Daily Current Affairs: 28 And 29 Sep 2025

Daily Current Affairs –28 And 29 Sep: A Comprehensive Overview

UN Reforms

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. During this speech, he emphasised that the UN must be reformed and member states

— led by active Global South contributors like India — must strengthen cooperation, confront terrorism, and restore multilateral credibility to meet 21st-century challenges.

UN General Assembly –

• The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations.
• All 193 UN member states are members (each with one vote). The Holy See and Palestine are permanent observers.
• It provides a global forum for multilateral discussion of international issues — peace & security, development, human rights, international law, budgetary and administrative

•     Working —

• It holds an annual Regular Session (High-Level Week in September) plus Special and Emergency Special Sessions when required.

• Structure: Six Main Committees handle substantive work:
  • Disarmament & International Security
  • Economic & Financial
  • Social, Humanitarian & Cultural
  • Special Political & Decolonisation
  • Administrative & Budgetary
  • Legal
• President & Bureau: A President (elected for one year) chairs sessions and sets procedural priorities; elected from different regional groups on

•     Decision-making & voting —

• Important questions (admission of members, budget, peace & security recommendations) normally require a two-thirds majority.
• Other questions require a simple majority.
• Nature of GA decisions: Most resolutions and declarations are non-binding politically influential instruments; binding enforcement is typically the Security Council’s

•     Key powers & functions —

• Approve the UN budget and apportion member
• Elect non-permanent members of the Security Council, members of other UN bodies and the judges of the ICJ (in conjunction with the Security Council).
• Recommend appointment of the Secretary-General to the Security
• Create subsidiary organs and specialised agencies; convene world

•     Key achievements & historical impact —

• Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948): Adopted by UNGA — foundational text in international human rights.
• Decolonisation: Adopted the 1960 Declaration on Granting Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples and guided a major wave of decolonisation through UN support and membership expansion.
• Development agendas: Endorsed the Millennium Declaration (MDGs) and later the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the SDGs (2015) — global compacts for

The General Debate –

• The general debate is part of the General Assembly session and is held at the beginning of each regular session in September.
• Purpose: Heads of state/government and ministers present national views and priorities and respond to global issues under a chosen theme.
• Speaking order & practice: Traditionally Brazil speaks first, then the United States, followed by other states in order of request and protocol.
• Theme of 80th session – Better Together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights.
• Presidency of 80th session – Annalena Baerbock of Germany is the President of 80th UNGA being held in New York.

EAM Jaishankar at the UN — Key points & takeaways –

• EAM argued that the UN’s founding Charter calls for peace and human dignity, but the state of the world shows the organisation struggling to deliver.
• He said that the global problems (conflict, climate, development, trade, terrorism) make a

compelling case for more international cooperation — and urgent reform of multilateral institutions.

•     State of the world — where the UN is falling short —

• Major conflicts: Cited Ukraine and the Middle East as evidence that the UN’s conflict- resolution role is under strain.
• Development shortfalls: Slow progress on the Sustainable Development Goals; resources and delivery lag.
• Climate credibility at risk: “If climate action itself is questioned, what hope is there for climate justice?” — concern over hollow commitments and creative accounting.
• Economic friction: Rising tariff volatility, technology controls, supply-chain grip, and restricted labour mobility undermine open trade and require multilateral

•     Terrorism — an urgent, shared threat —

• Terrorism synthesises bigotry, violence, intolerance and fear and remains a
• India’s experience: living next to a state that is a centre for global terrorism underlines the
• Required measures: choke terrorism financing, sanction prominent terrorists, and deepen international cooperation against sponsors and sympathisers.

•     UN credibility & the need for reform —

• The UN is “in a state of crisis”: gridlock has reduced its ability to build common ground and weakened belief in multilateralism.
• Security Council reform is essential — expand both permanent and non-permanent membership to reflect contemporary realities.

•     India and the Global South — readiness to lead —

• India stands ready to assume greater responsibilities, and the Global South must contribute more actively.
• Cited India’s international role: development projects, crisis response, safe commerce, and security assistance.
• Call for countries that can engage all sides (e.g., in Ukraine and the Middle East) to step up mediation and search for solutions.

•     Principles for action — cooperation, empathy, common purpose —

• International cooperation must prevail; islands of prosperity cannot flourish in an ocean of turbulence.
• A functioning world order requires common purpose and empathy — the UN should be the forum to enable
• Reforming multilateralism is presented as the obvious, necessary path

Chero Archer

The Jharkhand archery team has been named “Chero Archers” in the inaugural Archery Premier League (APL), paying tribute to the legendary Chero warrior clan known for their defiance against the Mughals and British.

About Chero Warrior Clan: A Historical Overview –

• The Cheros were a warrior community that rose to prominence in the medieval
• Predominantly found in Palamu (Jharkhand), Shahabad (Bihar), and parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh, they were known for their courage, skill with bows and arrows, and their ability to defend their territories against external

•     Resistance against the Mughals —

• During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Cheros fiercely resisted Mughal expansion in eastern
• Palamu, under the rule of Chero King Medini Rai, became a symbol of Medini Rai fortified the Palamu forts and challenged Mughal armies led by generals under Emperor Aurangzeb.
• Although the forts were eventually captured, the Cheros’ resistance highlighted their martial spirit and determination to remain independent.

•     Defiance against British Colonial Rule —

• The Cheros were equally hostile toward British colonial
• In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, they joined forces with other tribal communities like the Santhals, Mundas, and Oraons in rebellions against British land revenue policies and forest exploitation.
• Their familiarity with the rugged terrain of Jharkhand and mastery of archery made them formidable guerrilla fighters.

•     Symbol of Tribal Identity —

• Over time, the Cheros came to represent resistance, valour, and identity for Jharkhand’s tribal population.
• Their martial traditions have been celebrated in folklore, songs, and oral histories passed down through generations.

Archery in Jharkhand: A Natural Legacy –

• Archery has always been more than a sport for Jharkhand’s tribal communities. It has been a way of life, a survival skill, and a cultural
• Traditional Significance — For centuries, bows and arrows were used for hunting and self- defence in the forests of Jharkhand.
• Sporting Excellence — Jharkhand has produced some of India’s finest archers, including Deepika Kumari and Komalika Bari, who rose from humble tribal backgrounds to international
• Grassroots Training — Many villages in Jharkhand continue to train young children in archery using bamboo bows, symbolising both tradition and aspiration.
• By naming its team the Chero Archers, Jharkhand has merged this ancient martial practice with modern sporting aspirations, ensuring that the legacy of the warrior clan finds renewed relevance in today’s context.

News Summary –

• The Archery Premier League (APL) is India’s newest sporting initiative, modelled on the franchise system that has boosted cricket and kabaddi.
• Jharkhand’s franchise, named Chero Archers, is not only a nod to the State’s dominance in archery but also a deliberate cultural assertion.
• Tribute to Warrior Heritage — The team’s name commemorates the Chero warrior clan, whose martial legacy continues to inspire pride in the
• Promoting Cultural Identity — By associating the team with the Cheros, Jharkhand is strengthening its tribal narrative in a national sporting
• Boost to Sports Tourism — The APL is expected to attract attention to Jharkhand’s rich history and its tradition of producing world-class archers.
• Empowering Youth — The initiative provides an opportunity for tribal youth to connect with their heritage while pursuing sporting excellence at the professional
• This symbolic gesture resonates deeply with Jharkhand’s population, where history and modernity are often woven together in narratives of struggle and

Significance of the Move –

• Cultural Revival — The move ensures that the memory of Chero warriors is not confined to history books but celebrated in a contemporary context.
• Sports and Identity — It bridges the gap between traditional tribal identity and modern sports culture, making archery both a cultural and professional
• Inspirational Symbol — For the younger generation, the “Chero Archers” brand serves as a reminder of resilience, courage, and excellence.
• National Spotlight — By honouring its indigenous warrior clan, Jharkhand has set a precedent for other States to celebrate local heroes in national sports events.

Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code

The Supreme Court of India has approved JSW Steel’s $2.3 billion (₹19,350 crore) acquisition of Bhushan Power and Steel (BPSL), reversing its earlier decision of liquidation. This judgment strengthens the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, by prioritising revival of distressed firms over liquidation.

Understanding Insolvency and Bankruptcy and the IBC –

• Insolvency vs Bankruptcy — While insolvency results from an inability to pay debts due to a lack of assets, bankruptcy occurs when an application is presented to an authority declaring insolvency and requesting to be declared bankrupt, which will last until

•     About the IBC 2016 —

• It is the bankruptcy law of India which seeks to consolidate the existing framework by creating a single law for insolvency and bankruptcy.
• It is a one stop solution for resolving insolvencies which previously was a long process that did not offer an economically viable arrangement.
• It aims to protect the interests of small investors and make the process of doing business less cumbersome.

•     Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) —

• It is the regulator for overseeing insolvency proceedings and entities like Insolvency Professional Agencies (IPA), Insolvency Professionals (IP) and Information Utilities (IU) in
• It was established on 1 October 2016 and given statutory powers through the IBC
• It functions under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and covers Individuals, Companies, Limited Liability Partnerships and Partnership firms.

Process Followed under the IBC –

•     Initiation of CIRP —

• Corporate Debtor (CD): A company that has taken loans and defaults on
• Whocan Apply: Either the creditor or the debtor can initiate
• Relevant Section: Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) is governed by Section 6 of the IBC.

•     Threshold for default —

• Earlier limit: ₹1 lakh
• Revised limit: Raised to ₹1 crore during the pandemic to reduce undue stress on

•     Adjudicating Authority (AA) —

• Designated authority: National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) benches across
• Role: Receives insolvency applications from creditors or
• Timeline: Must admit or reject application within 14 days, with reasons for delay if not disposed within this period.

•     Commencement of CIRP —

• Trigger point: CIRP begins once NCLT admits the
• Resolution timeline: As per amendment, the process must be completed within 330 days (including litigation period).

•     Outcome of CIRP —

• Resolution: Revival of the corporate debtor through restructuring or takeover by a Successful Resolution Applicant (SRA).
• Liquidation:If no resolution plan is approved within the stipulated

Supreme Court’s Ruling –

• Revival of BPSL — JSW Steel has invested in modernisation, safeguarded thousands of jobs, and ensured that the company will continue to operate.
• IBC objective fulfilled — The court emphasised that the essence of IBC is to convert loss- making firms into profitable
• On claims — Creditors’ demand for an additional ₹6,100 crore was The Court stated that once the Committee of Creditors (CoC) approves a plan, reopening claims undermines the law.
• CCDs as equity — Compulsorily Convertible Debentures (CCDs) issued by the Successful Resolution Applicant (SRA) must be treated as equity.

Background –

• The SC had earlier ordered liquidation, citing JSW Steel’s delay in implementing the plan and failure of CoC to exercise its commercial wisdom.
• The court criticised the Resolution Professional (RP) and CoC for failing to protect creditors’ interests and supporting JSW despite violations.
• The (May 2024) order unsettled investors and cast doubts on the effectiveness of IBC

Importance of BPSL to JSW Steel –

• BPSL contributes significantly to JSW’s revenue and FY25 performance – Profit of

₹300 crore (Q1), loss of ₹93 crore (Q2), profit of ₹11 crore (Q3).

• BPSL increased capacity from 5 MTPA to 5 MTPA, operating advanced facilities across India.
• Analysts estimate an 8–10% revenue and EBITDA decline in FY26 if BPSL is

Liquidation Trends and Broader Implications of Judgment –

• Rising liquidations — FY24 witnessed 2,476 cases ending in liquidation with total claims of ₹11 lakh crore. Recovery rate remained only 6.33% of admitted claims (₹69,634 crore).
• Example of Jet Airways — Earlier, Jet Airways faced liquidation due to a failed resolution plan (₹15,723 crore admitted claims).
• Liquidation of BPSL — This would have been the largest in corporate
• The judgment — This is expected to restore investor confidence in IBC and discourage frivolous delays.

Conclusion –

• The Supreme Court’s reversal aligns with the spirit of the IBC by prioritising corporate revival over liquidation.
• The ruling will likely strengthen creditors’ trust in resolution plans, reduce litigation uncertainties, and boost investor confidence in India’s insolvency ecosystem.
• Going ahead, stricter accountability for Resolution Professionals and CoCs is essential to prevent delays and safeguard creditors’ interests.

India-EU Strategic Agenda

As the U.S. under President Trump disrupts long-standing global alignments, Europe is presenting itself as a stable and reliable partner for India. This shift is underscored by the upcoming India– EU leaders’ summit scheduled for February 2026, which will build upon European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s earlier visit to India.

The EU has also released a strategic agenda outlining its vision for ties with India, anchored on five key pillars and a commitment to mutual benefit.

This framework signals Europe’s intent to position itself as India’s “all-weather” friend and a counterbalance to the uncertainties in U.S. foreign policy.

Five Pillars of the New India–EU Strategic Agenda –

•     The India–EU Strategic Agenda is built on five core pillars —

• Prosperity and Sustainability – covering trade, investment, resilient supply chains, and sustainable development.
• Technology and Innovation – focusing on critical technologies, digital infrastructure, and joint research.
• Security and Defence – emphasising new agreements, regional stability, and countering traditional and hybrid threats.
• Connectivity and Global Issues – strengthening cooperation in third countries and global
• Enablers Across Pillars – promoting skills mobility, mutual understanding, business linkages, research collaboration, and stronger institutional frameworks for EU–India

•     Prosperity and Sustainability: Strengthening India–EU Economic and Trade Ties —

• The EU is India’s largest trading partner, while India is the EU’s biggest partner in the Global South.
• In 2024, bilateral trade in goods reached €120 billion — a 90% rise over the past decade with services adding another €60 billion.

• Nearly 6,000 European companies operate in India, directly employing 3 million people and indirectly supporting millions more.
• EU foreign direct investment has surged to €140 billion in 2023, nearly doubling in five
• Despite these gains, India accounts for less than 2.5% of the EU’s trade, and Indian investment in the EU stands at only €10 billion.
• To expand ties, both sides are pushing to finalise a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) by 2025 to cut tariff and non-tariff
• They are also negotiating an Investment Protection Agreement, a bilateral macroeconomic dialogue, a Geographical Indications pact, and a comprehensive air transport agreement, all aimed at deepening economic cooperation.

•     India–EU Collaboration on Emerging Technologies —

• India and the EU are leveraging complementary strengths to drive
• The EU offers world-class research, regulation, and green-digital expertise, while India contributes a skilled workforce, vast datasets, a thriving startup ecosystem, and frugal
• Planned initiatives include EU-India Innovation Hubs for key technologies and an EU-India Startup Partnership with the European Innovation Council and Start-up India.
• Cooperation will focus on AI, particularly large language models, multilingual datasets, and AI applications in healthcare, agriculture, and climate
• Both sides are working on safeguards to prevent unauthorised transfer or misuse of sensitive technologies, aligning with global stability and democratic values.
• Additionally, the Euratom-India agreement will boost collaboration in peaceful nuclear energy, including reactor safety, waste management, nuclear security, and fusion

•     India–EU Connectivity and Strategic Corridors —

• The EU’s Global Gateway initiative (€300 billion) and India’s MAHASAGAR programme provide strong platforms for joint connectivity
• Their 2021 Connectivity Partnership has laid the foundation for cooperation in energy, transport, and digital
• A flagship project is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which integrates maritime, rail, digital, energy, and clean hydrogen networks to revive historic Eurasian trade routes.
• Within this, the EU-Africa-India Digital Corridor is advancing through the 11,700 km Blue Raman submarine cable system, linking Europe and India via the Mediterranean, Middle East, and East Africa.
  • This will ensure ultrafast, secure, and resilient data
• Additionally, India and the EU are developing Green Shipping Corridors to promote sustainable maritime trade and reduce reliance on carbon-intensive transport routes, further boosting commercial and strategic opportunities.

•     Deepening India–EU Security and Defence Cooperation —

• India and the EU are strengthening ties through the Strategic Dialogue on Foreign and Security Policy (2025), with thematic discussions on maritime security, cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and non-proliferation.
• A formal EU-India Security and Defence Partnership is under
• Both sides are negotiating a Security of Information Agreement to enable classified information sharing.
• Cooperation will also expand in the Indo-Pacific, with proposed arrangements between the EU Naval Force and Indian Navy to boost coordination in the western Indian Ocean.
• Joint efforts include combating terrorism, terror financing, online propaganda, drug trafficking, and risks from emerging technologies.
• On the industrial front, increased collaboration between Indian and EU defence industries aims to strengthen supply chain security, boost innovation, and expand production
• Plans include establishing an EU-India Defence Industry Forum to connect businesses, share best practices, and explore cooperation opportunities.
• Strengthening India–EU People-to-People Ties —

• India and the EU are deepening social and cultural
• In 2023, 825,000 Indians lived in the EU, forming the largest group receiving Blue Cards and intra-corporate transfer permits.
• Travel has become easier, with nearly one million Schengen visas issued in 2024, many as multiple-entry.
• Educational exchanges are expanding through initiatives like the Union of Skills and Erasmus, making Europe more attractive for Indian students amid U.S. restrictions under

Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve

The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh has been included in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, making it India’s 13th site on the global list.

Introduction –

• In a significant recognition of India’s conservation efforts, UNESCO has designated the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh as part of its prestigious World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).
• This inclusion marks a global acknowledgement of the ecological, cultural, and scientific importance of the fragile Trans-Himalayan ecosystem.
• With this addition, India now has 13 biosphere reserves listed under UNESCO, highlighting the country’s commitment to biodiversity protection and sustainable

About the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve –

• The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve spans 7,770 sq. km. across Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul- Spiti district.
• Situated at altitudes ranging from 3,300 to 6,600 meters, the region represents one of the coldest and driest ecosystems in the world.
• It covers landscapes such as windswept plateaus, glacial valleys, alpine lakes, and high-altitude
• The reserve integrates the Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal Wetland, and the Sarchu plains, making it a hub of biodiversity and cultural
• It is divided into three zones: core (2,665 km), buffer (3,977 sq. km), and transition (1,128 sq. km), to balance conservation goals with sustainable community practices.

Biodiversity and Cultural Richness –

• The Cold Desert is home to a diverse range of flora and
• It harbours 732 vascular plant species, including 30 endemics and 47 medicinal herbs crucial to the traditional Sowa Rigpa (Amchi) healing system.
• Among its iconic fauna are the snow leopard, Himalayan ibex, blue sheep, Himalayan wolf, and several bird species like the golden eagle and Himalayan snowcock.
• Around 12,000 residents inhabit scattered villages across the
• They continue to practice traditional pastoralism, yak and goat herding, and small-scale farming of barley and peas.
• The communities also maintain ancient Tibetan herbal medicine traditions, often guided by Buddhist monasteries and local councils that regulate the use of alpine resources.

Global and National Significance –

• The UNESCO designation underscores the urgent need to protect fragile Himalayan ecosystems, which face mounting challenges from climate change and unchecked tourism.
• It also elevates Himachal’s cold desert to global prominence, ensuring international cooperation in conservation, eco-tourism, and climate research.
• The recognition came during the 37th session of UNESCO’s International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) in Paris.
• Globally, UNESCO has added 26 new biosphere reserves across 21 countries this year, the highest number in two decades, expanding WNBR to 785 sites in 142 countries.

India’s Growing Biosphere Network –

• With the addition of the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, India’s tally of UNESCO-recognised biospheres has reached 13.
• This reflects the country’s broader strategy to align conservation with sustainable community
• India’s biospheres now include diverse ecosystems, from the Nilgiri and Sundarbans to the Great Nicobar and Pachmarhi.
• Union Environment Ministry noted that this achievement follows the inclusion of two new Ramsar sites in India, bringing the country’s total wetlands of international importance to
• The move reflects India’s consistent push to integrate ecological preservation with international

Future Outlook –

• The UNESCO recognition is expected to encourage greater research collaborations, promote responsible tourism, and improve climate resilience strategies in high-altitude ecosystems.
• It also calls attention to India’s role in safeguarding fragile mountain landscapes that are both biodiversity hotspots and cultural treasures.
• The designation strengthens the global narrative of balancing conservation with community livelihoods, offering India an opportunity to showcase its traditional knowledge systems, pastoral practices, and eco-cultural heritage.

Financial Intelligence Unit-India

Recently, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) signed a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance data sharing and inter-agency coordination.

About Financial Intelligence Unit-India –

• It was set by the Government of India in
• It is the central national agency responsible for receiving, processing, analysing and disseminating information relating to suspect financial transactions.
• It is an independent body reporting directly to the Economic Intelligence Council (EIC) headed by the Finance Minister.
• Function of Financial Intelligence Unit-India —
  • Collection of Information: It acts as the central reception point for receiving Cash Transaction reports (CTRs), Non-Profit Organisation Transaction Report (NTRs), Cross Border Wire Transfer Reports (CBWTRs), Reports on Purchase or Sale of Immovable Property (IPRs) and Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) from various reporting entities.
  • Analysis of Information: Analyse received information in order to uncover patterns of transactions suggesting suspicion of money laundering and related crimes.
  • Sharing of Information: It shares information with national intelligence/law enforcement agencies, national regulatory authorities and foreign Financial Intelligence
  • Central Repository: It establishes and maintains a national database on the basis of reports received from reporting entities.
  • Research and Analysis: Monitor and identify strategic key areas on money laundering trends, typologies and developments.

Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Initiative

Recently, Bidar district of Karnataka has emerged as a winner of the Centre’s Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Award given to top performing districts under the campaign, Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain.

About Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Initiative –

• It was launched in
• Aim — The initiative aims to enhance water recharge through rainwater harvesting/aquifer recharge/borewell recharge/ recharge shafts
• Objective — To ensure that every drop of water is conserved through collective efforts, following a whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach.

• It is designed to foster active participation from all stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, industries, NGOs and resident welfare associations.

•     The initiative will ensure —

• Boost in Groundwater Levels: Capture and store rainwater and surface runoff to stabilize and increase groundwater levels,
• Promotion of Water Conservation Foster a culture of water conservation by engaging communities in local water resource management.
• Enhancement of Climate Resilience Mitigate the impacts of climate change by developing storage solutions for heavy rainfall and providing a buffer against droughts.
• Improvementof Water Quality: Utilising artificial recharge methods to naturally filter water as it percolates through soil layers, reducing salinity and contamination.

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti

Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR)

The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) in Ladakh recently hosted its third annual Star Party.

About Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) –

• The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) was notified in December 2022 by the Government of
• It is India’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, centred around the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) at Hanle, managed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
• The Reserve is a science-driven socio-economic development project, built on two pillars:
  • Curtailing light pollution in the
  • Promoting astro-tourism for local livelihood
• It is part of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.
• The UT Ladakh administration supports the project by funding astro-tourism initiatives and light management plans.
• The event was jointly organised by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), the Department of Wildlife Protection of UT Ladakh, and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).

What is a Dark Sky Reserve?

• Defined by the International Dark Sky Association (IDSA) as a large land area (at least 700 km²) with exceptionally dark skies, protected for scientific, cultural, natural, and public enjoyment.
• Requires —
  • A core area free from light
  • A surrounding buffer area to protect core
  • A Lighting Management Plan (LMP) covering at least 80% population and area.
  • Regular annual reporting to

Gaia Telescope 3D Map

Recently, a new 3D map created using data from the Gaia Telescope shows stellar nurseries (star- forming regions) within 4,000 light-years of the Sun in all directions.

Latest Development –

• This is the most detailed chart of glowing hydrogen gas clouds, helping scientists understand how stars form and the dynamics of turbulent interstellar gas.

• The study integrates Gaia dust maps with the radiation impact of 87 massive O-type stars, which emit intense ultraviolet light capable of ionising hydrogen gas.
• The resulting simulation shows glowing hydrogen clouds, aligning closely with older hydrogen emission maps, but with much higher precision.

About the Gaia Mission –

• Full name — Originally Global Astrometric Interferometer for Astrophysics (GAIA), simplified to Gaia.

•     Launch Year — 2013, by the European Space Agency (ESA).

• Objective — To create the most precise 3D map of the Milky Way Galaxy through astrometry (measurement of star positions, distances, and movements).
• Position — Located at Lagrange Point 2 (L2), about 5 million km from Earth, providing a stable and unobstructed cosmic view.

Structure and Instruments –

• Twin Telescopes — Capture light from two directions
• Digital camera — Contains nearly 1 billion pixels, making it the largest camera ever flown in space.

•     Three Main Instruments —

• Astrometer – Measures precise positions of celestial
• Photometer – Determines the brightness and temperature of
• Spectrometer – Identifies chemical composition and radial motion of

Coffee Board of India

Recently, the Coffee Board of India held capacity-building programmes to increase the number of growers registering on its mobile application for EU Deforestation Regulation compliance.

About Coffee Board of India –

• It is a statutory organisation constituted under Section (4) of the Coffee Act,
• Members — The Board comprises 33 members representing all sectors of the coffee industry who are nominated by the Central Government and hold office for a period of three years.
• The remaining 32 Members representing various interests are appointed as per provisions under Section 4(2) of the Coffee Act read with Rule 3 of the Coffee Rules, 1955.
• Functions — The Board is mainly focusing its activities in the areas of research, extension, development, market intelligence, external & internal promotion and welfare
• Nodal Ministry — It functions under the administrative control of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
• Head office — The head office of the Coffee Board is situated in

Key Facts about Coffee cultivation –

• It is a tropical plant generally grown under shady
• It is grown on hill slopes at elevations from 600 to 1,600 metres above sea
• The vast majority of the world’s coffee comprises two species — Coffea Arabica (Arabica) and Coffea Canephora (Robusta).
• Distribution — In India coffee is largely cultivated in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, among which, Karnataka produces the most with over 70% of the total

•     Required climatic conditions for Coffee cultivation —

• Climate: Hot and humid climate for its
• Temperatures: Between 15°C and 28 °C
• Rainfall: 150 to 250
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy soil containing a good deal of humus and minerals like iron and calcium are ideal for coffee
• Dry weather is necessary at the time of ripening of the

Ethambutol Hydrochloride

India recently launched an anti-dumping investigation on imports of tuberculosis drug Ethambutol Hydrochloride from China and Thailand.

About Ethambutol Hydrochloride –

• It is an antibacterial prescription medicine used for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB).

•     It is a synthetic, water soluble, heat stable compound.

• It is specifically effective against actively growing microorganisms of the genus Mycobacterium including
• It is used to combat both pulmonary and extrapulmonary

•     Mechanism —

• Ethambutol (HCl) specifically targets the synthesis of the cell wall in tuberculosis.
• By interfering with the polymerisation of arabinogalactan, a key component of the mycobacterial cell wall, Ethambutol disrupts the structural integrity of the bacteria, leading to its demise.
• Its unique mode of action is fundamental in combination therapies, where it is often used in conjunction with other anti-tubercular drugs to prevent resistance and enhance
• Resistance to ethambutol emerges rapidly when the drug is used alone. Therefore ethambutol is always given in combination with other antituberculosis drugs.

Oju Hydel Project

An expert panel of the Union Environment Ministry recently recommended environmental clearance for the 2,220 MW Oju hydroelectric project proposed on the Subansiri River in Taksing near the China border.

About Oju Hydel Project –

• It is a hydroelectric project proposed on the Subansiri River (right-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra) in Taksing, Arunachal Pradesh, near the China border.
• The project, to be developed by Oju Subansiri Hydro Power Corporation Pvt. Ltd., envisages generating 2,220 megawatts of electricity through a run-of-the-river scheme with daily peaking
• It involves a 100-metre-high concrete gravity dam, a 14.12 km headrace tunnel, and an underground powerhouse complex.
• With an estimated cost of over Rs 24,942 crore, the dam is expected to produce 8,402 million units of electricity
• It is the largest in a series of dams proposed on the Subansiri River, often described as the lifeline of Assam.

Syphilis

Sexually transmitted disease rates for U.S. adults fell last year, but syphilis in newborns continued to rise, according to new government data recently.

About Syphilis –

• It is a preventable and curable bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious health problems if you do not treat it.
• It is caused by the bacteria, Treponema
• After the infection happens, syphilis bacteria can stay in the body for many years without causing symptoms. But the infection can become active again.

•     Transmission —

• People usually get syphilis from sexual contact with someone who has
• People get it if any part of their body touches the sore or rash of someone with
• It can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and sometimes through breastfeeding

•     Symptoms:

• Syphilis develops in stages.
• The disease starts as a sore that’s often painless and typically appears on the genitals, rectum, or mouth.
• Sometimes it causes swelling in nearby lymph nodes.
• If you do not treat it, syphilis usually causes a non-itchy skin rash, often on your hands and feet.

•     Many people do not notice symptoms for years. Symptoms can go away and come back.

• Without treatment, syphilis can damage the heart, brain, or other organs. It can become life-threatening.
• Syphilis in pregnancy, when not treated, treated late, or treated with the incorrect antibiotic, results in 50−80% of cases with adverse birth outcomes.

•     Treatment —

• Itis easy to cure with antibiotics, especially during the early
• Penicillin is the most commonly used medication for

Central American Integration System

Recently, the External Affairs Minister highlighted India’s deepening engagement with the countries of the Central American Integration System (SICA) during the India-SICA Foreign Minister’s Meeting.

About Central American Integration System –

• It is the institutional framework of Regional Integration in Central
• Background — It was established in 1991, by the signing of the Protocol to the Charter of the Organisation of Central American States (ODECA) or Tegucigalpa Protocol, which amended the Charter of ODECA, signed in Panama on December 12, 1962, and formally came into operation on 1st February, 1993.
• Member countries — It was created by Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama. Subsequently, Belize and Dominican Republic joined as full
• The SICA initiative was widely supported by the United Nations General

•     Governance of Central American Integration System —

• The Presidency of SICA rotates every six months.
• Secretariat: It is located in the Republic of El

•     Objectives of Central American Integration System —

• The fundamental objective of SICA is to realise regional Peace, Liberty, Democracy and Development, based firmly on the respect and promotion of human rights.
• It also focuses on integration of the region, formation of a Free Trade Area and later a Customs Union, integration of infrastructure, common position on regional and global issues and common passport and visa policy.

Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958

The Assam government recently extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958, in three districts for another six months.

About Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958 –

• It is a law enacted by the Parliament in 1958 which gives the armed forces special powers and immunity to maintain public order in “disturbed areas”.
• When is it applied? It can be applied only after an area has been declared “disturbed” under section 2 of the Act.

• Declaration of Disturbed Areas —
  • Defined under Section 3 of the Act, a “disturbed area” is where the use of armed forces is deemed necessary to support civil authorities in maintaining law and order.

• An area can be declared disturbed due to conflicts or disputes between various religious, racial, linguistic, regional, or caste-based communities.
• The central government, Governor of the state, or the administrator of the Union Territory can declare the whole or part of a state or union territory as a disturbed area.

• Once declared, the region is maintained as disturbed for at least three months under The Disturbed Areas (Special Courts) Act, 1976.
• The scope and duration of AFSPA can vary depending on the region’s security

• The ‘special powers’ of armed forces under AFSPA are —
  • They have the authority to prohibit a gathering of five or more persons in an area, can use force even to cause death or even open fire after giving due warning, if they feel a person is in contravention of the law.
  • If reasonable suspicion exists, the army can also arrest a person without a warrant, enter or search a premises without a warrant, and ban the possession of firearms.
  • Any person arrested or taken into custody may be handed over to the officer in charge of the nearest police station along with a report detailing the circumstances that led to the
  • These armed forces are immune from prosecution unless the Union Government provides sanction to the prosecuting agencies.
  • Where is AFSPA in force now? Currently, AFSPA is active in Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and the UT of J&K.

India’s Dugong Conservation Reserve

Recently, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has formally adopted a motion recognising India’s first Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay.

About India’s Dugong Conservation Reserve –

• It is located in the Palk
• It is India’s first Dugong Conservation
• It was established in 2022 by the Tamil Nadu government under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972,
• It is home to seagrass meadows, vital feeding grounds for dugongs (Dugong dugon).
• Seagrasses also support a host of other marine species, making the reserve ecologically

Key Facts about Dugong –

• Dugongs (Dugong dugon) are the only herbivorous mammals found in India’s marine
• Appearance: It is known as the sea cow, but resembles a cross between a seal and a whale, and is distributed through the Indo-Pacific region.
• Distribution: It is found along the Indian coastline, primarily inhabiting warm waters around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, and the Gulf of The dugong is a long-lived species, able to live up to 70 years.
• Habitat — Dugongs are restricted to shallow waters, where they spend the day feeding on

•     Reproduction of Dugong —

• Individuals reach reproductive maturity after only nine or ten years and can give birth at intervals of around three to five years.
• Due to its slow reproductive cycle, extended time to maturity, and infrequent calving, a dugong population’s maximum potential growth rate is estimated to be just about 5% per

•     Conservation status of Dugong —

• IUCN: Vulnerable
• CITES: Appendix I
• Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule

Grue Jay

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have identified the first known hybrid of these species, a bird nicknamed the “Grue Jay,” according to a 2025 study published in Ecology and Evolution.

About the Grue Jay –

• The Grue Jay is a rare natural hybrid between the Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) and the Green Jay (Cyanocorax yncas).
• It displays turquoise-blue plumage with black facial markings, combining features of both parent species.

Key Features of the Grue Jay –

• Appearance — Body and tail resemble Blue Jay, but the face mask resembles Green
• Behaviour — Calls are a blend of both species; they appeared solitary rather than socially
• Reproduction — Being a male, it may be capable of reproducing, though hybrid sterility remains a risk.
• Symbolism — Like other hybrids such as the “Pizzly Bear” (polar bear–grizzly) and “Zonkey” (zebra–donkey), the Grue Jay highlights species interactions under stress.

Santorini and Kolumbo Volcanoes

Recently, an earthquake swarm of over 1,200 quakes around Santorini revealed that Santorini and the submerged Kolumbo volcano share an underground magma reservoir.

About Santorini Volcano –

• Located in the southern Aegean Sea.
• It is the largest island of a small archipelago, forming the remnant of a volcanic caldera.
• Part of the South Aegean Volcanic Arc, and the southernmost member of the Cyclades group.
• Famous for the Minoan (Thera) eruption, one of the largest eruptions in recorded history, which contributed to the collapse of the Minoan civilisation and may have triggered a volcanic winter.

About Kolumbo Volcano –

• A submarine volcano located about 7 km northeast of Santorini.
• Last major eruption: 1650 AD, which caused tsunamis and toxic gas emissions, leading to destruction on Santorini and nearby islands.
• It forms part of the Christiana-Santorini-Kolumbo (CSK) volcanic field.

Recent Findings –

• Seismic & GPS data (2024–2025): Showed swelling of Santorini due to magma
• Earthquake migration (Jan 2025): Quakes shifted from Santorini toward Kolumbo, while both volcanoes simultaneously deflated, indicating a shared magma source.
• Significance: Proves that interconnected volcanic systems exist and may behave in coordination (similar to volcanoes in Hawaii, Iceland, and Kamchatka).
• Calls for real-time, high-resolution monitoring to improve eruption forecasting and minimise

Recent Context –

• This is the first scientific evidence of a magmatic connection between the two volcanoes, complicating eruption prediction and risk assessment.
• Both volcanoes lie in the Hellenic Volcanic Arc, one of the most active volcanic zones in Europe, making them critical for global geological studies and disaster management planning.

New Ramsar Sites

Recently, two wetlands from Bihar — Gokul Jalashaya in Buxar and Udaipur Jheel in West Champaran — have received the Ramsar tag.

About Gokul Jalashaya –

• Location — It is located in Buxar,
• It is an oxbow lake located on the southern edge of the Ganga
• The flood pulses of the Ganges influence land use and land cover in the wetland, exposing marshes and agricultural areas during the dry months and increasing inundation after
• It acts as a buffer for nearby villages during flooding
• Fauna — In total, over 50 bird species are found in the site and its surroundings; in the pre- monsoon season, exposed marshland and shrubs provide food and breeding habitats.
• Local communities rely on the wetland for fishing, farming and

About Udaipur Jheel –

• It is located in West Champaran,
• It is also an oxbow lake, bordered to the north and west by the dense forest of Udaipur Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Flora — Over 280 plant species are found in the wetland, including Alysicarpus roxburghianus, a perennial herb endemic to India.
• The wetland is an important wintering ground for around 35 migratory bird species, including the vulnerable common pochard (Aythya ferina).
• Threats — The wetland faces threats from illegal fishing and intensive agriculture, particularly the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides.

Daily Current Affairs: 28 And 29 Sep 2025 MCQs

1.  Consider the following statements with respect to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) –

1. All member states of the United Nations are members of the UNGA, but only they can participate in its deliberations.
2. Decisions on important questions, such as recommendations on international peace and security, require a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting.
3. Resolutions passed by the UNGA on international security matters are legally binding on all member states.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. All of the above

Answer – B

 

Explanation – The UN General Assembly (UNGA) is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations. All 193 UN member states are members (each with one vote). The Holy See and Palestine are permanent observers. It provides a global forum for multilateral discussion of international issues — peace & security, development, human rights, international law, budgetary and administrative matters. Working — It holds an annual Regular Session (High-Level Week in September) plus Special and Emergency Special Sessions when required. Structure: Six Main Committees handle substantive work: Disarmament & International Security Economic & Financial Social, Humanitarian & Cultural Special Political & Decolonisation Administrative & Budgetary Legal President & Bureau: A President (elected for one year) chairs sessions and sets procedural priorities; elected from different regional groups on rotation.

Decision-making & voting — Important questions (admission of members, budget, peace & security recommendations) normally require a two-thirds majority. Other questions require a simple majority. Nature of GA decisions: Most resolutions and declarations are non-binding politically influential instruments; binding enforcement is typically the Security Council’s domain.

2.  Consider the following statements about the Chero tribe –

1. They were primarily concentrated in the regions of Palamu, Shahabad, and parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh.
2. Under Medini Rai, they offered a formidable resistance to the Mughal expansion during the reign of Emperor Akbar.
3. During the British colonial period, they were known for their skilled archery and effective use of guerrilla warfare in the rugged terrain of Jharkhand.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. All of the above

Answer – C

 

Explanation – The Cheros were a warrior community that rose to prominence in the medieval period. Predominantly found in Palamu (Jharkhand), Shahabad (Bihar), and parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh, they were known for their courage, skill with bows and arrows, and their ability to defend their territories against external forces. Resistance against the Mughals — During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Cheros fiercely resisted Mughal expansion in eastern India. Palamu, under the rule of Chero King Medini Rai, became a symbol of defiance. Medini Rai fortified the Palamu forts and challenged Mughal armies led by generals under Emperor Aurangzeb. Although the forts were eventually captured, the Cheros’ resistance highlighted their martial spirit and determination to remain independent. Defiance against British Colonial Rule — The Cheros were equally hostile toward British colonial expansion. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, they joined forces with other tribal communities like the Santhals, Mundas, and Oraons in rebellions against British land revenue policies and forest exploitation. Their familiarity with the rugged terrain of Jharkhand and mastery of archery made them formidable guerrilla fighters. Symbol of Tribal Identity — Over time, the Cheros came to represent resistance, valour, and identity for Jharkhand’s tribal population. Their martial traditions have been celebrated in folklore, songs, and oral histories passed down through generations.

3.  Consider the following statements regarding the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) –

1. It is India’s first Dark Sky Reserve and is located within the boundaries of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.
2. The primary management and funding for the socio-economic initiatives of the reserve are handled by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
3. The project aims to promote astro-tourism as a means to generate local livelihood.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. All of the above

Answer – C

 

Explanation – The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR) was notified in December 2022 by the Government of Ladakh. It is India’s first International Dark Sky Reserve, centred around the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) at Hanle, managed by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The Reserve is a science-driven socio- economic development project, built on two pillars: Curtailing light pollution in the region. Promoting astro-tourism for local livelihood generation. It is part of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. The UT Ladakh administration supports the project by funding astro-tourism initiatives

and light management plans. The event was jointly organised by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), the Department of Wildlife Protection of UT Ladakh, and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).

4.    Which of the following statements about the Gaia Mission is/are correct?

1. Gaia is an astronomical observatory mission by the European Space Agency (ESA) designed to create a precise three-dimensional map of the Milky Way galaxy.
2. Launched in 2013, Gaia orbits the sun at the Earth’s Lagrange Point 2, shielded from the sun’s glare and Earth’s atmospheric distortion.
3. Gaia is capable of detecting Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) and mapping Solar System objects, including main belt asteroids between Mars and Jupiter.
4. Gaia provides data with such precision that it can map over 10 billion stars in the Milky way.

Select the correct answer from the codes given below —

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2, 3, and 4 only
3. 1, 2, and 3 only
4. All of the above

Answer – A

 

Explanation – Gaia aims to create the largest, most precise three-dimensional map of the Milky Way galaxy. Gaia operates from the Lagrange Point 2, 1.5 million km from Earth, which shields it from the Sun’s glare and Earth’s atmospheric effects. Gaia can detect faint and fast-moving objects such as Near-Earth Objects (NEOs) and map Solar System objects. Gaia aims to map about one billion stars, not 10 billion.

5.  Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct about the ‘Dugong’?

1. It is the only herbivorous mammal that is strictly marine.
2. It is found in tropical, subtropical and temperate waters but it is absent in the polar region.
3. Its IUCN status is vulnerable.

Select the correct codes from below –

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. All of the above

Answer – C

Explanation – Dugong or the “sea cow” is the State animal of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. This endangered marine species survive on seagrass and other aquatic vegetation found in the area. It is the only herbivorous mammal that is strictly marine and is the only extant species in the family Dugongidae. Dugongs are usually about three-meter long and weigh about 400 kg. Dugongs have an expanded head and trunk-like upper lip. Elephants are considered to be their closest relatives. However, unlike dolphins and other cetaceans, sea cows have two nostrils and no dorsal fin. Distributed in shallow tropical waters in the Indo-Pacific region, in India, they are found in the Gulf of Kutch, Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

 This Daily Current Affairs: 28 And 29 Sep 2025 is very important for all govt competitive exams. You can visit daily and cover Daily Current Affairs and stay updated on daily basis.

Source – The Hindu 

Also read Daily Current Affairs – 27 September 2025 | Top News