TNPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS (ENGLISH) – 18.11.2025

SUBJECT: ECONOMY

The 13th edition of India Skills Report 2026 was released by ETS in partnership with CII, AICTE, AIU, and Taggd.
Employability among youth has risen to 56.35%, the highest in recent years, up from 54.81% in 2025.
For the first time in five years, women have surpassed men in employability rates.
Top employable sectors include IT, banking, and engineering, with states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka leading.
The report emphasizes the need for skill development to meet industry demands under initiatives like Skill India.
Concepts: Gig economy growth and the role of NEP 2020 in aligning education with employment needs.
Over 40% of the digital workforce now uses AI tools, with India holding 16% of global AI talent.
Computer Science and IT graduates top employability at 80% and 78% respectively.

SUBJECT: INTERNATIONAL/ECONOMY

India has finalized a major one-year deal with the United States for importing 2.2 million tonnes per annum of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) starting 2026.
The agreement aims to diversify India’s energy sources amid global supply fluctuations.
It supports India’s transition towards cleaner cooking fuels under the PM Ujjwala Yojana.
The deal strengthens bilateral energy cooperation and reduces dependence on Middle Eastern suppliers.
Expected to stabilize domestic LPG prices and boost refinery capacities.
Concepts: Energy diplomacy and India’s net-zero emissions target by 2070.
This is the first structured long-term contract, benchmarked to Mount Belvieu pricing hub.
Represents nearly 10% of India’s annual LPG imports, enhancing energy security.

SUBJECT: DEFENCE

The bilateral air exercise Garuda-2025 between India and France commenced at Mont-de-Marsan Air Base, running from November 16 to 27.
Indian Su-30 MKI fighters are engaging with French Rafale jets in simulated scenarios.
The exercise enhances interoperability and shares best practices in air operations.
Held amid growing India-France defence ties, including joint production under Make in India.
Similar ongoing Ajeya Warrior-2025 exercise with UK Army emphasizes joint land warfare training.
Concepts: Strategic partnerships and Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
Focuses on advanced aerial combat tactics, air-to-air engagements, and coordinated strike operations.
Eighth edition underscores deepening military trust and operational synergy.

SUBJECT: POLITY/NATIONAL ISSUES

Over 4.5 crore cases pending in district and subordinate courts, causing delays in justice delivery.
Key reasons include vacancies in judicial posts, inadequate infrastructure, and complex procedures.
Supreme Court directs states to fill vacancies and implement e-courts Phase III for faster resolution.
Calls for increasing judge-population ratio to match global standards.
Government pushing for alternative dispute resolution mechanisms like mediation.
Concepts: Article 39A (free legal aid and equal justice) and separation of powers.
High Courts face 33% average vacancies, with some like Allahabad over 50%.
Total pendency across courts exceeds 5 crore, impacting economic growth and public trust.

HEAVY RAINFALL DISRUPTS NORMAL LIFE IN TAMIL NADU; SCHOOLS CLOSED IN MULTIPLE DISTRICTS

SUBJECT: NATIONAL ISSUES (TAMIL NADU)

IMD issued orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in coastal and southern districts due to low-pressure system over Bay of Bengal.
Schools and colleges declared holiday in districts like Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Puducherry on November 18.
Waterlogging and traffic disruptions reported in urban areas, with relief measures activated.
Tamil Nadu government warns employees against participating in proposed strikes amid weather challenges.
NDRF teams deployed for rescue operations in affected regions.
Concepts: Disaster management under NDMA guidelines and climate change impacts on monsoon patterns.
Multiple low-pressure systems expected to sustain rainfall till November 25.
Fishermen advised not to venture into sea due to squally winds.