Current Affairs 23 October 2025

India is now 9th in global forest area and 3rd in annual forest gain.

• India ranks 9th globally in total forest area as per FAO’s Global Forest Resources Assessment (GFRA) 2025 released in Bali.
• Maintains 3rd position in annual forest area gain, highlighting consistent growth.
• The progress reflects successful afforestation and community-driven green initiatives.
• Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav credited the achievement to public participation and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s environmental policies.

New Zealand Proposes Social Media Ban for Those Under 16.

• New Zealand introduces a bill to restrict social media access for users under 16.
• The proposal aims to address mental health concerns and online safety risks among teens.
• Tech companies would be required to verify users’ ages before registration.
• The bill, introduced by National Party MP Catherine Wedd, will soon be debated in Parliament.
• If passed, New Zealand would be among the few countries with strict social media laws for minors.

NHAI Introduces AI-Powered Highway Monitoring with 3D Survey Technology.

• NHAI deploys AI-based monitoring using 3D laser Network Survey Vehicles (NSVs) across 23 states.
• The initiative covers over 20,900 km of national highways.
• Aims to enhance road safety, maintenance, and infrastructure management.
• Part of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ push to integrate AI in highway management.
• Marks a technological leap in ensuring data-driven and efficient highway upkeep.

Government Amends VOPPA Order 2025.

• The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has notified an amendment to the Vegetable Oil Products, Production and Availability (Regulation) Order, 2011, now referred to as the VOPPA Order, 2025.
• The amendment introduces mandatory registration for all edible oil manufacturers, processors, blenders, re-packers, and other stakeholders in the edible oil supply chain.

Coal India and IIT Madras Partner to Establish Centre for Sustainable.

• Coal India Limited (CIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras to set up a Centre for Sustainable Energy.
• The Centre will drive cutting-edge R&D in low-carbon technologies, coal mine repurposing, and clean energy innovations, advancing India’s energy transition.