Why in the News ? The Department of Higher Education has invited applications for the Prime Minister Research Chair (PMRC) Scheme 2026, a flagship initiative aimed at attracting global Indian researchers and strengthening India’s research, innovation, and technology ecosystem, including areas of environmental jurisprudence and sustainable development. Objectives and Key Features of PMRC Scheme: ● …
Why in the News ? The Government of India has decided to gradually replace the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) with a Producer Price Index (PPI) system. The move aims to modernize India’s inflation measurement framework, improve price tracking, and align with international statistical standards, similar to how environmental impact assessment frameworks have evolved to meet…
Why in the News ? The Society to Save Rocks has alleged that ancient rock formations in Ammuguda, Secunderabad Cantonment, are being destroyed through blasting activities to facilitate a real estate project, raising concerns over environmental conservation and protection of defence land. Destruction of Ancient Rock Formations ● Environmental activists have reported the systematic destruction…
Why in the News? The release of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-6 Factsheet has sparked debate after several important indicators related to sex ratio, cancer screening, sanitation, family planning, and anaemia were omitted despite data being collected during the survey. Key Indicators Removed from NFHS-6 ● The NFHS-5 (2019–21) factsheet contained 131 key indicators,…
Why in the News ? The ongoing conflict in South Sudan has intensified following renewed clashes between forces linked to President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, worsening a humanitarian crisis marked by displacement, food insecurity, and attacks on civilian infrastructure. Renewed Conflict and Political Instability ● South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, gained…
Why in the News ? The seizure of around 7,500 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup in Bihar has highlighted the growing misuse of the drug. Experts link the rise in addiction cases, particularly among youth, to its use as a substitute for alcohol following the State’s prohibition policy. Codeine: Medical Uses and Health Risks ● …
Why in the News ? The government has released the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) under a revised 2022-23 base year, showing industrial output growth of 4.9% in April 2026, lower than the 5.8% growth recorded in April 2025 under the earlier series. Industrial Performance Under the New IIP Series ● India’s industrial output, measured…
Why in the News ? The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant administered the oath of office to five newly appointed judges of the Supreme Court of India, following the Centre’s approval of their appointments and the recent expansion of the Court’s sanctioned strength. Appointment of Five New Supreme Court Judges ● CJI Surya…
Why in the News ? Scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have successfully mapped weather patterns on WASP-94A b, a giant exoplanet located about 700 light-years away, providing unprecedented insights into atmospheric processes on distant worlds beyond our Solar System. Groundbreaking Discovery on a Distant Exoplanet ● Researchers studied WASP-94A b, a hot…
Why in the News ? Bangladesh has approved the ambitious Padma Barrage Project on the Padma River (Ganga in Bangladesh) to address water scarcity and improve irrigation in its southwest region, while also reigniting debates over large-scale river engineering, environmental clearances, and ecological sustainability. Padma Barrage: Objectives and Key Features ● Bangladesh plans to construct…