In Current Affairs for 17 December 2025, we will see the latest national and international current affairs news. These important current affairs will be beneficial for your upcoming NDA, CDS, CDS OTA, AFCAT, TA, Agniveer Army, Agniveer Navy, Agniveer Air Force, Women Military Police, INET, MNS, ACC exams, SCO, PCSL, CAPF, and SSB interviews, and direct entries for Army, Navy, and Air Force like SSC Tech, TGC, JAG, NCC, TES, 10+2 Cadet. Download a PDF file about current events at the end of this article. Let us now see the Current Affairs.
Current Affairs 17 December 2025
India Launches Its First Wildlife-Safe Highway
In a major boost to eco-friendly infrastructure, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has operationalised the country’s first wildlife-safe road on National Highway-45 in Madhya Pradesh. This innovative stretch lies along the 11.96-kilometre Hiran Sindoor segment connecting Bhopal and Jabalpur. Located nearly 60 kilometres from Jabalpur, the road cuts through a sensitive forest corridor bordered by the Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary and the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve.
The area is rich in biodiversity and is home to species such as tigers, deer, sambar and jackals. In the past, frequent animal movement across the highway resulted in numerous road accidents. To address this challenge, the project incorporates wildlife-friendly design features that allow safe animal crossings while maintaining uninterrupted transport connectivity. The initiative is part of NHAI’s Green Highways programme, aligned with the Green Highways Policy, 2015, which emphasises sustainable construction, plantation drives, eco-friendly materials and protection of natural corridors.
Italy Achieves Historic UNESCO Recognition for Its Cuisine
Italy has created history by becoming the first nation whose entire national cuisine has been recognised by UNESCO. The announcement was made during UNESCO’s cultural assembly held in Delhi. Unlike previous recognitions that focused on individual dishes or culinary techniques, UNESCO has acknowledged Italian cuisine as a living cultural tradition deeply rooted in community life, identity and heritage.
Italian cooking now joins UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List as a complete culinary system passed down through generations. Italy already has 21 entries on the list, including the renowned art of Neapolitan pizza-making and opera singing. This recognition marks a global shift in how food traditions are valued as cultural heritage.
Indian Film ‘Homebound’ Shortlisted for Oscars 2026
Indian cinema reached a significant milestone as Homebound, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, secured a place in the shortlist for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for 2026. The film progressed to the final voting round and features among the top 15 films chosen from submissions by 86 countries and regions.
Starring Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa in lead roles, with Janhvi Kapoor in a key supporting role, Homebound narrates the journey of two childhood friends, Shoaib and Chandan. Their aspiration to join the police force unfolds against a backdrop of social expectations, personal sacrifice and enduring friendship, offering a powerful reflection of contemporary Indian society.
PM Narendra Modi Receives Ethiopia’s Highest Civilian Honour
During his official visit to Addis Ababa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Ethiopia’s highest national honour — The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia. With this recognition, he became the first world leader to receive the prestigious award, highlighting India’s strengthening diplomatic influence, especially in Africa and the Global South.
This honour marks the 28th top foreign state award conferred on PM Modi. It is presented for outstanding contributions to enhancing Ethiopia’s international relations and global stature. Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali personally hosted the ceremony and formally bestowed the award.
Miyana Railway Station Wins National Energy Conservation Award 2025
Indian Railways achieved a notable sustainability milestone as Miyana Railway Station, located in the Guna district of Madhya Pradesh, received the National Energy Conservation Award (NECA) 2025. The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu on the occasion of National Energy Conservation Day.
Conferred annually by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power, the NECA recognises institutions that excel in reducing energy consumption and promoting efficient energy usage. Miyana station was honoured for its exemplary energy-efficient practices and commitment to sustainable railway operations.
Filmfare OTT Awards 2025 Celebrate Excellence in Digital Entertainment
The Filmfare OTT Awards 2025 were held in Mumbai on December 16, celebrating outstanding achievements in India’s fast-growing streaming sector. Crime thrillers, social dramas and comedies dominated the awards, reflecting the diversity and creative strength of OTT platforms.
Netflix’s Black Warrant won Best Series, while Paatal Lok – Season 2 received the Critics’ Best Series award. Performances by Jaideep Ahlawat, Monika Panwar, Ananya Panday and Sanya Malhotra were among the highlights. In the web original film category, Girls Will Be Girls emerged as a major winner, securing awards for Best Film, Best Director and acting honours. The event underscored the growing influence of digital storytelling in Indian cinema.
Important Observances on 17 December 2025
December 17, 2025, is marked by several significant observances. Wright Brothers Day commemorates the pioneers of aviation and their contribution to modern flight. National Maple Syrup Day celebrates one of North America’s iconic natural products, while National Device Appreciation Day highlights the role of technology in everyday life. The date also coincides with global observances such as the beginning of Hanukkah.
Review Questions
1. Which organization introduced India’s first wildlife-safe road?
A. Ministry of Road Transport
B. National Highways Authority of India
C. Forest Survey of India
D. Wildlife Institute of India
Answer: B. National Highways Authority of India
2. India’s first wildlife-safe road has been developed on which National Highway?
A. NH-44
B. NH-16
C. NH-45
D. NH-27
Answer: C. NH-45
3. The wildlife-safe road initiative primarily aims to reduce:
A. Traffic congestion
B. Road construction costs
C. Animal-vehicle collisions
D. Fuel consumption
Answer: C. Animal-vehicle collisions
4. Which country became the first in the world to receive UNESCO recognition for its entire national cuisine?
A. France
B. Japan
C. Italy
D. Spain
Answer: C. Italy
5. In which year was Italian cuisine inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List?
A. 2023
B. 2024
C. 2025
D. 2026
Answer: C. 2025
6. How many elements does Italy already have on UNESCO’s intangible heritage list?
A. 15
B. 18
C. 20
D. 21
Answer: D. 21
7. Which Indian film was shortlisted for Best International Feature Film at the Oscars 2026?
A. Laapataa Ladies
B. Homebound
C. The Lunchbox
D. Court
Answer: B. Homebound
8. Who directed the film Homebound?
A. Anurag Kashyap
B. Zoya Akhtar
C. Neeraj Ghaywan
D. Shoojit Sircar
Answer: C. Neeraj Ghaywan
9. Which is the highest national honour of Ethiopia conferred on PM Narendra Modi?
A. Order of the Star of Ethiopia
B. Ethiopian Peace Medal
C. The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia
D. African Unity Award
Answer: C. The Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia
10. Miyana Railway Station received which award in 2025?
A. Swachh Rail Award
B. National Green Rail Award
C. National Energy Conservation Award
D. Railway Excellence Award
Answer: C. National Energy Conservation Award
