Current Affairs Revision Hub

News Item

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, through Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat), launched the next phase of the nationwide “Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat” campaign. The campaign will conduct creative competitions in a three-tier format: district, state and national levels.

Prelims Facts

• The campaign is being implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports through MY Bharat.
• The campaign name is “Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat.”
• Registrations began on the MY Bharat portal.
• Competitions will be held in a three-tier format: district, state and national levels.
• District-level competitions will be held from 24 to 27 July 2026.
• State champions will be invited to New Delhi for the national finale.
• The national finale will be held on 12 and 13 August 2026 during the National Youth Summit.
• Five categories are included: Dance, Music, Reel and Short Film, Nukkad Natak and Slam Poetry.

GS Mapping

GS2: Government Initiatives, Youth Affairs, Social Justice, Public Health; GS3: Substance Abuse and Social Awareness

News Item

A massive tree-planting campaign was conducted across India, with major drives in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and New Delhi. Uttar Pradesh launched a State-wide Vriksharopan Maha Yagya from Gorakhpur and reported planting over 35.27 crore saplings in a single day under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.”

Prelims Facts

• A massive tree-planting campaign was conducted across India.
• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the Vriksharopan Maha Yagya from Gorakhpur.
• He planted the sacred Triveni of Neem, Peepal and Banyan near the Link Expressway.
• Uttar Pradesh planted over 35.27 crore saplings in a single day.
• The plantation exceeded the State target of 35 crore by 27.89 lakh saplings.
• Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel planted a white sandalwood sapling at Jan Bhawan.
• The campaign was carried out across all 18 divisions and 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh.
• Uttar Pradesh’s cumulative plantation for the year stood at 40.29 crore saplings.
• The Forest Department completed the largest target of 15.50 crore saplings.
• Home Minister Amit Shah launched a plantation drive in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, with over 1.25 crore saplings planted across his Lok Sabha constituency.
• Gandhinagar’s green cover target is 20% by 2029.
• Madhya Pradesh launched a plantation drive in Indore, targeting 21 lakh saplings and 51,000 rainwater harvesting units.
• India has set a target of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2070.

GS Mapping

GS3: Environment, Climate Change, Biodiversity, Sustainable Development; GS2: Governance and Public Participation

News Item

A report highlighted how global shipping disruptions have exposed India’s dependence on foreign container ships and limited domestic container capacity. The first outcome of the ₹10,000 crore container manufacturing scheme announced in Union Budget 2026-27 came on 3 July 2026, when an India-made EXIM container built by DCM Shriram Group was unveiled at Dadri for Maersk, which placed a follow-on order for another 1,000 containers.

Background

India’s exporters are facing container shortages, fewer mother vessel calls, rising freight rates and route disruptions caused by conflicts and chokepoint tensions. Coffee exporters are facing delays because ships are moving around the Cape of Good Hope instead of the Red Sea-Suez route, adding sailing time and distance. Rice exports to Iran are affected because of uncertainties around the Strait of Hormuz. Freight costs on some routes have risen sharply, while exporters still face pressure to honour old contracts.

Prelims Facts

• A ₹10,000 crore container manufacturing scheme was announced in Union Budget 2026-27.
• Its first outcome came on 3 July 2026 with an India-made EXIM container built by DCM Shriram Group.
• The container was unveiled at Dadri for Maersk.
• Maersk placed a follow-on order for another 1,000 containers.
• India manufactured around 24,000 TEUs in FY24.
• China’s container output runs into several million TEUs annually.
• Foreign shipping lines carry around 90-95% of India’s cargo, increasing vulnerability during global disruptions.
• Indian-made containers cost roughly 20% more than Chinese containers due to logistics and location disadvantages.
• Manufacturing containers closer to ports such as Dadri can reduce transport cost disadvantages.
• Coffee exporters are affected as ships avoid the Red Sea-Suez route and move around the Cape of Good Hope.
• Rice exports to Iran are affected by uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz.
• Freight from Kochi to Jebel Ali reportedly rose from around $1,000-$1,500 to nearly $7,000.
• Nhava Sheva has become a major hub for larger container ships.
• Kochi, Thoothukudi, Vizhinjam, Kandla, Mumbai, Dadri, Dubai, Khor Fakkan, Sohar and Jebel Ali came into news in the context of container logistics.
• An MoU was signed to establish Bharat Container Shipping Line, India’s first national container carrier.
• Institutions linked to this initiative include Shipping Corporation of India, Container Corporation of India, Jawaharlal Nehru Port, Tuticorin and Chennai port authorities.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• India’s container vulnerability is not only a logistics issue but also a strategic trade-security problem. Global shocks such as COVID-19, the Suez Canal blockage, the Ukraine war, Red Sea attacks and Strait of Hormuz tensions show that exporters suffer whenever global shipping lines redeploy vessels to more profitable routes. India needs a three-part response: increase domestic container manufacturing, build Indian shipping capacity through Bharat Container Shipping Line, and upgrade port connectivity so that exporters from southern and western India do not face excessive freight costs. However, domestic manufacturing must overcome the 20% cost gap, and a national carrier will need vessels, trained personnel, route planning and global commercial credibility.

GS Mapping

GS3: Infrastructure, Ports, Logistics, Manufacturing, Export Competitiveness, Supply Chain Resilience; GS2: Global Trade, Geopolitical Chokepoints, International Shipping

News Item

A team led by Dr. Indrakshi Raychowdhury of BITS Pilani, working with IBM Quantum, designed a quantum algorithm that simulated the behaviour of subatomic particles on 120 qubits of an IBM processor. The result has been marked “active” by the Quantum Advantage Tracker, making it the first such verified active quantum-advantage result from an Indian laboratory.

Background

Quantum computers are not efficient for every task; even simple arithmetic can be difficult. Their advantage lies in simulating complex quantum systems where particles influence one another. The BITS-led team modelled how quarks and gluons behave under the strong nuclear force, a problem linked to high-energy physics. The quantum calculation reportedly took about 20 seconds, while the corresponding classical computation took about two hours.

Prelims Facts

• The quantum algorithm was designed by a team led by Dr. Indrakshi Raychowdhury of BITS Pilani.
• The team worked with IBM Quantum.
• The algorithm simulated subatomic particle behaviour on 120 qubits of an IBM processor.
• The quantum calculation took about 20 seconds, compared with about two hours on a classical computer.
• The result was marked “active” by the Quantum Advantage Tracker.
• This is the first active quantum-advantage result from an Indian laboratory.
• The work is linked to simulating quarks and gluons governed by the strong nuclear force.
• The team used a simplified model of the strong force and reduced mathematical redundancy to scale the simulation.
• A task earlier run by others on at most 27 qubits was pushed to 120 qubits.
• The Quantum Advantage Tracker was launched in November 2025 by IBM with the Flatiron Institute, BlueQubit, Algorithmiq and academic reviewers.
• The article mentions CERN, Switzerland, in the context of high-energy physics and future particle simulations.
• India’s National Quantum Mission was approved in 2023 with an outlay of ₹6,003 crore.
• The Mission funds quantum algorithms and a computing hub in Bengaluru.
• India currently does not have high-end quantum hardware of its own and researchers often depend on machines abroad.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The BITS-IBM result is a significant step for India’s quantum ecosystem because it focuses on algorithms rather than only hardware. Quantum hardware is expensive and concentrated in a few countries, but algorithmic expertise allows Indian scientists to use global machines and still produce frontier research. The case also shows that practical quantum advantage may first emerge in areas such as high-energy physics, where nature itself behaves quantum mechanically. For India, the challenge is to move from isolated breakthroughs to an integrated ecosystem: strong algorithms, domestic hardware, skilled manpower, research funding, international collaboration and industry use-cases. The National Quantum Mission must therefore treat software, algorithms and talent as seriously as hardware development.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology, Quantum Computing, Emerging Technologies, National Quantum Mission, Innovation; GS2: International Scientific Collaboration

News Item

The governing body of National CAMPA approved four new conservation projects for river dolphins, snow leopards, wild water buffalo and Indian rhinoceroses. The new scheme has an initial corpus of ₹3,000 crore over five years.

Prelims Facts

• The governing body of National CAMPA approved four new conservation projects.
• The species covered are river dolphins, snow leopards, wild water buffalo and Indian rhinoceroses.
• The new scheme has an initial corpus of ₹3,000 crore over five years.
• The river dolphin project includes studies on conservation and recovery action plan.
• Project Snow Leopard Phase-II includes the second cycle of population estimation.
• A conservation action plan has been approved for the Indian Rhinoceros.
• A pan-India conservation approach has been approved for the wild water buffalo.

GS Mapping

GS3: Biodiversity Conservation, Wildlife Protection, Environment Governance

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese jointly released the India-Australia Sports Collaboration Roadmap at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on 10 July 2026. The roadmap aims to deepen cooperation in sports training, capacity building, sports science, technology, sports industry, investment, women’s participation and youth exchanges.

Background

Sports are an important bridge between India and Australia, especially through cricket and growing interest in other sports. The roadmap builds on the 2023 Sports Cooperation Agreement and identifies practical areas of collaboration for the next decade, including 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics, and India’s future Olympic and Paralympic hosting aspirations.

Prelims Facts

• The India-Australia Sports Collaboration Roadmap was jointly released on 10 July 2026.
• It was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
• The roadmap builds on the 2023 Sports Cooperation Agreement.
• The roadmap looks ahead to the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad and the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics in Brisbane.
• It identifies cooperation areas such as capacity building, sports science and technology, major sports events, sports industry and investment, and women’s participation.
• It proposes cooperation in high performance sports centres in India.
• Para sports are recognised as a key priority, including cooperation in para classification, coaching and performance support.
• It promotes coach exchanges and a train-the-trainer approach.
• It proposes physical education exchange programmes between India and Australia.
• It encourages cooperation in yoga and yogasana in Australia.
• The roadmap mentions the India-Australia High Performance Coach Development Programme with the Australian Sports Commission.
• It encourages India-Australia university partnerships in sports science, sports curriculum and research.
• It mentions cooperation between Sport Integrity Australia and India’s NADA in anti-doping capacity-building.
• It encourages exhibition matches and youth events in sports such as kabaddi, kho kho, Australian football, basketball and cricket.
• The first Big Bash League match in India is welcomed for Chennai in December 2026.
• An Australia-funded Sports Industry Summit is proposed in Mumbai in December 2026.
• The roadmap supports increasing India’s exports of high-quality and competitively priced sports goods to Australia.
• It promotes women’s leadership, health, high performance and participation in sports, including bilateral tournaments for women athletes.
• PM Modi visited the Melbourne Cricket Ground with PM Anthony Albanese and Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan.
• Australian sports personalities including Steve Waugh and Lisa Sthalekar attended the event.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The roadmap gives sports a strategic role in India-Australia relations. It moves cooperation beyond symbolic cricket diplomacy to structured work on coaching, para sports, sports science, anti-doping, women’s participation, youth exchanges, sports goods and investment. For India, Australian expertise in high performance systems and major-event management can support preparation for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and future Olympic ambitions. The roadmap also strengthens people-to-people ties, sports industry growth and women-led participation in sport.

GS Mapping

GS2: India-Australia Relations, Sports Governance, Women Empowerment, Cultural Diplomacy; GS3: Sports Industry, Skill Development, Technology, Investment

News Item

The Central Government has amended the Drugs Rules, 1945 to strengthen regulation of high alcohol-containing drug formulations. The Health Ministry removed the earlier Schedule K exemption from licensing requirements for formulations containing ethyl alcohol above specified limits.

Prelims Facts

• The Centre amended the Drugs Rules, 1945.
• The amendment regulates high alcohol-containing drug formulations.
• The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare removed the Schedule K exemption from licensing requirements.
• Formulations containing more than 12% v/v ethyl alcohol and quantities exceeding 30 ml will no longer get the exemption.
• Such products must obtain licenses under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
• Earlier, some tinctures and aromatic preparations such as cardamom and ginger tinctures were exempted.
• Some exempted formulations could contain ethyl alcohol concentration up to 80-90% v/v.
• The amendment aims to prevent diversion and misuse for intoxication.
• It will ensure supply through a regulated pharmaceutical supply chain while allowing legitimate therapeutic use.

GS Mapping

GS2: Health Regulation, Governance; GS3: Pharmaceutical Sector, Public Health

News Item

Uttarakhand has become India’s sixth fully literate State after meeting the prescribed adult literacy benchmarks under National Education Policy 2020 and the ULLAS – New India Literacy Programme. The declaration was approved by the Governor on 8 July 2026.

Prelims Facts

• Uttarakhand has become India’s sixth fully literate State.
• The declaration was approved by the Governor on 8 July 2026.
• The achievement is linked to NEP 2020 and ULLAS – New India Literacy Programme.
• ULLAS stands for Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society.
• The literacy standards were laid down by the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education.
• Uttarakhand joins Mizoram, Goa, Tripura, Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim on the list of fully literate States.
• Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami called the achievement historic.
• The State government said it will continue promoting digital literacy, financial literacy, continuing education and life skills.

GS Mapping

GS2: Education, Human Resource Development, Social Sector Schemes, Governance

News Item

A data-based report highlighted that while revenues increasingly accrue to the Union government, fiscally constrained States are carrying a larger share of welfare and social-sector spending. For selected welfare schemes and sectors in 2025-26, combined Union and State allocations were estimated at ₹24.20 lakh crore, equal to 6.77% of GDP.

Background

The report noted that India’s welfare framework earlier moved through rights-based laws, but in the last decade the emphasis has shifted more towards cash transfers. It compared Union and State allocations across sectors such as school education, public health, MGNREGA, social justice, ICDS, PMMVY, PDS and cash transfers.

Prelims Facts

• The report was published as a Data Point on welfare spending.
• Data sources included Union Expenditure Budget 2025-26, 377th Report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee, RBI database, Ministry of Education data and 16th Finance Commission reports.
• Combined Union and State allocations for selected welfare schemes/sectors in 2025-26 were estimated at ₹24.20 lakh crore.
• This amounted to 6.77% of GDP.
• Union allocation for selected schemes was ₹6.73 lakh crore, while State allocation was ₹17.46 lakh crore.
• Union share of selected schemes was 1.89% of GDP, while State share was 4.89% of GDP.
• State cash transfers were estimated at ₹3.87 lakh crore in FY 2025-26.
• Union allocation for PM-KISAN was ₹0.64 lakh crore.
• Union allocation for National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) was ₹0.1 lakh crore.
• School education showed one of the largest State spending shares, with States estimated to contribute around 75.2%.
• For school education, Union allocation was shown as ₹0.79 lakh crore, while State allocation was ₹6.83 lakh crore.
• For public health, Union allocation was shown as ₹1 lakh crore, while State allocation was ₹3.93 lakh crore.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The data shows that India’s welfare spending is increasingly State-led. This has two implications. First, States are crucial for actual delivery of education, health, nutrition and social protection. Second, if revenues remain concentrated with the Union, States may struggle to expand welfare without worsening fiscal stress. A stronger social-sector push requires better fiscal transfers, predictable cost-sharing, greater Union commitment and recognition that welfare expenditure is an investment in human development and long-term growth.

GS Mapping

GS2: Welfare Schemes, Cooperative Federalism, Social Justice; GS3: Public Finance, Inclusive Growth, Human Capital

News Item

DRDO successfully flight-tested the Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR) at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha. The rocket was tested for a user-defined minimum range of 60 km and was launched from the in-service Pinaka launcher.

Prelims Facts

• DRDO successfully flight-tested Pinaka Long Range Guided Rocket (LRGR).
• The test was conducted at Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha.
• The rocket was tested for a user-defined minimum range of 60 km.
• The rocket was launched from the in-service Pinaka launcher.
• Pinaka LRGR was designed by Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE).
• High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) was associated with the design.
• Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI) provided support.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called the test a major milestone in indigenous long-range guided rocket capability.

GS Mapping

GS3: Defence Technology, Indigenous Defence Manufacturing, Security

News Item

India’s first six-lane underpass beneath an active runway is being built at the new terminal of Varanasi Airport. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said that foundation and raft work of the 450-metre underpass is underway.

Prelims Facts

• India’s first six-lane underpass beneath an active runway is coming up at Varanasi Airport.
• The underpass will be about 450 metres long.
• Foundation and raft work of the underpass is currently underway.
• It will enable road traffic to move below while aircraft operate above.
• The project is linked with the new terminal infrastructure at Varanasi Airport.
• Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu shared the update.

GS Mapping

GS3: Infrastructure, Transport, Aviation, Urban Connectivity

News Item

The Union Education Ministry released the UDISE+ 2025-26 report, showing a decline in school dropout rates across key stages. The preparatory level dropout rate fell from 2.3% to 1.8%, while the secondary level dropout rate declined from 8.2% to 7.0%.

Background

The report also showed improvement in learner progression, teacher strength and school infrastructure. The Gross Enrolment Ratio at secondary level increased from 68.5% to 71.7%, transition from middle to secondary rose from 86.6% to 88.3%, and the total number of teachers increased by 8.3% compared with 2022-23.

Prelims Facts

• The UDISE+ 2025-26 report was released by the Union Education Ministry.
• Preparatory level dropout rate fell from 2.3% in 2024-25 to 1.8% in 2025-26.
• Secondary level dropout rate declined from 8.2% to 7.0%.
• Girls’ enrolment marginally increased to 48.4% from 48.3%.
• Women teachers formed 54.9% of total teachers, up from 54.2%.
• Student retention at middle level rose to 83.7% from 82.8%.
• Secondary level retention increased to 51.9% from 47.2%.
• Secondary level GER increased to 71.7% from 68.5%.
• Transition from middle to secondary increased from 86.6% to 88.3%.
• Teacher strength rose by 8.3% compared with 2022-23.
• Single-teacher schools reduced by 3% and zero-enrolment schools fell by 29%.
• Schools with computer access increased to 69.9%.
• Schools with Internet connectivity increased to 67.4%.
• 95% schools have electricity, 98.5% have girls’ toilets and 97.2% have boys’ toilets.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The UDISE+ 2025-26 data suggests improvement in school participation, retention and infrastructure. However, policy focus must remain on secondary education, where retention is still comparatively low. Better teacher deployment, digital access, sanitation, electricity and early warning systems for at-risk students can help convert enrolment gains into actual learning and completion outcomes.

GS Mapping

GS2: Education, Governance, Human Resource Development, Social Sector Schemes

News Item

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu congratulated National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) for completing the design phase of the 19-seater Saras MK-II aircraft. He said the aircraft advances the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision and can support the UDAN goal of connecting remote and high-altitude airfields with Made-in-India aircraft.

Prelims Facts

• NAL has completed the design phase of the 19-seater Saras MK-II.
• Saras MK-II is being developed as an indigenously designed light transport aircraft.
• The development supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
• The aircraft is linked with the UDAN vision of improving regional air connectivity.
• It is expected to help connect remote and high-altitude airfields with Made-in-India aircraft.
• Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu congratulated NAL for the achievement.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology, Aviation, Indigenous Manufacturing, Infrastructure

News Item

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified the Natural History Museum (NHM), Mizoram University, Aizawl, as India’s 21st Designated Repository under Section 39 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The notification was issued on 19 June 2026 based on the recommendation of the National Biodiversity Authority.

Prelims Facts

• Natural History Museum, Mizoram University, Aizawl has been notified as India’s 21st Designated Repository.
• It was notified under Section 39 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
• The notification was issued on 19 June 2026.
• The recommendation came from the National Biodiversity Authority.
• NHM was established in 2022 under Mizoram University, a Central University.
• It is located in the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot.
• It will preserve flora such as pteridophytes and macrofungi.
• It will preserve fauna such as reptiles, amphibians, fishes, moths, beetles and butterflies.
• It will serve as a depository for type specimens of newly discovered species from the region.
• Mizoram and the wider North-East region have over 7,500 flowering plant species and more than 2,000 faunal species.
• The repository will support documentation of endemic species such as Leptobrachella tamdil, a recently described amphibian from Mizoram.
• Before designation, NHM had preserved more than 500 specimens, including herbarium sheets and wet-preserved collections.

GS Mapping

GS3: Biodiversity Conservation, Environment, Science and Technology; GS2: Environmental Governance

News Item

Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) has become India’s second Major Port, after Visakhapatnam Port, to offer an operational draft of 18 metres. This follows the completion of Capital Dredging Phase VI with an investment of about ₹440 crore, enabling the port to handle fully laden Capesize vessels of up to 1,70,000 DWT.

Prelims Facts

• Kamarajar Port has become India’s second Major Port with 18-metre draft capability.
• The first Major Port with 18-metre draft capability is Visakhapatnam Port.
• Kamarajar Port is located near Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• It is India’s first corporatised Major Port.
• Capital Dredging Phase VI was completed with an investment of about ₹440 crore.
• The port can now handle fully laden Capesize vessels of up to 1,70,000 DWT.
• The project deepened the outer approach channel from 20 m to 23 m.
• The inner entrance channel was deepened from 19 m to 22 m.
• The enhanced draft is expected to reduce logistics costs through economies of scale.
• The achievement supports Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

GS Mapping

GS3: Infrastructure, Ports, Logistics, Maritime Economy, EXIM Trade

News Item

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that approval for Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B) to establish an overseas campus in Indonesia marks a new chapter in India’s education sector. The proposal was approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Indonesia.

Prelims Facts

• IIM Bangalore will establish an overseas campus in Indonesia.
• The proposal was approved during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Indonesia.
• Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said it marks a new chapter for India’s education sector.
• The campus is linked with India’s effort to globalise its knowledge traditions and education system.
• The campus is proposed at Singhasari SEZ, Indonesia.
• It is expected to serve students and professionals in the wider ASEAN region.

GS Mapping

GS2: Education, International Relations, India-Indonesia Relations; GS3: Human Capital and Knowledge Economy

News Item

The government said that over 104 crore health records have been linked to more than 93 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) accounts. This is a major step towards creating a connected digital public health ecosystem under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.

Prelims Facts

• Over 104 crore health records have been linked to over 93 crore ABHA accounts.
• ABHA is a 14-digit unique health identifier.
• ABHA is part of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission.
• ABHA helps connect individuals with doctors, hospitals, labs, insurers and other digital health services.
• Health records linked to ABHA can include prescriptions, lab reports, discharge summaries and treatment history.
• ABDM aims to create fully digital health records for citizens across India.
• Data sharing under ABHA is based on user consent.

GS Mapping

GS2: Health, Governance; GS3: Digital Public Infrastructure, Science and Technology

News Item

The Ministry of Cooperation completed five years since its formation on 6 July 2021 under the vision of Sahkar Se Samriddhi. On its 5th Foundation Day, the Ministry converted 50,000 PACS into e-PACS, laid foundation stones for 47 grain storage godowns, and launched digital tools such as Milk Supply Review Dashboard, Sahakar CBS and Sahakar Sahyogi to strengthen cooperatives, rural infrastructure, dairy, banking and livelihoods.

Prelims Facts

• Ministry of Cooperation was established on 6 July 2021.
• Its guiding vision is Sahkar Se Samriddhi.
• On the 5th Foundation Day, 50,000 PACS were converted into e-PACS.
• Foundation stones were laid for 47 grain storage godowns.
• Milk Supply Review Dashboard was launched for National Dairy Development Board.
• Sahakar CBS and Sahakar Sahyogi were launched for Urban Cooperative Banks.
• The Ministry has implemented over 152 reform initiatives since its formation.
• White Revolution 2.0 aims to increase milk procurement by 50% by 2028-29.
• Bharat Taxi is India’s first cooperative-based mobility platform.

GS Mapping

GS2: Governance, Cooperative Federalism; GS3: Agriculture, Rural Economy, Dairy Sector, Inclusive Growth

News Item

The Indian Navy will commission its sixth Project 17A indigenous stealth frigate, Mahendragiri (F38), at Visakhapatnam on 11 July 2026. The ship has been designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai.

Background

Project 17A is the follow-on class of India’s earlier Shivalik-class Project 17 frigates. These ships have improved stealth features, advanced weapons and sensors, better survivability and modern platform management systems. Mahendragiri is named after the Mahendragiri mountain range in the Eastern Ghats and is the first Indian Naval warship to bear this name.

Prelims Facts

• Mahendragiri (F38) will be commissioned at Visakhapatnam on 11 July 2026.
• It is the sixth Project 17A indigenous stealth frigate of the Indian Navy.
• It was designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau.
• It was built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai.
• Mahendragiri is named after the Mahendragiri mountain range in the Eastern Ghats.
• It is the first Indian Naval warship to bear the name Mahendragiri.
• Its motto is “Mighty–Majestic–Matchless.”
• Project 17A frigates are also known as Nilgiri-class frigates.
• Project 17A is the follow-on class of the earlier Project 17 Shivalik-class frigates.
• Mahendragiri is powered by Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion.
• The project has around 75% indigenous content and supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
• Project 17A ships strengthen India’s maritime capability in the Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• Mahendragiri’s commissioning is significant for three reasons. First, it strengthens India’s naval combat capability through advanced stealth, sensors and multi-role operations. Second, it demonstrates India’s progress in indigenous warship design and construction through the Warship Design Bureau and MDL. Third, it supports India’s maritime strategy in the Indian Ocean Region, where the Navy protects sea lanes, deters threats and acts as a preferred security partner.

GS Mapping

GS3: Defence Technology, Internal and External Security, Maritime Security, Indigenous Defence Manufacturing; GS2: Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Region

News Item

ISRO successfully conducted the first ground test of the solid motor-based Sub-Orbital Launch Vehicle for Experiments (SOLVE) at the Static Test Facility, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, on 3 July 2026. SOLVE will be used to validate the Gaganyaan crew module’s parachute-based deceleration system under different test conditions.

Background

Gaganyaan is India’s human spaceflight programme. Since astronaut safety depends on reliable descent and recovery, ISRO is developing SOLVE as a sub-orbital test platform. In planned SOLVE test missions, the crew module will be taken to about 10 km to 17 km altitude, separated from the vehicle and slowed down using parachutes before sea splashdown.

Prelims Facts

• ISRO conducted the first ground test of SOLVE on 3 July 2026.
• The test was conducted at the Static Test Facility, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
• SOLVE stands for Sub-Orbital Launch Vehicle for Experiments.
• SOLVE is a solid motor-based platform for Gaganyaan test missions.
• It will be used for Integrated Parachute Tests of the Gaganyaan crew module.
• In SOLVE test missions, the crew module will be carried to an altitude of 10 km to 17 km and then separated.
• A series of 10 parachutes will reduce the crew module’s velocity before sea splashdown.
• SOLVE’s solid stage is derived from the PSLV strap-on motor.
• Key modifications include slow burn-rate propellant and secondary injection thrust vector control.
• ISRO stated that motor performance parameters were as expected.
• ISRO has also carried out IADT-02 and Mission MITRA for Gaganyaan.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The SOLVE ground test shows ISRO’s risk-reduction approach for human spaceflight. Human missions need higher safety standards than satellite launches because crew survival depends on reliable escape, descent and recovery systems. A modified PSLV-derived solid stage allows ISRO to simulate Gaganyaan conditions, validate parachute deployment and strengthen India’s indigenous human spaceflight capability.

GS Mapping

GS3: Space Technology, ISRO Missions, Indigenous Technology, Human Spaceflight

News Item

ICMR-MINDS, a flagship digital mental healthcare initiative of the Indian Council of Medical Research, won the Gold Award at the National Awards for e-Governance 2026. It was awarded under the category Innovation by Use of AI and Other New Age Technologies for Providing Citizen-Centric Services.

Prelims Facts

• ICMR-MINDS won the Gold Award at the National Awards for e-Governance 2026.
• The award was presented by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
• ICMR-MINDS is a National Health Research Priority project.
• It integrates screening and management of mental and substance use disorders with other non-communicable diseases.
• Its AI-enabled CDSS supports mental health screening, assessment, follow-up and routine management by trained non-specialist frontline healthcare providers.
• It is being implemented across seven States through seven collaborating institutions.
• Collaborating institutions include AIIMS Guwahati, Gujarat Institute of Mental Health, Ahmedabad, AIIMS New Delhi, St. John’s Medical College, Bengaluru, AIIMS Bhopal, AIIMS Bhubaneswar and PGIMER Chandigarh.

GS Mapping

GS2: Health, Governance; GS3: Science and Technology, Digital Public Infrastructure

News Item

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan and Union Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah extended greetings on the International Day of Cooperatives. They highlighted the role of cooperatives in empowering farmers, women, small entrepreneurs and workers, and linked the sector with Sahakar Se Samriddhi and Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

Prelims Facts

• International Day of Cooperatives is observed on the first Saturday of July.
• In 2026, it was observed on 04 July.
• Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan and Union Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah extended greetings on the occasion.
• The 2026 UN theme is “Cooperatives for a Peaceful World.”
• The cooperative sector was linked with Sahakar Se Samriddhi and Viksit Bharat @ 2047.
• Initiatives mentioned include Cooperative University, modern training centres and empowerment of cooperative institutions in emerging sectors.

GS Mapping

GS2: Governance, Cooperative Federalism; GS3: Inclusive Growth, Rural Economy

News Item

The Bilateral Investment Agreement (BIA) between India and Israel came into force on 04 July 2026. Signed in New Delhi in September 2025, the agreement aims to strengthen bilateral economic relations and create a secure, predictable and investor-friendly investment climate.

Background

India and Israel signed the BIA on 08 September 2025 in New Delhi. It was signed by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. The agreement is expected to boost mutual investments, protect investors and deepen cooperation in areas such as fintech, infrastructure, financial regulation, innovation and digital payment connectivity.

Prelims Facts

• The India-Israel Bilateral Investment Agreement came into force on 04 July 2026.
• It was signed on 08 September 2025 in New Delhi.
• The agreement was signed by India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.
• The BIA aims to provide a secure and predictable investment climate.
• It seeks to protect investments and investors while preserving sovereign policy space for legitimate public policy objectives.
• It provides for minimum standard of treatment and an independent dispute resolution mechanism through arbitration.
• The agreement includes safeguards against expropriation, transparency-related provisions, smooth transfers and compensation for losses.
• It is expected to increase cross-border investment activity and deepen India-Israel economic partnership.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The BIA is significant for India-Israel economic diplomacy because it combines investor confidence with regulatory flexibility. It can encourage capital flows, technology cooperation, infrastructure investment and innovation-led partnerships. However, effective implementation will depend on clarity of treaty interpretation, predictable domestic regulation, timely dispute resolution and careful balancing of investor rights with public policy needs.

GS Mapping

GS2: International Relations, Bilateral Agreements; GS3: Economy, Investment, Infrastructure

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated, inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth around ₹1.06 lakh crore at Balotra, Rajasthan. The projects cover energy, petrochemicals, aviation, metro connectivity, roads, railways, renewable energy, power transmission and water supply.

Background

Rajasthan is important for India’s energy, renewable power, desert-region infrastructure and border-state connectivity. The projects include the Rajasthan Refinery at Pachpadra, Jodhpur Airport terminal, Jaipur Metro Phase 2, renewable energy initiatives and the proposed water supply arrangement for the Shekhawati region through an underground pipeline from Hathnikund Barrage.

Prelims Facts

• The event was held at Balotra, Rajasthan on 04 July 2026.
• Projects worth around ₹1.06 lakh crore were dedicated, inaugurated or had foundation stones laid.
• Rajasthan Refinery is located at Pachpadra in Balotra district.
• The projects cover sectors such as petrochemicals, urban transport, aviation, railways, roads, renewable energy and power transmission.
• A new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport was inaugurated.
• A modified phase of the UDAN regional air connectivity scheme was launched.
• The foundation stone was laid for Jaipur Metro Phase 2.
• Rajasthan and Haryana agreed to work on water supply to Shekhawati through an underground pipeline from Hathnikund Barrage.
• Beneficiary districts mentioned for the Shekhawati water plan include Sikar, Churu and Jhunjhunu.
• Renewable energy initiatives mentioned include solar parks, rooftop solar under PM Surya Ghar and solar pumps under PM-KUSUM.
• Khejri was highlighted as an ecologically important tree in desert regions.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The Rajasthan package reflects an integrated development approach combining energy, industrialisation, transport, water security and renewable energy. The refinery can strengthen petroleum and petrochemical capacity, while metro, airport and road-rail projects can improve connectivity and economic activity. However, effective outcomes will depend on timely completion, environmental safeguards, water-use planning, local employment generation, land management and coordination between Centre and States.

GS Mapping

GS3: Infrastructure, Energy Security, Petroleum and Petrochemicals, Renewable Energy; GS2: Cooperative Federalism, Governance

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the CG Semi Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility at Sanand, Gujarat. The facility marks a major step in India’s semiconductor journey by starting commercial chip packaging and testing and strengthening India’s position in the global semiconductor value chain.

Background

India’s semiconductor push is part of a wider electronics manufacturing strategy that moved from finished electronic products to components and now to semiconductor manufacturing. The government’s stated goal is to build a complete domestic semiconductor ecosystem covering chip design, fabrication, assembly, testing and packaging, supported by the Semicon India Programme and private-industry partnerships.

Prelims Facts

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the CG Semi OSAT facility at Sanand, Gujarat on 04 July 2026.
• OSAT stands for Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test.
• The facility begins commercial chip packaging and testing operations.
• The Prime Minister had laid the foundation stone of the project in 2024.
• Chip testing at the facility started by August 2025, as mentioned in the official release.
• The facility is linked with industrial partners from India, Japan and Thailand.
• The current stated production capacity is 20 crore units per year.
• The future target mentioned is 500 crore units per year.
• Sanand is emerging as a semiconductor cluster with companies such as Micron, Kaynes and CG Semi.
• India’s semiconductor strategy aims to cover design, fabrication, assembly, testing and packaging.
• The Prime Minister described the semiconductor push as the next stage of India’s electronics manufacturing growth: products, then components, and now semiconductors.
• The facility is expected to support sectors such as AI, robotics and next-generation technologies.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The Sanand OSAT facility is significant because it strengthens India’s presence in the semiconductor value chain beyond design and electronics assembly. It can generate high-skilled employment, attract supplier industries, support technological self-reliance and reduce dependence on external packaging and testing ecosystems. However, India’s long-term success will require reliable power and water infrastructure, skilled manpower, domestic equipment and material suppliers, critical mineral security, strong R&D, quality standards and integration with global chip customers.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology, Semiconductor Manufacturing, Industrial Policy, Infrastructure, Make in India

News Item

The tiger population in Nameri Tiger Reserve in Assam increased from 3 tigers in the 2022 All India Tiger Estimation to 12 tigers by end-2025, as validated by the Wildlife Institute of India. The recovery also includes the return of tigers to Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary after more than two decades.

Background

Nameri Tiger Reserve is one of Assam’s four tiger reserves, along with Kaziranga, Manas and Orang. It lies in north-central Assam and shares a boundary with Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh, making it part of a wider Assam-Arunachal tiger conservation landscape.

Prelims Facts

• Nameri Tiger Reserve is located in Assam.
• Nameri’s area mentioned in the report is 344 sq km.
• Nameri shares a boundary with Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Assam has four tiger reserves: Nameri, Kaziranga, Manas and Orang.
• Kaziranga and Manas are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Nameri’s tiger population increased from 3 in the 2022 AITE to 12 by end-2025.
• The 2025-end estimate was validated by the Wildlife Institute of India.
• Tigers returned to Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary after more than two decades.
• Sonai Rupai had seen local extinction of tigers in the early 2000s.
• Kaziranga is noted for one of the highest tiger densities in India.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• Nameri’s recovery is a positive sign for landscape-level tiger conservation in Northeast India. It shows that scientific monitoring, habitat protection and connected reserves can help revive tiger populations. However, long-term success will depend on securing corridors, preventing poaching, managing human-wildlife conflict, maintaining prey base and coordinating conservation across Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

GS Mapping

GS3: Biodiversity Conservation, Protected Areas, Wildlife Conservation, Environment

News Item

An Assam tea estate sold India’s first commercially produced matcha tea at the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre. The first batch of 5 kg came from Chota Tingrai Tea Estate in Tinsukia district and was bought by Guwahati-based Sheosons Chai Co.

Prelims Facts

• India’s first commercially produced matcha tea was sold by an estate in Assam.
• The tea came from Chota Tingrai Tea Estate in Tinsukia district.
• The first batch weighed 5 kg.
• It was sold at the Guwahati Tea Auction Centre.
• The auction was conducted by J. Thomas & Co. Pvt. Ltd.
• The buyer was Guwahati-based Sheosons Chai Co.
• The premium fetched was ₹3,000 per kg.
• Matcha is made from shade-grown Camellia sinensis leaves.

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy, Agriculture, Food Processing, Exports

News Item

Skyroot Aerospace announced the launch window for Vikram-1, India’s first privately developed orbital-class rocket, under Mission Aagaman. The test flight is targeted no earlier than July 12, 2026, with the window extending till August 4, 2026, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

Background

India’s space sector was opened to greater private participation through reforms and institutional support such as IN-SPACe. Skyroot had earlier launched Vikram-S on November 18, 2022, which became the first private rocket to reach space from Indian soil. Vikram-1 marks the next step from suborbital demonstration to orbital launch capability.

Prelims Facts

• Vikram-1 is India’s first privately developed orbital-class rocket.
• It has been developed by Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad-based private space company.
• Vikram-1’s first test flight is named Mission Aagaman.
• The launch window is from July 12 to August 4, 2026.
• The launch is planned from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
• Vikram-1 follows the successful suborbital flight of Vikram-S on November 18, 2022.
• The test flight will gather data on propulsion, stage separation, guidance, navigation, control and overall vehicle performance.
• All stages of Vikram-1 have been integrated and stacked at the launch pad.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• Vikram-1 represents a major shift in India’s space sector from government-led launches to a mixed ecosystem involving private companies. It can support small satellite launches, commercial space services and indigenous innovation. However, sustained success will depend on reliable launch performance, safety clearances, regulatory predictability, cost competitiveness and integration of private players with national space infrastructure.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology, Space Technology, Infrastructure, Indigenisation

News Item

Nagaland’s first UIDAI Aadhaar Seva Kendra was inaugurated at Purana Bazaar, Dimapur by Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election H. Tovihoto Ayemi. The centre will provide Aadhaar enrolment and update services, with capacity to process up to 250 requests daily.

Prelims Facts

• Nagaland’s first UIDAI Aadhaar Seva Kendra was opened at Purana Bazaar, Dimapur.
• It was inaugurated by H. Tovihoto Ayemi, Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election.
• The centre can process up to 250 enrolment and update requests daily.
• Biometric update service will remain free of cost until September 30.
• The centre will remain open on all days except public holidays.

GS Mapping

GS2: Governance, Digital Identity, Public Service Delivery

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi inaugurated Maruti Suzuki’s fourth vehicle manufacturing facility at Kharkhoda, Haryana during the India-Japan Joint Economic Forum. The plant is expected to strengthen India’s automobile manufacturing capacity and India-Japan industrial cooperation.

Prelims Facts

• The plant is located at Kharkhoda, Haryana.
• It is Maruti Suzuki’s fourth vehicle manufacturing facility in India.
• The inauguration took place during the India-Japan Joint Economic Forum.
• The plant’s capacity will be expanded from 5 lakh units to 10 lakh units annually.
• The projected total investment at the facility is ₹35,000 crore.
• Suzuki cars made in India are exported to more than 100 countries.

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy, Manufacturing, Infrastructure; GS2: India-Japan Relations

News Item

The Jammu and Kashmir State Investigation Agency (SIA) filed a chargesheet in the 1990 killing of Kashmiri Pandit nurse Sarla Bhat, who worked at SKIMS, Srinagar. The chargesheet names JKLF chief Yasin Malik among five accused and is being viewed as a milestone in reopening legacy terror cases in Jammu and Kashmir.

Background

Sarla Bhat was abducted from near SKIMS in April 1990 and later killed during the peak phase of militancy in Kashmir. The case is significant because her killing was among the early targeted attacks on Kashmiri Pandits after the 1989 insurgency. The SIA re-investigation began decades later, when fear, displacement and lack of witness cooperation had long delayed proceedings.

Prelims Facts

• Sarla Bhat was a 27-year-old Kashmiri Pandit nurse at SKIMS, Srinagar.
• She was abducted in April 1990 and later killed during the peak of militancy in Kashmir.
• The J&K State Investigation Agency filed a chargesheet after nearly 36 years.
• The chargesheet names Yasin Malik among five accused.
• Only two of the five accused mentioned in the report are alive.
• The chargesheet is reportedly 737 pages long.
• The case is being viewed as a landmark in investigating legacy terror crimes in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Yasin Malik is already in Tihar Jail in connection with other terror funding-related convictions.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The case highlights the difficulty of delivering justice in conflict-era crimes after long delays. It underlines the need for specialised investigation, witness protection, digitisation of old records and credible prosecution in terrorism-related cases. At the same time, the rule of law requires that every allegation in the chargesheet be tested through fair trial and judicial scrutiny.

GS Mapping

GS3: Internal Security, Terrorism; GS2: Rule of Law, Justice Delivery

News Item

A report on the Ram Temple donation row explained how major Indian temples manage donations and why their governance systems differ. It showed that most major temples follow similar donation-handling safeguards, but operate under different models such as trusts, statutory boards, Devaswom boards, State departments, mahant-led systems and traditional community-based arrangements.

Background

Major temples receive donations in cash, jewellery, precious metals, digital payments and goods. Generally, donations are collected through hundis, opened by authorised persons, counted under CCTV surveillance, recorded officially, audited and deposited in bank accounts. The core governance issue is how to balance religious autonomy with transparency, audit and public accountability.

Prelims Facts

• The report was linked to the Ram Temple donation row and examined donation management in major Indian temples.
• Common donation safeguards include authorised opening of hundis, CCTV-monitored counting, separation of cash and valuables, official documentation, audit and bank deposit.
• Approximate annual donations cited in the report include Tirupati ₹1,880 crore, Vaishno Devi ₹230 crore, Ram Temple ₹150 crore, Siddhivinayak ₹100 crore, Kashi Vishwanath ₹80 crore and Puri Jagannath ₹18 crore.
• Ram Temple, Ayodhya follows a trust model under Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
• Tirupati is managed by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, and its donation counting is associated with the Parakamani system.
• Vaishno Devi is managed under the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Act, 1988.
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple is governed under the Uttar Pradesh Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Act.
• Jagannath Temple, Puri functions under the Shri Jagannath Temple Act.
• Tamil Nadu HR&CE Department administers over 40,000 temples under the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, 1959.
• Travancore Devaswom Board, constituted in 1950, manages several temples in Kerala, including Sabarimala.
• Traditional temple management models include family management, mahant system and akhada/panchayati system.
• Article 25(2) permits State regulation of secular activities associated with religious practice.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The report shows that temple donation management is both a religious and governance issue. Large public offerings require transparent financial systems, independent witnesses, CCTV records, professional audits, digital payment trails and clear responsibility of trustees or statutory bodies. However, State regulation must remain limited to secular administration and should not interfere with essential religious practices. A balanced model should ensure accountability without excessive bureaucratic control.

GS Mapping

GS2: Governance, Constitution, Transparency and Accountability; GS1: Indian Society, Culture and Religious Institutions

News Item

India has approved its first Private Point-in-Space (PinS) Instrument Approach Procedure for helicopter operations at Undavalli Heliport. Developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), it enables safer satellite-based approaches where conventional landing infrastructure is absent.

Prelims Facts

• India’s first private PinS Instrument Approach Procedure has been approved for Undavalli Heliport.
• It was developed by AAI and approved by DGCA.
• PinS uses satellite-based navigation for helicopter instrument approaches.
• It is useful where conventional landing infrastructure or ground-based navigation aids are unavailable.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology, Infrastructure

News Item

India and Japan agreed to deepen cooperation on strategic crude oil stockpiling, petroleum reserve mechanisms and maritime energy transport value chains. The agreement followed summit-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in New Delhi.

Prelims Facts

• India and Japan issued a Joint Statement on Energy Resilience on 02 July 2026.
• The statement followed talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in New Delhi.
• The partnership covers strategic crude oil stockpiling, petroleum reserve mechanisms and maritime energy transport value chains.
• Cooperation will include national stockpiling systems, industry stockpiles, coordination with producing countries, emergency response and market stabilisation.
• Indian stakeholders include Indian National Oil Companies and Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL).
• Japanese stakeholders include JOGMEC and Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).

GS Mapping

GS2: India-Japan Relations; GS3: Energy Security, Infrastructure

News Item

The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) concluded the second National Skill Olympiad on Seafood Value Addition during Seafood Expo Bharat 2026 in Kochi. The event tested the skills of ten trained seafood processing professionals in preparing value-added seafood products for export markets.

Prelims Facts

• The grand finale of the second National Skill Olympiad on Seafood Value Addition was held during Seafood Expo Bharat 2026 in Kochi.
• The event was organised by MPEDA.
• P. Surya Bhaskar of Devi Fisheries Limited, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh won the competition and received ₹1 lakh.
• Muthu Kumaran of Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu secured the second position.
• Sagarika Sardar of Kolkata and Barasarani Jena of Bhubaneswar secured the third and fourth positions respectively.
• Before the finale, MPEDA trained over 2,500 seafood processing workers through 50 training programmes across India’s east and west coasts.

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy, Exports, Food Processing

News Item

The 29th National e-Governance Conference concluded in Jaipur with the presentation of the National e-Governance Awards. The conference focused on digital governance, emerging technologies and better use of technology in public service delivery.

Prelims Facts

• The 29th National e-Governance Conference was held in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
• The conference concluded with the presentation of the National e-Governance Awards.
• The awards recognise outstanding e-governance initiatives by Central and State Governments and other organisations.
• Dr. Jitendra Singh was the chief guest at the valedictory and awards ceremony.
• The conference was jointly organised by DARPG, MeitY and the Government of Rajasthan.
• The concluding day included three plenary sessions on digital governance and emerging technologies.

GS Mapping

GS2: Governance, Transparency and Accountability; GS3: Science and Technology

News Item

Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth unveiled a roadmap titled VIJAY to transform the Indian Army into a technology-enabled, future-ready force. The roadmap focuses on vigilance, innovation, jointness, self-reliance and soldier-centric development for modern multi-domain warfare.

Background

General Dhiraj Seth was appointed as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff with effect from the afternoon of 30 June 2026. His roadmap comes in the context of the Indian Army’s transformation needs, changing nature of warfare, emerging security threats and greater emphasis on indigenous defence capabilities.

Prelims Facts

• General Dhiraj Seth is the 31st Chief of the Army Staff.
• He unveiled the VIJAY roadmap for a technology-enabled, future-ready Indian Army.
• V stands for Vigilance and Readiness.
• I stands for Innovation and Transformation.
• J stands for Jointness and Integration.
• A stands for Aatmanirbharta.
• Y stands for Yodha First.
• The roadmap emphasises multi-domain operational capability, indigenous technologies, civil-military fusion and a Whole-of-Nation approach.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The VIJAY roadmap is significant because future warfare will require speed, technology, integration and indigenous capability. Its focus on jointness can improve coordination among the three services, while Aatmanirbharta can reduce import dependence. However, effective implementation will need faster procurement, strong domestic research, training reforms, cyber and drone capabilities, and better civil-military coordination.

GS Mapping

GS3: Defence and Security, Technology, Internal and External Security

News Item

An opinion article argued that India’s energy security needs deeper coal chemistry capability, not only import diversification. It highlighted that while India managed the 2026 Strait of Hormuz disruption through refinery flexibility, long-term resilience requires domestic alternatives such as Dimethyl Ether (DME) produced through coal gasification to reduce LPG import dependence.

Background

India’s refineries have built the ability to process crude oil from multiple geographies, helping the country absorb crude supply shocks. However, LPG imports are more concentrated, making them harder to diversify. The article therefore argues for using India’s coal resources and scientific capability to produce domestic fuel molecules such as DME.

Prelims Facts

• The article was written by R.A. Mashelkar, distinguished scientist and former Director General of CSIR.
• The core argument is that India must move from crisis management to structural reduction of energy import dependence.
• During the Hormuz disruption, India’s non-Hormuz crude sourcing reportedly rose from 55% to 70%.
• Domestic LPG production during the crisis reportedly increased from 35 TMT per day to 54 TMT per day within five days.
• DME can be produced through coal gasification and can be blended with LPG.
• BIS has approved blending of up to 20% DME with LPG.
• A 20% DME blend could displace around 6.3 million tonnes of LPG imports annually and save nearly ₹34,000 crore in foreign exchange.
• The Surface Coal and Lignite Gasification Scheme has an outlay of ₹37,500 crore and targets 100 million tonnes of coal gasification annually by 2030.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The article’s significance lies in connecting energy security with indigenous science and industrial capability. India’s refinery flexibility shows that long-term investment in engineering, process control and skilled manpower can reduce vulnerability during external shocks. Coal-derived DME can become a strategic bridge fuel by reducing LPG import dependence, using domestic coal resources and utilising existing LPG infrastructure. However, coal chemistry must not be treated as a simple policy announcement; it needs technology adaptation for high-ash Indian coal, environmental safeguards, carbon management, water-use planning, catalytic research, private investment and strict safety standards.

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy, Energy Security, Science and Technology, Infrastructure; GS2: Governance and Strategic Policy

News Item

Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan presided over the MSME Day 2026–Udyami Bharat event in New Delhi and highlighted the MSME sector as a key pillar of Viksit Bharat by 2047. He urged universal MSME registration, cost-effective production, quality improvement and adoption of modern technology.

Prelims Facts

• MSME Day is observed on 27 June.
• The Vice-President stated that MSMEs contribute nearly 50% of India’s total exports.
• The event focused on formalisation, digital empowerment, access to finance, market linkages, technology adoption and innovation-led growth.
• Digital initiatives launched included PMEGP 2.0 Portal, SAMADHAAN 2.0 Portal, PMS Portal, MSME Global Mart 2.0 Portal, MSME Testing Portal and MSME Idea Hackathon 6.0.

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy; GS2: Governance

News Item

APEDA facilitated the first commercial export of GI-tagged Rewa Sundarja Mangoes from Madhya Pradesh to the United Arab Emirates. The consignment comprised one metric tonne of premium-quality mangoes and is expected to support growers in the Rewa region.

Prelims Facts

• APEDA facilitated the first commercial export of GI-tagged Rewa Sundarja Mangoes to the UAE.
• The mangoes were exported from Madhya Pradesh.
• The consignment comprised one metric tonne of premium-quality mangoes.
• GI registration helps create a distinct identity for region-specific agricultural products in international markets.

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy; GS3: Agriculture