NAMASTE Scheme Expansion Targets Safer Rural Sanitation

Why in the News ? The Centre is considering expanding the National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) from urban areas to rural India. The proposed expansion would cover additional sanitation workers and receive about ₹498.73 crore during 2026–27 to 2030–31. NAMASTE Scheme: Expansion and Key Features ●     The NAMASTE scheme was launched…

Nanavati Report Exposed State Failures In 1984 Riots

Why in News? Former Congress MP Sajjan Kumar died while serving a life sentence in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots murder case. His role and the wider findings of the Justice Nanavati Commission have again highlighted political complicity, organised violence and failures of the State machinery. Nanavati Commission and Findings on Sajjan Kumar ●    …

Territorial Army Launches Cybersecurity Hackathon For Innovation

Why in the News ? The Territorial Army has launched Terrier Cyber Quest 2026, a national-level hackathon to develop indigenous solutions for emerging defence and cybersecurity challenges. The initiative brings together students, researchers, industry, government organisations and Armed Forces personnel to strengthen India’s technological capabilities. Terrier Cyber Quest 2026: Key Features ●     The…

India Needs A Coherent Strategy For Arctic Engagement

Why in the News ? A Parliamentary Standing Committee report has highlighted the gap between India’s Arctic ambitions and capabilities. Despite an Arctic Policy since 2022, India lacks a coherent strategic narrative, adequate funding, dedicated polar infrastructure and coordinated institutional responsibility for addressing the region’s growing climate and geopolitical significance. Arctic’s Growing Importance for India…

Census 2027 Disability Categories Raise Representation Concerns

Why in the News ? Disability rights organisations have questioned the proposed nine-category disability framework for Census 2027, arguing that it fails to adequately capture all 21 specified disabilities recognised under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, potentially leading to inaccurate enumeration and underrepresentation. Proposed Disability Framework and Key Concerns ●    …

Supreme Court Re-examines Polygamy Through Constitutional Equality

Why in the News ? The Supreme Court has sought the Centre’s response to a petition challenging the constitutional validity of polygamy under Muslim Personal Law. The Court has also asked the government to consider legislative measures to abolish the practice for all citizens, bringing the issue of gender equality and personal laws into focus….

Dignity in Death: Supreme Court Upholds Hanging

Why in the News ? The Supreme Court has upheld the constitutional validity of hanging as a method of capital punishment, relying on the 1983 Deena v. Union of India precedent. However, it noted that future scientific or medical evidence could reopen the question of whether alternative methods better protect human dignity under Article 21….

Supreme Court Reaffirms Broad Meaning of Industry Under Labour Law

Why in the News ? A nine-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court, headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, has upheld the broad interpretation of “Industry” established in the 1978 Bangalore Water Supply judgment under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. The ruling clarifies its applicability while distinguishing the newer Industrial Relations Code, 2020. Supreme Court…

Maveeran Ondiveeran: A Forgotten Hero of Colonial Resistance

Why in the News ? Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan paid tribute to Maveeran Ondiveeran on his death anniversary, recalling his exceptional courage and sacrifice in resisting the East India Company. Ondiveeran served as a trusted commander under Puli Thevar and remains an important figure in India’s early resistance to colonial domination. Ondiveeran and His…

RBI’s Early FCNR Closure Raises Policy Concerns

Why in the News ? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to close the FCNR(B) deposit scheme earlier than originally planned.The facility, which was scheduled to remain open until 30 September, will now accept fresh deposits only until 31 August.The decision surprised banks and market participants because RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra had said…