Daily Current Affairs: 22-12-2025 | Prelims Focus

Correct answer: C) Gaganyaan
Notes: On December 22, 2025, India successfully conducted a critical test flight for its Gaganyaan mission, deploying the crewed module into a sub-orbital trajectory and meticulously recovering it from the Bay of Bengal. This vital unmanned test validated key systems, including the crew escape system, parachute deployment, and re-entry procedures, bringing India closer to sending its first human spaceflight into orbit. The mission aims to demonstrate indigenous capabilities in human spaceflight, positioning India among an elite group of nations. This successful deployment is a major step towards the ultimate goal of launching Indian astronauts into space, marking a triumphant moment for ISRO.

Correct answer: B) Establishment of mandatory carbon market mechanisms
Notes: The 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the UNFCCC, held in Belem, Brazil, concluded with a landmark agreement on establishing robust, mandatory global carbon market mechanisms. This breakthrough aims to standardize and regulate carbon credit trading internationally, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in emissions reduction efforts. While discussions around phasing out fossil fuels and climate finance for vulnerable nations were prominent, the tangible outcome was the consensus on carbon markets, seen as a crucial tool for accelerating global decarbonization. This agreement is expected to significantly impact international cooperation on climate change and incentivize sustainable practices worldwide.

Correct answer: B) Achieving universal broadband connectivity in rural areas
Notes: The Indian government, on December 22, 2025, officially launched BharatNet Phase III, a significant expansion of its national optical fibre network project. The primary goal of this ambitious initiative is to achieve universal broadband connectivity across all gram panchayats and rural habitations by 2028. Building upon the successes and lessons from previous phases, Phase III focuses on leveraging advanced technologies and public-private partnerships to bridge the digital divide. This project is expected to revolutionize rural access to digital services, e-governance, education, and healthcare, thereby fostering economic growth and social inclusion in remote areas of India.

Correct answer: B) High-altitude reconnaissance and border surveillance
Notes: The Indian defense forces have initiated extensive field trials for a cutting-edge indigenous AI-powered drone system, specifically designed for high-altitude reconnaissance and stringent border surveillance. Developed by a consortium of Indian defense research organizations and private firms, these drones incorporate advanced artificial intelligence for autonomous navigation, real-time threat detection, and data analysis in challenging terrains. This development is a crucial step towards bolstering national security, reducing reliance on imported technology, and providing troops with superior situational awareness along India’s extensive and often hostile borders. The system promises enhanced vigilance and rapid response capabilities for defense personnel.

Correct answer: C) Ahmedabad, India
Notes: In a major announcement made on December 22, 2025, Ahmedabad, India, was officially declared the host city for the 2032 Commonwealth Games. This decision comes after a rigorous bidding process and extensive evaluation of infrastructure, sustainability plans, and community support. The selection of Ahmedabad underscores India’s growing prominence in global sports and its commitment to hosting major international events. Preparations are expected to commence immediately to develop world-class sporting venues, athlete accommodations, and transportation networks. The 2032 Games will be a significant opportunity for the city and the nation to showcase their culture, hospitality, and sporting prowess on a global stage.