formed in which oceanic region?

A) Arabian Sea
B) Bay of Bengal
C) South Pacific
D) South Indian Ocean
✔ Correct Answer: B) Bay of Bengal

Q2. Which agency is responsible for naming cyclones in the Indian Ocean?

A) WMO Regional Board
B) IMD
C) SAARC Climate Council
D) ASEAN Weather Panel
✔ Correct Answer: A) WMO Regional Board

Q3.

Statement 1: Cyclones require warm sea surface temperatures above 26°C.
Statement 2: High wind shear is necessary for cyclone formation.
Statement 3: Low-pressure zones trigger early cyclone development.

Correct option:
A) 1 and 2
B) 2 and 3
C) 1 and 3
D) 1, 2 and 3
✔ Correct Answer: C) 1 and 3

Q4.

Statement 1: Operation Sagar Bandhu was launched by India to support Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah.
Statement 2: An Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft transported additional humanitarian supplies.
Statement 3: The operation is part of India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy.

Which statements are correct?
A) 1 and 2
B) 2 and 3
C) 1 and 3
D) 1, 2 and 3
✔ Correct Answer: D) 1, 2 and 3

Conclusion

India initiated Operation Sagar Bandhu shows that it has a high regarding to humanitarian aid and peace within the region. India is not only renegotiating its policy of Neighbourhood First in this way, but it demonstrates its ability to respond quickly when needed in a crisis due to its capacity to provide partners with relief in times of emergency in a humane, prepared and strategic fashion.