SALMONELLA INFECTIONS: WHY INDIA NEEDS TO LOOK BEYOND TYPHOID AND DIARRHOEA

Why in the News? Salmonella infections are receiving renewed attention because India faces a dual challenge of underdiagnosed non-typhoidal Salmonella infections and rising antimicrobial resistance. While typhoid remains a major concern, non-typhoidal strains can cause severe invasive infections, particularly among vulnerable populations. Weaknesses in food safety, sanitation, surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship make Salmonella an important…

R. PRAGGNANANDHAA BECOMES FIRST INDIAN TO WIN GRAND CHESS TOUR

Why in the News? Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa created history by becoming the first Indian to win the Grand Chess Tour, defeating defending champion Fabiano Caruana 15–13 in the final at St. Louis, United States. His victory came after a remarkable comeback, including wins in both rapid games and a strong performance in blitz. PRAGGNANANDHAA’S…

JN Port Records Fastest Container Growth Worldwide in 2026

Why in the News ? Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPA) in Mumbai has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing container port, recording 13.6% growth in container throughput during the first half of 2026. It has climbed to the 21st position globally, strengthening India’s maritime profile. JNPA’s Rise in Global Rankings : ●     Jawaharlal Nehru Port…

Nepal Flash Flood Triggers Massive Humanitarian Emergency

Why in the News ? A massive flash flood in central Nepal has killed nearly 160 people, while more than 750 remain missing, including 133 Indian nationals. The disaster originated near the Nepal-Tibet border, damaging bridges and hydropower infrastructure and prompting major rescue efforts by Nepal, India and China. Flash Flood: Causes & Scale of…

Meghalaya Assembly Rejects Uranium Mining Amid Local Opposition

Why in the News ? The Meghalaya Assembly has passed a resolution opposing uranium mining and ore processing in the State. The move supports decades of resistance by local communities in uranium-bearing areas and invokes Meghalaya’s Sixth Schedule protections over community and private land and resources. Meghalaya’s Opposition to Uranium Mining: ●     The…

Israel-Lebanon Conflict Intensifies Environmental Damage in South

Why in the News ? Lebanese authorities and residents have accused Israel’s military of deliberately triggering fires and damaging forests and agricultural land in southern Lebanon. The allegations come amid continuing tensions with Hezbollah, despite a relative lull in hostilities and a recent Israel-Lebanon understanding. Widespread Fires and Land Destruction: ●     Southern Lebanon…

India-Japan Deeptech Partnership Set to Expand Innovation

Why in News ? India and Japan are seeking to deepen cooperation in startups, deep technology, innovation and MSMEs. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has proposed a four-pillar framework, including a $1 billion deep-tech fund, to strengthen investment, research and cross-border technology partnerships. India-Japan Startup & Deep-Tech Cooperation: ●     India and Japan…

Heatwave Funding Expands Under India’s Disaster Framework

Why in the News ? The Ministry of Home Affairs has recognised heatwaves and lightning as notified natural calamities, enabling States to access the full State Disaster Risk Management Fund. The move follows Sixteenth Finance Commission recommendations and seeks to strengthen heat-risk preparedness and response. New Framework for Heatwave Financing: ●     Heatwaves and…

UN Urges Global Rules for Autonomous Killer Weapons

Why in the News ? The United Nations (UN) and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have warned that rapid advances in autonomous weapons could soon enable machines to independently target humans. They urged countries to establish specific international bans and restrictions before such systems become widespread. Rising Threat of Autonomous Weapons: ●  …

Gorkhaland Demand Enters New Phase of Dialogue

Why in the News ? The Union Home Ministry has constituted a high-level committee to examine the long-standing Gorkha issue and prepare a framework for a “permanent political solution”. The move follows discussions among Gorkha leaders, the Centre and the West Bengal government. Historical Evolution of the Gorkhaland Demand: ●     The demand for…