Summary of UPSC Current Affairs – 28 October 2025
This report highlights significant current affairs as pertinent to the upcoming UPSC exams, focusing on international relations, environmental issues, economy, and domestic initiatives.
India–ASEAN Summit 2025
On October 28, 2025, the Prime Minister of India addressed the 22nd India–ASEAN Summit, emphasizing enhanced cooperation in maritime security, digital inclusion, and resilient supply chains. He proclaimed 2026 as the “ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation,” aiming to bolster ties through shared cultural heritage and economic integration, notably with initiatives like the ASEAN–India Plan of Action (2026–2030) and the review of the ASEAN–India Free Trade Agreement. The challenges in this relationship include trade imbalances and ASEAN’s reliance on China.
EU–India New Strategic Agenda 2025
The European Union and India adopted a new strategic agenda outlining a roadmap for the next decade, focusing on green energy transition and digital governance. A landmark agreement linked India’s Carbon Market with the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). This aims to promote credibility in carbon pricing and enhance trade while addressing challenges such as institutional weaknesses in India’s carbon regulation and price discrepancies.
Proposed EU Ethanol Ban
The EU is considering a ban on ethanol-based products due to potential carcinogenic risks. This proposal poses concerns for India’s ethanol export markets and scrutinizes India’s E20 fuel blending target. The implications of this ban touch on public health, trade, and environmental regulations, prompting reflections on balancing innovation with safety.
Domestic Initiatives
Several national initiatives were launched to bolster self-reliance:
- Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS): This scheme aims to enhance domestic manufacturing of electronic components, reduce imports, and create over 90,000 jobs.
- Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses: Aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in pulse production by 2031, this mission will target increased yields and farmer income.
- PM SHRI Scheme: This initiative intends to upgrade schools across India to align with the National Education Policy (NEP), promoting holistic, skill-based education.
Linguistic and Cultural Focus
The report highlights concerns over the decline of the Dogri language among urban youth in Jammu, emphasizing the need for institutional support to preserve linguistic heritage. The Ollo tribe in Arunachal Pradesh is also noted for its cultural richness and a program aimed at women’s skill empowerment.
Appointment of Chief Justice of India
The Chief Justice of India (CJI) appointment follows a constitutional process ensuring seniority and merit. Chief Justice Bhushan Ramakant Gavai has recommended Justice Surya Kant for the position, reflecting the traditions embedded in judicial appointments.
Loktak Lake Environmental Issues
The ecological health of Manipur’s Loktak Lake is under threat due to land use changes and pollution. This emphasizes the need for sustainable practices to balance human activity with environmental conservation.
Conclusion
The current affairs from October 28, 2025, reflect India’s commitment to connectivity and cooperation on global platforms while addressing domestic challenges in language preservation, environmental sustainability, and self-reliance in various sectors. These issues not only have academic relevance but are pivotal for future policymaking and international diplomacy.
