1. Summary of the Festival

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is being celebrated across India and the globe on Monday, October 20, 2025. More than a religious occasion, Diwali is a cultural phenomenon that symbolizes the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. It is a time for families to unite, homes to be illuminated with diyas (lamps), and communities to share joy, sweets, and goodwill.

• The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has announced that the SSC CHSL Tier 1 Exam 2025 will begin on November 12, with a new feature allowing candidates to choose their preferred exam city, date, and shift. This option will be available on the SSC portal from October 22 to October 28, 2025.

• Lakshmi Puja on Diwali is best done during a certain duration called the Pradosh Kaal, the time post-sunset. The most auspicious part of this duration is the Vrishabha Kaal .

• Dhanteras is the onset of a five day festival called Diwali. It is during the Trayodashi tithi of Krishna Paksha month of Kartik. Dhanteras will be celebrated with auspicious timing starting on 18 October afternoon and will continue to 19 October.

• Plan: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan)
• Installment: 21st, annual ₹6, 000 aid (paid in 3 installments)