• Verdict: Diwali is now a state holiday in the state of California.
• Significance: It is the third state in the United States, following Pennsylvania and Connecticut, to make the so-called festival of lights an official state.
• Procedure: It was announced following a bill introduced by an Assembly Member, Ash Kalra, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.
• Practical Effect: The act permits paid leave among the workers of states and permits schools along with other institutions to celebrate the festival.
• Support & Motivation: The bill was well supported and advocated by the community leaders and other individuals, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the state in terms of multiculturalism.

• Breaking News: The first-phase Gaza ceasefire agreement was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on October 9, 2025.
• Mediator: United States, Egypt and Qatar mediated the deal through peace negotiations in Egypt at Sharm El Sheikh.

I. Maria Corina Machado - Winner of 2025 Nobel peace prize.

• Addressee: María Corina Machado, Venezuelan activist and politician.
• Awarded Due To: Her unremitting efforts in defending democracy, human rights as well as free elections in Venezuela.
• Notable Acknowledgement:
•  by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, as a leader in the advancement of a peaceful overthrow of authoritarian government, on behalf of civilian bravery and nonviolence, and as a symbol of her nonviolence endeavors.

• Occurrence: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and a deputy PM and Defence Minister of Australia Richard Marles have signed major defence agreements in Canberra.
• Issues to be discussed: The bilateral defence relationship discussed by the leaders covered the entire gamut of bilateral defence relations, which included:
  • Cooperation in the defence industry.
  • Cyber defence
  • Maritime security
  • Security problems in the region.

1. Purpose and Governance

• Purpose: It was established on the purpose of stimulating trade, foreign direct investment (FDI), and creation of jobs.

• Legal: Operates under Special Economic Zones Act, 2005.
• Imperialism: Body: Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.