Why in News?

President Droupadi Murmu will confer the 10th Swachh Survekshan Awards 2025-26 on 11 November 2026 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

Key Highlights

• Theme: “Swachhata Ki Nayi Pehel – Badhayein Haath, Karein Safai Saath”.

• Organised under the Department of Urban Development, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).

• Recognises India's cleanest cities and their contributions to the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U).

• Swachh Survekshan has expanded from 73 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in 2016 to over 4,751 cities in the latest edition.

Major Features of Swachh Survekshan 2025-26

• Assessment: 43 indicators across 10 key assessment areas.

• More than 3,000 trained assessors conducted on-ground evaluations using GPS-enabled monitoring.

• Assessment process was fully digital, with evidence submission, verification and quality checks.

• Greater emphasis on:

• Citizen feedback.

• Cleanliness of urban riverfronts, coastlines and water bodies.

• Prevention of open defecation and open urination.

• Cleanliness of tourist and heritage sites.

• Behaviour-change initiatives in schools.

Swachh Shehar Jodi Initiative

• Launched on 27 September 2025 by Union Minister Manohar Lal.

• India's first urban waste management mentorship and peer-learning initiative.

• 70 mentor cities and 191 mentee cities across 33 States/UTs.

Why in News?

INS Chilka will conduct the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the ninth batch of Indian Navy Agniveers and Indian Coast Guard Naviks on 13 November 2026.

Key Highlights

• Chief Guest: Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff.

• Largest Batch: Over 3,300 trainees will complete 16 weeks of ab-initio training, making it the largest batch to pass out from INS Chilka.

• Training included academics, physical conditioning, swimming, parade training, outdoor activities and camps.

• Focus on discipline, leadership, teamwork and the core naval values of Duty, Honour and Courage.

• Valedictory Function: Presided over by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command.

• Awards will be presented to meritorious trainees, the champion division and the best instructor.

• The bilingual trainees' magazine 'Ankur' will also be unveiled.

About INS Chilka

• Located in Odisha.

• It is the Indian Navy's premier ab-initio training establishment for Agniveers.

Why in News?

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju visited Saudi Arabia from 6–9 November 2026 and signed the bilateral Haj Agreement 2027 with Saudi Arabia.

India's pilgrim quota for Haj-2027 has been fixed at 1,75,025.

Key Highlights

• Kiren Rijiju held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah on 9 November 2026 at Jeddah Superdome.

• Both sides reviewed preparations for Haj-2027 and discussed:

• Pilgrim safety and welfare.

• Improved logistical support.

• Better coordination for a smooth pilgrimage.

• The Union Minister attended the inauguration of the 6th Hajj Conference and Exhibition on 8 November 2026.

• He also interacted with Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region.

• A review meeting was held with officials of the Indian Consulate, Ministry of Minority Affairs and Haj Committee of India.

Significance

• Strengthens India-Saudi Arabia cooperation in Haj management and pilgrims' welfare.

• Promotes cultural exchange and people-to-people relations.

• Reinforces bilateral strategic partnership and cooperation with the Indian diaspora.

1. Why in News?

Indian Naval Ship INS Surat arrived at Muscat, Oman, on 8 November 2026 to participate in the 15th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise Naseem Al Bahr, followed by a Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) between the Indian Navy and Royal Navy of Oman.

2. Key Highlights

• The exercise will include harbour and sea phases.

• Major activities:

Cross-deck visits.

Operational interactions.

Sporting events.

• Focus on improving operational interoperability, professional cooperation and mutual understanding between the two navies.

• The deployment follows the 13th India-Oman Joint Military Cooperation Committee meeting, held on 24 November 2025.

3. About Naseem Al Bahr

• Meaning: Sea Breeze.

• Participants: Indian Navy and Royal Navy of Oman.

• Nature: Bilateral maritime exercise.

• Followed by a Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) to strengthen maritime surveillance and operational coordination.

Why in News?

Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) and the National Service Scheme (NSS) organised nationwide Diwali Sneh Milan across 153 institutions, reaching 1,07,494 participants under the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat 100 Week Sankalp Abhiyan.

Key Highlights

• It was the 8th weekly intervention, marking the conclusion of the campaign's second month.

• Nasha Mukt Deepotsav: Volunteers, elders and children lit earthen diyas to symbolise the victory of light over addiction.

• Deepotsav and Sneh Milan gatherings together engaged over 41,600 participants.

• Street plays (Nukkad Nataks), Rangoli-making and Nasha Mukt songs reached over 24,100 participants.

• Nearly 25,000 individuals and family members took the Addiction-Free Diwali Sankalp.

• More than 16,700 NSS volunteers visited old-age homes, orphanages, hospitals and slum areas, distributing diyas and sweets.

• Over 1,100 social media posts and reels were uploaded using #NashaMuktYuva.

NSS Motto

• “Not Me, But You” – emphasises community service, selflessness and social responsibility.

Why in News?

US President Donald Trump initiated the process on 2 November 2026 to terminate South Africa and Rwanda's benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer formally notified the US legislature.

2. About AGOA

• Enacted in 2000 under US President Bill Clinton.

• Provides eligible African countries duty-free access to the US market for thousands of products.

• Eligibility is reviewed annually, and the programme requires legislative renewal.

3. Reasons for Proposed Removal

• South Africa: US cited trade barriers, corruption and threats to US interests.

• Rwanda: US additionally raised concerns over human rights and political freedom, along with Rwanda's alleged support for M-23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

4. Impact on South Africa

• South Africa has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of AGOA.

• Its exports under the programme declined from $4 billion in 2024 to $1.7 billion in 2025.

• Key affected sectors include automobiles, citrus fruits and wine.

• Loss of duty-free access could make its products less competitive against European and South American exporters.

• Trade unions warned that up to 10,000 jobs could be at risk.

5. Impact on Rwanda

• Major exports to the US include coffee, tea and minerals.

• The US recently imposed sanctions on Rwanda's Defence Ministry over alleged links with M-23 rebels.

• Rwanda has denied supporting the rebels.

6. Response and Significance

• South African Trade Minister Parks Tau termed the decision unfortunate and stated that Pretoria would protect jobs and diversify export markets.

• The proposed termination highlights growing US-Africa trade and diplomatic tensions.

• Both countries face uncertainty over their preferential trade access ahead of the January 2027 deadline

Why in News?

The United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) began winding down operations on 1 November 2026 after its mandate was not renewed by the UN Security Council.

Key Highlights

• The mission's mandate expired following a geopolitical deadlock at the UN Security Council.

• Russia vetoed a US-backed resolution to extend the mandate, objecting to the proposal's emphasis on Morocco's autonomy plan. A rival Russian proposal also failed.

• The UN has begun the phased closure of 13 MINURSO sites and withdrawal of personnel.

• A smaller team under the UN Department of Operational Support will oversee the closure and handover of the sites.

Background: Western Sahara Dispute

• Location: Resource-rich territory on the north-western coast of Africa, rich in phosphates and Atlantic fishing grounds.

• Western Sahara remained a Spanish colony until 1975.

• After Spain's withdrawal, Morocco and Mauritania claimed the territory. Morocco launched the Green March (1975), involving around 350,000 civilians.

• The Polisario Front, a Sahrawi nationalist politico-military organisation, launched an armed struggle for independence.

• Mauritania withdrew its claim in 1979, but conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front continued.

• Algeria supported the Polisario Front.

MINURSO: Key Facts

• Established in 1991 following a ceasefire between Morocco and the Polisario Front.

• Objective: Organise a referendum allowing the Sahrawi people to choose between independence and integration with Morocco.

• The referendum never took place due to disagreements over voter eligibility.

• The mission primarily monitored the ceasefire and the sand wall separating the two sides.

Current Positions and Concerns

• Morocco: Supports autonomy for Western Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty.

• Polisario Front: Demands a referendum on full independence.

• The United States recognised Moroccan sovereignty in 2020 under President Donald Trump.

• The mission's withdrawal has raised concerns about civilian security and possible military escalation, particularly among Sahrawi refugees living in camps in Algeria.

• UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that his Personal Envoy for Western Sahara would continue diplomatic efforts.

Why in News?

According to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), Diwali-related trade across India is expected to exceed ₹7 lakh crore, while Delhi's sales have crossed ₹1 lakh crore in 2026.

Key Highlights

• Nationwide Diwali business had already crossed ₹6 lakh crore, with strong consumer demand and increased market footfall.

• Major sectors witnessing strong sales:

• Jewellery: Gold, silver and jewellery.

• Electronics: Mobile phones, LED TVs and home appliances.

• Clothing: Sarees, suits, kurtas and readymade garments.

• Festive goods: Diyas, idols, puja materials, sweets and food products.

• Automobiles: Cars, two-wheelers and commercial vehicles.

• Swadeshi products: Khadi, handloom, handicrafts and locally made goods.

Economic Impact

• Increased festive spending benefited small and medium traders, street vendors, daily-wage workers, micro and cottage industries, women entrepreneurs, artisans, transport and logistics businesses.

• CAIT attributed the growth partly to rising consumer preference for Indian products, reflecting the impact of Vocal for Local, Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swadeshi initiatives.

Why in News?

UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri led a 5-km community run organised by the Consulate General of India in Dubai on 6 November 2026.

2. Key Highlights

• Organised in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism as part of the Dubai 30×30 Fitness Challenge.

• The run took place at Kite Beach, Jumeirah, Dubai.

• Consul General of India Dr E. Vishnu Vardhan Reddy and over 60 Indian business leaders and entrepreneurs participated.

• Participants included members of the Indian Business and Professionals Council, UAE-India Business Council and Young Presidents' Organization (YPO).

3. About Dubai Fitness Challenge

• Launched in 2017.

• Encourages residents and visitors to undertake 30 minutes of physical activity daily for 30 consecutive days.

• Promotes fitness, healthier lifestyles and community participation.

Why in News?

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the 10th edition of Deepotsav in Ayodhya, highlighting its cultural and spiritual significance and calling for development to reach the most deprived sections of society.

Key Highlights

• The Deepotsav journey began in 2017 on the banks of the Saryu River.

• CM Yogi described the festival as a symbol of the revival of Sanatan culture, restoration of national self-respect and revival of Ayodhya's historical and spiritual identity.

• Lakhs of earthen lamps at Ram Ki Paidi symbolised the victory of light over darkness, faith, social upliftment and local self-reliance.

• Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan, diplomats, international dignitaries, saints and devotees were among the invited guests.

• The celebrations highlighted the ideals of equality, harmony, cultural unity and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).

Why in News?

The Ministry of Labour & Employment and the Madhya Pradesh Labour Department jointly organised “Shram Samvad” in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, on 5 November 2026.

Key Highlights

• Focused on capacity-building and awareness regarding Labour Codes, labour welfare and social protection.

• Organised in collaboration with the Association of Industries Madhya Pradesh and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

• Presided over by S.R. Datta, Director, Ministry of Labour & Employment.

• More than 100 participants, including employers, industry representatives and HR, legal and finance professionals, attended.

• Officials from the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) and Directorate General Labour Welfare (DGLW) also participated.

Major Discussions

• Technical sessions covered employer compliance requirements under all four Labour Codes and the Central Rules.

• EPFO and DGLW representatives discussed:

• Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY)

• Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Scheme

• The Ministry shared the Handbook of Compliance for Employers and Compilation of Frequently Asked Questions.

• An interactive question-and-answer session addressed implementation and compliance-related queries.

Why in News?

WWF-India's EIACP Programme Centre appealed to citizens of Delhi-NCR to celebrate a cracker-free Green Diwali under the nationwide Green Diwali Campaign 2026 (20 October–8 November 2026).

Key Highlights

Supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) under Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).

Special focus on 130 cities across 24 States and Union Territories covered under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's air quality was in the 'Very Poor' category, with forecasts indicating a possibility of reaching the 'Severe' category.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) was implementing measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

Green Diwali Initiatives

Use traditional earthen diyas and eco-friendly candles.

Choose locally made gifts with minimal packaging.

Avoid firecrackers to reduce air and noise pollution.

Use natural materials for rangoli and decorations.

Minimise waste, avoid single-use plastics and promote recycling.

Organise plantation drives and community clean-up activities.

Promote donation, reuse and sustainable mobility.

Monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) through the CPCB's SAMEER app.

Why in News?

The seven-day exposition of the Sacred Relics of Shakyamuni Buddha at Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh, concluded on 7 November 2026, attracting around 31,000 devotees and visitors.

Key Highlights

Organised by the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh Government and the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).

The relics arrived in Tawang on 31 October 2026 from the National Museum, New Delhi.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat attended the ceremonial reception.

Two exhibitions were inaugurated:

Unearthing the Sacred Piprahwa: Showcased the discovery of Buddha's relics at Piprahwa in 1898.

Crossroads of Dhamma: Highlighted the historical, artistic and cultural legacy of Buddhism.

On 2 November 2026, IBC organised an international conference on “Buddhism: Dissemination in the Himalayan Region and Beyond” at Tawang.

Further Journey of Sacred Relics

Location Public Darshan

TGL Monastery (Lower Gompa), Bomdila 8–13 November 2026

Golden Pagoda, Namsai 14–20 November 2026

Return to National Museum, New Delhi 21 November 2026

The Indian Air Force transported the relics from Tawang to Bomdila on 8 November 2026.

1. Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with security personnel at the CoBRA Operations Base in Karanpur, Bastar (Chhattisgarh), on 8 November 2026.

2. Key Highlights

The PM shared sweets and festive greetings with security personnel and honoured their sacrifices in the fight against Naxalism.

He described Diwali 2026 as the first Diwali after the country’s victory over Naxalism, stating that every district was now free from Naxalism.

He highlighted the transformation of Bastar from a Naxal-affected region towards peace and development.

He noted that, for the first time in 47 years, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) had completed a year without losing a personnel in operational duty.

He also cautioned that the threat posed by what he termed “Dimagi Naxals” remained a concern.

3. Significance

Recognises the contribution and sacrifices of security forces in counter-Naxal operations.

Highlights the link between improved internal security, peace and development in affected regions.