Current Affairs 19 November 2025

India’s Gold Imports Surge to $14.72 Billion, Worsening Trade Deficit.

• India’s gold imports surged to a record USD 14.72 billion in October 2025, a threefold increase from USD 4.92 billion in October 2024, driven by strong festival and wedding season demand.
• This surge in gold imports contributed to a trade deficit of USD 41.68 billion, the highest ever, despite efforts to manage the current account deficit and reduce precious metal imports.

Tom Cruise Receives Honorary Oscar at 2025 Governors Awards.

• Tom Cruise received an honorary Academy Award at the 2025 Governors Awards.
• At 63, this is Cruise’s first Oscar win, despite multiple nominations throughout his career, recognizing his impact on acting, producing, and advancing theatrical cinema.
• It was presented by director Alejandro González Iñárritu.

Keerthy Suresh Appointed UNICEF India’s Celebrity Advocate.

• Keerthy Suresh has been appointed as UNICEF India’s Celebrity Advocate, focusing on child rights, mental health, and emotional well-being.
• Known for her powerful roles in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema, Keerthy will use her influence to raise awareness and inspire action for children’s welfare.

Thota Tharani Honored with French Chevalier Award for Cinematic Art.

• Thota Tharani, a veteran art director and production designer, was conferred with the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Government.
• Tharani has received 2 National Film Awards, Padma Shri (2001), and several state honors for his artistic excellence in the visual storytelling domain.
• The prestigious award was presented by the French Ambassador to India.

Bezzecchi Wins Valencia GP, Secures Career-Best Finish in MotoGP 2025.

• Marco Bezzecchi secured a historic victory at the Valencia Grand Prix, marking the first time an Aprilia rider has won back-to-back races.
• His win, just a week after his Portugal triumph, earned him third place in the 2025 MotoGP World Championship, a career-best finish for both Bezzecchi and Aprilia.