Economy and Finance: Rupee Reaches Historic Low Amidst Mixed Economic Signals

The Indian Rupee (INR) recorded a significant depreciation, breaching the 90-a-dollar mark for the first time in history on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, settling at 90.21 against the US Dollar. This decline was attributed to sustained foreign fund outflows and higher crude oil prices, marking the rupee as one of Asia's poorest-performing currencies in 2025.

Despite this, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal asserted that the Indian economy remains on a strong footing, citing robust growth, low inflation, and strong foreign exchange reserves. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also clarified that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) did not question India's growth figures, attributing a 'C' grade on national accounts data to an outdated base year, which is set to be updated to 2022-23 by February 2026. However, former Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian voiced concerns, stating that India's growth might not be as robust as headlines suggest, pointing to flat private investment, declining Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and weak consumption growth.

Politics and Governance: Government U-turn on Sanchar Saathi, Parliamentary Progress

In a notable development, the Union Government reversed its decision to mandate the pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app on all smartphones. The Ministry of Communications stated that the pre-installation would not be mandatory for mobile manufacturers, following widespread criticism from digital rights groups and opposition parties who raised privacy concerns.

Parliamentary proceedings saw productive discussions during the Winter Session. The Lok Sabha passed the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill. A significant breakthrough occurred as the government and opposition agreed to hold discussions on electoral reforms and the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, resolving a recent deadlock.

Social Welfare and Awards: Empowerment and Financial Support for Vulnerable Sections

President Droupadi Murmu presented the National Awards for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities for the year 2025 on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The President emphasized that persons with disabilities, or Divyangjan, deserve equality and must be active participants in the country's development, moving towards a rights-based and dignity-centered approach.

In a major social welfare initiative, the government approved a new scheme providing a ₹10,000 monthly pension to widows, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. This measure aims to provide financial security and dignity to vulnerable groups. Additionally, the Government of India approved the Prime Minister's Awards for Excellence in Public Administration 2025, recognizing outstanding work by civil servants in areas like holistic development of districts, aspirational blocks, and innovation. Madhya Pradesh also announced enhanced women and child welfare initiatives.

International Relations: Strengthening Ties and Talent Mobility

Russia expressed its commitment to increasing trade with India to $100 billion in the next five years, despite perceived "obstacles" from third countries. Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India for an annual summit, with discussions likely to focus on defense deals, oil diplomacy, and reinforcing India's strategic autonomy.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar commented on global talent mobility, stating that countries creating roadblocks to the flow of professionals would be "net losers" and emphasized the mutual benefits of talent exchange. The Colombo Security Conclave expanded its membership, with Seychelles becoming a full member, aiming to deepen maritime security ties.

Science & Technology: Solar Flares and Indigenous Defence

NASA reported a strong X1.9-class solar flare, causing a major radio blackout over Australia and raising concerns about space-weather disturbances. In defense technology, INS Aridaman, India's third indigenously built SSBN (Strategic Strike Nuclear Submarine), was highlighted as a key component of India's "no-first-use" nuclear doctrine.

Appointments: Key Leadership Changes and Recruitment Drives

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the appointment of Vikram Sahu as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bank of America's India operations. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) also approved several appointments and recommendations across various ministries. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reiterated his government's commitment to transparent and merit-based appointments in the police force. However, the Ministry of Education ruled out any proposal for an Indian Education Service for appointments to top academic positions like Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors.

Sports (Non-Cricket): Busy December for Indian Athletes

December 2025 is a busy month for non-cricket sports in India. The FIH Women's Junior World Cup, ITTF Mixed Team World Cup, HCL Squash Indian Tour, Asian Equestrian Championships, National Road Cycling Championships, World Taekwondo U21 Championships, and Guwahati Masters (Badminton) are either ongoing or recently concluded. The Men's FIH Hockey Junior World Cup is also a key event for Indian athletes.