Retail inflation in November 2025 dropped to a near-record low of 0.7%, primarily driven by a high statistical base effect from the previous year. While the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) recently reduced interest rates to 5.25%, experts suggest a pause in February 2026. The current Consumer Price Index (CPI) is heavily skewed, with food and beverages accounting for nearly 46% of the weightage. A new CPI series with a 2024 base year is expected in 2026-27, which will re-index consumption behavior and reduce the disproportionate impact of food prices on overall inflation data.
The statistical base effect from high inflation in late 2024 is currently keeping 2025 inflation figures abnormally low.
Food and beverages currently hold a 46% weightage in the CPI, causing high volatility in inflation readings.
The government plans to update the CPI base year from 2012 to 2024 to better reflect modern Indian consumption patterns.
Exam Points
Retail inflation in November 2025: 0.7%
Current CPI base year: 2012 (Proposed update to 2024)
The Supreme Court is debating the creation of independent bodies to regulate online content, but legal experts warn this may infringe upon the separation of powers. Under Article 19(2) of the Constitution, free speech can only be restricted on specific grounds like national security or public order. The article argues that the Court lacks the technical expertise for regulation and should avoid 'judicial lawmaking.' It highlights international trends, such as the EU's Digital Services Act, and warns that excessive regulation by the judiciary could inadvertently stifle democratic dissent and transform democracies into autocracies.
Article 19(2) provides the only constitutional grounds for restricting free speech, and the Court cannot add new categories.
The judiciary faces institutional barriers, including a lack of technical expertise, when attempting to regulate online media.
Pre-censorship of media must be avoided at all costs, as established in the Sahara India Real Estate Corp. Ltd. case.
Exam Points
Article 19(2) of the Indian Constitution
Section 67 of the Information Technology Act
Kaushal Kishor vs State of Uttar Pradesh (2023) case
Ethiopia, a pivotal power in the Horn of Africa and headquarters of the African Union, presents a significant opportunity for India to expand its regional footprint. Historically linked through education and the Pan-African e-Network, the relationship is evolving toward strategic investment in pharmaceuticals, mining, and renewables. As a new member of BRICS, Ethiopia offers India a gateway to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Strengthening bilateral agreements like the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and increasing defense cooperation are essential steps to solidify this partnership in a rapidly changing global economy.
Ethiopia is one of Africa's fastest-growing economies and serves as the headquarters for the African Union.
India has been a long-term partner in Ethiopia's education sector and the pilot for the Pan-African e-Network project.
New opportunities for cooperation exist in mining (gold, critical minerals) and renewable energy (hydropower).
Exam Points
Pan-African e-Network project launched: 2007
Ethiopia's status: Landlocked country in the Horn of Africa
The Indian Navy is set to commission its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335 (Ospreys), at INS Hansa in Goa on December 17. This multi-role platform is equipped with advanced sensors and weapons, designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue operations. The induction of these 'Seahawk' helicopters is a major milestone in the Navy's modernization drive, significantly enhancing its operational reach and maritime presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) to counter potential threats and ensure regional security.
INAS 335 (Ospreys) is the second squadron of MH-60R helicopters to be commissioned by the Indian Navy.
The MH-60R Seahawk is a versatile multi-role platform capable of both conventional and asymmetric warfare.
The squadron will be based at INS Hansa in Goa, strengthening India's blue-water naval capabilities.
The National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) has recommended the exclusion of 35 Muslim communities from West Bengal's Central OBC list, sparking a debate on the criteria for reservation. The NCBC argues that these inclusions were often based on religion rather than quantifiable social and educational backwardness. The issue underscores the significance of the 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act, which granted constitutional status to the NCBC. The scrutiny involves examining past reports like the Sachar and Ranganath Misra committees to determine if the communities meet the rigorous standards for affirmative action.
The NCBC is reviewing the inclusion of communities in the OBC list to ensure they meet social and educational backwardness criteria.
The 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act (2018) gave the NCBC constitutional status and defined the role of Parliament in notifying backward classes.
The Supreme Court has emphasized the need for quantifiable data to justify the inclusion of communities in reservation lists.
Exam Points
102nd Constitutional Amendment Act (2018)
Article 338B: Constitutional status of NCBC
Sachar Committee Report (2006)
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