Government Clarifies Foreign Contribution Regulation Amendment Bill Provisions

Why in the News ? The Government of India has clarified provisions of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026 (FCRA) following concerns raised by minority institutions and Christian organisations regarding the powers of the proposed Designated Authority over assets created through foreign contributions. Key Clarifications on the FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026 ●  The Press…

Brazil Amazon Fires Decline Sharply Amid Conservation Efforts Success

Why in the News ? A recent MapBiomas report shows that forest fires in the Brazilian Amazon declined to their lowest level since 1985 during 2025, reversing the severe fire season of 2024. The development is significant for climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and global environmental governance. Amazon Fire Trends and Key Findings ●  According…

Lithuania Removes Soviet War Graves Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions

Why in the News ? Lithuania is relocating Soviet Red Army graves and memorials as part of its de-Sovietisation policy following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The move has intensified diplomatic tensions with Russia, which has accused Lithuania of attempting to rewrite history. Lithuania’s De-Sovietisation Drive ●  Lithuania has begun relocating Second World War-era Soviet Red…

Nation Pays Tribute To Revolutionary Chandra Shekhar Azad

Why in the News ? On the birth anniversary of Chandra Shekhar Azad, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the legendary revolutionary, remembering his immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle, patriotism, and sacrifice against British colonial rule. Tributes to Chandra Shekhar Azad ●  Prime Minister…

NSE Launches Ahimsa Index Promoting Ethical Investment Choices Nationwide

Why in the News ? The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has launched the Nifty 500 Ahimsa Index, India’s first thematic index based on the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence). This sustainable investing initiative enables investors to invest in companies that avoid harm to animals and follow ethical business practices, aligning with ethical investment criteria and purpose-driven…

White-Bellied Heron Faces Threat From Lohit Hydropower Project Today

Why in the News ? India’s White-bellied Heron, one of the world’s rarest birds, faces a serious threat from a proposed 1,200-MW hydropower project in the Lohit River Basin, Arunachal Pradesh. Conservationists have raised concerns that the project’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) failed to adequately consider the species and its critical habitat, highlighting health governance-like…

INS Malvan Strengthens India’s Indigenous Maritime Defence Capabilities Today

Why in the News ? The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Malvan, the second Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at Karwar, Karnataka. Built under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the warship significantly enhances India’s coastal defence and indigenous naval capabilities, reflecting the nation’s commitment to self-reliance across critical sectors including defence, even as emerging…

France Restricts Social Media Access For Children Under Fifteen

Why in the News ? France has passed a landmark law prohibiting children below 15 years from accessing social media platforms and banning mobile phone use in schools. The legislation aims to protect children’s mental health, improve learning outcomes, and create a safer digital environment, addressing concerns raised by BRICS health ministers and global health…

Goa Celebrates Mankurad Mango On National Mango Day Together

Why in the News ? On National Mango Day, Goa celebrated its renowned Mankurad Mango, highlighting its cultural and agricultural significance. The State Government also reaffirmed its support for Mankurad cultivation through financial assistance, orchard development incentives, and measures to strengthen the horticulture sector, contributing to improved health financing for rural communities. Mankurad Mango: Heritage…

Uttar Pradesh Launches Rani Lakshmibai Scooty Scheme For Merit

Why in the News ? The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has approved the implementation guidelines for the Rani Lakshmibai Scooty Yojana. The scheme aims to promote girls’ higher education, reduce dropout rates, and improve access to colleges, especially in rural and remote areas. Key Features of the Rani Lakshmibai Scooty…