Current Affairs 12 October 2025

Armenia Becomes Newest IUCN Member.

• Armenia has become the newest State Member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), announced at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi.
• The membership enhances Armenia’s access to global expertise, innovative tools, and international partnerships.
• Armenia is preparing to host COP17 of the Convention on Biological Diversity in 2026.

North Korea Reveals Hwasong-20, Its Most Powerful ICBM.

• North Korea showcased its most powerful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Hwasong-20, during a military parade led by Kim Jong Un.
• The Hwasong-20 is described as North Korea's strongest nuclear strategic weapon and is believed to have the capability to target the U.S. mainland.
• The parade was attended by international dignitaries.

2025 International Ranger Awards Honor Global Conservation Heroes.

• 13 rangers and ranger teams received the 2025 International Ranger Awards for their exceptional dedication to nature conservation.
• The winners, representing 13 countries, including Ukraine, Burkina Faso, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, were awarded financial grants ranging from USD 5,000 to 25,000.
• The Guardians of the Wild report was released.

U.S. to Allow Qatar Military Training Facility at Idaho's Mountain.

• The U.S. has agreed to allow Qatar to establish a military training facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho.
• Qatari F-15QA fighter jets and pilots will participate in joint training with U.S. forces for the next decade.
• Qatar is already a key U.S. ally, hosting the largest U.S. base in West Asia and designated as a major non-NATO ally.

Five Maharashtra Beaches Earn Prestigious Blue Flag Certification.

• Five beaches in Maharashtra have been awarded the Blue Flag certification, including Shrivardhan and Nagaon in Raigad, Parnaka in Palghar, and Guhagar and Ladghar in Ratnagiri.
• The certification is granted by Denmark’s Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) to beaches meeting 33 criteria related to cleanliness, beauty, and environmental sustainability.