The Indus Zone Education Desk | Published: Nov 24, 2025 | Current Affairs (Nov 21–24): Key Highlights
Staying updated with weekly current affairs is crucial for UPSC preparation, especially as the exam increasingly focuses on governance reforms, labour policy, institutional changes, environmental regulation, and national security developments. Here are the most important updates from November 21 to November 24, 2025, curated specifically for civil services aspirants.
Justice Surya Kant Becomes the 53rd Chief Justice of India
Justice Surya Kant has officially taken charge as the 53rd Chief Justice of India, succeeding Justice B.R. Gavai. Known for delivering several notable Supreme Court judgments over the years, Justice Surya Kant will serve as CJI until 9 February 2027.
Background at a glance:
Born on 10 February 1962 in Hisar, Haryana
Graduate of Government Post Graduate College, Hisar
Law degree from Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak
UPSC Focus Areas:
Constitutional bodies, judiciary structure, Articles 124–126, appointment process of the CJI, and judicial tenure.
New Labour Codes: Gratuity Eligibility Reduced to 1 Year
The Central Government has introduced a significant labour reform impacting millions of employees. Under the revised gratuity rules, the eligibility period has been brought down from five years to just one year.
What’s New in the Gratuity Framework?
Fixed-term employees can claim gratuity after one year of continuous service.
The definition of “wages” has been broadened, which will naturally increase the gratuity amount.
Payments must be made within 30 days of eligibility; failure to do so will attract 10% annual interest.
The reform aims to provide stronger financial security for workers across industries.
UPSC Relevance:
Labour laws, social security measures, employee welfare, and labour reforms under the four labour codes.
Mandatory Annual Health Check-Up for Workers Above 40
As part of the consolidated Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSH) Code, the government has made annual medical examinations compulsory for all employees aged 40 and above.
Why This Policy Matters
It merges 29 older labour laws into 4 streamlined labour codes.
Promotes preventive healthcare across workplaces.
Ensures employers maintain improved safety and health standards.
Reduces long-term healthcare costs and enhances employee well-being.
UPSC Angle:
Labour codes, workplace safety regulations, OSH Code, and impact of unified labour reforms.
Internal Security Update: Materials Recovered from Industrial Premises
Earlier this month, investigators discovered a flour mill, electronic components, and close to 360 kg of ammonium nitrate from a single industrial location. The findings have raised major concerns about internal security preparedness and monitoring of dual-use materials.
Why Aspirants Should Note This:
Issues related to national security, counter-terror operations, and regulations on explosives regularly appear in Prelims and Mains.
Covers themes under GS Paper 3 — security challenges and threat management.
Why These Updates Matter for UPSC Preparation
The week was packed with developments across critical UPSC domains:
Governance & judiciary
Labour and social security reform
Defence and internal security
Policy changes affecting workers
Administrative appointments
Candidates should integrate these updates into their notes for both Prelims and GS Mains Papers 2 and 3.
