Current Affairs Revision Hub

News Item

During the 5th meeting of the National Council for Senior Citizens in New Delhi, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar launched an e-book titled 'SNEHA'. The book highlights the government's major initiatives and inspiring stories of active ageing, reinforcing the commitment to a dignified and secure life for the elderly under the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.

Background

India is currently experiencing a significant demographic shift with a rapidly growing elderly population, which requires a robust social security and healthcare safety net. To address these needs, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment implements the Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY), a comprehensive umbrella scheme aimed at providing financial, healthcare, and emotional support to senior citizens. The National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSrC) acts as the highest advisory body to the government on these policies. During the recent meeting, the council reviewed the impact of AVYAY and deliberated on a landmark initiative to extend universal health insurance coverage under Ayushman Bharat (AB-PMJAY) to all senior citizens aged 60 years and above, irrespective of their financial background.

Prelims Facts

• The 'SNEHA' e-book focuses on the welfare, active ageing, and happiness of senior citizens.
• It was launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• The National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSrC) is chaired by the Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY) is the flagship umbrella scheme for the welfare of senior citizens in India.
• The government is deliberating extending the Ayushman Bharat (AB-PMJAY) health insurance scheme to cover all senior citizens aged 60 and above, regardless of income.

GS Mapping

GS2: Social Justice, GS2: Welfare Schemes for Vulnerable Sections

News Item

A Parliamentary Standing Committee has strongly recommended reviewing the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limits in private hospitals. The panel warned that aggressive corporatisation fueled by foreign capital is turning healthcare into a purely capitalistic enterprise, drastically pushing up medical costs and making treatments unaffordable for the common man.

Background

Under current regulations, India allows 100% FDI under the automatic route in the hospital sector to boost medical infrastructure. However, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare (in its 176th report) highlighted the negative consequences of this policy. Citing the 80th round of the National Sample Survey (NSSO), the panel noted a massive gap in affordability: the average cost of hospitalisation is ₹50,508 in private hospitals compared to just ₹6,631 in government hospitals. To counter this "unhealthy trend," the committee suggested redirecting foreign investments toward manufacturing medical devices and pharmaceuticals. It also recommended capping the cost of essential treatments and pushing private hospitals that receive government benefits to increase their mandatory bed reservations for BPL and Ayushman Bharat (AB-PMJAY) beneficiaries from the current 10% to 20%.

Prelims Facts

• The 176th report on 'Affordability and Accessibility of Healthcare Facilities' was tabled by the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare.
• In India, 100% FDI is currently permitted in the hospital sector under the automatic route (no prior government approval needed).
• The committee recommended increasing the mandatory bed reservation for BPL, EWS, and AB-PMJAY beneficiaries from 10% to 20% in private hospitals receiving government sops.
• The report cited the 80th round of the National Sample Survey (NSSO) to highlight the nearly eight-fold difference in hospitalisation costs between private and public hospitals.
• To attract investment in underserved areas, the panel proposed tax holidays for multi-speciality hospitals set up in tier-2, tier-3 cities, and rural areas.

GS Mapping

GS2: Social Justice (Health), GS2: Parliament and State Legislatures, GS3: Indian Economy (Investment Models)

News Item

India has been ranked a dismal 176th out of 177 countries in the latest Environmental Performance Index (EPI) 2026, prepared by Yale University. While India performed poorly in crucial areas like air quality and biodiversity, the Indian government has historically rejected the index, citing unscientific methodology and flawed assumptions.

Background

The Environmental Performance Index (EPI) is a biennial (every two years) global report developed by the Yale Center for Environmental Law & Policy in collaboration with the Center for International Earth Science Information Network (CIESIN) at Columbia University. Started in 2002, the index evaluates countries on environmental health, ecosystem vitality, and climate change mitigation. Over the years, developing nations like India have criticized the EPI because its metrics often ignore historical greenhouse gas emissions by developed countries and prioritize per-capita emission metrics that disproportionately favor wealthier, less populous nations.

Prelims Facts

• Estonia secured the 1st rank globally in the EPI 2026 with a score of 74.79.
• India ranked 176th out of 177 countries (score of 22.46), making it the second-lowest ranked country just above Laos.
• In the South Asian region, India ranked 7th among 8 countries.
• India's weakest performance was recorded in the Environmental Health, Air Quality, and Biodiversity parameters (ranked 174th).
• India showed relatively better performance in Climate Change (130th) and Waste Management and Sanitation (141st).

GS Mapping

GS3: Environment and Ecology | GS3: Conservation and Pollution

News Item

India has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the world’s second-largest supplier of seafarers, contributing 12.16% of the global maritime workforce. Surpassing China, Russia, and Indonesia, India now ranks only behind the Philippines, marking a massive leap from its fifth position in 2015.

Background

Seafarers are maritime professionals responsible for operating and navigating commercial ships, forming the backbone of global trade (as about 80% of world trade volume is carried by sea). India has seen remarkable growth in its maritime workforce, jumping from just 5.2% in 2015 to 12.16% in 2026. This surge is driven by government initiatives, robust maritime training academies, and strict adherence to international maritime standards under the Directorate General of Shipping.

Prelims Facts

• According to the 2026 report, India is the second-largest supplier of seafarers globally, contributing 12.16% of the workforce.
• The Philippines remains the top supplier of seafarers in the world.
• In 2015, India was ranked 5th globally, contributing only 5.2% to the global seafaring workforce.
• The International Maritime Organization (IMO), a UN specialized agency based in London, is responsible for regulating shipping and ensuring the safety and security of international shipping, including seafarer training standards (STCW Convention).

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy

News Item

The government recently shared the key findings of the National Family Health Survey-6 (NFHS-6, 2023-24) in the Lok Sabha. The survey reveals significant improvements in maternal and child health, such as increased institutional deliveries and vaccination rates, but highlights a worrying rise in obesity and high blood sugar levels among adults.

Background

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) is a large-scale, multi-round survey conducted in a representative sample of households throughout India. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has designated the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS) in Mumbai as the nodal agency for providing coordination and technical guidance. The data from NFHS is crucial for shaping India's health and family welfare policies, tracking sustainable development goals (SDGs), and assessing the effectiveness of ongoing government health schemes like Mission Indradhanush and POSHAN Abhiyaan.

Prelims Facts

• Institutional deliveries increased from 88.6% in NFHS-5 to 90.6% in NFHS-6.
• Full immunization coverage for children aged 12-23 months jumped to 87.1%, with the Rotavirus vaccine showing a massive increase from 36.4% to 85.4%.
• Child nutrition improved: Stunting (low height for age) decreased to 29.3%, and Severe Wasting (low weight for height) decreased to 5.2%.
• Lifestyle diseases are rising: Obesity increased among both women (30.7%) and men (27.3%), along with a rise in high blood sugar levels.
• The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) remains stable at 2.0, which is below the replacement level of 2.1.

GS Mapping

GS2: Social Issues

News Item

In a major boost to its economic policies, Gujarat has secured the top rank in NITI Aayog's inaugural Investment Friendliness Index 2026. With a score of 56.6, it outperformed Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, solidifying its position as India's most attractive destination for businesses. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh showcased strong potential by securing a spot in the 'Frontrunners' category.

Background

The NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) is the apex public policy think tank of the Government of India, established in 2015 to promote competitive and cooperative federalism. Its first-ever Investment Friendliness Index evaluates all 28 states and 8 UTs across 8 pillars and 84 indicators (like infrastructure, governance, and fiscal health). The index categorizes states into four tiers: Top Performers (Score >50), Frontrunners (45-50), Emerging Performers (40-45), and Aspiring States (<40). Gujarat's success is driven by its robust infrastructure (like GIFT City, India's first International Financial Services Centre), cheap industrial electricity, and strict fiscal discipline. Uttar Pradesh has made significant strides, earning a place among the 15 'Frontrunners', driven by its improving business climate and policy reforms.

Prelims Facts

• Gujarat secured the 1st rank, followed by Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, in NITI Aayog's first Investment Friendliness Index 2026.
• The index assesses all 28 States and 8 UTs using 84 specific indicators mapped under 8 foundational pillars.
• States are divided into 4 categories: Top Performers, Frontrunners, Emerging Performers, and Aspiring States.
• Uttar Pradesh has been placed in the Frontrunners category, showcasing its rapid emergence as an investment-friendly destination.
• Gujarat alone accounts for 31% of India's merchandise exports, showcasing its dominance in global trade.

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy (Growth & Development, Infrastructure, Investment Models)

News Item

The World Intangible Investment Report 2026, launched by World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and Luiss Business School, highlighted India’s rise as a global innovation powerhouse. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said India recorded the fastest growth in intangible investment among the world’s 15 largest economies, reaching USD 78.2 billion in 2023 with 7.9% growth.

Prelims Facts

• The World Intangible Investment Report 2026 was launched by WIPO and Luiss Business School.
• The report highlights investment in software, R&D, intellectual property, innovation and organisational capabilities.
• India’s intangible investment reached USD 78.2 billion in 2023.
• India recorded 7.9% growth in intangible investment.
• India was reported as having the fastest growth in intangible investment among the world’s 15 largest economies.
• Intangible investment in India grew ahead of tangible investment.
• Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said India is building a knowledge-driven future powered by ideas, innovation and enterprise.
• The report links India’s progress with reforms, digital transformation, startups and a strengthening innovation ecosystem.

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy, Innovation, Intellectual Property Rights, Startups, Digital Economy

News Item

The latest All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) reports for 2022-23 and 2023-24 show steady growth in India’s higher education sector. Total student enrolment rose to 4.50 crore in 2023-24, marking a 31.5% increase from 3.42 crore in 2014-15, while female enrolment rose by 42.2% during the same period.

Background

The Education Ministry’s survey covered data from 59,533 higher education institutions, with institutional participation above 90%. The reports highlight growth in inclusivity, women’s participation, STEM enrolment and participation of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes.

Prelims Facts

• The report is based on AISHE 2022-23 and 2023-24 data.
• Total higher education enrolment reached 4.50 crore in 2023-24.
• Total enrolment increased by 31.5% from 3.42 crore in 2014-15.
• Female enrolment rose from 1.57 crore in 2014-15 to 2.24 crore in 2023-24.
• Female enrolment increased by 42.2% since 2014-15.
• Overall GER reached 30.0 in 2023-24.
• Female GER rose to 31.2, higher than the national GER.
• Gender Parity Index stood at 1.08 in 2023-24.
• GPI has remained above 1.0 for seven consecutive years.
• SC enrolment rose by 51.4%, reaching 69.72 lakh.
• GER for SC students increased from 18.9 to 27.8.
• ST enrolment rose by 75.7%, reaching 28.83 lakh.
• GER for ST students increased from 13.5 to 22.8.
• OBC student numbers grew by 60.2%, from 1.13 crore to 1.80 crore.
• STEM enrolment increased from 91.5 lakh to 1.02 crore.
• Female share in STEM programmes increased from 38.4% to 44%.
• The data were self-reported by institutions through a web-based portal.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The AISHE data reflects important progress in higher education access, especially for women and marginalised communities. Higher female GER and a GPI above 1 show that women’s participation is now outpacing male participation in many areas. However, India must move beyond enrolment numbers and focus on quality, affordability, research capacity, STEM outcomes, employability and regional equity. Stronger data verification is also needed because AISHE data are self-reported by institutions.

GS Mapping

GS2: Education, Women Empowerment, Social Justice, Human Resource Development; GS3: STEM, Innovation, Skill Development

News Item

According to the International Gas Union’s World LNG Report, India’s LNG regasification capacity reached 52.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) across eight terminals in 2025, making it the fourth largest regasification market globally after surpassing Spain.

Prelims Facts

• India’s LNG regasification capacity reached 52.5 mtpa across eight terminals in 2025.
• India surpassed Spain to become the fourth largest regasification capacity market globally.
• The data is from the IGU World LNG Report.
• Dahej LNG Terminal has 17.5 mtpa capacity and is India’s largest LNG terminal.
• Dahej ranks as the sixth largest LNG regasification facility globally.
• India commissioned two LNG regasification projects in 2025.
• New onshore terminal: Chhara LNG, with 5 mtpa capacity.
• Expansion project: Dabhol LNG, whose capacity increased from 2.9 mtpa to 5 mtpa.
• Four LNG projects are under construction in India and are expected to add 11.3 mtpa capacity by 2028.
• India’s LNG regasification utilisation fell to about 47% in 2025, down from 58% in 2024.
• Asia led global LNG regasification capacity additions in 2025.
• China and India contributed 15.1 mtpa and 7.1 mtpa, respectively, to global additions.

GS Mapping

GS3: Energy Security, Infrastructure, Natural Gas Economy, Logistics

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

An editorial highlighted India’s worsening water stress, with cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi and Mussoorie facing severe water shortages. It argued that India cannot depend only on monsoon rainfall and must invest in climate-proof water systems, wastewater reuse, efficient irrigation, better urban finance and reliable river-basin-level water data.

Background

India has about 4% of the world’s water resources but supports nearly 18% of the global population. The editorial notes that 11 of India’s 15 major river basins are under water stress, while basins such as Krishna, Cauvery, Mahi and Tapi are already below the water scarcity threshold. A recent UNU-INWEH report has warned of global “water bankruptcy”, where water systems are overused, polluted or unable to meet essential needs.

Prelims Facts

• The editorial was written by Nitin Bassi, Fellow at the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW).
• India has about 4% of global water resources and supports nearly 18% of the world’s population.
• Water stress threshold: annual water availability below 1,700 cubic metres per person.
• Water scarcity threshold: annual water availability below 1,000 cubic metres per person.
• 11 of 15 major river basins in India are experiencing water stress.
• Basins mentioned below the scarcity threshold include Krishna, Cauvery, Mahi and Tapi.
• Delhi’s water supply was stated to have fallen to around 70% of total demand of 1,250 million gallons per day.
• A UNU-INWEH report warned of global water bankruptcy.
• Nearly three-fourths of the global population lives in water-insecure countries.
• The editorial suggests climate risk assessment, water reuse, efficient irrigation and basin-level water data as key reforms.
• CEEW analysis estimated that treated wastewater sale could create an economic opportunity of ₹3 lakh crore and 1,00,000 additional jobs by 2047.
• Urban Challenge Fund has central assistance of ₹1 lakh crore and supports Cities as Growth Hubs, Creative Redevelopment of Cities, and Water and Sanitation.
• Under UCF, the Centre can finance up to 25% of the cost of bankable projects, with significant funding expected from market sources such as bonds, bank loans and PPPs.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The editorial argues that India must move from emergency response to long-term water security planning. Four priorities stand out: climate-risk mapping of water infrastructure, circular water use through treated wastewater reuse, efficient irrigation and crop diversification in agriculture, and reliable river-basin-level data on withdrawals, losses and consumption. The Urban Challenge Fund is important because it can help cities finance water supply, drainage and sanitation projects, but its success will depend on project preparation capacity, municipal reforms, transparent governance and the ability of cities to mobilise market finance.

GS Mapping

GS3: Water Resources, Climate Change, Agriculture, Urban Infrastructure, Sustainable Development; GS2: Governance and Local Bodies

News Item

India has enriched its biodiversity by adding 709 animal species and 353 plant taxa to its national database in 2025. Unveiled by the Union Environment Minister, the latest discoveries confirm India's position as a premier mega-diverse country, with Kerala leading in new animal finds and Arunachal Pradesh topping plant discoveries.

Background

India is recognized as one of the 17 globally mega-diverse countries, harboring four major biodiversity hotspots (Himalaya, Indo-Burma, Western Ghats, and Sundaland). The documentation and conservation of this vast ecological wealth are managed primarily by two foundational institutions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC): the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), which catalogs animal life, and the Botanical Survey of India (BSI), which maps plant diversity. Regular scientific surveys by these bodies ensure that hidden species, from microscopic fungi to large mammals, are officially recorded, which is vital for planning sustainable conservation strategies in an era of rapid climate change.

Prelims Facts

• Fauna Additions (2025): 709 animal species added, bringing India's total officially recorded faunal biodiversity to 1,05,953 species.
• Top States (Fauna): Kerala recorded the highest animal discoveries (98), followed closely by West Bengal (76) and Karnataka (67).
• Highest Animal Group: Hymenoptera (sawflies, wasps, bees, and ants) saw the highest number of additions (106) among the fauna.
• Flora Additions (2025): 353 plant taxa were added to the database.
• Top States (Flora): Arunachal Pradesh led the plant discoveries (49), followed by Uttarakhand (39).
• Notable Fauna Discoveries: Include *Myotis himalaicus* (Himalayan bat) and *Lycodon irwini* (Irwin's wolf snake).
• Notable Flora Discoveries: Include *Polystichum siangense* (a fern from Siang, Arunachal Pradesh) and *Hericium indicum* (a wild edible tooth-fungus).

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The continuous discovery of new species highlights the immense, yet partially unexplored, ecological wealth of India. However, habitat destruction, unregulated land use, and invasive species severely threaten these newly found and endemic organisms before they can be fully understood. Strengthening the institutional capacity of ZSI and BSI, increasing domestic funding for taxonomy, and integrating local communities into biodiversity monitoring are critical steps needed to achieve the conservation targets set under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

GS Mapping

GS3: Environment and Ecology, GS3: Biodiversity

News Item

For the first time, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has reported that 12 of India’s estimated 190 nuclear warheads are "operationally deployed" (pre-assembled and ready to launch). This development highlights the maturation of India’s second-strike capability and submarine-based deterrent, ensuring maximum national security without shifting away from its traditional 'No First Use' policy.

Background

Historically, India maintained its nuclear arsenal in a "de-mated" state, meaning warheads were stored safely away from their delivery missiles to prevent accidental launches. However, with evolving geopolitical threats, especially the rapid expansion of China's nuclear arsenal (currently estimated at 620 warheads), India has modernized its forces. This includes operationalising nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and adopting "canisterised" Agni missiles. Keeping some weapons fully mated and deployed does not mean India is going to war; rather, it guarantees that even if an adversary launches a surprise first strike, India's weapons will survive and deliver a devastating retaliatory blow. This structural readiness is the very foundation of India's 2003 Nuclear Doctrine.

Prelims Facts

• The Nuclear Command Authority (NCA) of India consists of a Political Council chaired by the Prime Minister and an Executive Council chaired by the National Security Advisor (NSA). The final authority to launch nuclear weapons rests strictly with the Prime Minister.
• Canisterisation of missiles (like the Agni-V) involves keeping the missile integrated with its warhead in a sealed, climate-controlled tube. This drastically reduces the time required for launch and improves operational readiness.
• Globally, the nine nuclear-armed states possess an estimated 12,187 nuclear warheads as of January 2026.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• India's shift towards deploying a portion of its nuclear arsenal is a pragmatic response to the deteriorating global arms-control architecture and the aggressive modernization of Chinese forces. This move does not signal an abandonment of the 'No First Use' policy; instead, it reinforces it. A doctrine that relies solely on retaliation requires an absolute guarantee that the weapons will survive a first strike. Continuous SSBN patrols and canisterised land missiles provide this guarantee, thereby strengthening regional stability and maintaining a credible deterrence.

GS Mapping

GS3: Security Challenges and their Management in Border Areas, GS3: Defence Technology

News Item

On the occasion of the 20th National Statistics Day (June 29, 2026), the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released several key publications tracking India's progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including the National Indicator Framework (NIF) Progress Report, 2026.

Background

MoSPI, in consultation with NITI Aayog and UN agencies, developed the National Indicator Framework (NIF) to facilitate the monitoring of SDGs at the national level. The NIF provides a comprehensive evidence base for policymaking. MoSPI releases these reports annually on Statistics Day to reflect the continuous statistical evaluation of developmental schemes.

Prelims Facts

• Total Indicators: The NIF 2026 consists of 277 national indicators to track all 17 SDGs.
• Social Protection: The population covered by social protection systems/safety nets increased from 22.0% in 2016 to 65.3% in 2026.
• Maternal Health: The Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) declined from 122 (2015–17) to 87 per 1,00,000 live births (2022–24).
• Sex Ratio: Sex ratio at birth improved from 896 to 918 females per 1,000 male births (between 2015-17 and 2022-24).
• Employment: The unemployment rate dropped from 6.1% (2017-18) to 3.1% in 2025.
• Environment: The proportion of Ramsar sites area in the total wetland area increased from 4.15% (2016) to 8.66% (2026).
• Energy: Installed renewable energy capacity tripled from 64.04 Watts per capita (2014-15) to 193.36 Watts per capita (2025-26).

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The granular time-series data provided by the NIF 2026 report is essential for evidence-based policymaking and resource allocation. The positive trends in maternal health, social protection coverage, and renewable energy adoption demonstrate the effectiveness of targeted national initiatives. However, maintaining this momentum requires continuous statistical vigilance to identify lagging states or sectors and fulfill the global 2030 Agenda.

GS Mapping

GS2: Governance and Social Justice, GS3: Indian Economy