Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link].

in

State & Union Territories................................................................................................................................................... 3

Union Territories ........................................................................................................................................................... 3
Ladakh ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 3
Jammu & Kashmir ...................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Chandigarh ............................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Delhi ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Puducherry ............................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Andaman and Nicobar ............................................................................................................................................................. 33
State News .................................................................................................................................................................. 35
Himanchal Pradesh .................................................................................................................................................................. 35
Punjab ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Uttarakhand ............................................................................................................................................................................. 47
Haryana .................................................................................................................................................................................... 56
Rajasthan ................................................................................................................................................................................. 67
Uttar Pradesh ........................................................................................................................................................................... 77
Gujarat ................................................................................................................................................................................... 103
Madhya Pradesh .................................................................................................................................................................... 117
Maharashtra .......................................................................................................................................................................... 125
Chhattisgarh ........................................................................................................................................................................... 147
Goa ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 150
Telangana ............................................................................................................................................................................... 155
Andhra Pradesh ...................................................................................................................................................................... 166
Karnataka ............................................................................................................................................................................... 177
Kerala ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 189
Tamil Nadu ............................................................................................................................................................................. 201
Odisha .................................................................................................................................................................................... 216
Jharkhand ............................................................................................................................................................................... 227
Bihar ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 232
West Bengal ........................................................................................................................................................................... 244
Sikkim ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 248
Assam ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 254
Arunachal Pradesh ................................................................................................................................................................. 273
Nagaland ................................................................................................................................................................................ 279
Manipur .................................................................................................................................................................................. 281
Mizoram ................................................................................................................................................................................. 286
Tripura .................................................................................................................................................................................... 290
Meghalaya ............................................................................................................................................................................. 293

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]

UNION TERRITORIES
Ladakh
Zanskar Winter Sports & Tourism Festival
1. Zaskar Winter Sports and Tourism Festival
2. Apricot Blossom Festival
2024-25 successfully organized in Ladakh
3. Safai Andolan Day
4. Sixth Schedule Demand
5. 1st Hydrogen Bus
6. Suru Summer Festival

▪ The festival was organized by the Department of Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh at Atting Village in Zanskar
▪ Featured exciting winter sports events and cultural performances, highlighting the region’s vibrant traditions and
promoting tourism.

Ladakh celebrates Apricot Blossom Why does Ladakh want to be part of the
Festival 2025 to boost eco-tourism Sixth Schedule?
▪ Inspired by the Cherry Current Status
Blossom Festival of ▪ The National
Meghalaya in the Commission for
northeast, Ladakh Scheduled Tribes
introduced the (NCST) has recommended inclusion of Ladakh
Apricot Blossom under the Sixth Schedule.
Festival two years ago to boost ecotourism ▪ However, the government has not yet
▪ At Tar village, which is recognised as the best implemented it, citing that the Sixth Schedule
tourism village in 2024 under the Responsible is originally designed for the Northeast, not for
Tourism Category by the Union Tourism UTs like Ladakh.
Ministry. ▪ Instead, the Centre has set up committees to
▪ Ladakh, being one of the biggest producers of explore other forms of protection.
apricots in the country Ladakh’s Demand
▪ After the abrogation of Article 370 (2019),
Ladakh has declared August 12 as a Safai Ladakh was carved out as a separate Union
Territory (UT) without a legislature.
Andolan Day
▪ Local communities (especially tribal groups)
▪ In an attempt to check water
feel politically underrepresented and
pollution and promote
vulnerable to demographic and cultural
conservation of the Indus
changes.
River, Ladakh has declared
Current Status
August 12 as a Safai Andolan
▪ The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes
Day for the mighty river.
(NCST) has recommended inclusion of Ladakh
▪ On this day, a mass movement for cleaning up
under the Sixth Schedule.
in and around the Indus River and its
▪ However, the government has not yet
tributaries across Ladakh will be organised
implemented it, citing that the Sixth Schedule
collectively by the government agencies of the
is originally designed for the Northeast, not for
Union Territories, communities and the Indian
UTs like Ladakh.
Army, Indian Air Force, Paramilitary forces,
▪ Instead, the Centre has set up committees to
Border Road Organisation.
explore other forms of protection.

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Ladakh’s Demand raised by the civil society in Ladakh over the
▪ After the abrogation of Article 370 (2019), past five years.
Ladakh was carved out as a separate Union ▪ All new rules and regulations have been made
Territory (UT) without a legislature. under Article 240 of the Constitution, which
▪ Local communities (especially tribal groups) allows the President to make regulations for
feel politically underrepresented and UTs without the legislature.
vulnerable to demographic and cultural 1. Ladakh Civil Services Decentralization and
changes. Recruitment (Amendment) Regulation, 2025
• This regulation introduces a domicile
requirement for recruitment in government
posts under the Union Territory of Ladakh, for
the first time. To be considered a local
(domicile) of Ladakh, you must meet one of
the following criteria:
• Have lived in Ladakh for at least 15 years.
• Studied in Ladakh for at least 7 years and
appeared for Class 10 or 12 exams there.
• Children of central government employees
Tribal Safeguards who have served in Ladakh for 10 years are
▪ Over 95% of Ladakh’s population belongs to also eligible.
Scheduled Tribes (STs). 2. Ladakh Civil Services Domicile Certificate Rules,
▪ Sixth Schedule protection would safeguard 2025
land, jobs, language, and culture from outside • These rules lay out the procedure and
influence. documentation required to obtain a domicile
Autonomous Governance certificate
▪ Currently, as a UT without legislature, Ladakh is 3. Union Territory of Ladakh Reservation
directly controlled by the Centre. (Amendment) Regulation, 2025
▪ Sixth Schedule status would give locals a say • This regulation caps the total reservation for
through Autonomous Councils, reducing Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST),
alienation. Other Backward Classes (OBC), and other
Protection of Land and Resources socially and educationally backward groups at
▪ Sixth Schedule would prevent outsiders from 85%, excluding the 10% reservation for
buying land or exploiting natural resources, Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
protecting tribal rights. 4. Ladakh Official Languages Regulation, 2025
Cultural & Ecological Preservation • This law recognises English, Hindi, Urdu, Bhoti,
▪ Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem and unique and Purgi as the official languages of Ladakh. It
Buddhist-Muslim tribal culture need legal also mandates institutional support for the
protection from unregulated tourism, mining, promotion of Shina, Brokskat, Balti, and
and migration. Ladakhi, for preserving Ladakh’s linguistic and
cultural diversity.
Centre’s new regulations for jobs and 5. Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils
domicile in Ladakh (Amendment) Regulation, 2025
▪ Since the • This amends the LAHDC Act of 1997 to reserve
abrogation of one-third of the seats for women in the
Article 370, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development
demands have Councils of Leh and Kargil, through rotation -
been raised for promoting gender representation in local
including Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the governance.
Constitution.
▪ The Centre has notified a series of regulations
for Ladakh’s land, jobs, and cultural
preservation, aimed at addressing concerns

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]

First-ever hydrogen buses in Ladakh closely related to peaches, plums, almonds,

and cherries.
launched; initiative to cut 350- MT carbon,
▪ Globally: Cultivated across temperate regions,
produce pure oxygen especially in the Mediterranean, Central Asia,
▪ In a historic and North America.
milestone for ▪ In India: Grown in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh,
sustainable Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and other dry
transportation, temperate and mid-hill regions.
India has launched Features:
its first-ever ▪ Trees are small and spreading with bright
commercial green leaves; flowers are white and self-
hydrogen fuel cell pollinated.
bus service in Leh, ▪ Drought-resistant and long-lived (some up to
Ladakh 100 years).
▪ The green hydrogen buses were handed over ▪ Distinct varieties in India include wild
by NTPC Limited to the State Industrial “Zardalu” and cultivated “Khubani.”
Development Corporation (SIDCO) in a formal
ceremony held at NTPC's hydrogen mobility Suru Summer Festival 2025
station in Palam, Leh.
▪ Suru Summer Festival is
▪ The world's first hydrogen fuelling station at
organized for the first time
such a high altitude, 11,562 feet above sea
▪ on 26th August 2025
level, was launched by NTPC in November last
▪ at Thulus Spang, Suru
year. Co-located with a 1.7 MW solar plant, the
Valley, Kargil, Ladakh.
station operates entirely on renewable power.
▪ organized by the
Department of Tourism, UT Ladakh, in
Shayok village in Ladakh to create First- collaboration with LAHDC Kargil and District
ever botanical garden for conservation Administration Kargil
▪ In eastern Ladakh, Shayok ▪ to celebrate the breathtaking beauty,
village, situated on the way adventure sports potential, and cultural
to Galwan Valley, is richness of the Suru Valley.
working to convert its 10 ▪ The valley has been recognized by National
hectares of barren Geographic as one of the 25 best places in the
community land into a world to visit in 2025.
botanical garden for the
conservation of varieties of Leh Kicks Off Ladakh Festival 2025 with
fruits, medicinal plants and Grand Celebration of Culture, Arts,
flora and fauna of Ladakh.
▪ will be the first-ever botanical garden in the Tourism
Union Territory. ▪ The Ladakh
▪ It is being developed as part of the ongoing Go Festival 2025
Green Go Organic initiatives in Ladakh commenced in
Leh - celebration
of Ladakh's rich
Apricots of Ladakh
cultural heritage,
▪ Fresh apricots from
arts, and tourism.
Kargil, Ladakh, have been
▪ The four-day
introduced to Saudi
festival, running from September 21 to 24.
Arabia for the first time during India’s 79th
▪ Organized by the Ladakh Autonomous Hill
Independence Day celebrations in Riyadh,
Development Council (LAHDC) Leh, the festival
under t he One District One Product initiative.
aims to promote the region's traditions and
▪ Apricot (Prunus armeniaca) is a temperate
boost tourism.
fruit tree belonging to the Rosaceae family,

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Nyoma airbase activation boosts India’s

Ladakh frontline readiness

▪ The Indian Air Force (IAF) has operationalised

the Nyoma Air Base in Eastern Ladakh, with
Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh making the
▪ It is predominantly celebrated by the Tibetan
inaugural landing on a C-130J aircraft.
Buddhists.
▪ Location: Nyoma subdivision, Leh district,
▪ Ladakhi New Year is the major religious festival
Ladakh; near southern bank of Pangong Tso,
of Ladakh celebrated in winter for prayer for
~30 km from the LAC, on the northern bank of
prosperity, good crops and wealth in the
Indus River.
upcoming year from pastoral farming.
▪ Newly operationalised IAF airbase at Mudh-
▪ It is celebrated for 15 days. It starts on Tibetan
Nyoma, capable of handling fighter jets, heavy
New Year. They follow Lunar calendar.
transport aircraft, and helicopters; among the
▪ New year is welcomed with dough Models of
highest operational airfields at 13,700 ft.
Ibex, Sun and Moon and flour painted lucky
History
signs on the walls of the kitchen.
▪ Built 1962 as mud airstrip; later inactive.
▪ The third day of New Year is celebrated with
▪ 2009: AN-32 reactivated it.
sightings of the first moon of the year with
▪ Post-2020 China standoff: Supported C-130J,
prayer for bumper crops in the coming year.
helicopters.
▪ During Losar evening processions called
▪ 2023–24: BRO built 2.7-km paved runway
METHO is held in streets, lanes and markets.
(₹218 cr) under Project Himank.
▪ During Metho, people carry flaming torches
▪ Nov 2025: Fully operational with hangars &
and chant slogans
ATC.
Geological Features
▪ Located in a high-altitude cold desert,
surrounded by rugged mountains and the
Changthang plateau.
▪ Extreme temperatures down to –30°C, with
very short construction windows.
▪ Close to strategic valleys: Hanle, Chumar,
Demchok; near Kailash Range and Skakjung
plains.

Ladakh celebrates its New Year festival

Losar 20 Dec
▪ Ladakh is celebrating the Losar Festival to mark
the Ladakhi New Year.

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Jammu & Kashmir

1. Sonmarg Tunnel PM Modi inaugurates Sonamarg Tunnel in J&K
2. Herath festival
3. Tawi Filmotsva
4. Watan ko Jano Programme
5. E-Sehat App
6. Mission Mausam
7. Operation Shiva
8. Chenab Railway Bridge
9. Tawi River
10. Sawalkote hydropower project

▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi, inaugurated the strategic Z-Morh tunnel in Sonamarg area in the Ganderbal
district of Jammu and Kashmir.
▪ CM Omar Abdullah and LG Manoj Sinha, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari are also present.
▪ The tunnel has been renamed Sonamarg tunnel, after the famous tourist resort that will have round-the-
year connectivity.
▪ Overseen by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation

▪ Initially started by the Border Roads connectivity between Srinagar and Sonamarg
Organisation (BRO) in 2012, NHIDCL taking while providing safe access to the strategically
over and retendering the contract in 2019. important Ladakh region.
▪ The name “Z-Morh” derives from the Z- ▪ The Sonamarg Tunnel project, spanning
shaped roadway that existed before the approximately 12 km, boasts a construction
tunnel’s construction, which was situated at an cost exceeding Rs 2,700 crore, which includes
elevation of over 8,500 feet and was the main tunnel of 6.4 km
susceptible to snow avalanches during winter,
▪ Concurrently, the construction of the Zoji-la J&K: JKRLM set to organize 3rd edition of
Tunnel—linking Sonamarg in Kashmir to Dras
SARAS Aajeevika Mela at Kala Kendra
in Ladakh—is in progress, with completion
▪ The Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood
slated for December 2026.
Mission (JKRLM) is going to organise the third
Location and significance:
edition of the SARAS Aajeevika Mela, a vibrant
▪ The Z-Morh Tunnel is Positioned at an altitude
celebration of India’s art, culture, and
exceeding 8,650 feet, the tunnel will enhance

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
traditions, from February 20 to March 1 at ▪ The festival, organised by the J&K Cine
Kala-Kendra in Jammu. Association, was held at Abhinav Theatre in
▪ SARAS Aajeevika Mela will provide a unique Jammu.
platform for rural women artisans associated
with the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM Govt imposes 5-year ban on Awami Action
(DAY-NRLM) to exhibit and sell their products
Committee, Jammu and Kashmir Ittihad Ul
directly to consumers.
Muslimeen
Herath Festival ▪ The Ministry of
Home Affairs
▪ A festival for the
(MHA) declared
Kashmiri Pandit
the Jammu and
community,
Kashmir Awami
marking their
Action Committee
unique celebration of Mahashivratri.
(AAC), headed by
▪ It typically begins on the 13th day of Phalgun,
Mirwaiz Umar
which falls in February or March, and lasts
Farooq, and the
until the new moon.
Jammu and
▪ The term “Herath” is derived from “Har-Ratri,”
Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), headed
meaning “night of Hara,” a reference to Lord
by Mohammad Abbas Ansari, as “unlawful
Shiva. This festival embodies the unity of
association” for the next five years.
divine forces and celebrates the sacred union
of Shiva and Parvati.
‘Watan Ko Jano’ Programme: Promoting
PM participated in Jahan-e-Khusrau 2025 National Integration Among Kashmiri
on 28th February in New Delhi Youth
▪ The ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme, organized by
the Government of Jammu and Kashmir under
the funding from Ministry of Home Affairs,
Government of India.
▪ Aimed at fostering national integration by
exposing children of the age less than 18
years from government-run homes to the
▪ the internationally renowned grand Sufi music cultural, historical, and technological
festival, Jahan-e-Khusrau 2025, held at Sunder advancements of other parts of the country.
Nursery in New Delhi, marking the festival’s
25th anniversary.
PM Modi will flag off first Vande Bharat
▪ from February 28 to March 2
▪ Organized by the Rumi Foundation, the Express to Kashmir from Katra on April 19
festival was founded in 2001 by filmmaker and
artist Muzaffar Ali. Paying tribute to the
legendary poet and musician Amir Khusrau

J&K: LG Manoj Sinha Inaugurates ‘Tawi

Filmotsva’ in Jammu

▪ PM Modi will flag off the first Vande Bharat

▪ a short film festival dedicated to promoting train to Kashmir from Katra, marking the
local talent.
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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
completion of the 272-kilometre Udhampur- ▪ The app also supports medical students by
Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project. providing information on academic courses,
▪ The ambitious project to connect Kashmir by hostel accommodations, library facilities, and
train began in 1997 student exchange programmes
▪ Jammu-Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express
will reduce the travel time to 3 hours. Currently Kishtwar Chosen as Aspirational
the road route takes at least 6 to 7 hours
Agricultural District Under PM Dhan
▪ The Jammu-Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat
Express will initially operate from Katra as the Dhaanya Krishi Yojana
Jammu railway station is undergoing
renovation.
▪ The project includes 38 tunnels spanning a
total of 119 km, with the longest among them
being the 12.77 km-long Tunnel T-50 -
country's longest transportation tunnel.
▪ The project also features 927 bridges, covering
a combined length of 13 km.
▪ Among them is the iconic Chenab Bridge,
which has an overall length of 1,315 meters,
an arch span of 467 meters, and stands 359 m
above the riverbed - world’s highest arch
railway bridge.
▪ On the Katra-Banihal section the train will also
traverse another engineering marvel, the Anji
Khad bridge which is India’s first cable stayed NEWS: The district of Kishtwar in Jammu & Kashmir
bridge. It is 725 metres long; with the support has been selected as an Aspirational Agricultural
of 96 cables, it stands 331 metres above mean District under the Prime Minister Dhan Dhaanya Krishi
sea level. Yojana (PMDDKY).
▪ Scheme Approval: Originally announced in the
J&K CM Omar Abdullah Launches e-SEHAT Union Budget 2025–26, the scheme has an
App for Accessible Digital Healthcare annual outlay of Rs 24,000 crore for six years,
starting from 2025–26.
▪ Selection Criteria: Districts were chosen based
on low agricultural productivity, low cropping
intensity, and limited credit access.
▪ It merges 36 schemes from 11 Union
Ministries to create a unified agricultural
support system.

▪ It offers detailed information on healthcare

institutions, including doctor availability,
appointment booking options, diagnostic
services, as well as tele-consultation,
telemedicine, and emergency care
▪ For the general public, the app includes tools
for health promotion and disease prevention,
an AI-powered symptom checker

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]

Mission Mausam Kiru hydropower project

NEWS: The Central
Bureau of
Investigation (CBI)
recently filed a
chargesheet against
the former Jammu and Kashmir Governor and five
others over alleged irregularities in the Rs 2,200-crore
civil works contract for the Kiru hydropower project.
▪ It is a 624 MW run-of-river scheme on
the Chenab River in the Kishtwar district
▪ The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) of Jammu & Kashmir.
will install four additional radars under Mission ▪ The project site lies at the convergence point
Mausam in Jammu & Kashmir for more of the Chenab River with the Singad and Bela
accurate, district wise specific weather streams.
forecasts. ▪ It will include the construction of a concrete
Mission Mausam gravity dam
▪ It was launched by the Ministry of Earth ▪ The project is being developed by Chenab
Sciences in [Link] is implemented by the India Valley Power Projects (CVPP), a joint
Meteorological Department (IMD), the venture between National Hydroelectric
National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Power Corporation (NHPC, 49%), Jammu &
Forecasting (NCMRWF), and the Indian Kashmir State Power Development
Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). Corporation (JKSPDC, 49%), and Power
▪ It aims to improve weather and climate Trading Corporation (PTC, 2%).
services, ensuring timely and precise Feature Details
observation, modeling, and forecasting Location Kishtwar district, Jammu &
information for multiple sectors, including
Kashmir, India
agriculture, disaster management, and rural
River Chenab River
development
Installed 624 megawatts (MW)
Capacity
Operation Shiva Type Run-of-the-river hydropower
▪ Security project
forces are Project Chenab Valley Power Projects
preparing to Developer Pvt. Ltd. (CVPPPL) – a JV of NHPC
launch Ltd, JKSPDC, and PTC India Ltd
Operation Estimated Cost Around ₹4,287 crore
Shiva to guard Expected Scheduled for completion by
the upcoming Amarnath yatra, and thousands Commissioning 2025–26
of personnel will be assigned duties in Jammu
and Kashmir to ensure that the annual Hindu
pilgrimage to a mountain cave shrine goes
Indian Railways Launches First-Ever Cherry
smoothly. Cargo Service from Katra to Mumbai
▪ The Amarnath Yatra is a famous Hindu
pilgrimage that takes devotees to the
Amarnath Cave Temple in the Himalayan
mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, India.
▪ It is considered one of the holiest shrines
dedicated to Lord Shiva.
▪ Indian Railways, in collaboration with the
Horticulture Department, has commenced the
first-ever dedicated cherry cargo movement
from Katra Railway Station to Mumbai.

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
▪ This initiative aims to support local
horticulturists by providing them with a
reliable and efficient means of transporting
perishable goods to distant markets.

PM Modi today foundation stone &

inaugurated multiple projects worth over
46 thousand crore rupees in J&K About Chenab Railway Bridge
▪ A steel-arch railway bridge built over
the Chenab River in Jammu & Kashmir.
▪ It is the highest arch bridge in the world, with
a deck height of 359 meters from the riverbed
— making it 35 meters taller than Paris’s iconic
Eiffel Tower
▪ Chenab railway bridge is a steel-and-concrete
marvel spanning 1,315 meters across the river
▪ Mr. Modi inaugurated the world’s highest gorge
railway arch bridge – Chenab Bridge Key Features of the Bridge:
and India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge – ▪ Wind Resistance: Up to 266 km/h and
Anji Khad Bridge. earthquake-resistant (up to magnitude 8).
▪ He also dedicated the Udhampur-Srinagar- ▪ Temperature Tolerance: Up to –20°C.
Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) to the nation ▪ Blast-Proof: Can resist explosions equivalent to
which has been constructed at a cost 40 tonnes of TNT.
of around 44 thousand crore rupees. ▪ Lifespan: 120 years and trains can run up
▪ The rail link will connect the Kashmir Valley to to 100 km/h.
the vast Indian plains by train for the first Location:
time. ▪ Situated between Bakkal and Kauri
▪ The completely electrified 272-km railway villages in Reasi district, Jammu & Kashmir.
line, passing through 36 tunnels and 943 ▪ Forms a critical part of the Udhampur–
bridges in the rugged Himalayas, opens new Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
avenues of growth, trade and tourism. ▪ Connects Katra to Sangaldan, enabling rail
▪ It begins in the garrison city of Udhampur in access to Srinagar.
the Jammu region and runs through Kashmir’s Who Built It?
main city of Srinagar. The line ends in ▪ Overseen by Konkan Railway Corporation, a
Baramulla, a town near the Line of Control. division of Indian Railways.
▪ PM Modi also flagged off two specially ▪ The design and construction were carried out
designed Vande Bharat trains between Shri by a joint venture involving Afcons
Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar - will Infrastructure, South Korea-based Ultra
halve the travel time between Srinagar and Construction & Engineering Company, and
the town of Katra in the Jammu region to VSL India.
about three hours from the usual six to seven
hours by road. Govt notifies new Jammu Railway Division
▪ The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link
(USBRL) project ensures all weather
connectivity and the Vande Bharat trains from
Katra to Srinagar will boost spiritual tourism
and create livelihood opportunities
▪ The Prime Minister also laid the foundation
stone of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of
Medical Excellence in Katra worth over 350
▪ The Railway Ministry has through a gazette
crore rupees. It will be the first medical college
notification dated declared Jammu as a new
in Reasi district

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rail division under the Northern Railway zone
from June 1.
▪ Carved out from the existing Firozpur Division,
headquarter at Jammu Tawi under Northern
Railway
▪ The Jammu division was inaugurated by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi virtually earlier on
January 6 this year. (69th Division)

J&K Tourism to Host Dogri Food Festival at

Amantran from June 2–5

▪ In Jammu and Kashmir, the Tourism

Department of is organizing Dogri Food Festival States/Regions It Flows Through:
at Amantran, Satwari. ▪ Primarily flows through Doda, Udhampur, and
▪ The event will feature a Dogri food village, Jammu districts.
traditional pottery, live performances, mehndi ▪ Crosses into Pakistan’s Punjab, eventually
art, and even camel rides. joining the Chenab River.
▪ Tributary Status: Tawi is a left-bank tributary of
Kheer Bhawani Mela celebrated with the Chenab River, a key river in the Indus River
Traditional fervor at Mata System.
Key Features:
Ragnya Devi Shrine
▪ Length: 141 km.
▪ The annual Kheer
▪ Catchment area: 2168 km² up to the Indian
Bhawani Mela was
border.
celebrated with great
▪ Major tributaries include Raji, Gou Karan, and
traditional fervour at the
seasonal streams supporting perennial flow.
sacred shrine of Mata
Ragnya Devi at Tulmulla
in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. Infrastructure Push for Jammu and
▪ Kheer Bhawani Temple is considered one of Kashmir
the holiest sites for Kashmiri Hindus. The ▪ The Central Government sanctioned 19 major
temple derives its name from the traditional infrastructure projects worth ₹10,637 crore in
offering of ‘kheer’ Jammu and Kashmir.
▪ The celebration takes place on Jyeshtha ▪ Four projects—Pir Ki Gali Tunnel, Sadhna
Ashtami Tunnel, Zaznar-Shopian Road, and Trehgam-
Chamkote Road—stand out for their strategic
Tawi River and security importance.
▪ Nine individuals, including pilgrims and ▪ A significant road and tunnel infrastructure
labourers, were rescued from the Tawi River in initiative by the Central Government to boost
Jammu after a sudden flash flood caused by connectivity, security, and development in
heavy rainfall. border and remote regions of Jammu and
▪ The Tawi River flows through Jammu region of Kashmir.
Jammu and Kashmir and later enters Pakistan- ▪ Total approved outlay: ₹10,637 crore
administered territory. ▪ Implementing agencies: BRO (Border Roads
▪ It originates from the Kailash Kund glacier (Kali Organisation) and earlier NHIDCL (now relieved
Kund) near Bhaderwah in Doda district. of key tunnels)

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Key Projects and Features: Guryul Ravine Fossil Site
Pir Ki Gali Tunnel (Mughal Road): ▪ The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has
▪ Length: 9 km warned of severe threats to the Guryul Ravine
▪ Location: Between Chatta Pani (Poonch) and fossil site in Kashmir due to ongoing quarrying
Zaznar (Shopian) and land diversion.
▪ Purpose: Enables all-weather connectivity on ▪ Guryul Ravine is situated in Khonmoh, on the
historic Mughal Road outskirts of Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.
Sadhna Tunnel (Kupwara-Karnah): ▪ It is a 252-million-year-old geological fossil
▪ Length: 7 km site, capturing Earth’s greatest mass
▪ Significance: Connects Kupwara to Karnah, extinction—the Permian–Triassic boundary
near the Line of Control (LoC) (PTB). It offers unmatched insight into ancient
▪ Use: Ensures round-the-year access, especially climate change and evolutionary events.
for troop movement and locals during snow- Features of Guryul Ravine:
induced closures. ▪ Permian–Triassic Marker: Hosts rare fossil
Zaznar-Shopian Road: evidence of the ‘Great Dying’ event that wiped
▪ Length: 28 km out 90% of marine and 70% of terrestrial
▪ Function: Part of proposed Surankote– species.
Shopian–Baramulla Highway ▪ World’s Oldest Tsunami Record: Exposed
▪ Benefits: Improves valley-to-border linkage, layers contain geological proof of Earth’s first
reduces reliance on NH44. known tsunami.
Trehgam-Chamkote Road: ▪ Global Research Hub: Visited by geologists
▪ Length: 68 km from over 10 countries, including USA, Japan,
▪ Stretch: Kupwara to Teetwal near the LoC and China, for academic studies.
▪ Purpose: Enhances border area infrastructure, ▪ Declared Fossil Zone: Notified under
supports military logistics and civilian Government Order of 2017 for protection of
movement. 9.8 lakh sqm.

Indian Army Launches Operation SHIVA Operation Mahadev: Three LeT terrorist
2025 for Amarnath Yatra Security killed in encounter with security forces in
J&K's Dara
▪ Indian Army's Chinar
Corps said that three
Lashkar-e-Taiba
terrorists were killed in
the ongoing
"Operation Mahadev"
near Dara region in
J&K.
▪ deploying over 8,500 troops amid rising threats
from Pakistan-backed terror outfits in Kashmir.
J&K Gets First Direct Unlocking System at
▪ Operation SHIVA is a high-altitude annual
security operation led by the Indian Army to Dinanagar Railway Station
ensure safe and smooth conduct of the Shri ▪ The first direct unlocking
Amarnath Yatra in Jammu & Kashmir. system has been installed
▪ Launched By: Indian Army, in coordination at Dinanagar railway station
with the civil administration, Central Armed in Northern Railway's
Police Forces (CAPFs), and disaster response Jammu division, a step that
teams. is expected to improve
efficiency and safety in
railway operations.

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▪ The direct unlocking system ensures that the ▪ The treaty outlines water usage rights over six
safe passage of trains is ensured, thereby rivers of the Indus River System, categorizing
reducing the risk of accidents. them into Eastern and Western rivers.
▪ The system also streamlines the movement of ▪ The Eastern rivers—Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—
trains, and improves the efficiency of train are allocated for India’s exclusive and
operations. unrestricted use.
▪ The Western rivers—Indus, Jhelum, and
Sawalkote hydropower project Chenab—are allocated primarily to Pakistan.
▪ The treaty gives Pakistan access to about 70%
of the water, while India retains around 30%.

PM Modi Flags Off Amritsar–Katra Vande

Bharat Train to Boost Devotee Travel,
Local Economy
▪ Prime
Minister
Narendra
▪ Months after India put the Indus Waters Treaty Modi
(IWT) on hold, it is now moving to revive a flagged off
long-stalled Sawalkote hydropower project on Amritsar –
the Chenab — first envisioned six decades ago Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat
but held back by the very treaty with Pakistan. Train.
▪ It is a 2,185 megawatt (MW) run-of-the-river ▪ Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir
hydroelectric plant proposed on the Chenab Manoj Sinha expressed deep gratitude to the
River in the Ramban District of Jammu and Prime Minister for the Amritsar–Katra
Kashmir. connection
▪ It will be the largest hydroelectric project in
the Union Territory and one of the biggest in J&K: Annual Mela Patt Festival Begins in
North India. Bhaderwah
▪ The project was first conceptualised in the
1980s.
▪ It is expected to generate over 7,000 million
units of electricity annually.
▪ The project, to be executed by National
Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) Ltd in
collaboration with Jammu and Kashmir State
Power Development Corporation Limited
(JKSPDC), is estimated to cost ₹22,704 crore.
▪ The project would feature a 192.5-metre
concrete gravity dam.
▪ By regulating the flow of the Chenab River, the
Sawalkote project could contribute to flood
▪ In Jammu and Kashmir, the annual three-day
mitigation downstream, while also ensuring
Mela Patt, dedicated to Lord Vasuki Nag, the
better water management for agriculture and
presiding deity of Bhaderwah Valley,
domestic use
commenced at the ancient Khakhal Mohalla in
Indus Waters Treaty
Badherwah town in Doda district.
▪ The IWT was signed in 1960 between India and
▪ The festival, rooted in the Nag culture, marks
Pakistan, with the World Bank acting as a
the historic meeting between Mughal
mediator.
Emperor Akbar and King Nag Pal of
Bhaderwah.

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
▪ The festival is being celebrated since the 16th Jammu and Kashmir Revives 150-Year-Old
century.
Darbar Transfer After Four-Year Hiatus
▪ It is observed every year on Nag Panchami,
seven days after the conclusion of the Kailash
Yatra
▪ Festivities include the Jhari procession, where
a metallic "Jahari" is carried through the town
to the Vasuki Nag Temple
▪ The iconic “Patt” display—a decorated, conical
arrangement of silk cloths and floral
embellishments—is carried in procession
▪ The unique ‘Dikko Dance,’ a traditional folk
performance where men and women of all ▪ Revived in 2025 after a 4-year pause (since
religions and backgrounds participate, serves 2021) due to financial concerns.
as a symbol of peace, pride, and communal ▪ An administrative tradition where the J&K
harmony. government shifts offices between Srinagar
Element Details and Jammu with the changing seasons.
When Annually on Nag Panchami, lasting 3 ▪ Started in 1872 by Maharaja Gulab Singh, the
days first Dogra ruler of J&K (including present PoK
Where Khakhal Mohalla, Bhaderwah, Doda areas).
district ▪ Purpose: Ensure governance reached people
Significance Commemorates divine episode despite poor connectivity.
between Raja Nag Pal & Akbar Capitals:
Key Rituals Jhari procession, Patt display, Srinagar – Summer Capital
Dikko/Dhakku dance Jammu – Winter Capital
Highlight Dikko Dance—symbol of peace & Continued post-independence as a symbol of
Feature communal harmony administrative unity between regions.
Legacy Celebrated for over 600 years—free
from conflict Improvised Explosive Device

Maruti Suzuki becomes first automaker to

deliver cars to Kashmir by rail
▪ A key bridge under the Udhampur–Srinagar–
Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project) has been
commissioned in 2025.
▪ Expected to enhance connectivity and logistics
efficiency in Jammu & Kashmir.
▪ J&K Police arrested seven locals linked to a
▪ This bridge is a critical element in India’s push
terror module; 2900 kg of IED-making
to link the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the
materials and arms seized.
country through rail.
▪ What is an IED? An improvised explosive
device — an unconventional explosive weapon
that can take many forms and be activated in
different ways.
▪ Forms & damage: Range from small pipe-type
devices to large, sophisticated bombs; damage
depends on size.
▪ Delivery/placement: Car-borne, person-borne,
placed/thrown, sent in packages, or roadside-
concealed.
▪ History: Term became common during the Iraq
War (from 2003).

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PM Modi Mentioned Ramban Sulai Honey Jammu & Kashmir Gets Its First Gen Z Post
and Khiamniungan tribe in Mann Ki Baat Office
Ramban Sulai Honey: ▪ The first Gen Z Post
▪ Produced in Office in Jammu &
Ramban district Kashmir was
(Jammu & Kashmir); inaugurated at
known for rich taste, the AIIMS Vijaypur
aromatic floral campus, aimed at
undertones, and modernising postal
high nutritional services to be
value. more technology-
▪ Extracted from Sulai enabled and youth-centric.
(wild basil) plants growing in the Himalayas; ▪ Aim: To modernise conventional post office
prized for medicinal properties and purity; services and make them appealing for Gen
contains essential minerals, enzymes, and Z through technology-driven solutions.
vitamins.
▪ Received GI tag in 2021. Chillai-Kalan
Khiamniungan Tribe
▪ Major Naga tribe living in Eastern Nagaland
and NW Myanmar.
▪ Name means “source of great water/river.”
Economy
▪ Farming, traditional jhum cultivation.
▪ Known for centuries-old cliff-honey hunting.
Festivals
▪ Tsokum Sumai – harvest blessing (Sept–Oct).
▪ Khaotzao Sey Hok-ah Sumai – end of ▪ Kashmir is set to enter Chillai Kalan amid rain
agricultural activities. and snowfall.
▪ Chillai Kalan: a 40-day period of the harshest
winter cold; Persian term meaning “Major
Asia’s longest Ski drag lift, revolving
Cold.”
conference hall opened in Gulmarg ▪ Duration: 21 December – 30 January; marked
by widespread snowfall, sub-zero
temperatures, and intense cold waves.
▪ Followed by Chillai-Khurd (20 days: 31 Jan–19
Feb) and Chillai-Bacha (10 days: 20 Feb–2
Mar).
▪ Cultural note: 21 December is observed as
Shab-e Yalda (also called Shab-e Chelleh /
“Night of Forty”).
▪ The inauguration of Asia’s longest ski drag lift
and rotating conference hall at an altitude of Buddhist Site Unearthed in Kashmir’s
4,390 metres, to match with world-class Zehanpora
facilities for skiers in north Kashmir’s • The 2,000-year-old Buddhist site was
Gulmarg. discovered mounds at Zehanpora village (in
▪ The newly-inaugurated ski drag lift and training Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district).
facilities would give a major boost to winter • It has revealed stupas, monastic buildings, and
sports and professional skiing. structures dating back to the Kushan period
▪ Asia’s longest ski drag lift, measuring 726 and also highlighting Kashmir's Buddhist past.
metres, is located at Kongdoori , Gulmarg and • It's believed that Zehanpora may have served
has come up at a cost of ₹3.65 crore. as an important Buddhist centre having links
▪ The rotating conference hall cost ₹86 lakh. to the elusive Kushan capital, Huvishkapura.

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in 2007 by the
National
Hydroelectric
Power
Corporation
Limited.
▪ Under the plan,
water will be
diverted from
the Stage-I
• Mounds in the village are man-made, not power station through a separate tunnel
natural formations. The village is situated on measuring 3,685 metres in length and 8.5
the ancient trade and pilgrimage route, metres in diameter to form a horseshoe-
connecting Gandhara with Kashmir. shaped pondage for Stage-II.
▪ The project also includes a surge shaft, a
pressure shaft, and an underground
Dulhasti Stage-II Hydropower Project powerhouse housing two 130 MW units,
A panel under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and
resulting in a total installed capacity of 260
Climate Change recently approved the 260-megawatt
MW and an annual energy generation.
Dulhasti Stage-II hydropower project on the Chenab
▪ The project is estimated to cost more than Rs
river in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district.
3,200 crore.
About Dulhasti Stage-II Hydropower Project
▪ It is an extension of the existing 390 MW
Dulhasti Stage-I Hydroelectric Project
(Dulhasti Power Station), which has been
successfully operating since its commissioning

Chandigarh
1. 1st Slum free City Chandigarh becomes India’s
2. Sukhna Lake first slum-free city

▪ Chandigarh has officially become India’s first slum-free city, marking a significant
milestone in urban development.
▪ On September 30, 2025, the administration demolished Shahpur Colony in Sector
38 (West), the city's last remaining slum.

Sukhna Lake (places in NEWS)

▪ It is an artificial India International Science Festival 2025
lake located in Launched to Inspire Innovation and
the city of
Growth
Chandigarh at
▪ To celebrate and promote science and
the foothills of
innovation in India.
the Shivalik hills,
▪ Scheduled from 6 to 9 December 2025 at
created in 1958.
Panjab University, Chandigarh.
▪ The lake is
▪ The festival’s theme, Vigyan Se Samriddhi –
declared
National Wetland Science to Prosperity.
by the Government of India. ▪ Inception in 2015.
▪ The lake is also a part of the Sukhna Wildlife
Sanctuary.
▪ Sukhna Lake has the longest channel for
rowing and yachting events in Asia.

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]

Delhi
What is ‘Pujari Granthi Samman’ Scheme?
1. Grameen Bharat Mahotsav ▪ The Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana, a scheme promising a
2. Ayushman Arogya Mandirs monthly honorarium of Rs 18,000 for all temple priests and
3. Delhi’s gurdwara granthis in Delhi if AAP returns to power in the
4. New CM upcoming Assembly elections.
5. Shishtachar Squad ▪ The scheme has not been passed by the Delhi Cabinet.
6. Mahila Samridhi Yojana
7. Hamari Parampara hamari Virasat Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the
Program Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025
8. Asia’s First Dedicated Cancer
Centre for Women
9. MLA on Wheels
10. Government on Wheels
11. Nayi Disha initiative
12. Prashast App
13. Cloud Seeding
14. Never Alone App

▪ at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

▪ The week-long event, running from January 4 to 9,
▪ Themed “Building a Resilient Rural India for a Viksit Bharat 2047”
▪ motto “ग ां व बढ़े , तो द़े श बढ़े ”
▪ aims to enhance rural infrastructure, create self-reliant economies, and foster innovation within rural
communities. Its objectives include promoting economic stability and financial security among rural
populations, with a special focus on North-East India

PM Modi inaugurates Namo Bharat ▪ Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone
for the new state-of-the-art building for the
corridor in Delhi
Central Ayurveda Research Institute (CARI) at
Rohini, New Delhi

Delhi’s Mohalla Clinics to be renamed

‘Ayushman Arogya Mandirs’

▪ Delhi gets its first Namo Bharat connectivity.

▪ Prime Minister inaugurated the 13 km stretch
of Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat
corridor between Sahibabad and New Ashok
Nagar, worth around Rs 4,600 crore.
▪ Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of ▪ Mohalla clinics set up by the outgoing AAP
26.5 km Rithala - Kundli section of Delhi government would be renamed as Ayushman
Metro Phase-IV Arogya Mandirs
▪ This corridor will connect Rithala in Delhi to ▪ Mohalla clinics, the centrepiece of the Aam
Nathupur (Kundli) in Haryana, significantly Aadmi Party government’s health
enhancing connectivity in the North-Western infrastructure, were first set up in October
parts of Delhi and Haryana. 2015. The Capital has 546 mohalla clinics
spread across 70 Assembly constituencies.

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Modi to inaugurate 98th All India Marathi ▪ Vijender Gupta to be sworn in as Delhi
assembly speaker after victory from Rohini
Literature Convention in Delhi
▪ Rekha Gupta is the 4th woman to become the
▪ (Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan)
Chief Minister of Delhi. She is also the 18th
▪ from February 21 to 23
woman to become the Chief Minister in India.
▪ marking the event’s first stint in the national
▪ Sucheta Kriplani was the first woman Chief
capital since Maharashtra’s formation in 1960.
Minister in India. She was the Chief Minister of
▪ Delhi last hosted the convention in 1954,
the United Province (later Uttar Pradesh) from
under the leadership of Sanskrit scholar
1963 to 1967.
Lakshman Shastri Joshi and with former Prime
Minister Jawaharlal Nehru as chief guest

▪ This year’s convention will be presided over by

Dr. Tara Bhawalkar, an acclaimed writer and
folk culture researcher, only the sixth woman
to lead the event in its 128-year history.
▪ In a tribute to Maharashtra’s legacy, Talkatora
Stadium will temporarily be renamed
“Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Sahitya Nagari”
▪ The three-day convention is expected to attract Other Women Chief Minister in Delhi
over 5,000 delegates, including authors, ▪ Sushma Swaraj of the BJP was the first woman
scholars, and cultural ambassadors. Chief Minister of Delhi - for the shortest
term of 52 days.
BJP wins massive victory in Delhi ▪ Sheila Dikshit - longest-serving Chief Minister
of Delhi over 15 years.
Assembly elections; Set to form ▪ Atishi Marlena - youngest Chief Minister of
Government Delhi.

Provision Regarding CM and Ministers in

NCT Delhi
▪ NCT Delhi is one of the eight Union Territories
in the country.
▪ It is one of the three Union Territories with a
popularly elected Legislative Assembly, the
other being Puducherry and Jammu and
Kashmir.
▪ The BJP staged a thumping comeback in Delhi ▪ The 69th Constitutional Amendment Act
after more than 26 years as it won 48 of the 1991 added articles 239AA and [Link] the
68 contesting seats from 70 in the Assembly constitution and has made provisions regarding
polls the Legislative Assembly and the power and
▪ The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) secured victories functions of the Chief Minister and the
from 22 seats Council of Ministers in NCT Delhi.
▪ The BJP’s vote share was 45.56%, while the ▪ The President appoints the Chief Minister of
AAP secured 43.57% votes and the Congress’s NCT Delhi.
poll percentage was 6.34. ▪ The maximum number of ministers, including
▪ Former CM Atishi has won from the Kalkaji the Chief Minister in the Council of Ministers in
seat NCT Delhi, cannot be more than 10 per cent of
the total members of the Legislative Assembly.
Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi’s new CM ▪ Thus, it cannot be more than 7 as the total
▪ The BJP had a comeback in Delhi after more number of members of the Delhi Legislative
than 26 years as it won 48 of the 70 seats in Assembly is 70.
the Assembly polls ▪ The President appoints the Ministers on the
advice of the Chief Minister.

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Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan What is TRIFED?

▪ a national-level organisation under the
inaugurated Saras Aajeevika Food Festival
Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
2025 in New Delhi ▪ It is primarily engaged in the development and
▪ Union Minister for Rural Development, Shivraj marketing of tribal handicrafts and natural
Singh Chouhan inaugurated the Saras products.
Aajeevika Food Festival 2025 in New Delhi. ▪ It came into existence in 1987
▪ The festival, will run from 1st - 9th December ▪ Mandate: Capability enhancement for Tribals,
2025. promotion of tribal products, and creation of
▪ Around 300 ‘Lakhpati Didis’ (women marketing opportunities for the Tribals
entrepreneurs) and women from Self-Help ▪ It has been entrusted by the Government of
Groups from 25 states across the country are India to implement its proposed Minimum
participating. Support Price Scheme for Minor Forest
Lakhpati Didi initiative : Produce.
▪ It is not a scheme but an output of the ▪ Head Office: New Delhi
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural
Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) scheme of 16th February – Delhi Police celebrated it
the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD).
▪ DAY-NRLM aims to bring at least one woman 78th Raising Day
member from each rural poor household into ▪ 1861 (originally
the fold of SHGs and to support them to founded as a security
take economic activities. force under the
▪ A "Lakhpati Didi" is a member of a SHG who British rule)
has successfully achieved an annual household ▪ 16 February
income of Rupees One Lakh or more. 1948 (renamed as
Delhi Police)
▪ Nityanand Rai,
President Droupadi Murmu to inaugurate
Minister of State for Home Affairs - Chief Guest
Aadi Mahotsav 2025 on Feb 16 ▪ Sanjay Arora, Commissioner of Police, Delhi.
▪ 44 police personnel awarded for Gallantry,
Distinguished Service and Meritorious Service.
▪ The trophy of best police station was awarded
to PS Ambedkar Nagar

Delhi Police to create ‘Shishtachar’ Squad

to Combat Eve-Teasing
▪ Shishtachar
squads,
comprising
men and
women
officers, will be
deployed
across spots
with higher
rates of crimes
▪ at the Major Dhyanchand Stadium in New against women.
Delhi ▪ 12-member teams: An Inspector will head
▪ It is organized by Tribal Cooperative Marketing each team with a Sub-Inspector, four female
Development Federation of India Limited constables, five male constables and a
(TRIFED) under the aegis of the Ministry of constable from the district’s Anti-Auto Theft
Tribal Affairs, will showcase the rich diversity Squad for technical assistance.
of India's tribal heritage. ▪ Each district will have at least two such teams

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
▪ along the lines of the ‘Anti-Romeo Squads’ ▪ It collects, processes, and stores pasteurised
introduced in Uttar Pradesh by Yogi donor milk for premature and critically ill
Adityanath in 2017. newborns.
▪ Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora

Delhi Govt Approves Mahila Samridhi

Yojana, ₹2,500 Aid for Women

▪ Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s

government has approved the Mahila Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya
Samridhi Yojana under which eligible women
beneficiaries would get a monthly allowance inaugurated Fit India Carnival in New
of Rs 2,500. Delhi
▪ portal for registration and the terms and
conditions for the scheme would be launched
soon.
▪ The Delhi government has announced a Rs
5,501-crore fund under the ‘Nari
Sashaktikaran’ (women empowerment)
initiative
NOTE: Neither the Chief Minister nor the government
has specified who will qualify for the scheme.

Delhi L-G inaugurates Amrut Biodiversity

Park
▪ Inaugurated by
Vinai Kumar Saxena
▪ Located along NH-
24 in the Yamuna
floodplains, this ▪ Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Dr.
park spans 90 Mansukh Mandaviya will inaugurate the Fit
hectares. India Carnival at JLN Stadium in New Delhi
▪ features 14,500 ▪ The three-day fitness and wellness festival
native plants and aims to promote a healthy and active lifestyle,
tree species and 3,20,000 riverine grasses. aligning with the Fit India Movement’s vision
▪ Aims to restore and rejuvenate the floodplain of a fitter, healthier, and obesity-free nation.
ecosystem. ▪ It will include a host of sports activities
▪ Its theme – India’s freedom struggle. including rope skipping, stationary cycling, arm
wrestling, cricket bowling among others.
AIIMS launched Payodhi Milk Bank
▪ AIIMS, New Delhi launched ‘Payodhi’, a human
milk bank, to provide pasteurised donor
human milk for critically ill preterm babies in
the NICU.

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India develops first indigenous MRI ▪ Created and implemented by the Ministry of
Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA), Government of
machine, set to be installed at AIIMS Delhi
India.
for trials ▪ The NeVA platform is hosted on Meghraj 2.0,
An MoU was also signed India’s cloud infrastructure
between AIIMS Delhi Features:
and the Society for • Designed for paperless operations, NeVA
Applied Microwave provides real-time access to key legislative
Electronics Engineering documents, such as agendas, bills, and reports.
and Research (SAMEER), • The platform features a secure digital
an autonomous body repository, safeguarding the confidentiality and
under the Ministry of integrity of legislative data.
Electronics and • The platform also offers multilingual
Information Technology - capabilities, catering to the linguistic diversity
for the installation of the across states and regions, making it accessible
1.5 Tesla MRI scanner. to a broader range of users.
▪ The first legislature to join the National e-
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta presents ₹1 lakh Vidhan Application (NeVA) platform was
crore budget the Nagaland Assembly

Ministry of Panchayati Raj organises

national-level ‘Hamari Parampara Hamari
Virasat’ program in Delhi
▪ A special event
under the “Hamari
Parampara, Hamari
▪ With ten focus areas, including Yamuna Virasat” program,
cleaning, economic empowerment of women, held in conjunction
infrastructure, water, and connectivity, with Sarhul
▪ The total Budget outlay for fiscal year 2025-26 Mahotsav 2025, by
marks a 31.5% increase from the previous the Ministry of
year. Panchayati Raj
▪ Allocates Rs 5,100 crore for the Mahila (MoPR), in
Samruddhi scheme, and Rs 2,144 crore for the collaboration with
Ayushman Bharat scheme. the Government of Jharkhand, in New Delhi
▪ The Mahila Samriddhi Yojana allocates About Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat
₹2,500/month to eligible women with a ▪ Launched on 26th January 2025 by the
household income under ₹3 lakh Department of Panchayati Raj, Government of
Jharkhand.
Delhi becomes 28th legislature to join ▪ Supporting Ministry: Ministry of Panchayati
Raj, Government of India.
the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) Focus Areas: Preservation of tribal cultural heritage,
platform including:
▪ National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA) • Folk songs
platform - promoting paperless legislative • Festivals
governance. • Worship practices
▪ NeVA - A digital platform designed to • Traditional governance systems
modernize legislative operations by enabling Aligned with the Panchayats (Extension to the
paperless proceedings and real-time access to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA Act), which
legislative documents. empowers Gram Sabhas to safeguard tribal customs
and traditions.

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Delhi L-G declares govt holiday on ▪ Launched on 23rd September 2018

▪ It is recognized as the largest health assurance
Ambedkar Jayanti
scheme in the world.
▪ Delhi Lieutenant
▪ Under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, eligible
Governor VK Saxena
families receive an annual health coverage of
▪ Dr. Ambedkar was a
up to Rs. 5 lakh per family, per year for
social reformer,
secondary and tertiary care hospitalization
jurist, economist,
▪ The National Health Authority (NHA) is
author, polyglot
the apex body responsible for overseeing the
(knowing or using
implementation of the Ayushman Bharat
several languages)
health insurance scheme.
orator, a scholar, and
thinker of comparative religions.
▪ He is known as the Father of the Indian Indigenously developed HPV test kits for
Constitution and was India's first Law cervical cancer screening launched in
Minister. Delhi
▪ He was the Chairman of the Drafting
Committee for the new Constitution.

Delhi joins Ayushman Bharat scheme,

becomes 35th State/UT to implement it
▪ Delhi became the
35th State/UT to
implement the
Ayushman Bharat
Pradhan Mantri
Jan Arogya Yojana
(AB PM-JAY)
▪ AB PM-JAY will provides free health cover of
Rs. 5 Lakh to each beneficiary family per year.
▪ In addition, Delhi government would be giving
an additional top-up of 5 lakhs over and above
the cover provided by Central Government.
▪ The signing ceremony was presided by Shri
Jagat Prakash Nadda, Union Minister of Health
and Family Welfare & Chemicals and Fertilizers
in presence of Smt. Rekha Gupta, Chief
Minister, Government of NCT Delhi
▪ Indigenously developed (Human
▪ With the implementation of AB PM-JAY in
papillomavirus) HPV test kits for cervical
Delhi, all senior citizens aged 70 years and
cancer screening have been developed under
above, will be covered under Ayushman Vay
the Department of Biotechnology's (DBT)
Vandana Yojana which provides Rs 5 lakh free
partnership programme Grand Challenges
health cover to all senior citizens of the age 70
India (GCI) at the Biotechnology Industry
years and above irrespective of their socio-
Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).
economic status.
▪ These test kits, developed by Molbio
▪ West Bengal remains the only state yet to
Diagnostics Limited, Bangalore, and Mylab
adopt it.
Discovery Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Pune, are a
Scheme Overview
significant leap forward in improving cancer
▪ Ayushman Bharat is a flagship healthcare
diagnostics in the country.
initiative by the Government of India, designed
▪ Owing to its late diagnosis and with
to provide accessible and affordable
consequent poor survival, 25% of global
healthcare services to vulnerable sections of
society.

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
mortality due to cervical cancer occurs in (ECHS), or Ayushman Central Armed Police
India Force (CAPF) must choose between continuing
▪ The key feature of these kits is the inclusion of with their existing scheme or opting for
only the seven-eight most common cancer- coverage under AB PM-JAY.
causing types that will allow a very efficient
and cost-effective screening programme which Maitri 2.0 Cross-Incubation Programme
will be most suitable for India ▪ Recently, the Indian Council of Agricultural
▪ Cancer of the uterine cervix is the second Research (ICAR) launched the second edition of
most common cancer among Indian women. the Brazil–India Cross-Incubation Programme
According to WHO data, one out of every five in Agritech (Maitri 2.0) at New Delhi.
women in the world suffering from the disease ▪ The Maitri 2.0 programme aims to: Strengthen
is an Indian incubator linkages between India and Brazil.
▪ Additional Data: Nafithromycin, India’s first ▪ Promote co-incubation models and exchange
indigenous antibiotic of best practices.
▪ Open new opportunities in sustainable
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri & agriculture, digital technologies, and agri-value
Delhi CM launch Ayushman Vay Vandana chains.
▪ Foster inclusive innovation ecosystems that
Cards
directly benefit farmers.

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Inaugurates Apollo

Athenaa, Asia’s First Dedicated Cancer
Centre for Women in New Delhi
On September 16, 2025,
▪ Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Delhi Chief Minister
Minister Hardeep Singh Puri inaugurated the Rekha Gupta inaugurated
scheme at Thyagaraj Stadium, distributing the Apollo Athenaa, Asia’s
first batch of Ayushman Vay Vandana cards to first dedicated cancer
beneficiaries. care centre exclusively for women, located in Defence
▪ The Delhi government introduced the Colony, New Delhi
Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme, offering
senior citizens aged 70 and above a Delhi CM launches ‘MLA on Wheels’
comprehensive health cover of up to ₹10 lakh initiative for grassroots governance
annually. ▪ Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched the ‘MLA
▪ This initiative combines ₹5 lakh coverage from on Wheels’ initiative to bring governance
the central government’s Ayushman Bharat closer to the people and resolve their
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) grievances.
with an additional ₹5 lakh provided by the ▪ To bring governance directly to citizens'
Delhi government. doorsteps, eliminating the need for them to
▪ The scheme ensures free medical tests and visit government offices for grievance redressal
treatments for eligible senior citizens in Delhi, and service access
irrespective of income levels. ▪ Mobile Office: Equipped with a laptop,
▪ Only two things are required: first, you should stenographer, clerk, Wi-Fi, microphones, and
be a resident of Delhi, and second, you should seating for up to 10 people
have an Aadhaar card.
▪ Functionality: Registers and forwards public
▪ This scheme is portable, and any Delhi
complaints to the appropriate departments
resident, even if they are outside the city, can
efficiently
enrol.
▪ Senior citizens currently receiving benefits
under schemes such as the Central
Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-
Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme
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Delhi CM Launches ‘U-Special’ Buses for ▪ Headquarters in New Delhi and presently
has regional centres in Bangalore, Guwahati,
College Students
Lucknow, Indore and Mohali.
▪ It serves as the apex body for training,
research, documentation, and capacity
building in the field of Women and Child
Development.

Minister of State for Commerce and

▪ ‘University Special’ (U-Special) bus service Industry inaugurated the new unified
returned to the University of Delhi (DU) after headquarters of the Quality Council of
more than 10 years.
India (QCI) at the World Trade Centre,
▪ She inaugurated the bus service, which was
closed in 2020. New Delhi
▪ QCI is an autonomous national accreditation
Annpurna Devi inaugurated Second body responsible for ensuring quality
assurance in products, services, and processes
Edition of UN Women’s ‘SheLeads II’ across sectors, through independent third-
Programme in New Delhi party assessments.
▪ Union Minister for Women and Child ▪ Established In: 1996, based on
Development, Annpurna Devi, inaugurated the recommendations from an EU Expert Mission
second edition of UN Women’s flagship and inter-ministerial consultations.
capacity-building programme – SheLeads II in ▪ Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and
New Delhi. Industry (Department for Promotion of
▪ SheLeads is a flagship initiative of UN Women Industry and Internal Trade - DPIIT)
India Country Office, aimed to advance gender ▪ Headquarters: Now located at World Trade
equality in public and political leadership, Centre (WTC), New Delhi
aiming to support women leaders in contesting
the upcoming/next Lok Sabha and State Rajon Ki Baoli Stepwell
Assembly elections.

Delhi PWD Minister unveils ‘Government

on Wheels’ campaign for on-site solutions
▪ Public Works Department (PWD) launched the
campaign of the Delhi government by ▪ The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in
undertaking a 47-km-long inspection of the collaboration with the World Monuments
Outer Ring Road on a bus to understand the Fund India (WMFI) and the TCS Foundation,
ground realities faced by commuters. has successfully completed the conservation
▪ The initiative aims at shifting from closed-door work of ‘Rajon ki Baoli’, a 16th-century
reviews to on-site problem-solving. stepwell.
▪ The Delhi government has launched this new Rajon ki Baoli
concept – bringing all departments together in • Rajon ki Baoli, also known as Rajon ki Bain, is a
one bus, on one road, at one time significant historical stepwell located in south
Delhi’s Mehrauli Archaeological Park.
NIPCCD renamed as Savitribai Phule • It was built in 1506 CE by Daulat Khan
National Institute of Women and Child during the reign of Sikander Lodi, of the Lodi
Development dynasty, which was the last pre-Mughal
dynasty in India.
▪ The National Institute of Public Cooperation
• It stands as a testament to Lodi-era
and Child Development (NIPCCD) has officially
architecture and traditional water
been renamed as the Savitribai Phule National
engineering.
Institute of Women and Child Development.

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• It was used in its time as a water reservoir and
a retreat during summers.
• The stepwell’s name, Rajon ki Baoli, translates
to ‘Baoli of the Masons,’ reflecting
its historical use by masons for drinking and
cooking purposes.
Features
• The stepwell is primarily subterranean, built in
four levels, each narrowing down as one
approaches the well in the bottom.
• It is a fine example of Indo-Islamic
▪ This initiative aligns with the National
architecture, featuring intricate stone
Education Policy 2020 and the Right to
carvings, ornate arches, and a functional
Education Act 2009, aiming to create equitable
design that provided a natural respite from
learning environments.
the heat.
▪ It also reinforces the obligations laid out by the
Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, which
Delhi Police Launches ‘Nayi Disha’ to guarantees free and compulsory education for
Reintegrate School Dropouts all children, including those with special
▪ Delhi Police has launched a community needs.
outreach initiative titled ‘Nayi Disha – A Path
Back to Learning’ to bring out-of-school Delhi to Conduct Five Cloud-Seeding Trials
children back into the education system.
with IIT-Kanpur’s Expertise
▪ Under the initiative, police personnel are
▪ The Delhi cabinet has made the significant
visiting the homes of school dropouts,
decision to initiate cloud seeding trials in the
engaging directly with children and their
capital, aimed at reducing pollution levels
families to identify the reasons behind leaving
▪ Each cloud-seeding trial is estimated to cost
school and encourage them to resume their
around Rs 55 lakh
education
▪ Cloud seeding, often referred to as artificial
rain, is a method of weather modification that
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, involves the dispersal of specific substances
Delhi CM flag off 400 DEVI e-buses to into the atmosphere to encourage moisture
boost last-mile connectivity particles to coalesce and form rain.
▪ Union Education ▪ IIT Kanpur will be responsible for the
Minister Dharmendra planning, implementation, and oversight of
Pradhan and Delhi these cloud seeding trials.
Chief Minister Rekha
Gupta flagged off 400
new electric buses
under the Delhi Electric
Vehicle Interconnector
Service (DEVI) service
in New Delhi.
▪ The DEVI bus service aims to boost last-mile
connectivity between bus terminals and
metro stations and aid in reducing pollution
across the National Capital.

PRASHAST App Types of Cloud Seeding

▪ Delhi’s Directorate of Education introduced • Hygroscopic Cloud Seeding: Accelerates the
PRASHAST app for early identification of merging of droplets in liquid clouds, making
students with disabilities. them large enough to fall as rain.

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• Glaciogenic Cloud Seeding: Introduces ice- Holambi Kalan, North Delhi to tackle the
forming agents into supercooled clouds, capital’s electronic waste and promote
converting water vapour into ice crystals, circular economy.
which then melt into rain.
• Artificial rain refers to the process of inducing CAQM bans new petrol, diesel 2-wheelers
precipitation through cloud seeding, a
& LCVs for aggregators in NCR from Jan
weather modification technique.
▪ No new petrol or diesel-powered vehicles will
• It is primarily used to enhance rainfall,
be allowed to be added to the fleets of cab
combat drought conditions, and reduce air
aggregators, delivery companies and
pollution.
ecommerce firms operating in Delhi-NCR from
January 1, 2026 : the Commission for Air
Biju Patnaik Memorial Unveiled in Delhi Quality Management (CAQM)
for Battle of Stalingrad Contribution ▪ The order applies to light commercial vehicles,
▪ Former Odisha Chief light goods vehicles and two-wheelers used for
Minister Naveen Patnaik deliveries.
and Russian Ambassador ▪ Only electric or CNG vehicles will be allowed to
Denis Alipov join their fleets from now on.
inaugurated a memorial ▪ The Delhi government had earlier launched
plaque dedicated to the Delhi Motor Vehicle Aggregator and Delivery
late Biju Patnaik at the Service Provider Scheme, 2023 to regulate
Russian Embassy in New aggregators and delivery service providers with
Delhi. more than 25 vehicles, including those
▪ The plaque is meant to honour Biju Patnaik’s operating through online platforms.
role in the Battle of Stalingrad, one of the ▪ Under the scheme, these companies must
most decisive Allied victories over Nazi register their vehicles on a dedicated portal for
Germany in World War II. monitoring.
▪ Patnaik, who at the time was flying for the
Royal Indian Air Force, had made multiple DU Launches JAIHIND Scheme to
sorties dropping off supplies to the besieged
Empower ST Students with Digital &
Red Army in Stalingrad.
▪ Patnaik joined the Royal Indian Air Force in Higher Ed Skills
1936, mostly flying supply and transport planes ▪ The Delhi University has launched a new
such as the Douglas C-47 Skytrain, initiative aimed at empowering school students
more commonly known as ‘Dakota’. from Scheduled Tribes through skill
▪ As World War II heated up and Imperial Japan development and higher education readiness.
advanced through Southeast Asia, Biju flew ▪ The first batch of the scheme, Janajati
numerous sorties rescuing British officials and Immersive Holistic Intervention for Novel
their families. Development, or JAIHIND,
▪ After his passing in 1997, his coffin was ▪ comprises 25 meritorious students from the
wrapped in the national flags of three Tangkhul Naga tribe in Manipur’s Ukhrul
different countries: India, Indonesia (whose district, the varsity said in a statement.
Independence effort he had aided), and ▪ The goal of the JAIHIND scheme is to provide
Russia. school students from remote tribal areas —
from classes 9 to 12 — with practical skills and
orientation for the Common University
India’s first E-Waste Recycling Eco Park
Entrance Test (CUET), thereby preparing them
for a sustainable livelihood and access to
higher education,
▪ The inaugural two-week programme, from
June 17 to June 29, will have 13 boys and 12
girls selected from four government schools in
▪ Delhi has announced the establishment of
the Ukhrul district.
India’s first E-Waste Recycling Eco Park in
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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]

Delhi Chief Minister ▪ Venue: Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium,

Rekha Gupta launches
‘Delhi Ko Koode Se
Azadi’ campaign to
clean every street,
market

AIIMS Delhi launches ‘Never Alone’ app to

help students tackle stress
▪ The All India Institute of
Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
in Delhi launched ‘Never near India Gate, New Delhi
Alone’, an Artificial ▪ Theme: "Making of Lakhpati Didis –
Intelligence (AI)-driven Empowering rural women to become
comprehensive mental successful entrepreneurs and champions of
health and wellness app Vocal for Local"
for students ▪ Participants: Over 400 rural women from Self-
▪ the app offers mental Help Groups (SHGs) across all States and Union
health screening at a rate of 70 paise per Territories
student and is accessible through WhatsApp. ▪ Stalls: Approximately 200 stalls are set up for
the event
AIIMS Becomes First Govt Medical College ▪ Purpose: To provide a marketing platform for
rural women, allow urban visitors to
in India to Train on da Vinci Robotic experience rural life, and promote "Vocal for
System Local" products
▪ All India Institute of
Medical Sciences Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh Inaugurates
(AIIMS) New Delhi has
inaugurated the
2nd SCO Young Authors’ Conference in
advanced da Vinci New Delhi
Surgical Robot at its ▪ Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh inaugurated the
Skills, E-Learning and 2nd SCO Young Authors’ Conference in New
Telemedicine (SET) Delhi on 25 September 2025.
Facility, marking a significant milestone in ▪ Organized by the Ministry of Education and
robotic surgery training in India. National Book Trust, India.
▪ This is the first installation of the da Vinci ▪ Theme: “Dynamics of Creative Spaces in the
system for training at a government medical Digital Age”.
college in the country. ▪ Focus: Role of digital platforms in creativity,
▪ This system has been provided by Intuitive publishing, and cultural exchange.
Surgical Company under a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU). Short News
▪ After this installation, AIIMS, Delhi has become ▪ Delhi Assembly Becomes India’s First
the only institute in India to have two Legislature to Run Entirely on Solar Power
dedicated robotic systems for training.
▪ The centre already had the Hugo Robotic Yamuna Boat Tourism Project will offer a
Trainer manufactured by Medtronic.
green tourism experience with electric-
27th Saras Aajeevika Mela commenced in solar boats
▪ Sonowal and Delhi LG reviewed the Yamuna
New Delhi Boat Tourism & Ferry Infrastructure project.
▪ Dates: September 5-22, 2025

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▪ Aim: Start recreational cruises and ferry ▪ Dates: 11–12 November 2025
services on the Yamuna. ▪ Venue: New Delhi
▪ The stretch is National Waterway-110, covering ▪ Edition: 3rd
1,080 km from Jagatpur (Delhi) to Prayagraj. ▪ Organised by: Ministry of New & Renewable
▪ Goal: Boost inland water transport and urban Energy (MNRE)
tourism. ▪ India added 3,089 MW wind and 21,686 MW
solar capacity in H1 of FY 2025–26.
Operation Drishti: the first-of-its-kind ▪ Supports India’s goal of producing 5 million
tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030.
advanced surgical eye camp
▪ A first-of-its-
kind advanced Delhi Government Inaugurates Global
surgical eye Wildlife Fair to Promote Eco-Tourism
camp ‘Op
Drishti’ was
organised by
Command
Hospital, Northern Command, Udhampur
from November 18-22, 2025, in collaboration
with the surgical team from Army Hospital
(Research and Referral), New Delhi.

Delhi Abolishes 21-Year Renewal Rule

▪ The Delhi Government inaugurated the
Under Shops and Establishments Act inaugural Global Wildlife Fair (GWF) on
▪ Delhi government October 10, 2025, at the Constitution Club of
scrapped the India.
mandatory 21-year ▪ The three-day event, concluding on October
renewal under the 12, is designed to highlight Delhi's rich
Delhi Shops and biodiversity and foster sustainable tourism
Establishments Act, practices.
1954.
▪ Labour Department Breathable Art in Delhi
removed the renewal
▪ Part of: “Breath of Change – Clean Air, Blue
clause under Section 5.
Skies” campaign
▪ Earlier: businesses had to renew registration
▪ Launched by: Ministry of Environment, Forest
every 21 years → now abolished.
and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
▪ Registration becomes one-time, paperless, fee-
▪ Concept: A living art installation made with air-
free.
purifying plants and sustainable materials
▪ System has been fully online since 2009.
▪ Purpose: To raise awareness on air quality and
▪ Reform aims to boost ease of doing business in
clean urban living
Delhi.

Delhi Government Launches ‘Pink Saheli

International Conference on Green
Smart Card’ for Free Travel
Hydrogen Begins in New Delhi
▪ Free bus travel for women & transgender
persons (12+ years)
▪ Valid in DTC & cluster buses across Delhi

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Indian Railways to launch first assured- About Red Fort:

▪ Historic Mughal fort and palace complex in Old
transit container train from Delhi to
Delhi; residence of Mughal emperors for ~200
Kolkata in October years.
▪ This pilot initiative, is operated by the ▪ Represents the zenith of Mughal architecture,
Container Corporation of India Limited blending Persian, Timurid, and Indian styles.
(CONCOR) . ▪ Built: Commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1639,
▪ Aims to provide a reliable and time-bound completed in 1648, when he shifted the capital
alternative to road transport. from Agra to Shahjahanabad (Delhi).
▪ Route: The train departs from Inland ▪ Architect: Ustad Ahmad Lahori (also designed
Container Depot (ICD) Tughlakabad in Delhi the Taj Mahal).
and reaches CTCS Kolkata, passing through Characteristics:
Agra and Kanpur terminals. ▪ Built mainly of red sandstone.
▪ Transit Time: 120 hours ▪ Key structures: Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas,
Moti Masjid, Nahr-i-Behisht (Stream of
Awareness Walk on Dyslexia Held from Paradise).
Vijay Chowk to India Gate as part National ▪ Layout: Islamic Charbagh-style garden
aesthetics with Hindu motifs.
Dyslexia Awareness Month Important Events:
▪ 1739 – Nadir Shah looted the Peacock Throne.
▪ 1857 – Last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah
Zafar captured and tried here.
▪ 1945–46 – INA trials held here.
▪ 15 August 1947 – Nehru hoisted the national
flag at Lahori Gate.
▪ 2007 – Declared a UNESCO World Heritage
Site.

Phool Waalon Ki Sair

▪ Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar and
▪ Annual festival of
Disability Affairs Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal
communal harmony,
flagged off the “Walk Dyslexia”
now permitted again
▪ Aim: Promote awareness, early detection &
at its original venue
inclusive education
Aam Bagh, Mehrauli.
About Dyslexia:
▪ Hindus and Muslims
▪ Learning disorder affecting reading & decoding
together offer floral
▪ Due to brain differences in language processing
chaadar & pankha at the Dargah of Khwaja
▪ Not linked to intelligence, hearing, or vision
Bakhtiar Kaaki and floral pankha & chhatra at
▪ Under Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act,
the Yogmaya Temple.
2016
Origin & History
▪ Began in the early 19th century during the
Red Fort : A blast occurred near Delhi’s decline of the Mughal Empire.
Red Fort ▪ Prince Mirza Jahangir fired at a British
resident → exiled to Allahabad.
▪ His mother Mumtaz Mahal Begum vowed to
walk barefoot to the dargah if he returned.
▪ After her prayers were answered, flower-sellers
decorated the route with flowers and offered
floral fans (pankhas) at both sites.
▪ Became an annual fair in 1811, halted in 1942,
▪ A joint investigation is underway by Delhi
revived in 1962 by Jawaharlal Nehru.
Police, NIA, NSG, and FSL to determine the
exact cause.
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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]

Delhi Government announces ₹21 crore PM Modi Inaugurated 98th Akhil Bharatiya
free-coaching scheme for Delhi Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in New Delhi
Government school students
▪ Delhi launched a ₹21
crore free-coaching
scheme under the
Mahamana Pandit
Madan Mohan
Malaviya Vidya Shakti
Mission.
▪ 2,200 meritorious
students from Delhi ▪ The prestigious literary gathering, returning to
government schools will get free coaching. the national capital after 71 years, will
▪ Covers major exams: JEE, NEET, CLAT, CA celebrate Marathi literature’s timeless
Foundation, CUET-UG. relevance and its influence in contemporary
Girls’ quota: discourse.
▪ 50 seats reserved for girls in JEE, NEET, CLAT, ▪ Scheduled from February 21 to 23,
CA Foundation each. ▪ The event will also include over 2,600 poetry
▪ 150 seats reserved for girls in CUET-UG. submissions, 50 book launches, and 100
Madan Mohan Malaviya – bookstalls
• Born: 25 Dec 1861, Allahabad
• Titles: Mahamana (by Gandhi) Cabinet approves three new corridors as
• Died: 1946
part of Delhi Metro’s Phase V (A) Project
• Bharat Ratna: Posthumously in 2014
Key Contributions
Founder of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – 1916
• Attended INC (1886); became Indian National
Congress President four times – 1909, 1918,
1932, 1933

Indira Gandhi International Airport

Becomes India’s First Water-Positive
Airport
▪ Indira Gandhi
International Airport ▪ The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime
(IGI), Delhi has become Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has approved
India’s first airport with three new corridors –
over 40 million 1. R.K Ashram Marg to Indraprastha (9.913
passengers to be Kms),
certified as ‘water- 2. Aerocity to IGD Airport T-1 (2.263 kms)
positive’. 3. Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj (3.9 kms) as part
▪ Certified by Delhi International Airport of Delhi Metro’s Phase – V(A) project consisting
Limited (DIAL) of 16.076 kms which will further enhance
▪ Recognition at the Water Innovation Summit connectivity within the national capital.
2025, New Delhi. ▪ Total project cost of Delhi Metro’s Phase – V(A)
What Is a Water-Positive Facility? project is Rs.12014.91 crore, which will be
▪ A facility that replenishes more water than it sourced from Government of India,
consumes with water management practices Government of Delhi, and international
like rainwater harvesting structures, Zero- funding agencies.
Liquid-Discharge (ZLD) Sewage Treatment
Plant.

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Delhi govt. opens Atal Canteens on Cabinet gives nod to Delhi Jan Vishwas Bill
Vajpayee’s birth anniversary ▪ The Cabinet approved the Delhi Jan Vishwas
▪ Delhi Chief (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, which
Minister Rekha decriminalises various minor offences and
Gupta and Union converts them into civil penalties.
Minister ▪ The Bill will make both business and daily life
Manohar Lal easier by decriminalising minor offences and
inaugurated the also reduce the burden on courts,
‘Atal Canteen’ in ▪ Various laws brought under the ambit of the
the national Bill included Delhi Industrial Development,
capital, on the Operation and Maintenance Act; Delhi Shops
occasion of the and Establishments Act; the National Capital
101st birth Territory of Delhi ‘Incredible India’ Bed and
anniversary of Breakfast Establishments (Registration and
former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee Regulation) Act; and the Delhi Agricultural
▪ A major scheme for the needy and working Produce Marketing (Regulation) Act.
people in the city, where they can have a meal ▪ The Delhi Jal Board Act; Delhi Professional
for just 5 rupees. Colleges/Institutions Act; and Delhi Diploma-
▪ The government has allocated ₹104.24 crore Level Technical Education Institutions Act, have
for the operation and management of the also been brought under the Bill.
scheme. ▪ The Bill proposes an automatic 10% increase in
fines every three years.

Puducherry
1. Naksha Project Puducherry becomes first one to include screening
2. Family Adoption Programme for TB patients under initiative of Family Adoption
Programme
▪ The Family Adoption Programme (FAP) is an initiative by the National Medical Commission (NMC) in India
where medical students adopt 3-5 families as part of their community outreach.
▪ to integrate community-based healthcare learning into the MBBS curriculum
▪ Puducherry has become the first state to include screening for tuberculosis (TB) patients
▪ If any member of the adopted family is found to have symptoms of TB, the students assist with both
diagnosis and treatment
▪ World Tuberculosis (TB) Day - March 24th
▪ The day marks the discovery of the TB-causing bacterium by Dr. Robert Koch in 1882.
▪ This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”

‘NAKSHA’ project for urban land survey ▪ It is a pioneering one-year pilot programme
launched by the Department of Land
launched in Puducherry
Resources (DoLR) under the Digital India Land
▪ NAKSHA (National
Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP).
geospatial
▪ The initiative utilises advanced technologies
Knowledge-based
such as aerial mapping and drones to create
land Survey of urban
highly accurate digital land records, replacing
Habitations)
the traditional method.
▪ Union Minister of
Rural Development
and Agriculture &
Farmers’ Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan had
inaugurated NAKSHA programme at Raisen,
Madhya Pradesh in Feb, 2025

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Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Lays Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Leads First
Foundation for Three National Highway Anniversary Celebrations of Fit India
Projects in Puducherry Sundays on Cycle in Puducherry

▪ Worth over ₹2,000 crore.

▪ NH-32, Puducherry–Poondiyankuppam
Section: A 38-km four-lane highway built at a
cost of ₹1,588 cr.
▪ Elevated Corridor on NH-32: Foundation stone
laid for a 3.88-km elevated corridor between ▪ Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr.
Indira Gandhi Square and Rajiv Gandhi Square, Mansukh Mandaviya celebrating 1 year of
with an estimated outlay of ₹436 crore. #SundaysOnCycle,”
▪ East Coast Road (NH-332A) Improvement: ▪ A weekly cycling event under the Fit India
Foundation stone laid for the 13.63-km stretch Movement organized by the Ministry of Youth
improvement project, costing ₹25 crore. Affairs and Sports (MYAS) in collaboration
with the Cycling Federation of India
(CFI) and MY Bharat.
Andaman and Nicobar
1. Union Territory Foundation Day Volcanic eruptions noticed in Andaman’s Barren
2. first UT to implement PM Island
Vishwakarma Yojana
3. Mega North India StartUp Expo
4. 72nd ‘All India Police Hockey
Championship
5. Sound-Based Anti-Drone System
6. Tawi Festival
7. India’s First Battery Storage
Gigafactory
8. Operation Kamdhenu
9. Kashmir Marathon Initiatives
10. Haar Choudhah Festival
11. Z-Morh project
12. Omar Abdullah as new CM
▪ Minor volcanic eruptions were noticed twice in a span of
13. Authenticity Seal for Jammu & eight days at Barren Island in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Kashmir Crafts recently.
▪ It is the only active volcano in the Indian subcontinent.
▪ It is a stratovolcano composed of lava, rock fragments, and volcanic ash.
▪ Located nearly 140 km away from Port Blair in Andaman Sea, this uninhabited island lies at the junction of
the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates.
▪ The total area of Barren Island is 8.34 sq km, and the nearest habitation is Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)
and Narcondam Island, both nearly 140-150 km from Barren Island.
▪ The first eruption at Barren Island took place in 1787, followed by mild eruptions in 1991, 2005, 2017 and
2022.

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Indian Govt cleared Great Nicobar Island ▪ residential, commercial, and industrial
zones.
Project
Strategic Importance
▪ Near the Malacca Strait — a chokepoint
through which ~40% of global trade and most
of China’s oil imports pass.
▪ Enhances India’s ability to monitor sea lanes,
counter Chinese presence (e.g., Hambantota in
Sri Lanka, Gwadar in Pakistan), and project
naval power.
▪ Supports maritime security, disaster relief,
and logistics.
Economic Importance
▪ Makes India a major transshipment hub,
reducing logistics costs.
▪ Boosts connectivity, trade, and tourism.
▪ Creates jobs and infrastructure in a remote
island region.
Concerns
▪ Environmental: Project requires diversion of
large forest areas and may affect Nicobar
megapode birds, leatherback turtles, and
coral reefs.
▪ Tribal Rights: The island is home to Shompens
▪ Great Nicobar Island Project - A multi- and Nicobarese tribes, raising questions on
component mega development project to displacement and cultural impact.
transform Great Nicobar into a logistics, trade,
and defence hub, improving India’s presence in ICG carries out rescue operation for US
the Indian Ocean. sailing vessel ‘Sea Angel’
Location ▪ The Indian Coast Guard
▪ Southernmost tip of the Andaman & Nicobar (ICG) carried out a
Islands, close to the Malacca Strait, one of the rescue operation for the
world’s busiest sea lanes. U.S. sailing vessel Sea
▪ Gives India a strong foothold in the Indian Angel, which was
Ocean Region (IOR). stranded about 52
Components of the Project nautical miles southeast of Indira Point,
▪ Transshipment Port (TSP) at Galathea Bay Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
▪ Capacity: 14.2 million TEUs (phased ▪ Subsequently, ICG ship Rajveer was deployed,
development, by 2050). and it established communication with the
▪ Will allow large container ships to dock stranded crew and conducted an on-site
directly, reducing dependence on foreign ports assessment.
like Singapore or Colombo. ▪ The yacht was successfully towed and escorted
▪ International Airport to Campbell Bay Harbour.
▪ Dual-use (civilian + military).
▪ Capable of handling all aircraft types
▪ Power Plant
India’s only mud volcano at Baratang in
▪ ~450 MVA capacity to support Andaman and Nicobar Islands has again
industrial and civilian needs. erupted
▪ New Township • Situated in the North and Middle Andaman
▪ Designed to house ~3.5 lakh people District, around 150 km from Port Blair.
over time. • Found on Baratang Island, which lies between
the South and Middle Andamans.
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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
• It is India’s only active mud volcano, making it Formation Process:
a unique geological attraction and a popular • Pressure builds up underground due to
tourist spot. trapped gases and fluids.
• When pressure exceeds the surface strength,
the mixture pushes through cracks, forming a
mud cone or dome.

Andaman administration to launch round-

voyage cruise service to India's only active
volcano Barren Island
▪ Cruise service from Port Blair to Barren Island,
India's only active volcano
▪ Inaugural Voyage: Scheduled for October 24,
2025.
Barren Island
▪ Located approximately 140 km from Port
Blair, Barren Island is uninhabited and
situated at the junction of the Indian and
About the Mud Volcano Burmese tectonic plates
▪ Also called “Mud
Dome”, it is formed
when mud, gases, and
water erupt from
underground layers due
to geological and seismic
activity.
▪ Unlike true (igneous)
volcanoes, mud volcanoes do not emit lava.
▪ Instead, they release a mixture of mud, water,
and gases such as methane (CH₄), and
sometimes carbon dioxide (CO₂) or nitrogen
(N₂). These eruptions create cone-like or
dome-shaped structures that resemble small
volcanoes.
Eruption History: Last recorded eruption occurred in
2005, following the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake.

STATE NEWS
Himanchal Pradesh
1. Statehood Day 25th January - Himachal Pradesh Statehood Day
2. Hatti Tribe
3. 1st Solar Model Village
4. Shongtong Karcham Hydroelectric
Project
5. Cloud burst
6. Ravi River

▪ Himachal Pradesh was officially declared a state on 25th January 1971, becoming the 18th state of India.
Ramsar Sites in Himachal Pradesh: ▪ Pong Dam Lake (Kangra)
▪ Chandertal Wetland (Lahual Spiti) ▪ Renuka Wetland (Sismaur)

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▪ On 18th December 1970 the State of HP Act
National Park of Himachal Pradesh was passed by Parliament and the new state
Great Himalayan National Park came into being on 25th January 1971. HP
Pin Valley National Park emerged as the 18th state of the Indian
Inderkilla National Park Union.
Khirganga National Park National Parks
Col. Sherjung Simbalbara National Park • Great Himalayan National Park (a UNESCO
World Heritage Site).
CM – Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu • Pin Valley National Park.
• Khirganga, Inderkila, and Simbalbara National
Governor – Shiv Pratap Shukla Parks.
▪ State Animal of Himachal Pradesh – Snow
Leopard
▪ State Bird of Himachal Pradesh – Western
Himachal cabinet gives nod to rename Tragopan
Himachal Pradesh Institute of Public ▪ State Tree of Himachal Pradesh – Deodar
Administration after Dr. Manmohan Singh Cedar
▪ State Flower of Himachal Pradesh – Pink
Rhododendron
▪ The present strength of the Vidhan Sabha is 68
▪ CM - Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
▪ Governor of Himachal Pradesh - Shiv Pratap
Shukla

▪ Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu gave Himachal Launches My Deed NGDRS Pilot
approval to rename Himachal Pradesh Project For Land Registration
Institute of Public Administration (HIPA) as Dr. ▪ Himachal Pradesh chief minister Sukhvinder
Manmohan Singh Himachal Pradesh Institute Singh Sukhu launched a pilot project to make
of Public Administration. land registrations easier in the state.
▪ Under the “My Deed” NGDRS (National
Himachal Pradesh celebrates 78th Generic Document Registration System),
citizens can submit all documents online and
Foundation Day
get land registration done in just one visit to
the office concerned, saving time and effort

2 Himachal brothers adopt Hatti tradition

of polyandry, marry same woman
▪ Two brothers of the Hatti tribe tied the knot to
a woman in Shillai village of Himachal Pradesh
under the tradition of polyandry.
▪ Revenue laws of Himachal Pradesh recognise
this tradition and named it “Jodidara”.
▪ April 15 has been observed every year as ▪ Hatti is a closed-knit community in the
‘Himachal Day’ Himachal Pradesh-Uttarakhand border and
▪ On April 15, 1948, the state was formed by was declared as Scheduled Tribe three years
merging 30 small and large princely states. ago.
▪ HP became a part C state on 26th January ▪ This tradition was invented thousands of years
1950 with the implementation of the ago to save a family’s agricultural land from
Constitution of India. further division.
▪ After recommendation of the State
Reorganisation Commission, HP became
a Union Territory on 1st November 1956.

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Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana Shongtong Karcham Hydroelectric Project

Launched to Boost Green Cover in
Himachal
▪ Chief minister (CM) Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
launched the “Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan
Yojana” from Hamirpur, which aims to
increase the green cover in the state.
▪ The scheme not only aims to increase the ▪ Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister recently set a
green cover by planting fruit-bearing trees on firm Nov 2026 deadline for the completion of
barren and degraded forest areas but will also the long-delayed Shongtong-Karcham
generate employment and income for local hydroelectric project
communities by ensuring participation of About Shongtong Karcham Hydroelectric Project
mahila and yuvak mandals besides self-help ▪ It is a hydropower project, on the river Satluj in
groups. the Kinnaur District of Himachal Pradesh.
▪ The CM also launched the “Green Adoption ▪ It is a run-of-river project.
Scheme”. ▪ Capacity: 3 × 150 MW Francis turbines,
▪ The Mukhya Mantri Green Adoption Yojana totaling 450 MW; produces 1,594 million units
operates on a funding mechanism where the per year.
primary financial responsibility for the ▪ The gross head and net head of the project will
plantation, maintenance, and associated site- be 128.57 m and 126.58 m respectively.
specific activities on the adopted land rests ▪ The total number of penstocks, pipes, or long
entirely with the adopting private channels that carry water down from the
entrepreneur/entity. hydroelectric reservoir to the turbines inside
▪ In the initial phase, Ambuja Company would the actual power station is expected to be 3 in
undertake plantation work on 25 hectares, number.
while the Adani Foundation and UltraTech ▪ The penstock length will be 5.1 m.
would adopt 10 hectares each. ▪ The project is expected to generate 1,593.93
GWh of electricity.
Raja Khas, a village in Kangra district, has
Raulane Festival of Himachal Pradesh
been designated as Himachal Pradesh’s ▪ Celebrated in
first Solar Model Village Kinnaur, Himachal
▪ A village in Indora block, Pradesh
Kangra district, selected ▪ Based on local
under the PM Surya folklore & spiritual
Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. beliefs
▪ Recognized for achieving ▪ Very old tradition —
the highest solar power believed ~5,000 years
capacity among 43 old
villages. Who Are the Saunis?
Key Features: ▪ Seen as celestial fairies / mountain spirits
▪ Receives ₹1 crore central grant for solar ▪ Believed to descend in winter to protect locals
infrastructure: Solar power plant, solar street ▪ Festival bids them
lights, water heaters. farewell as spring
▪ Solarization of all public institutions: schools, arrives
panchayat office, health centres, anganwadis, Festival Ritual
and community halls. ▪ Two men act as Raula
▪ Encourages community-led maintenance and (groom) & Raulane
solar adoption. (bride) — but this is
symbolic, not a real
marriage.

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▪ Wear woollen clothes, full-face masks, gloves Sunni Dam Hydro Electric Project (HEP)
▪ Raulane (bride): jewelry, bangles, headgear ▪ National Green Tribunal took note of illegal
▪ Raula (groom): face covered with red cloth muck dumping into the Sutlej River during
blasting for dam construction.
Himachal Becomes First State to Use Face ▪ Type: Run-of-the-river hydroelectric project
ID for Ration (382 MW).
▪ Himachal Pradesh became the first state in the ▪ Location: Satluj River, in Shimla & Mandi
country to introduce Aadhaar-based face districts, Himachal Pradesh.
authentication (FaceAuth) for the distribution ▪ Developer: SJVN Ltd. – joint venture of GoI &
of ration to eligible beneficiaries under the Himachal Govt. Capacity: Generates 1,382
Public Distribution System (PDS) million units/year.
▪ Until now, authentication was carried out ▪ Structure: Concrete gravity dam with
using either OTP-based or biometric methods. underground powerhouse on the right bank.
▪ Part of: Luhri Hydroelectric Project, developed
in three stages on the Satluj River.
Ravi River
‘Green to Gold’ Initiative Sees Himachal
Pradesh Embrace Industrial Hemp Farming
▪ Himachal
Pradesh has
legalised and
initiated
regulated
cultivation of
industrial hemp
under the
‘Green to Gold’
initiative to
▪ Recently, floodwaters from the Ravi promote a bio-
River submerged the Kartarpur economy–led growth model.
Corridor complex in Pakistan’s Narowal ▪ Industrial hemp is a non-intoxicating variety
district, including Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, of Cannabis sativa cultivated for fibre, seed,
stranding over 100 people and forcing large- and biomass, with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
scale evacuations. content below 0.3%, making it unsuitable for
▪ One of the three eastern rivers of the Indus drug use.
basin allocated to India under the Indus ▪ Origin: Native to Central and South Asia, with
Waters Treaty (1960). millennia-old use in textiles, ropes, paper, and
Source & Course medicine
▪ Origin: Near Bara Bhangal, in the Chamba ▪ Now legally cultivated across parts of Europe,
region (Himachal Pradesh). North America, and Asia under regulated THC
▪ Flows through India Himachal Pradesh, thresholds
Punjab, J&K Key characteristics:
▪ Forms a short India–Pakistan boundary ▪ Low THC (<0.3%) and high fibre/seed yield
stretch, enters Pakistan near Narowal, ▪ Climate-resilient: Requires ~50% less water
passes Shahdara (Lahore), and finally joins than cotton and grows in marginal soils
the Chenab near Ahmadpur Sial. ▪ Fast-growing: Harvest cycle of 70–140 days
Tributaries ▪ Soil-friendly: Suppresses weeds and improves
▪ Right bank: Budhil, Baira, Siul. soil structure via deep roots
▪ Left bank: Ujh (J&K), Basantar, Sewa. ▪ High biomass yield: Suitable for fibre, oilseed,
Key Infrastructure (India) and dual-purpose use
Ranjit Sagar (Thein) Dam – hydropower + irrigation. ▪ It is high in fiber and low in active
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

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Punjab
1. Heritage Street Punjab to construct heritage street at Shaheed
2. Hola Mohalla Bhagat Singh’s native village
3. Project Hifazat
4. Yudh Nasheyan Virudh
5. Bollgard 3
6. 1st Leopard Safai Destination
7. Vaisakhi
8. Operation Shield
9. Udyog Kranti
10. Anti-Sacrilege Bill 2025 ▪ Khatkar Kalan, a village just outside Banga town in Shaheed
11. Mukhya Mantri Sehat Yojana Bhagat Singh Nagar district of Punjab, which is famous for the
12. Baaj Akh’ Anti-Drone System memorial of Bhagat Singh, is being developed as an iconic
tourist destination of global standards.
▪ This development is being done as part of the Special Assistance to States / Union Territories for Capital
Investment (SASCI) scheme, under which the Government of India has approved 40 projects across 23
states to develop them as iconic tourist centres of global standards.
▪ The street will connect museum of Bhagat Singh to his ancestral home.

Hola Mohalla Concludes at Sri Anandpur mechanism for victims of violence against
women as well as children.
Sahib
▪ The 24×7 Women and Child Helpline under the
▪ The annual
Government of India’s two missions, -‘Mission
celebrations
Shakti’ and ‘Mission Vatsalya’ -will serve as
of Hola
the backbone of the ‘Project Hifazat.’
Mohalla took
▪ She urged all women in Punjab to save the
place at the
emergency helpline number 181 in their
birthplace of the Khalsa, Sri Anandpur Sahib
mobile contacts to tackle the emergency
▪ Hola Mohalla (“mock fight”) is a three-day
situation.
Sikh festival
▪ Following Guru Gobind Singh’s tradition, it
follows the Hindu festival Holi by one day. Punjab police launch drive against drug
(“Hola” is the masculine form of the feminine menace on war footing- Yudh Nasheyan
“holi.”) Virudh
▪ Hola Mohalla is a time when Sikhs ▪ A state-level Cordon and Search Operation
demonstrate their martial skills in simulated (CASO) named “Yudh Nasheyan Virudh” was
battles. They display traditional martial arts conducted by the police over 900 Police teams,
known as Gatka, as well as sword fighting, comprising over 8, 000 police personnel raided
archery, and horse riding. about 800 places in the state.
▪ Guru Gobind held the first such mock fight in ▪ This has led to the arrest of 290 drug
February 1701 at Anandpur. smugglers and registering more than 230 first
▪ The Anadnpur Sahib is located in Punjab near information reports (FIRs).
the Sutlej river.
▪ The Anadpur Sahib was founded by Guru Tegh
Increasing demand for Bollgard-3 in
Bahadur, the ninth guru.
Punjab
Punjab govt launches ‘Project Hifazat’ to About Bollgard-3
• It is a new pest-resistant genetically modified
ensure women’s safety, dignity (GM) cotton variety.
▪ Dedicated to International Women’s Day , the • It was developed by Monsanto more than a
initiative aims to strengthen the response decade ago, and shows remarkable resistance
to pests.

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▪ It will also broadcast the Governor’s address,
Budget Session, and other important
discussions in sign language.
▪ International Sign Language Day - 23rd
September

• It contains three Bt proteins Cry1Ac, Cry2Ab Punjab govt plans to develop Jhajjar-
and Vip3A that cause insect death by Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary as 1st Leopard
disrupting their normal gut function. This in Safari destination in state
turn allows for the growth of a healthier cotton ▪ The Punjab govt has announced plans to
crop, and increases yield. develop Nangal as a major tourist destination
• These insecticidal proteins derived from the and turn Anandpur Sahib's Jhajjar Bachauli
bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Wildlife Sanctuary into the state's first
commonly used in genetically modified crops leopard safari destination.
to provide resistance against lepidopteran ▪ Located near the Sutlej River, the Jhajjar-
pests like bollworms Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a
protected sanctuary by the Punjab
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema government in 1998 under the provisions of
Presents ₹2.36 Lakh Crore Budget, Focuses the Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
▪ This initiative was highlighted in the budget for
on Drugs, Farming & Health
the financial year 2025-26.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays

homage to martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh

▪ The total budget expenditure of ₹2,36,080

crore for FY 2025-26.
▪ The Punjab Government is going to carry out
the first-ever "drug census" in Punjab to
understand the prevalence of drugs, usage of
de-addiction centres etc. ▪ Took place on April 13, 1919, in Amritsar,
Punjab
▪ British troops led by Colonel Reginald
Punjab to introduce sign language in
Dyer opened fire on a large crowd of unarmed
Legislative Assembly Indian civilians gathered at Jallianwala Bagh
▪ The crowd had gathered to peacefully protest
the arrest of two nationalist leaders and the
imposition of the repressive Rowlatt Act -
allowed the British authorities to arrest and
detain individuals without trial.

Punjab: Milkfed launches ‘Veera’ mascot

for Verka to boost
brand nationwide
▪ Bhagwant Mann
unveiled a mascot
▪ Punjab is to become the first state in India to —“Veera” — for
introduce sign language in its Legislative Dairy brand Verka
Assembly

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Vaisakhi, Bohag Bihu and Poila Boishakh ▪ Punjab, Assam, Tripura, Jharkhand,
Uttaranchal.

Punjab to conduct second mock drill

under “Operation Shield”

▪ Baisakhi, or Vaisakhi, is a significant

agricultural festival celebrated primarily in
Punjab and among Sikh communities, largely in
the Indian state of Punjab.
▪ Baisakhi is celebrated on the first day of the ▪ Civil defence drills or mock drills are being
month of Vaisakh in the Hindu solar calendar. conducted across Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan,
▪ Baisakhi can be traced back to 1699, when Gujarat, Chandigarh, and Jammu and Kashmir
Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth and final Sikh under 'Operation Shield’.
Guru, established the Khalsa Panth on the day ▪ Launched on the home ministry’s directive,
of Vaisakhi the initiative is designed to enhance
▪ Bihu is the main festival of Assam. It emergency preparedness amid ongoing
is celebrated three times a year. tensions between India and Pakistan.
▪ Rongali or Bohag Bihu is observed in April. ▪ The exercises will simulate multiple emergency
▪ Kongali or Kati Bihu observed in October and situations, underscoring the heightened
▪ Bhogali or Magh Bihu observed in January. emphasis on national security.
▪ Rongali or Bohag Bihu is the Assamese new
year and spring festival.
Punjab Launches ‘Udyog Kranti’ to Propel
India flagged off its first export Industrial Growth
consignment of rose-scented litchi from
Pathankot (Punjab) to Doha (Qatar)
▪ The export was facilitated by Agricultural and
Processed Food Products Export Development
Authority (APEDA), which is under the Ministry
of Commerce and Industry
▪ Litch is Native to southern China, it reached
India through Myanmar and Northeast India in ▪ The Punjab government launched the Punjab
the 18th century. Udyog Kranti initiative, claiming to be the first
in the country to introduce such a
comprehensive industrial revolution.
▪ The initiative is aimed at simplifying, reducing,
and expediting the statutory processes
required to set up industry in the state
▪ unveiled 12 new initiatives designed to
revolutionize industrial growth in the state.
▪ Firstly, the state government will ensure a
deemed approval system in 45 days for all
Top Producing States: applications, thereby stipulating that all
▪ Bihar – Largest producer (~221.7 thousand approvals and clearances for setting up a
MT), known for Shahi and China cultivars. business or expanding an existing business will
▪ West Bengal – High productivity (~10.5 be issued in a maximum of 45 working days,
MT/ha).
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addressing one of the biggest concerns of ▪ The US-based organisation — JHPIEGO (Johns
investors Hopkins Program for International Education
▪ the Fast-track Punjab portal will automatically in Gynecology and Obstetrics) — collaborates
generate an approval the next day, which with national governments, local communities,
holds the same legal validity as a regular and health experts “to build systems that
clearance. guarantee healthier futures for women and
▪ Punjab became the first state in the country their families”.
to launch unique colour-coded stamp papers ▪ According to data, maternal deaths reduced to
to facilitate entrepreneurs in setting up their 0-1 in the past five months from 2-5 per
units in the state month earlier
▪ while home deliveries (women giving birth at
Punjab Introduces Anti-Sacrilege Bill 2025 home instead of hospital, without any natal
care) dropped to 4 in 2024-25 from 308 (2023-
24), and just 1 until June 2025.

Punjab Launches Mukhya Mantri Sehat

Yojana
▪ The Punjab government launched the “Mukh
Mantri Sehat Yojana”, a universal health cover
promising free and cashless medical
treatment up to ₹10 lakh per year for every
▪ To ensure stringent punishment for those
family of the state, irrespective of income
committing the crime of sacrilege, the Punjab
▪ The scheme will be operational from October
cabinet approved the historic Punjab
2 after which camps will be organised to enrol
Prevention of Offences Against Holy
people.
Scripture(s) Bill, 2025, which was later tabled
▪ earlier, a family could avail of treatment only
in the State Assembly.
up to ₹5 lakh, but now this limit had been
▪ The bill mandates strict punishment,
increased to ₹10 lakh
extending up to life imprisonment, for the
desecration of sacred ‘granths’ including the
Sri Guru Granth Sahib, Bhagavad Gita, Holy Punjab to launch ‘evidence-based’ anti-
Bible, Quran Sharif, and other revered granths. drug school curriculum in govt schools on
▪ Under the proposed law, any person found August 1
guilty of sacrilege may face imprisonment
ranging from 10 years to life.
▪ Those attempting the offence may be
sentenced to three to five years

‘Project Janam Shakti’

▪ ‘Project Janam Shakti’ — a comprehensive
initiative in Punjab’s border district Ferozepur
to check maternal mortality and provide natal
care to pregnant women — is bearing fruits.
▪ With the maternal mortality rate (MMR) at an ▪ The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab
all-time high at 440 (deaths per 1 lakh live government is set to roll out an anti-drug
births) in 2024-25, following 238 in 2023-24, school curriculum,
Ferozepur faced a challenge even as Punjab’s ▪ developed by Nobel Laureate Prof Abhijit
average MMR stood at 105 Banerjee-led organisation J-PAL South Asia,
▪ This medical intervention was rolled out to ▪ for Classes IX to XII in government schools to
reduce preventable maternal deaths by empower around eight lakh students with
strengthening healthcare delivery systems. prevention-focused skills to combat substance

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abuse as part of its ongoing “Yudh Nasheyan System (ADS) named ‘Baaj Akh’ from the
Virudh”. border district of Tarn Taran.
▪ The curriculum consists of 35-minute sessions, ▪ Three such ADS have been launched and six
to be held every fortnight for 27 weeks, more will be launched soon to curb the
featuring a mix of engaging content, including smuggling of drugs through drones from across
documentaries, quizzes, posters and the border.
interactive activities. ▪ This system will immediately neutralize those
▪ The initiative is grounded in evidence, drones that try to enter in the state from other
developed with leading behavioural scientists, side of the border.
and evaluated through randomised trials ▪ The system will be deployed along the border
conducted in 78 government schools in from Pathankot to Fazilka as a second line of
Amritsar and Tarn Taran during 2024-25. defense.
▪ Punjab becomes the first state in India to ▪ This will be made functional in coordination
implement a statewide, evidence-based drug with the BSF
prevention curriculum, while recognising that
the battle against drugs begins from the Wheat variety PBW 826 retains top spot in
classroom, not in police stations
grain yield at national level: PAU
▪ The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has
Punjab Becomes First State to Empanel announced that the wheat variety PBW 826
Sign Language Experts Under Juvenile has again been ranked first in grain yield in
Justice Act the All India Coordinated Varietal Trials
(AICVT) during the 2024-25 crop season, under
irrigated and timely-sown conditions.
▪ earlier also ranked first for three consecutive
years in those trials; this led to its release, for
cultivation in the entire North Western Plains
Zone (NWPZ) and North Eastern Plains Zone
(NEPZ), in 2022.
▪ PBW 826 recorded an average yield of 65.7
q/ha,
▪ PBW 826 is a relatively shorter-duration
▪ Punjab has become the first state in India to
variety: it matures in about 148 days under
empanel sign language interpreters,
irrigated, timely-sown conditions in Punjab
translators, and special educators under the
▪ It has heavier grains and higher hectolitre
Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 to ensure justice for
weight (i.e., better grain quality) than many
children with hearing and speech impairments.
older varieties.
▪ These experts will be deployed district-wise to
▪ It is moderately resistant to yellow and brown
provide support services to children in need.
rust diseases.
▪ The move is also aligned with the provisions of
▪ Zone coverage: Its suitability across both
the Protection of Children from Sexual
NWPZ and NEPZ broadens its adoption
Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
potential across a large fraction of India’s
▪ Under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, a
wheat-producing areas.
"juvenile" or "child" is defined as any person
▪ NWPZ: Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, parts of
who has not completed the age of 18 years on
Rajasthan & UP, J&K (Jammu/Kathua),
the date of the commission of an offence or
Himachal (Paonta/Una), Uttarakhand tarai.
the date of the incident
▪ NEPZ: Eastern UP, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha,
West Bengal, Assam, northeastern plains.
Punjab Launches ‘Baaj Akh’ Anti-Drone
System to Curb Cross-Border Drug
Smuggling
▪ To check the supply of drugs from across the
border, Punjab has launched a new Anti-Drone
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Punjab becomes the first state in the ▪ Includes: IP-MPLS network (efficient routing
of data); Routers at Blocks & GPs; Remote
country to implement the amended
Fibre Monitoring System
Bharat Net Scheme ▪ Funded by Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN)
▪ Implemented by Bharat Broadband Network
Limited (BBNL) – a Special Purpose Vehicle.
▪ For operations/maintenance: BSNL acts as
Project Management Agency.

Punjab Governor Launches ‘Sardar@150 –

Unity March’ to Commemorate Sardar
Patel’s Birth Anniversary
▪ Organised by: MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat)
Aim:
▪ Punjab = first state to implement the amended
▪ To commemorate
BharatNet Scheme across the entire state,
Sardar Vallabhbhai
enabling live monitoring from anywhere.
Patel’s 150th birth
What is BharatNet?
anniversary.
▪ Launched as NOFN (National Optical Fibre
▪ To promote unity, patriotism, and civic
Network) → renamed BharatNet in 2015.
responsibility among youth.
▪ Ministry: Ministry of Communications.
Duration: Two-month nationwide campaign.
▪ Goal: Provide high-speed broadband through
About Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875 – 1950)
optical fibre to every Gram Panchayat (GP) in
▪ Born: 31 October 1875, Nadiad, Gujarat
India.
▪ Community: Lewa Patidar
▪ Title: “Iron Man of India” — for his firmness
and resolve.
▪ Legacy: Architect of India’s political integration
and symbol of national unity.
Other Key Facts
▪ Civil Services Day (21 April): Marks his 1947
speech calling civil servants the “Steel Frame of
India.”
▪ Statue of Unity:
▪ Height – 182 m (world’s tallest)
▪ Location – On the banks of Narmada
River, Kevadia (Gujarat)
Role in the Indian National Movement:
▪ Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Demanded tax relief
for drought-hit farmers.
▪ Bardoli Satyagraha (1928): Opposed unjust tax
hike; earned the title “Sardar.”
▪ Non-Cooperation & Civil Disobedience: Led
Salt Satyagraha (1930); imprisoned multiple
times.
▪ Congress Session (1931): Presided over the
Amended BharatNet Programme (ABP) 46th Session during Gandhi–Irwin Pact period.
▪ Target: Optical fibre connectivity to 2.64 lakh ▪ Quit India Movement (1942): Arrested for
GPs using ring topology (loop design = network participating in the movement.
stays active even if one point fails). ▪ Integration of Princely States: Unified 562
▪ Also allows fibre connectivity to non-GP princely states into the Indian Union, ensuring
villages on demand. national unity

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Punjab Launches Phase-II of Mukhya ▪ Purpose: Protect children from online threats
& ensure digital well-being
Mantri Teerth Yatra Yojna
▪ Focus: Internet safety awareness for
▪ It is dedicated
government school students
to the 350th
▪ Coverage target: ~5 lakh students across
martyrdom
Punjab
anniversary of
▪ Mode: Workshops & awareness programmes
the Ninth
▪ Collaboration With: NGO Space2Grow,
Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Starlight Data Solutions (cybersecurity firm)
▪ Open to people of all castes, religions and
,Cybercops Compliance Solutions
regions, devotees aged 50 years and above are
(cybersecurity firm)
eligible for this yatra.
▪ Objective :Educate students on safe online
▪ They will be taken for visits to Sri Harmandir
behavior, cyber hygiene, and protection from
Sahib, Durgiana Temple, Bhagwan Valmiki
cybercrime.
Tirath Sthal, Jallianwala Bagh, the Partition
Museum, and other religious places in
Amritsar, besides several other sacred sites Punjab Declares Amritsar, Anandpur
across the state and Mata Naina Devi in Sahib, Talwandi Sabo Holy Cities
Himachal Pradesh also.

3 Day 34th ‘Ghadri Babeyan Da Mela’

Begins in Jalandhar
▪ Venue: Desh Bhagat Yadgaar Hall, Jalandhar
▪ Dates: 3-day event, ending 1 November
▪ Focus: Centenary of death of Ghadarite Gulab
Kaur (1925–2025) and the Ghadar Movement
Ghadar Movement — Key Points
▪ Ghadar Party founded: 1913, San Francisco
▪ Founded by: Indian expatriates (notable
leader: Lala Hardayal)
▪ Aim: Overthrow British rule and establish
independent India
▪ Nature: International revolutionary movement
▪ Ghadar Newspaper : Movement began with
weekly Ghadar newspaper by Lala Hardayal
▪ Languages:
▪ The Punjab government issued a formal
▪ First published in Urdu with caption
notification granting the ‘holy city’ status to
"Angrezi Raj Ka Dushman"
three towns — the walled city of Amritsar,
▪ One month later in Gurmukhi Talwandi Sabo (in Bathinda district) and Sri
▪ Activities Anandpur Sahib (in Rupnagar district).
▪ Attempted to incite mutiny during ▪ The three cities are home to three of the five
World War-I ‘Takhts’ — Sri Akal Takht Sahib (Amritsar), Sri
▪ Linked to the Komagata Maru incident Damdama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo) and Takht Sri
▪ Worldwide mobilization of Indian Keshgarh Sahib (Sri Anandpur Sahib).
immigrants for independence ▪ It will make dedicated efforts for the
development, cleanliness, security and
Punjab Police Launches ‘Cyber Jago’ to promotion of religious tourism in these holy
Promote Online Safety Among cities.
Schoolchildren
▪ Launched by: Punjab Police Cyber Crime
Division

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150th Shree Baba Harivallabh Sangeet ▪ The move is expected to ease access to
administrative services and reduce travel for
Sammelan Begins in Jalandhar
routine official work

Punjab Vidhan Sabha clears three Bills

▪ The Punjab Vidhan Sabha passed the Punjab
Abadi Deh (Record of Rights) Amendment Bill,
2025, Indian Stamp (Punjab Second
Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Punjab Land
Revenue (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
▪ The amendment to the Indian Stamp Act, 1899
rationalises stamp duty related to deposit of
title deeds, hypothecation and equitable
mortgage by removing duplication of levy for
▪ In Punjab, the 150th Shree Baba Harivallabh the same loan transaction.
Sangeet Sammelan, the oldest Hindustani ▪ The Punjab Abadi Deh Bill reduces timelines for
classical music festival in the country, is objections and appeals will speed up
starting at Shree Devi Talab Temple, Jalandhar. implementation of “Mera Ghar Mere Naam”
▪ The festival, which will be held from December Scheme, ensuring timely ownership rights to
26 to December 28 residents of ‘Abadi Deh’ areas
▪ The festival is being organised in collaboration ▪ Amendments to the Punjab Land Revenue Act,
with the North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC), 1887 will expedite disposal of cases before
Patiala of the Union Ministry of Culture, Govt. revenue authorities, prevent unnecessary
of India and supported by the state summoning of non-litigants and accord legal
government. sanctity to digital records and digital
▪ The 3-day festival is dedicated to the 350th signatures.
martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur ▪ The Bills were passed during the one-day
Ji and acclaimed Banaras Gharana vocalist Pt special session called to pass a resolution
Chhannu Lal Mishra, who passed away in against the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar
October this year. and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act (VB-G RAM
G).

Punjab Cabinet approves elevation of

Banur to tehsil, land revenue law
amendments
▪ The Punjab
Cabinet Monday
approved the
upgradation of
Banur sub-tehsil
into a tehsil in
Sahibzada Ajit
Singh (SAS)
Nagar district,
and created
Hariana as a new sub-tehsil in Hoshiarpur.

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Uttarakhand
1. UCC Uttarakhand Rolls Out Uniform Civil Code
2. Soapstone Mining Crisis
3. Maa Purnagiri Fair
4. New Excise Policy
5. Ropeway Projects
6. Mukhyamantri Ekal Mahila
Swarozgar Yojana’
7. Bhagrirath App ▪ The Uttarakhand State Government rolled out the Uniform
8. Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Civil Code in the state, almost a year after the Uttarakhand
Project Assembly passed the Uttarakhand Uniform Civil Code
9. Raji Tribe (UCC) Bill, 2024.
10. Operation Kalanemi ▪ UCC is for all residents of the State, except the Scheduled
11. Panchshul Pulse Tribes and natives who have migrated out of the State
12. 1st Yoga Policy ▪ Online registration of marriages, divorce and live-in
relationships mandatory; govt launches new portal; people
13. Quota for Agniveers
can also upload their will
▪ also launched the rules manual for the UCC and a portal for
applications under the new rules in Dehradun.
▪ Became the second state in the country, and the first to do so in independent India, to implement a
Uniform Civil Code (UCC).
▪ Goa continued with its Portuguese Civil Code of 1867 when it became part of India in 1961. Then it was a
Union Territory.
▪ Article 44 of the Indian Constitution - state shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code
throughout the territory of India.
▪ For Uttarakhand UCC, Retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai was appointed as the
chairperson of expert committee to draft the UCC – submitted on February 2, 2024
▪ After legislative approval and President’s assent, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami declared 27th
January, 2025 as the official implementation date.

Key highlights of Uttarakhand’s UCC • to be registered within one month

• Banned Practices: Prohibits halala, iddat, and If only one partner applies to end the
talaq from Muslim Personal Law. relationship, the registrar will accept it
• Equal Rights for Women: Ensures equal only on the basis of confirmation from
property and inheritance rights. the other
• Mandatory Online Registrations: Marriage, • If the woman becomes pregnant
divorce, and live-in relationships must be during the live-in, then it is mandatory
registered on the government to inform the government within 30
portal [Link]. days of the birth of the child.
▪ Marriage Laws • The UCC also mandates that a landlord
• Legal marriage age: 21 years for men cannot deny house to any couple
and 18 years for women. whose live-in registration is done.
• Mandatory marriage registration.
• Prohibits polygamy, child marriage, Uttarakhand's Soapstone Mining Crisis
and triple talaq.
Escalates
▪ Inheritance and Property Rights
The Uttarakhand High Court has criticized authorities
• Equal inheritance rights for sons and
for unregulated soapstone mining in Bageshwar
daughters.
district, which currently has over 160 mines.
• Recognizes children of live-in couples
About
as "legitimate," granting them equal
• Soapstone, also known as steatite, is a soft
inheritance rights.
metamorphic rock composed primarily of talc
▪ Live-in relationships
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with varying amounts of chlorite, dolomite, for tourism, industry, agriculture, and other
and magnesite. uses.
• Its smooth, soapy texture and heat-resistant ▪ The amendment applies to land purchases
properties make it a versatile material. outside municipal limits.
▪ The provision that allows the purchase of 250
square metres of land for residential use
without permission continues to be in force.

Uses
• Industrial Uses: Soapstone is widely used in
industries for making sculptures, countertops,
sinks, and tiles due to its durability and
aesthetic appeal.
• Heat Resistance: It is used in stoves,
fireplaces, and laboratory countertops
because of its excellent heat resistance.
• Cosmetics and Paper: Ground soapstone Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami
serves as a filler in paper, cosmetics, and inaugurates Maa Purnagiri Fair in
paints.
Champawat district
• Traditional Uses: In India, soapstone is used
▪ Maa Purnagiri Temple is situated at an altitude
for making utensils, handicrafts, and idols.
of about 3000 meters in the mountainous
Availability in India
region of Tanakpur in Champawat district of
• Rajasthan: The largest producer, particularly
Uttarakhand.
in the Udaipur, Dungarpur, and Bhilwara
▪ The temple is considered a Shaktipeeth and is
regions.
one of the 108 Siddhapeeths. It is believed that
• Uttarakhand: Notable deposits in Bageshwar,
the navel of Sati Mata had fallen at this place.
Pithoragarh, and Almora districts.
▪ Purnagiri is also known as Punyagiri. This
• Tamil Nadu and Karnataka: Smaller reserves
temple is situated near the Sharda River.
also exist.
Purnagiri temple is also well known for its
Mining
miracles.
• Soapstone mining involves extracting talc-rich
rock from open-pit or underground mines.
Uttarakhand Cabinet approves
Uttarakhand Assembly passes implementation of Unified Pension
Uttarakhand (Uttar Pradesh Zamindari Scheme and New Excise Policy
• The Uttarakhand Cabinet approved the
Abolition and Land Management Act,
implementation of the Unified Pension
1950) Amendment Bill Scheme (UPS) for officers and employees
▪ The Bill bans people from outside the state under the National Pension System (NPS).
from buying agricultural and horticultural • The scheme aims to provide assured pension
land in 11 of the state’s 13 districts. payouts post-retirement.
▪ The two districts where the ban does not • It will come into effect from 1st April, 2025.
apply are Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar. • New Excise Policy 2025
▪ In the current amendment, the government • Liquor licenses near religious places
has removed the provision allowing the will be closed to respect religious
transfer of excess land – more than 12.5 acres sentiments.
as mandated in the principal Act – to anyone
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• Sub-shops and the metro liquor sales m (11968 ft) in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag
system have been abolished. district.
• If a shop sells liquor above ▪ The journey to the temple which is opened
the Maximum Retail Price (MRP), its only for about six months a year, includes a
license may be canceled. challenging 16-km uphill trek from Gaurikund.
▪ The 12.4 km Hemkund Sahib-Govindghat
Ropeway will be developed at a total capital
cost of ₹2,730.13 crore.
▪ Capacity – 1100 passenger per hour per
direction (11000 passengers per day)
▪ Hemkund Sahib Gurudwara is a highly-revered
pilgrimage site situated at an elevation of
15,000 ft in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.
▪ The Gurudwara is open for about five months
in a year between May and September
▪ The trek to Hemkund Sahib also serves as the
gateway to the famous Valley of Flowers, a
national park recognized as the UNESCO World
Heritage site, located in the Garhwal
Himalayas.

Promotion of Literature and Culture

• The government has announced financial
assistance for 45 writers this year.
• 21 new literary awards, along with
the Uttarakhand Sahitya Bhushan
award, have been introduced.

Cabinet approves two ropeway projects in

Uttarakhand
▪ The Union Cabinet
approved the
construction of
two ropeways —
12.9 km ropeway
from Sonprayag
to Kedarnath and
12.4 km ropeway
from Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib — in
Uttarakhand.
▪ The 12.9 km project connecting Kedarnath and
Sonprayag will be developed at a total capital
cost of ₹4,081.28 crore
▪ The ropeway is planned to be developed in
public-private partnership with a design
capacity of 1,800 passengers per hour per
direction (PPHPD) carrying 18,000 passengers
per day.
▪ The Kedarnath temple, one of the 12 sacred
Jyotirlingas, is situated at an elevation of 3,583

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Uttarakhand approves ‘Mukhyamantri ▪ The 12th Sustainable Mountain Development

Summit (SMDS-XII) held at Doon University,
Ekal Mahila Swarozgar Yojana’
Dehradun (26-27 Sept).
▪ The Uttarakhand
▪ A flagship annual summit that addresses
government has
ecological, economic, and social challenges of
approved the
the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR).
“Mukhyamantri
▪ Acts as a multi-stakeholder platform for
Ekal Mahila
dialogue, knowledge sharing, and policy
Swarozgar Yojana,” aimed at empowering
recommendations.
unmarried, divorced, abandoned, destitute,
▪ Organised by: Conducted by the Integrated
and differently-abled single women by
Mountain Initiative (IMI), a civil society-led
providing them with financial assistance of up
network.
to 2 lakh rupees.
▪ Origin: First held in 2011 at Nainital,
▪ Under this scheme, 75 per cent of the amount
Uttarakhand (SMDS-I).
will be given as a grant, while beneficiaries will
need to contribute only 25 per cent from their
side. Uttarakhand Assembly clears
▪ In the first phase, the government aims to Amendments to UCC and Anti-Conversion
benefit at least 2,000 women, with a provision Bills, New Minority Education Law
to increase the number of beneficiaries based ▪ UCC Amendment Bill, 2025 extended marriage
on the scheme’s progress. registration period from six months to one
year and raised penalties for illegal live-in
Uttarakhand CM Dhami launches relationships.
Bhagirath app under Jal Sanrakshan ▪ Anti-Conversion Bill, 2025 increased
punishment for forced conversions from 10
Abhiyan
years to life imprisonment in extreme cases.
▪ Uttarakhand Chief
▪ Minority Education Bill, 2025 mandated
Minister Pushkar Singh
all minority educational institutions,
Dhami launched the
including madrasas, to seek affiliation with
Bhagirath mobile app based on the Jal
the Uttarakhand Education Board by July
Sanrakshan Abhiyan 2025 theme, "Dhara
2026 and reapply for minority status
Mera, Naula Mera, Gaon Mera, Prayas Mera",
recognition.
and released the brochure.
Uniform Civil Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025:
▪ Through this app, people will be able to share
▪ The amendment to Section 380(2) says a
information about critical and endangered
married person entering a live-in relationship
water sources in their area.
can be punished with jail term of up to seven
▪ The government will work to revive the
years and fine.
sources identified through the app.
▪ also amended sub-sections of Section 387
which now says getting into a relationship by
Sustainable Mountain Development force, pressure or fraud will attract
Summit (SMDS) imprisonment of up to seven years and fine.
▪ The time limit for marriage registration, which
needed to be done in six months, was
extended to one year.
▪ Under Section 390-A, the Registrar-General
will have the power to cancel any registration
related to marriage, divorce, live-in
relationship or inheritance.
Uttarakhand Minority Education Bill, 2025:
▪ Establishes Uttarakhand State Authority for
Minority Education (USAME) replacing
the Madrasa Education Board.

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▪ USAME will have 12 members, including ▪ These events are often associated with
academicians from six minority communities, a cumulonimbus clouds (thunder clouds)in
retired civil servant, and ex-officio education mountainous regions, caused by orographic
officials. lift that rapidly accumulate moisture before
▪ Institutions must: collapsing violently.
▪ Affiliate with the State Education Board. Why Are Hilly Areas More Prone?
▪ Be run by a society/trust/non-profit. ▪ Topography: Steep slopes accelerate water
▪ Admit 15% non-minority students. runoff and debris flow.
▪ Appoint teachers as per Board qualifications. ▪ Orographic lifting: Moist monsoon air is rapidly
▪ Avoid religious coercion of students or staff. lifted over hills, intensifying precipitation.
▪ Recognition valid for three academic sessions, ▪ Rocky terrain: Poor water absorption causes
renewable upon compliance. rapid accumulation on surface.
▪ The government retains overriding powers to ▪ Altitude (1,000–2,000m): High vulnerability
modify or cancel USAME’s decisions. zone due to dense valley populations and
▪ All 452 madrasas previously recognised need fragile ecosystems.
fresh recognition
Freedom of Religion and Prohibition of Unlawful
Conversion (Amendment) Bill, 2025:
▪ Allows jail sentences ranging from 3 years to
life term for persons found guilty of
“forced conversions”.
▪ Previously, the maximum jail term for a
“forced conversion” was 10 years.
▪ Accused can also be booked for “false
promises of marriage” under the Bill.
▪ Hiding one’s religion with the intention of
marriage will attract imprisonment of three to
10 years, and a fine of ₹3 lakh
▪ Human trafficking and making threats to life Hazards of Cloudbursts:
attract sentences ranging from 20 years to life ▪ Flash Floods: Intense rainfall overwhelms
term under the 2025 Bill. streams and drains, causing sudden flooding
that devastates homes, farms, and public
infrastructure.
Devastating Flash Flood in Uttarkashi’s ▪ Landslides: Saturated soil on steep slopes leads
Dharali Village after Cloudburst to slope failures, blocking roads and burying
settlements under debris.
▪ Mudflows and Debris Slides: Rainwater mixes
with soil and rocks to form high-speed flows
that destroy everything in their path.

About Uttarkashi District:

▪ A devastating cloudburst in Uttarkashi’s ▪ Uttarkashi is
Dharali region triggered flash floods and a northern Himalayan
landslides, killing at least four people and district in Uttarakhand
sweeping away homes. and part of
▪ A cloudburst is defined by the India the Garhwal division,
Meteorological Department (IMD) as rainfall created on February
exceeding 100 mm/hour over a small area 24, 1960.
(20–30 sq km). ▪ Nicknamed “Kashi of
▪ A 2023 IIT Jammu & NIH study redefined it the North“, Uttarkashi
as 100–250 mm/hour over just 1 sq km, shares spiritual similarities with Varanasi, lying
making it one of the most localized and between the rivers Varuna (Syalam
intense weather events. Gad) and Asi (Kaligad).

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▪ Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand — a Raji Tribe
region known as the “Water Tower of India” ▪ The Raji tribe is a
small indigenous
Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project community from
NEWS: Twelve workers the Kumaon region
were injured, four of of Uttarakhand,
them critically, in a India, and parts of
sudden landslide that western Nepal.
struck the dam site ▪ They reside primarily in the remote areas of
▪ It is located on Alaknanda River, a major Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh district.
tributary of the Ganga River, in the district ▪ The Raji tribe is one of the smallest tribes of
Chamoli in the state of Uttarakhand. India.
▪ It is being developed by THDC India ▪ They are also called “Banrawats,” “Ben-
Ltd (formerly Tehri Hydro Development Manus”, and “cave dwellers.”
Corporation Limited) and financed by a US$ ▪ They are classified as a Particularly Vulnerable
648 million loan from the World Bank. Tribal Group (PVTG).
▪ THDC is a joint venture between the ▪ Traditionally forest dwellers and cave dwellers,
government of India and the government of they speak the Tibeto-Burman language Bat-
Uttar Pradesh. Kha.
▪ Religion: They worship Hindu gods, and they
Uttarakhand Launches Endangered Plant worship nature.
▪ Livelihood: They work as gatherers, collecting
Conservation Program
honey from bee-hives, fishing, and hunting.
▪ The Himalayan state of Uttarakhand – a region
▪ In recent decades, many have shifted to
boasting 69 per cent forest cover and a strong
agriculture, with rice, maize, and barley being
national presence in wildlife conservation – has
the staple crops.
launched a unique program to revive critically
▪ In addition to agriculture, the Rajis are skilled
endangered "Red Category" plant species.
in various handicrafts, including weaving and
▪ The Uttarakhand Forest Department is now
basketry.
ready to re-establish rare plant species in their
natural habitats, a unique national initiative to
save endangered flora. Uttarakhand to set new record planting
▪ The first phase of the program targets 14 over 5 lakh saplings to mark the Harela
species that are either listed as festival on 16th July
endangered/critically endangered on the
International Union for Conservation of Nature
(IUCN) Red List or are included in the
Uttarakhand State Biodiversity Board's list of
endangered species

▪ Harela is popular in the Kumaon region of

Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
▪ Celebrated thrice every year - during Chaitra
Navratri (March-April), Sharad Navratri (in
Ashwin - September) and Shravan Harela, in
the rainy season (July).

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▪ This festival is deeply rooted in agriculture, ▪ The station was launched by Lieutenant
marking the beginning of the sowing season General Anindya Sengupta, the general officer
and symbolizing prosperity and new commanding-in-chief of the central command.
beginnings with the onset of the monsoon. ▪ Its tagline, “Hill se Dil Tak,” captures the
essence of connecting the hearts of the people
Uttarakhand to Launch Operation living in the hills.
▪ Panchshul Pulse is an initiative of the Indian
Kalanemi Against Fake Saints
Army, aligning with the Government of India’s
Vibrant Villages Programme.
▪ This programme focuses on enhancing
development and connectivity in border
areas.
▪ The radio station is named after the
Panchchuli mountain range, symbolising the
resilience of local communities.
▪ Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh
Dhami directed the initiation of Operation
Uttarakhand launches India’s 1st yoga
Kalanemi against those who impersonate
saints and commit fraud. policy to become global wellness capital
▪ in recent times, several cases have emerged in
the state where antisocial elements, posing as
saints, have been found cheating people,
especially women.

Uttarakhand: Pushkar Kumbh begins at

Keshav Prayag after 12 yrs

▪ Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami

announced a Yoga Policy for Uttarakhand on
the occasion of 11th International Yoga Day
making it the first state in the country to frame
such a policy.
▪ a subsidy of up to Rs 20 lakh would be given
▪ Inaugurated by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh under this policy for establishing yoga and
Dhami on May 15, 2025. The festival is being wellness centres besides a grant of up to Rs 10
held at Keshav Prayag in Mana village, near lakh for research in the field of yoga,
Badrinath Dham, at the confluence of the meditation and naturopathy.
Alaknanda and Saraswati rivers ▪ government is determined to establish five
▪ According to religious tradition, when the new yoga hubs in Uttarakhand by 2030.
planet Jupiter enters the Gemini sign once in ▪ By March 2026, the availability of yoga services
12 years, the Pushkar Kumbh is held. will also be ensured in all AYUSH Health and
▪ This event is primarily attended by devotees of Wellness Centers in the state,
the Vaishnavite tradition from South India. ▪ The chief minister released a booklet on the
state's Yoga Policy.
Panchshul Pulse ▪ He also planted an apple sapling in the Vidhan
▪ Pithoragarh, located in Uttarakhand, has Sabha premises at Bhararisain in Gairsain
recently inaugurated its first community radio under the program "Ek Vriksha, Yoga Ke
station, Panchshul Pulse. Naam".
▪ This station aims to serve the border ▪ The Uttarakhand government will soon
communities by blending local culture, establish one Spiritual Economic Zone each in
weather updates, and village stories. Garhwal and Kumaon divisions to promote

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ayurveda and naturopathy, yoga and spiritual Age Limit 17.5 – 21 years (first cycle: 23
tourism in the state. years due to COVID)
▪ to establish two new cities in the mountainous Service Tenure 4 years (incl. 6 months training +
areas of the state becoming the center of yoga, 3.5 years service)
ayurveda and spirituality, Retention Up to 25% retained as
permanent cadre, rest (75%) exit
Uttarakhand reserves 10% jobs for retired Exit Benefit ~₹11.7 lakh lump sum (tax-free,
Agniveers in uniformed posts (Seva Nidhi) includes govt. contribution +
interest)
Salary (approx.) 1st Yr: ₹30,000 → 2nd Yr:
₹33,000 → 3rd Yr: ₹36,500 → 4th
Yr: ₹40,000
In-hand Salary 70% of monthly pay (30% goes to
Seva Nidhi)
Insurance Cover ₹48 lakh during service
Post-Service Preference in CAPFs, State Police,
Opportunities Defence PSUs, private jobs; Skill
certificates provided
▪ Uttarakhand government on September 1, Objectives Younger armed forces, reduced
2025 issued rules for 10% horizontal pension burden, skill
reservation for direct recruitment of retired development, nation-building
Agniveers in State services of ‘Group C’ .
▪ The beneficiaries must be the native of 9th November- Uttarakhand Foundation
Uttarakhand. Day
▪ This includes important uniformed posts like ▪ Formed on 9 November 2000
Police Constable (Civilian / Provincial Armed (carved out of Uttar Pradesh) →
Constabulary), Sub Inspector, Platoon became India’s 27th state.
Commander PAC, Fireman, Fire Officer II, ▪ Completed 25 years of formation (2025).
Prisoner, Deputy Jailor, Forest Guard, Forest ▪ Borders: Himachal Pradesh (West), Uttar
Inspector, Excise Constable, Enforcement Pradesh (South), Nepal & China (Northeast).
Constable, transport department and
Secretariat Guard.
▪ The horizontal reservation is provided across
all categories, from General to SC/ST and OBC.
▪ The Agniveers will also be exempted from the
physical efficiency test in the direct
recruitment and they will also be given
relaxation in the maximum age limit.
▪ Haryana also provides a 20% reservation for
Agniveers in police jobs.
▪ Uttar Pradesh also has 20% horizontal
reservation for Agniveers in police services.
▪ Earlier this year, other BJP-ruled States
including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh,
Rajasthan and Odisha too had announced
reservation for Agniveers.
Feature Agnipath Scheme Details
Launch June 2022 by Government of
India
Forces Covered Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian
Air Force
Recruit Name Agniveer

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Category Details
State Three mountain peaks under Ashoka’s Ramman Festival
emblem lion; below: four waves of Ganga; ▪ President of India
“Satyamev Jayate” inscribed. received a Ramman
State Brahma Kamal / Kaulpadya (Sosuria mask at a special
flower ableveta) Uttarakhand Assembly
State tree Buransh (Rhododendron) session.
State Musk Deer (Muscus chisoganster) ▪ Type: Annual religious
animal and ritual storytelling
State bird Monal (Lopoporus impeginus) festival
State Common Peacock (Papilio bianor) — ▪ Location: Saloor–Dungra twin villages, Chamoli
butterfly notified 2016 district, Uttarakhand
State Football ▪ Time: Late April
sport ▪ Deity: Dedicated to Bhumiyal Devta (local deity
Legislature Unicameral / guardian of the land)
Official Uttarakhand Dev Bhoomi, ▪ UNESCO status: UNESCO Intangible Cultural
Song Mathrubhumi, Shat Shat Vandan… Heritage (2009)
(Written by Hemant Bisht) Key Features
▪ Ramayana recitations + local legends
PM Participates in Uttarakhand Silver ▪ Masked dances & folk theatre (18 masks)
▪ Masks made of Bhojpatra (Himalayan birch)
Jubilee Celebrations Dehradun, Launches ▪ Each caste/group has specific roles
Development Projects ▪ Venue: Courtyard of Bhumiyal Devta temple
▪ Divine storytelling + ritual offerings &
community participation
Musical Instruments Used
▪ Dhol, Damau
▪ Manjira, Jhanjhar
▪ Bhankora (trumpet-like instrument)

Bajrang Setu: India’s First 132-Metre Cable

Glass Bridge Set to Open in Rishikesh Soon

▪ Estimated to cost around ₹70 crore.

▪ Projects: ₹8140 cr total ▪ Construction of Bajrang Setu began in 2022
Major Projects and is nearing completion as of October 2025.
▪ Dehradun water supply (AMRUT) – 23 zones ▪ Once open, it will be the first cable
▪ Solar power plants in govt buildings suspension bridge with glass flooring in India
▪ Electrical substations (incl. Pithoragarh) and only the second of its kind in Asia.
▪ AstroTurf Hockey Ground – Haldwani (Nainital) ▪ The twin towers of the bridge are modelled
▪ Song Dam – 150 MLD drinking water after the sanctum of Kedarnath Temple.
▪ Jamarani Dam – water + irrigation + electricity
▪ Women’s Sports College (Champawat) & Dairy
plant (Nainital)

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Haryana
1. India’s 1st Ferret Research Facility International Saraswati Mahotsav begins at Pehowa
2. Surajkund Craft Mela in Kurukshetra, Haryana
3. Har Khet Swasth khet Campaign
4. Witness Protection Scheme
5. 1st World Peace Center
6. Harappan Sites
7. Quota for Agniveers
8. Lado Lakshmi Yojana
9. Swachh Kurukshetra’ mission ▪ Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini inaugurated the
10. Asia’s Biggest Jungle Safari seven-day’ International Saraswati Mahotsav’ 2025
at Pehowa Saraswati Tirth in the Kurukshetra district of
Haryana on 29 January 2025.
▪ The Mahotsav will continue till 4th February 2025, during which various seminars, cultural events, and Saras
mela will be held.
▪ Adi Badri, also known as Sri Sarasvati Udgam Tirath

Blinkit Launches 10-Minute Ambulance Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2025

Service in Gurgaon

▪ Zomato-owned quick commerce platform

Blinkit has announced a 10 minute ambulance
delivery service, as the firm looks to expand
beyond grocery and print out deliveries.
▪ held annually at Surajkund in Faridabad,
Haryana, India.
India’s First Ferret Research Facility ▪ The fair showcases the richness and diversity
launched in Faridabad, Haryana of the handicrafts, handlooms and the
▪ The nation's first Ferret Research Facility - cultural heritage of India.
GARBH-INi-DRISHTI data repository at the ▪ 38th edition of the Mela will be held from 7th
Translational Health Science and Technology to 23rd February 2025.
Institute (THSTI) in the NCR Biotech Science ▪ Inaugurated by Union minister for tourism and
Cluster, Faridabad, Haryana culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
▪ The newly inaugurated Facility marks a pivotal ▪ THEME STATE: Odisha and Madhya Pradesh
moment in India's fight against infectious and ▪ BIMSTEC countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,
non-communicable diseases. This pioneering Myanmar, Thailand, Nepal, and Sri Lanka)
facility will serve as a crucial resource for remain partner nations for the event.
vaccine development, therapeutic testing, ▪ inception in 1987
and research into emerging infectious ▪ In 2013, the fair was upgraded to an
diseases international level
▪ GARBH-INi-DRISHTI will empower researchers & PATNER STATE :
worldwide to conduct transformative research BIMSTEC
aimed at improving maternal and neonatal • BIMSTEC is a regional
health outcomes. organisation comprising 7 member states -

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Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, ▪ Vulnerable Witness Courtrooms – One-way
Sri Lanka, and Thailand. mirrors, separate passages, and identity
• It was formed in 1997 with the aim of masking.
promoting multifaceted technical and ▪ Fast-Track Depositions – Recording witness
economic cooperation among the countries of statements without adjournments.
the Bay of Bengal region. ▪ Financial Aid – Assistance for relocation,
• The region covered by BIMSTEC is home to livelihood, or sustenance from the protection
around 1.5 billion people, with a combined fund.
GDP of over USD 3.8 trillion.
North India's first Nuclear project coming
Haryana Launches ‘Har Khet-Swasth Khet’ up in Haryana in Gorakhpur
Campaign to Boost Soil Health
Under this initiative, soil samples
from every acre of farmland in
the state will be collected over
the next three to four years, and
Soil Health Cards will be issued
to all farmers.

Haryana Witness Protection Scheme 2025 ▪ Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced
▪ The Haryana Government has rolled out that North India’s first nuclear power project
‘Haryana Witness Protection Scheme 2025’ to will be established in Gorakhpur, Haryana
ensure the safety and security of witnesses
who play a crucial role in the justice system.
Nuclear Power Plants in India – Current &
What are the conditions for applicability?
▪ The scheme will be applicable to witnesses of Planned Projects
offences punishable with death, life
imprisonment, or imprisonment of seven
years or more.
▪ Additionally, it will cover punishments under
Sections 74-79 of the BNS, as well as under
Sections 8, 10, 12, 14, and 15 of the Protection
of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012.
Who will be responsible to execute witness
protection orders?
▪ A Witness Protection Cell will be established
in each district, headed by the DCP or SP of
the concerned district.
Witness Protection Measures:
▪ Separation from Accused – Ensuring no face-
to-face encounters during investigation/trial.
▪ Communication Monitoring – Tracking mails,
emails, calls, and modifying contact details.
▪ Security Enhancements – Installing security
devices like CCTV, alarms, security doors, Planned Power Plants Location
fencing, etc. Kaiga Karnataka
▪ Relocation Assistance – Temporary shifting to Jaitapur Maharashtra
another residence, city, or relative’s house. Kovvada Andhra Pradesh
▪ Safe Court Appearance – Government
Kavali Andhra Pradesh
transport, in-camera trials, and audio-video
Gorakhpur Haryana
statements.
Mahi Banswara Rajasthan
Chutka Madhya Pradesh
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Haryana CM Nayab Saini Launches One- Action for Water Conservation - Towards
Intensified Community Connect )
Time Settlement Scheme for Traders
▪ He also e-launched the ‘Mukhyamantri Jal
▪ The scheme will provide great relief to
Sanchay Yojana’ and the Water Resources
thousands of taxpaying traders, especially
Atlas for Haryana, which assists in scientific
small shopkeepers, entrepreneurs and traders
water resource management.
to make a new beginning by freeing them
▪ also launched the ‘Jal-Jungle-Jan: Ek Prakritik
from the old financial burden.
Bandhan Abhiyan’, which strengthens the
▪ This scheme will remain open for the coming
ecological relationship between rivers, springs
180 days i.e. 6 months.
and forests.
▪ For payment of cumulative assessed
outstanding tax up to ₹10 lakh, the taxpayer
will have to pay 40% amount after deducting Haryana CM Nayab Saini Presents ₹2.05
the exemption of up to ₹1 lakh from ₹10 lakh. Lakh Crore Budget for 2025-26
▪ For cumulatively assessed outstanding tax ▪ In the last 10 years,
liabilities of more than ₹10 lakh and up to ₹10 the state’s GDP has
crore, the taxpayer will have to pay 50% of the grown at an
amount. average rate of
▪ Similarly, the taxpayer will have to pay 100% 10.8% and per
of the cumulative assessed outstanding tax capita income at an
liabilities of more than ₹10 crore average rate of 9.1%.
▪ Taxpayers with settlement amount of more ▪ Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini also
than ₹10 lakh outstanding tax have been announced the launch of the Lado Laxmi
given the option to make payment in two Yojana, under which women in the state will
installments. receive financial assistance of Rs 2,100 per
month.
Union Minister C.R. Patil launches Jal
Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain-2025 in Haryana CM Announces Key Women’s
Haryana Welfare Measures on International
▪ Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Women’s Day
Patil launched the ▪ The women of the state will be provided
country-wide Jal interest-free loans up to Rs 1 lakh for setting
Shakti Abhiyan: Catch up dairy units
the Rain – 2025 from ▪ He also launched 3 portals during state-level
Panchkula, Haryana - ‘Mahila Samman Samaroh’ held in Panchkula:
to Drive Community- for domestic violence complaint registration
Led Water and monitoring, MIS portal for Aapki Beti-
Conservation and Hamari Beti and SNP demand and supply
Sustainability Across portal
148 Districts ▪ The CM also announced that under the Mahila
▪ This campaign has Krishi Vridhi Yojana, the women from farming
been launched in collaboration with the families will be provided interest-free loans
Ministry of Jal Shakti, the Ministry of for livestock rearing, beekeeping, poultry
Environment, Forest and Climate Change and farming, and dairy farming.
the Government of Haryana. ▪ In addition, the state plans to expand the
▪ The Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain – Namo Drone Didi initiative by training 5,000
2025 aims to drive nationwide awareness and women to become drone pilots.
action for water conservation, making the ▪ Haryana has become the first state in India to
vision of 'हर बद
ूं अनमोल' (Every Drop Counts) introduce a comprehensive crèche policy for
a reality working mothers
▪ The campaign, themed “जल संचय जन ▪ Saini honoured districts for their achievements
in improving gender ratio and child nutrition.
भागीदारी: जन जागरूकता की ओर”, (Peoples'
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Yamunanagar district in Haryana secured first ▪ These early settlers (popularly known as
place for its efforts in enhancing nutrition and Sothians) lived at Chang, Mitathal, Tighrana
gender ratio etc. in small mud-brick houses with thatched
roofs
India’s First World Peace Center ▪ They engaged in agriculture, domesticated
cows, bulls, goats etc., and used wheel-made
Inaugurated in Gurugram
pottery
▪ The first-ever World
▪ They used copper, bronze and stone
Peace Centre,
implements
established under the
▪ The discovery of remains from Pre-Siswal, pre-
leadership of Jain
Harappan and post-Harappan settlements at
Acharya Lokesh Muni
Tighrana, is a significant archaeological find.
and the efforts of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti,
▪ The presence of beads and green carnelian
inaugurated at Gurugram, Haryana
bangles indicate a thriving industry of bead
▪ World Peace Center will be dedicated to the
making and jewellery production.
mental, emotional and character
development of the people.
Haryana Government Announced 20%
Mitathal and Tighrana Harappan Sites Quota for Agniveers in Haryana Police
▪ The Haryana ▪ Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini
Government has announced a 10% hike in reservation for
officially declared Agniveers in state police jobs, taking the total
Mitathal and reservation to 20%.
Tighrana, two ▪ The BJP-led Haryana government had last year
Harappan civilisation announced a 10% horizontal reservation for
sites as protected Agniveers in recruitment for the posts of
archaeological sites constable and forest guards, among others.
under the Haryana What is Agnipath Scheme?
Ancient and Historical • The term "Agniveer" translates to "Fire-
Monuments and Warriors" and is a new military rank.
Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1964. • It is a scheme of recruiting army personnel
Location: below officer ranks such as soldiers, airmen,
▪ Mitathal and Tighrana villages in Bhiwani and sailors who are not commissioned officers
district, Haryana. to the Indian Armed Forces.
Mitathal Site: • They are recruited for a period of 4 years,
▪ The site came to light for the first time in 1913 after which, up to 25% of these recruits (called
when a hoard of coins of Samudra Gupta, one Agniveers), can join the services on
of the most illustrious kings of the Gupta a permanent commission (another 15 years),
dynasty, was found. subject to merit and organisational
▪ Excavations from 1965–68 and four more requirements.
since 2016 by Central University of Haryana.
▪ Yields Copper-Bronze Age material dating back
to 3rd–2nd millennium BCE.
▪ Evidence of Harappan town planning, sturdy
red pottery with black painted motifs (e.g.
pipal leaf, fish scale).
▪ Artefacts: beads, copper tools, bangles,
terracotta, and bone items.
Tighrana Site:
▪ The region was first inhabited by the
Chalcolithic agricultural communities as early
as 2,400 BCE

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Eligibility Criteria: Corridors, Inter Corridors, and Feeder Routes,
• Candidates between the age of 17.5 years to along with National Highway efficiency
21 years are eligible to apply improvements. The program also emphasizes
• Seva Nidhi Package: A contributory scheme connectivity to border and rural areas.
where Agniveers and the government each GOBARdhan Plant in Yamunanagar
contribute 30% of the monthly emoluments, ▪ The project is expected to be completed by
culminating in around Rs 11.71 lakh (with May 2027.
interest) post four years, tax-exempt. ▪ Approximately 45,000 metric tons of solid
• Death/Disability Compensation: In case of on- waste and 36,000 metric tons of cattle dung
duty death, over Rs 1 crore is awarded; will be processed scientifically each year.
disability compensation up to Rs 44 lakh, ▪ CBG is a purified form of biogas and a
based on disability extent related to military substitute for CNG.
service ▪ The 2,600 metric tons of CBG produced
• Agniveers will be provided non-contributory annually will result in equivalent savings of
Life Insurance Cover of ₹48 lakh for the CNG.
duration of their engagement period in the ▪ Additionally, the plant will produce about
Indian Armed Forces. 10,000 metric tons of bio-fertilizer each year.
The project will reduce CO₂ emissions by 7,700
PM Modi lays foundation stones, metric tons annually
dedicates development projects worth
Haryana to Host Namo Yuva Run on Sept
₹10,000 Cr in Haryana
21 as Part of Seva Pakhwada Celebrations

▪ He laid the foundation stone for the third unit

of 800 MW at Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram
Thermal Power Plant in Yamunanagar worth ▪ The Bharatiya Janata Party will organize Namo
Rs 8,469 crore. Yuva Run in collaboration with the Haryana
▪ Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for a Government in Gurugram and Kurukshetra on
GOBARdhan Plant in Yamunanagar worth Rs September 21.
90 crore (to be developed in collaboration with ▪ during the Seva Pakhwada - to be celebrated
BPCL) and inaugurated the Rewari Bypass - from September 17, the birth anniversary of
four-lane bypass has been constructed around Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to October 2.
Rewari city to reduce traffic congestion. ▪ This Yuva Run will focus on giving the message
▪ The Rewari Bypass project has been developed against drug abuse and motivating the youth
under the Bharatmala scheme at a cost of Rs power to serve the people.
1,069 crore.
Bharatmala Pariyojana : Haryana approves monthly aid scheme for
▪ Bharatmala Pariyojana is an umbrella program
by the Ministry of Road Transport and
women - Lado Lakshmi Yojana
Highways of India aimed at improving ▪ Haryana Chief
highway infrastructure and efficiency of Minister Nayab
freight and passenger movement across Singh Saini
India. It focuses on bridging critical announced that
infrastructure gaps by developing Economic women in the

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state will start receiving Rs 2,100 per month SC Directive on Forest Definition
from September 25 under a new welfare ▪ Recently, the Supreme Court mandated all
scheme–Lado Lakshmi Yojana. states and Union Territories to define forest
clearly.
Feature Details
▪ The court asked for expert committees to map
Scheme Name Lado Lakshmi Yojana (Deen Dayal forest areas using GIS-based tools.
Lado Lakshmi Yojana)
▪ These mappings must include forest-like areas,
Announced On August 28, 2025 by CM Nayab unclassified forests, community forests, and
Singh Saini eco-sensitive zones.
Launch Date September 25, 2025 (Deendayal Haryana’s Official Forest Definition
Upadhyaya’s birth anniversary) ▪ As per Haryana’s Environment, Forest and
Financial Aid ₹2,100 per month per eligible Wildlife Department - “A patch of land shall be
woman deemed to be ‘forest as per dictionary
Target Women aged 23 years and above meaning’ if it fulfils following conditions:
Beneficiaries (married/unmarried) from families ▪ It has a minimum area of five hectares, if it is
with annual income below ₹1 lakh in isolation, and a minimum area of two
(in first phase) hectares, if it is in contiguity with the
Estimated ~19–20 lakh women in first rollout government notified forests; and
Beneficiaries phase ▪ It has a canopy density of 0.4 (40%) or more”.
Funding ₹5,000 crore provisioned in 2025– ▪ The notification further specifies that “all
Allocation 26 Haryana state budget linear/compact/agro-forestry plantations and
Residency Unmarried women or husband of orchards situated outside the government
Requirement married women → must be notified forests shall not be treated as forests
Haryana domicile for 15 years under the above definition”.
Beneficiary Up to 3 women per household can
Limit avail benefit Haryana Legislative Assembly
Exclusions Women already receiving higher
pensions under other schemes not
unanimously passed a resolution to honor
eligible (except in cases of serious Guru Tegh Bahadur on his 350th
illness) martyrdom anniversary
Automatic At age 45, unmarried beneficiaries
Transitions shift to Widow & Destitute
Women Allowance, at age 60, to
Old Age Pension Scheme

Haryana Defines Forests

▪ The Haryana Legislative Assembly unanimously
announced plans for a major event in
Kurukshetra on 25 November, featuring
religious processions.
▪ Ninth Guru of Sikhism (1621–1675),
remembered as Hind Di Chadar (Protector of
India).
Early Life and Education
▪ Born on April 1, 1621, in Amritsar, youngest
son of Guru Hargobind Ji.
▪ Trained in martial skills, scriptures, music, and
meditation from a young age.
▪ The Haryana government issued a formal
▪ Founded several towns including Anandpur
definition of forest in August 2025.
Sahib, which later became a Sikh spiritual and
▪ This move follows directives from the Supreme military centre.
Court of India, which required all states to
clarify forest boundaries and conduct surveys.

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▪ Strengthened Sikh institutions and spread
teachings through hymns later included in
the Guru Granth Sahib
▪ Opposed the Mughal policy of forced
conversions of Kashmiri Pandits.
▪ He made the supreme sacrifice in November
1675 at Chandni Chowk, Delhi.
▪ The terminal is connected to Patli railway
Haryana CM launches 11-week ‘Swachh station via a 10-kilometre dedicated rail
corridor, which is a component of the 121.7-
Kurukshetra’ mission to make city kilometre Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor
cleanest, most beautiful in country developed by the Haryana Rail Infrastructure
▪ To make this sacred land clean, an 11-week Development Corporation (HRIDC).
‘Swachh Kurukshetra – Mera Kurukshetra, ▪ The project was developed at a total cost of
Mera Abhimaan’ mission has been launched. ₹800 crore, of which ₹684 crore was
▪ From August 24 to November 7. contributed by HRIDC, with the remainder
▪ under the ‘Haryana Shehr Swachhta Abhiyan financed by Maruti Suzuki.
– 2025’ a mass movement will be launched to
make every street and corner of Kurukshetra LS Speaker inaugurates 1st National
clean. Conference of Urban Local Bodies in
states, UTs at Manesar
Pandit Lakhmi Chand Kalakar Samajik
▪ Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the
Samman Yojana first National Level Conference of
Chairpersons of Urban Local Bodies in the
States and Union Territories at the
International Centre for Automotive
Technology, Manesar in Haryana.
▪ The theme of the two-day Conference is – Role
of Urban Local Bodies in Strengthening
Constitutional Democracy and Nation Building.
▪ Laucnhed by Haryana government
▪ Aims to support senior artists and art scholars Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia
financially
▪ The scheme offers a monthly honorarium of Inaugurates Ericsson’s First India-Made
₹10,000. Eligible fields include singing, acting, Antenna Facility at VVDN Innovation Park
dance, drama, and visual arts.
Eligibility Criteria
▪ Applicants must be residents of Haryana aged
60 or above.
▪ Should have a minimum of 20 years of
contribution to the arts.
▪ Parivar Pehchan Patra (PPP) will verify age and
income details.
▪ Annual income of up to ₹1.80 lakh qualifies
for full honorarium.
▪ Those earning between ₹1.80 lakh and ₹3 lakh
▪ Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister of
will receive ₹7,000 monthly.
Communications and Minister for
Development of North Eastern Region
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
(DONER) inaugurated Ericsson’s antenna
inaugurates India’s largest Gatishakti manufacturing facility at VVDN’s Global
Cargo Terminal in Manesar Innovation Park in Manesar, HARYANA.
▪ Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw ▪ The facility, developed in collaboration
inaugurated the Gati Shakti Multi-Modal between Ericsson and VVDN Technologies, is
Cargo Terminal at Maruti Suzuki’s Manesar Ericsson’s first to produce passive antennas in
facility in Haryana.
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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
India for global markets. Shipments are ▪ To boost industrial energy efficiency,
expected to commence in July 2025. especially for MSMEs
▪ Ericsson is a Swedish multinational networking What is ADEETIE?
and telecommunications company ▪ ADEETIE stands for Assistance in Deploying
Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries &
Haryana to Build Asia’s Biggest Jungle Establishments.
▪ It is a flagship scheme to promote low-carbon
Safari
industrial growth by facilitating adoption of
clean, efficient energy technologies.
▪ Launched by: Union Ministry of Power
▪ Implemented by: The Bureau of Energy
Efficiency (BEE)
▪ Total Budget: ₹1000 crore (FY 2025–26 to FY
2027–28).
▪ ₹875 crore for interest subvention, ₹50 crore
for audits, ₹75 crore for handholding support.
▪ The Haryana government has announced that Core Objectives:
it will build Asia’s largest jungle safari in the ▪ Promote energy efficiency (EE) in MSMEs to
Aravalli Hills. reduce emissions.
▪ The planned jungle safari will be the largest in ▪ Provide financial assistance and technical
Asia, spread over 10,000 acres in the Aravalli support for technology adoption.
Hills of Haryana. ▪ Improve power-productivity ratio and support
▪ The main goal is to protect animals and nature, India’s net zero and Viksit Bharat goals.
while also boosting tourism and creating new Key Features:
jobs for people. Interest Subvention:
▪ Aravalli Range: It is one of the oldest fold ▪ 5% for Micro and Small Enterprises
mountains of the world. ▪ 3% for Medium Enterprises
▪ It runs approximately 670 km (430 mi) in a Technical Handholding:
south-west direction, starting near Delhi, ▪ Investment-grade energy audits (IGEA)
passing through southern Haryana and ▪ DPR preparation and tech implementation
Rajasthan, and ending in Gujarat. ▪ Monitoring & verification (M&V) post-
▪ The highest peak is Guru Shikhar at 1,722 installation
metres (5,650 ft). ▪ Digital Facilitation: Dedicated portal to track
▪ Rivers: Three major rivers and their applications and disbursements.
tributaries flow from the Aravalli, namely ▪ Cluster-Based Rollout:
Banas and Sahibi rivers which are tributaries ▪ Phase I: 60 industrial clusters
of Yamuna, as well as Luni River which flows ▪ Phase II: 100 additional clusters
into the Rann of Kutch. ▪ Expected Outcomes:
▪ Up to 50% reduction in energy
Union Minister for Power and Housing & usage in some technologies.
Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal launches ▪ ₹9000 crore investments catalysed,
including ₹6750 crore in MSME loans.
ADEETIE Scheme to Accelerate Industrial ▪ Eligibility Criteria:
Energy Efficiency in India ▪ Registered MSMEs in identified
clusters/sectors.
▪ Active participation in energy audits
and DPR approval process.
▪ Preference to early adopters
and energy-intensive industries.

▪ Union Minister of Power launched the

ADEETIE scheme at a national rollout event in
Panipat, Haryana.
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Matri Van Initiative

▪ Union Ministers of Environment launched the
‘Matri Van’ Initiative in Gurugram, under the
‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.
▪ ‘Matri Van’ is a theme-based urban
forest project spanning 750 acres in
the Aravalli Hills, being developed ▪ Sabar Dairy (operational since 2015): Major
in Gurugram, Haryana. unit of Amul cooperative.
▪ Aim: To foster urban ecological restoration, Upgrade Impact:
community-driven tree plantation, biodiversity ▪ Rohtak facility becomes the largest producer
conservation, and revive the degraded Aravalli of curd, buttermilk, and yoghurt in India.
landscape. ▪ Strengthens Amul’s cooperative model in
North India.
Haryana Launches Deendayal Lado Dairy Sector in Haryana
Lakshmi Women Scheme ▪ Rank: 3rd largest milk-producing state in India.
India’s Position (FAO data):
▪ World’s largest producer of milk (contributes
~24% of global production).

Union Environment Minister Bhupender

Yadav lays Foundation of Namo Van in
Haryana to mark Wildlife Week 2025

▪ The Haryana government launched the

Deendayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana, a welfare
initiative aimed at empowering women
economically.
▪ The scheme was inaugurated by Chief
Minister Nayab Singh Saini at Tau Devi Lal
Stadium in Panchkula, coinciding with the
birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal
Upadhyaya.
▪ Foundation stone of ‘Namo Van’ at Manesar
▪ Financial Assistance: Eligible women will ▪ The occasion was also marked by a plantation
receive ₹2,100 per month directly into their
drive under the campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke
bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer
Naam’.
(DBT).
▪ Target Beneficiaries: The scheme is open to
both married and unmarried women aged
Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal
between 23 and 60 years, from families with inaugurates 18th Urban Mobility India
an annual income of up to ₹1 lakh. (UMI) Conference & Exhibition 2025
▪ Budget Allocation: The scheme has a ▪ 18th edition held
budgetary provision of ₹5,000 crore for the in Gurugram,
fiscal year 2025–26. Haryana
▪ Inaugurated by:
Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurates Shri Manohar Lal
Sabar Dairy Plant in Rohtak, Haryana (Union Minister,
▪ Union Home & Cooperation Minister Amit Housing & Urban
Shah inaugurated the second phase of Sabar Affairs & Power)
Dairy (Amul Plant) at IMT Rohtak, Haryana. ▪ Organised by:
MoHUA + Govt of

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Haryana, via Institute of Urban Transport 1st November- Haryana Day
(India) & Gurugram Metro Rail Ltd (GMRL) ▪ Marks Haryana’s formation in 1966, carved out
▪ Duration: 3 days of Punjab under Punjab
▪ Theme 2025: “Urban Development and Reorganisation Act,
Mobility Nexus” 1966
▪ Passed by Indian
Gurugram gets 'India's first' QR-based Parliament; outcome of
kiosk to pay traffic fines the Punjabi Suba
▪ Gurugram movement.
becomes ▪ Created Haryana and Punjab; Chandigarh
India’s 1st city made a UT and shared capital.
to launch a QR Shah Commission (1966)
code–based ▪ Headed by Justice J.C. Shah.
kiosk for ▪ Recommendations based on linguistic
digital demographics (Hindi vs Punjabi-speaking
payment of areas).
traffic ▪ Allocated Hindi-speaking districts like Hisar,
challans. Rohtak, Gurgaon, Karnal, Mahendragarh to
▪ Developed by Haryana.
Gurugram Key Provisions
Police + GMDA. ▪ Haryana: Formed from Hindi-speaking regions
▪ Installed at Ambience Mall. of Punjab.
▪ Launched under a CSR (Corporate Social ▪ Punjab: Reorganised Punjabi-speaking areas.
Responsibility) initiative. ▪ Chandigarh: Became Union Territory; joint
capital of Punjab & Haryana.
▪ Himachal Pradesh: Mountainous Punjab
10th International Gita Festival Begins in
regions merged into Himachal (UT → State in
Kurukshetra 1971).
▪ The 10th
edition of the
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Inaugurates
International
Gita Festival India’s First Electric Truck Battery
has opened in Swapping Station in Sonipat
Kurukshetra.
▪ Festival runs
15 Nov–5 Dec.
▪ Partner State:
Madhya Pradesh.
▪ Started in 2016; now celebrated in Mauritius,
UK, Canada, Australia, Sri Lanka, Japan. ▪ Developed by: Energy in Motion company
▪ 51 countries participating this year. Key Features
▪ Priests from Fiji and Trinidad & Tobago ▪ India’s first battery swapping-cum-charging
attending; artisans from 7 countries station for electric trucks.
showcasing crafts. ▪ Enables battery swapping instead of full
recharging → reduces vehicle downtime and
SHORT NEWS SEGMENT increases efficiency.
▪ Operation Trackdown of Haryana Police (16- Government Goal
day drive from Nov 5) targeted habitual ▪ To reduce logistics costs to below 9% of GDP
offenders, violent criminals, and organised by December 2026 (currently around 13–14%).
gangs.

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Haryana Sets 100m Height Criterion for

Aravali Hills

largest platforms for promoting scientific

temper and public participation in science.
▪ Announced by: Department of Geology and
Mines, Haryana
Tesla Opens First Charging Station in
Definition:
▪ Hills at least 100 metres above surrounding Gurugram
terrain ▪ Tesla has officially opened its first charging
▪ Composed of geological rock formations over 1 station in Gurugram, furthering its goal of
billion years old establishing a comprehensive network to
Aravalli Hills – Key Facts support electric mobility in India.
▪ Type: One of the oldest fold mountains in the ▪ It includes four V4 Superchargers capable of
world; now residual mountains delivering peak charging speeds of up to 250
▪ Elevation: 300–900 metres kilowatts, enabling quick recharges
▪ Length: About 800 km (≈692 km continuous
stretch) Haryana Declares Hansi as Its 23rd District
▪ Extent: From Himmatnagar (Gujarat) to Delhi,
passing through Rajasthan and Haryana

The 11th India International Science ▪ Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh
Saini announced that Hansi will become
Festival (IISF) in Haryana
the state’s 23rd district.
▪ The 11th edition of IISF will be held from 06 to
▪ Administrative Change: Hansi was earlier part
09 December 2025 in Panchkula, Haryana.
of Hisar district and will now function as
▪ The theme 2025 – “Vigyan Se Samruddhi: for
a separate administrative district once
Aatmanirbhar Bharat”
notification is issued.
▪ Organisers: the Ministry of Earth Sciences
▪ In exercise of the powers conferred by section
(MoES) and coordinated by Indian Institute of
5 of the Haryana Land Revenue Act, 1887
Tropical Meteorology (IITM) Pune.
(Punjab Act 17 of 1887 ) read with section 5 of
▪ 2024 : Hosted in Assam
the Registration Act, 1908 (Central Act 16 of
▪ India International Science Festival, launched
1908), the Governor of Haryana hereby varies
in 2015 under the vision of Hon'ble PM Shri
the limits and alters the number of sub-
Narendra Modi, has grown into one of India’s
division of district Hisar

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Rajasthan
1. All India Transgender Conference Annual Urs of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan
2. My NREGA App Chishti in Ajmer
3. Varun Sagar Lake
4. Bill Regulating Coaching Centres
5. Ana Sagar Lake
6. Ramgarh Lake
7. Anti Conversion Bill
8. Operation Sanskar
9. Sangri Bean
10. Gavri Festival

▪ Recently, the Prime Minister presented a 'chadar' to Minorities Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju to offer at the
Ajmer Sharif Dargah of Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti on the occasion of ‘Urs’.
▪ The Urs festival is an annual festival held at Ajmer in Rajasthan which commemorates the death
anniversary of Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti.
▪ Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti: Moinuddin Hasan Chishti was born in Sijistan (modern-day Sistan) in Iran in
1141-42 CE.
▪ After Muhammad Ghori had already defeated Prithviraj Chauhan in the Second Battle of Tarain (1192) and
established his rule in Delhi, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti started living and preaching in Ajmer.
▪ His shrine in Ajmer has been visited by rulers like Muhammad bin Tughlaq, Sher Shah Suri, Akbar,
Jahangir, Shah Jahan, Dara Shukoh and Aurangzeb.
▪ Chishtiya Order was founded in India by Khwaja Moin-Uddin Chishti, that emphasised the doctrine of the
unity of being with God
▪ They rejected all material goods as distractions
▪ He was a major figure in spreading the mystical form of Islam (sufism) in the Indian subcontinent.
▪ He brought together people from different castes, communities, and races. His followers emulated his
dictum of “Sulh-i-Kul” (Peace with all)
▪ The Chishty teachings were carried forward and popularized by disciples of Khwaja Moin-Uddin Chishti like
Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki, Fareeduddin Ganj-e-Shakar, Nizam uddin Auliya and Naseeruddin
Charagh.

Ajmer Hosts First-Ever All India ▪ The app, developed under the leadership of
the Zila Parishad CEO, aims to simplify the
Transgender Conference
employment demand process for MNREGA
▪ Ajmer is hosting the inaugural All India Kinnar
workers, allowing them to apply from the
Mahasammelan, a landmark 10-day
comfort of their homes.
transgender conference at a private school in
Vaishali Nagar.
▪ The event, which began on February 17, 2025,
with the Khichdi Tulai ritual, is aimed at
addressing issues faced by the transgender
community across India

Barmer District Introduces ‘MY NREGA

App’ for Employment Efficiency
▪ In a major step toward improving the MNREGA
(Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Employment Guarantee Act) process,
Barmer’s District Collector launched the MY
NREGA App
▪ Barmer District - Rajasthan
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Rajasthan government renamed Foy Sagar ▪ Rajasthan is the largest state in terms of area.
▪ Before independence, the region was known
Lake in Ajmer to Varun Sagar
as 'Rajputana'. After the integration of the
princely states was completed in seven phases
(from March 18, 1948, to November 1, 1956),
the name of the region was changed to
'Rajasthan’.
▪ On January 14, 1949, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
announced the merger of the princely states
of Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer in a
public meeting in Udaipur. To implement this
announcement, Patel inaugurated Greater
Rajasthan in a ceremony in Jaipur on March
30, 1949.
▪ With this merger and formation of Greater
Rajasthan 30 March is celebrated every year
▪ The Rajasthan government has renamed two as Rajasthan Day.
significant British-era landmarks in Ajmer to
honor Indian heritage.
▪ The 132-year-old Foy Sagar Lake has been
renamed Varun Sagar, and the 113-year-old
King Edward Memorial Bhawan has been
rechristened Maharishi Dayanand Vishrant
Grih.
▪ State Animal of Rajasthan – Chinkara
Foy Sagar Lake Renamed as Varun Sagar
▪ State Heritage Animal of Rajasthan –
• Originally named after British engineer Mr.
Dromedary Camel
Foy.
▪ State Bird of Rajasthan – Great Indian Bustard
• Built during the British era (1892) as a famine
▪ State Tree of Rajasthan – Khejri
relief project.
▪ State Flower of Rajasthan – Rohida
• Now renamed after Lord Varun, the Hindu god
▪ Legislative assembly seats : 200
of water.
▪ Governor : Shri Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde
▪ Speaker: Shri Vasudev Devnani (Ajmer)
King Edward Memorial Bhawan Renamed Bharatiya Janata Party
as Maharishi Dayanand Vishrant Grih ▪ CM: Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma Sanganer (Jaipur)
• Originally named after King Edward VII during Bharatiya Janata Party
British rule.
• Located on Railway Station Road, Ajmer. Rajasthan Cabinet approves Bill regulating
• Renamed after Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, coaching centres
the founder of the Arya Samaj, who attained
nirvana in Ajmer.

30 March Rajasthan Day

▪ The Rajasthan Cabinet has approved a Bill that

aims to regulate the state’s coaching institutes
and offer students a secure and supportive
learning environment.
▪ Marking the foundation of the state in 1949.
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▪ The Rajasthan Coaching Centers (Control and flagship initiative driving integrated waste
Regulation) Bill-2025 was drafted based on management and climate action.
the guidelines issued by the central ▪ The last Forum was hosted in 2023 by
government, the state’s specific requirements Cambodia.
and after discussions with various ▪ India has previously hosted the Forum in 2018,
stakeholders. when the 8th edition was held in Indore.
▪ Coaching centres with 50 or more students
will fall under legal scrutiny.
▪ To ensure transparency in the management of
coaching centres, a state-level portal will be
established, along with a 24×7 helpline for
student counselling, and the Rajasthan
Coaching Institutes (Control and Regulation)
Authority will be set up.
▪ The Cabinet also approved the state’s Skill
Development Policy, aimed at training youth
in specialised skills to meet the demands of New Global Alliance for Sustainable
industrial sectors Growth Led by India
▪ India launched the
Jaipur hosts 12th Regional 3R & Circular Cities Coalition for
Economy Forum in the Asia-Pacific from Circularity (C-3), a
multi-nation
March 3-5
alliance for city-to-
city collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and
private sector partnerships for sustainable
urban development.
▪ It was announced at the 12th Regional 3R and
Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the
Pacific in Jaipur.
▪ It would act as a catalyst for resource
efficiency and a low-carbon economy,
strengthening collaboration between
▪ The Forum focuses on the principles of policymakers, industry leaders, and
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle (3R) researchers to build a sustainable future.
▪ The Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum What is a Circular Economy?
in Asia and the Pacific was launched in 2009 The circular economy is a system where materials
▪ Theme: Realizing Circular Societies Towards never become waste and nature is regenerated
Achieving SDGs and Carbon Neutrality in Asia- through processes like maintenance, reuse,
Pacific. refurbishment, remanufacture, recycling, and
▪ Dates: March 3-5, 2025 composting.
▪ Organized by: Ministry of Housing and Urban
Affairs (India), United Nations Centre for
Regional Development (UNCRD), and Institute
for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES).
▪ International dignitaries of countries like
Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Maldives and Japan
joined the inaugural session.
▪ Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for
CITIIS 2.0 was signed, marking a significant
milestone in urban sustainability initiatives.
▪ CITIIS 2.0 - ‘City Investments to Innovate,
Integrate and Sustain 2.0 (CITIIS 2.0)’ - is a

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12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia About Ramgarh Lake
and the Pacific • It is situated near the Jamwa Ramgarh
• Theme: Realizing Circular Societies Towards subdivision of the Jaipur district in Rajasthan.
Achieving SDGs and Carbon Neutrality in Asia- • Erstwhile Jaipur ruler Sawai Ram Singh II had
Pacific. built the Ramgarh lake in 1876 to provide
• Dates: 3rd to 5th March 2025 relief to the inhabitants of the region.
• Venue: Rajasthan International Centre, Jaipur, • In the present time, the four rivers, Roda,
Rajasthan, India Banganga, Tala, and Madhoveni, which used
• Organized by: Ministry of Housing and Urban to bring water to the lake, have gone dry due
Affairs (India),United Nations Centre for to the deforestation and mining activity
Regional Development (UNCRD), and Institute carried out in the catchment area.
for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES). • Ramgarh Lake has a historical record of
• Adopted the Jaipur Declaration (2025-2034), hosting a rowing event during Asian Games of
a nonpolitical, nonbinding commitment that 1982.
will guide the next decade of efforts towards • Jamwa Mata temple is situated at a downward
resource efficiency and sustainable urban course of Ramgarh Lake.
growth. • The thick forest near Ramgarh Lake is the
abode to many wildlife species such as Nilgai,
Ana Sagar Lake Chital, and lions.
• Jamwa Ramgarh region was notified as a
wildlife sanctuary in the year 1982 by the
Government of India.

PM Modi inaugurates, lays foundation

stone of development works worth over
Rs. 1,22,100 crore in Banswara, Rajasthan
Context: The Supreme Court recently directed the
▪ During his visit to
state govt to remove replica structures from the ‘Seven
Banswara, Prime
Wonders' park in the wetland area of Ana Sagar lake in
Minister Narendra
six months.
Modi paid homage
▪ It is an artificial lake situated in Ajmer,
to Maa Tripura
Rajasthan.
▪ It was built by raising a dam across the Luni or Sundari and Maa
Lavanavari River. Mahi.
▪ The lake was built by Arnoraja ▪ He laid the
Chauhan, the grandfather of Prithviraj foundation stone
Chauhan, in 1135 - 1150 AD and was named for Anushakti
after him. Vidhyut Nigam Ltd
▪ It is spread over 13 km. (ASHVINI)’s Mahi Banswara Rajasthan Atomic
▪ The lake also comprises Baradari Power Project (4 × 700 MW PHWRs), at Napla
or pavilions that were built by Shah Jahan in near the Mahi Dam - valued at around ₹42,000
1637 AD. crore.
▪ The Daulat Bagh Gardens, located on the ▪ This nuclear complex, designed by NPCIL, will
banks of the lake, was built by Jehangir. use indigenous technology with advanced
▪ There is an island in the center of the lake safety features.
which is accessible by boat. ▪ In addition, he inaugurated or laid the
• A circuit house is there on a hill near the lake foundation stones for several other major
that used to be the British Residency. projects:
▪ Isarda Dam, Dholpur Lift Project, Takli Project,
among others, under the water resources
Ramgarh Lake
sector.
NEWS: Work has started for revival of the historic
▪ The Prime Minister announced the launch of
Ramgarh lake near Jaipur, which was once a lifeline
power projects worth over 90,000 crore
for water supply to the Rajasthan Capital.
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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
rupees across Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan Assembly passes ‘anti-
Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
conversion’ Bill with steep penalties
▪ On September 9,
Rajasthan Assembly passed Rajasthan 2025, the
Coaching Centres (Control and Regulation) Rajasthan
Bill, 2025 Assembly passed
the Rajasthan
Prohibition of
Unlawful Religious
Conversion Bill,
2025, introducing
stringent penalties
for forced or
fraudulent religious conversions
▪ Contains provisions for life imprisonment, fines
up to ₹1 crore, and confiscation and
demolition of properties where mass
conversions take place.
▪ The Rajasthan Assembly passed the Rajasthan ▪ Exemption Clause: Individuals returning to
Coaching Centres (Control and Regulation) Bill, their “ancestral religion” are not covered
2025 to regulate the state’s coaching industry, under this law.
following rising cases of student suicides and ▪ Key Penalties:
growing commercialization. ▪ Forced/fraudulent conversion: 7–14
▪ The Bill was tabled on March 19, 2025. Deputy years imprisonment + fine up to ₹5
Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa, who lakh.
reintroduced the Bill ▪ Conversion of minors, women, SC/ST,
▪ Designed to safeguard student welfare, reduce PwD by fraud: 10–20 years + fine ≥ ₹10
stress, and ensure accountability of coaching lakh.
institutes. ▪ Mass conversions through fraud: 20
▪ Regulating Body – A special authority will years–life + fine ≥ ₹25 lakh and up to 1
monitor coaching centres, with officials, crore.
doctors, parents, and police involved. ▪ Using foreign/illegal funds for
▪ Mandatory Registration – Coaching centres conversions: 10–20 years + fine ≥ ₹20
with more than 100 students must get lakh.
registered and meet basic standards. ▪ Other Measures: Property confiscation,
▪ Better Facilities – Each student must have annulment of marriages done for conversion,
enough space (not less than 1 sq metre per mandatory prior notice for voluntary
student); only qualified teachers can be hired; conversions.
false promises about ranks or marks are ▪ Legal Status: Offenses are cognizable and non-
banned. bailable, triable by sessions court.
▪ Focus on Student Health – Coaching cannot
run more than 5 hours a day; students and India's 1st phytosaur fossil unearthed from
teachers must get weekly holidays;
counselling support will be provided.
Jaisalmer Village
▪ Strict Penalties – Heavy fines (₹50,000 to ₹2
lakh) for violations, and repeat offenders may
lose their license.
▪ Wider Impact – While aiming to protect
students, the law also recognises the
importance of the coaching industry for jobs
and local economy.

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▪ Researchers in India have discovered the Operation Sanskar
fossilised remains of a rare crocodile-like
species from the Jurassic era in the western
state of Rajasthan.
▪ The fossil, known as a phytosaur, measures
between 1.5 to two metres and is likely to be
more than 200 million years old, researchers
say.
▪ It was unearthed at Megha village in Jaisalmer
district by senior hydrogeologist Dr
Narayandas Inkhiya and his team, who work
for the state's water department.
▪ The phytosaur timeline spans the Late Triassic
Period, approximately 242 to 201 million years
ago.
▪ These large, crocodile-like reptiles lived in
freshwater environments and were abundant
throughout the Late Triassic, with distinct
groups appearing successively over time.
▪ ‘Operation Sanskar’, roughly translated
Gugga Naumi ‘Operation Values’, is the
Dungarpur(Rajasthan) Police’s newest
initiative to counter an increase in
“glorification” of criminal activities on social
media.
▪ Launched in July, the operation is aimed at
reducing crimes by these local “street” gangs,
allegedly composed of young men aged
between 18 and 24.
▪ Offenders were made to record apology
videos, which were then shared on the same
▪ A vibrant folk religious festival celebrated in platforms where they boasted about their
northern India crime
▪ The festival honours Gugga Pir, a folk deity
believed to have the power to protect against India’s First Drone-AI Powered Artificial
snakebites. Rain Experiment Launched in Jaipur
▪ Gugga Naumi falls on the ninth day of Krishna
▪ Rajasthan carried out
Paksha in the Bhadrapad month of the Hindu
India's first drone-based
lunar calendar.
artificial rain experiment,
▪ The village of Gugga Medi in Hanumangarh
replacing aeroplanes
district, Rajasthan, serves as a major
with unmanned aerial
pilgrimage centre.
vehicles for cloud
▪ Gugga Pir, also known as Guga Ji or Guggapir,
seeding.
was a Rajput prince from the Chauhan clan.
What is Artificial Rain?
▪ He is depicted riding a blue horse and carrying
▪ Artificial rain, also known
blue and yellow flags.
as cloud seeding, is
▪ Gugga is believed to possess divine powers to
a weather modification technique aimed at
control poisonous snakes.
enhancing precipitation (generate artificial
▪ Mothers pray to him for the health of their
rain) from clouds.
children, and barren women seek blessings for
▪ Method: Uses chemicals like silver iodide,
offspring. His worship reflects deep-rooted folk
potassium iodide, and dry ice, which are
beliefs in protection, healing, and fertility.

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dispersed into the sky via aeroplanes and
helicopters.
▪ These chemicals attract water vapour (acting
as nuclei), helping form rain clouds.
▪ Types: Hygroscopic Cloud Seeding (accelerates
the merging of droplets in liquid clouds)
and Glaciogenic Cloud Seeding (induces ice
formation in super cooled clouds).

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Poverty-Free ▪ It is dedicated to Tanot Rai, a manifestation of

Village Scheme the Hindu goddess Hinglaj Mata.
▪ According to local legends, the temple
was established by a group of local tribes who
worshipped the goddess Tanot Rai.
▪ In 1965 and 1971, during the Indo-Pakistan
War, Tanot Mata Temple gained widespread
recognition when it survived heavy
bombardment unharmed, which further
strengthened the belief in the protective
powers of the deity among locals and
soldiers.
▪ The Rajasthan government launched the
▪ Despite the shelling of thousands of
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Poverty-Free
bombs from the Pakistan border, not one
Village Scheme.
exploded in the vicinity of the temple.
▪ It aims to empower rural Below Poverty Line
▪ The unexploded bombs are, till
(BPL) families economically and help them rise
date, treasured in the Tanot Museum within
above poverty.
the temple premises.
▪ The scheme targets 5,000 villages in its first
▪ After the 1971 war, the temple was handed
phase with a budget of ₹300 crore.
over to the Border Security Force of India,
▪ It focuses on financial support, skill
who continues to manage the Temple.
development, and income generation to
▪ The Indian army built a Vijay Sthamba within
transform rural livelihoods.
the temple premises, and every year
▪ The scheme targets rural families living below
on December 16,a celebration takes place
the poverty line. It provides financial aid up to
to commemorate the victory of India over
₹1 lakh per family to start small businesses or
Pakistan.
income-generating activities.
▪ Women in self-help groups receive ₹15,000
per family to boost their earnings.
▪ Families that have crossed the poverty line
through their own efforts are rewarded
₹21,000.
▪ This incentive is transferred directly to verified
bank accounts via Direct Benefit
Transfer (DBT).
▪ These families also receive ‘Atmanirbhar
Parivar Cards’ recognising their self-reliance.
Rajasthan celebrates ‘Pravasi Rajasthani
Tanot Mata Temple Diwas’ in Jaipur
▪ The historic Tanot Mata Temple, a 1,200-year- ▪ The state government of Rajasthan has
old sacred Hindu temple near the India- designated 10 December 2025 as the first-
Pakistan border in Jaisalmer, is set to reopen ever Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas.
for visitors as border tensions subside.

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▪ It is a fusion of act and dance, dedicated to the
fight between goddess and demon.
▪ This most popular southern Rajasthani ritual
reflects the divine perception of the Bheel
tribe.
▪ It has been known to be in existence since the
3rd or 4th century, it was prevalent in the
times of SiddhRaj Jai Singh, a ruler in Gujarat.
▪ A vigorous fight between Goddess Amba and
Demon Bhiamwal shows the conquest of good
over the bad.
▪ The aim: to gather non-resident Rajasthanis
▪ The original story of ‘Gavri’ is the story of Lord
(NRRs) — living elsewhere in India or abroad —
to reconnect with their home state, celebrate Shiva and the demon Bhasmasur.
their heritage, and explore opportunities for ▪ The artists perform plays in those villages
cooperation, investment and social where their married sisters and daughters
contribution reside.
▪ The purpose behind this custom is to ensure
the wellness of their loved ones after marriage
India’s First Vande Bharat Maintenance and instil in them a sense of pride and security.
Depot Under Construction at Bhagat Ki ▪ This dance drama skillfully combines mime and
Kothi, Jodhpur dialogue, known by the names Gavri or Rai
▪ A maintenance Nach
depot for Vande ▪ Throughout the performance, various scenes
Bharat trains is are enacted, referred to as Khel.
being constructed ▪ Kutkadiya, a character skillfully narrates the
at Bhagat Ki Kothi story before each scene, allowing the audience
in the Jodhpur to immerse themselves fully in the play’s
Railway Division narrative.
and is the first of ▪ All the characters are played by men and not
its kind in the women.
country
▪ Four such depots Rajasthan becomes first State to issue
have been planned nationwide, but this is the guidelines on stray dogs after Supreme
first one which is under construction.
▪ The first Vande Bharat Express train was
Court directive
flagged off on February 15, 2019, on the New
Delhi-Kanpur-Allahabad-Varanasi route,
running at a speed of 160 kilometres per hour

Gavri Festival

▪ Every ward and locality will have designated

feeding zones for stray dogs, while new
▪ Every year, the Bhil community of Mewar centres will be established for their
embarks on a 40-day ritual called Gavri. sterilisation, vaccination and deworming.
▪ It is a 40-day festival of dance-drama which is ▪ The instructions include the action to be taken
performed by the Bhil community of for capture, treatment and release of dogs.
Rajasthan.
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The urban local bodies are required to submit ▪ Aims to enhance greenery, support
compliance reports within 30 days. biodiversity conservation, and raise public
▪ The guidelines ban the use of tongs, wires or environmental awareness.
nooses to capture dogs, instead mandating
“humane handling” by trained personnel who Rajasthan Becomes First Indian State to
should either use nets or capture them by
Fully Digitise Voter Rolls Under Special
hand.
▪ Each dog-catching team will include a van Intensive Revision
driver, two or more trained municipal
employees, and a representative of an animal
welfare organisation.
▪ Dogs under six months of age cannot be
captured or sterilised, and lactating females
with un-weaned puppies cannot be operated
upon.
▪ Sick or injured dogs can be sterilised only after
treatment and recovery.
▪ The NGO recognised by the Animal Welfare
Board of India will receive ₹200 for catching a
stray dog and ₹1,450 for sterilisation, feeding,
▪ Rajasthan on Saturday completed 100 per cent
and post-operative care.
digitisation of its electoral roll under the
▪ A monitoring committee will be formed in
Special Intensive Revision (SIR), becoming the
every municipal body to review sterilisation,
first state in the country to do so
vaccination, and release programmes. Special Intensive Revision (SIR)
▪ Dogs suspected of rabies or repeated biting ▪ SIR refers to a large-scale, intensive revision of
must be humanely captured and isolated in electoral rolls by the Election Commission of
kennels under veterinary supervision until India under its constitutional and statutory
natural death. powers.
▪ Usually triggered in anticipation of high-stakes
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurates elections or when the rolls have remained
the ‘Namo Toy Bank’ in Kota, a children- largely unchanged for years, the SIR involves
steps such as fresh enumeration forms,
for-children initiative
house-to-house verification by Booth Level
▪ Lok Sabha Speaker
Officers (BLOs), document verification of
Om Birla
voters, deletion of ineligible entries, and
inaugurated the
inclusion of those omitted
‘Namo Toy Bank’ in
▪ The legal basis lies in Article 324 of the
Kota, Rajasthan, a
Constitution (superintendence, direction and
unique initiative
control of elections) and Section 21(3) of the
aimed at supporting
Representation of the People Act, 1950, which
underprivileged
allows the Commission to carry out “special
children by providing them with toys. revision of the electoral roll.”
▪ Concept: Children-for-children initiative – ▪ The objective is to include every eligible
schoolchildren donate toys for underprivileged citizen (18+ years) and to remove duplicates,
kids. deceased persons, ineligible entries and
correct errors like wrong names or addresses.
Union Environment Minister Shri ▪ It is not simply a summary revision but
Bhupender Yadav inaugurated Rajasthan’s combines features of a full enumeration
(intensive revision) and summary updates,
First ‘Namo Biodiversity Park’ in Alwar
hence the nomenclature “Special Intensive”.
▪ It is Rajasthan’s first such initiative.
▪ Designed as a green lung for the region to
improve air quality and urban ecology.

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Sambhar Festival 2025 transparency and coordination in the state’s

medical education system.
▪ The initiative seeks to streamline
communication between policymakers and
institutions involved in medical education and
healthcare delivery across Rajasthan.
▪ The platform will operate twice a week —
every Tuesday and Thursday — through video
conferencing.

▪ The Sambhar Festival, a vibrant celebration of

Rajasthan Cabinet approves vehicle
culture, adventure, and heritage at the famous scrapping policy to phase out polluting
Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan. vehicles
▪ This 5-day festival (January 24 to January 28, ▪ The Cabinet
2025), organized by the Rajasthan Tourism chaired by Chief
Department and District Administration Minister Bhajan
Lal
Sharma approved
the Rajasthan
Vehicle Scrapping
Policy-2025
(RVSP) to phase
out unfit and
polluting vehicles
in a scientific, safe and environment-friendly
manner.
▪ government vehicles older than 15 years,
vehicles without fitness/registration, vehicles
that have been in accidents or damaged, scrap
vehicles purchased at auction, unusable
vehicles, or vehicles voluntarily donated to
RVSF can be scrapped under this policy.
▪ The vehicle owner will receive a Certificate of
About Sambhar Lake: Deposit (COD) and a Certificate of Vehicle
▪ It is the largest inland saltwater lake in India. Scrapping (CVS) from an authorised scrap
▪ It is located in the districts of Nagaur and centre, which can be digitally uploaded to the
Jaipur in Rajasthan. Vahan portal.
▪ surrounded on all sides by the Aravalli hills. ▪ Based on the COD, a motor vehicle tax rebate
▪ It was designated as a Ramsar site in the year of up to 50 per cent (up to a maximum of Rs 1
1990. lakh) will be available on the purchase of a new
▪ Several migrating birds visit the waterbody vehicle.
during the winter. ▪ Under this policy, the establishment of RVSFs
▪ The wetland is one the most important will be promoted in the state, through which
wintering area for flamingoes in India outside vehicle scrapping will be completely
the Rann of Kachchh. transparent, digital and traceable.
▪ All scrapping processes will be integrated with
the Vahan portal, thereby eliminating the
Rajasthan Launches e-Swasthya Samvad possibility of unauthorized use of scrappable
Platform vehicles.
▪ The Rajasthan government has launched a new
digital communication platform, “e-Swasthya
Samvad”, aimed at strengthening governance,

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Uttar Pradesh
1. Foundation day Uttar Pradesh foundation day
2. Maha Kumbh
3. Ram Katha Museum
4. Sanskriti Utsava
5. Kashi Tamil Sangama
6. RISE App
7. Café Rista Initiative
8. Purple Fest 2025
9. Banke Bihari Temple
10. Kalanamak Rice
11. Vistadome train ▪ On 24 January 1950, the United Provinces was renamed as
12. Gomti River Uttar Pradesh
13. Navya Initiative ▪ The theme for this year’s foundation day is ‘Development
and Heritage: Uttar Pradesh on the Path to Progress’ (Vikas
14. Global Potato research center
aur Virasat: Pragati Path Par Uttar Pradesh)
15. Salkhan Fossil Park
▪ The initiative to celebrate 'Uttar Pradesh Day' was taken by
16. Mission Shakti Centres
the then Governor Ram Naik and this event has been
celebrated for three days every year since 2018.
▪ State Animal Of Uttar Pradesh – Barasingha
▪ State Bird Of Uttar Pradesh – Sarus Crane
▪ State Fish Of Uttar Pradesh – Chital
▪ State Tree Of Uttar Pradesh – Ashoka
▪ Chief Minister : Yogi Adityanath
▪ Governor : Anandiben Patel
▪ The state government will confer the ‘Uttar Pradesh Gaurav Samman’ award on six individuals from the
fields of music, agriculture and education during the state foundation day

The awardees include : trade fairs to be held at Madrid in Spain and

1. Krishnakant Shukla from Varanasi (physics, at Berlin in Germany.
musician, poet); ▪ During these global events, Mahakumbh-2025,
2. Himanshu Gupta from Vrindavan, Mathura set to be held in Prayagraj between January
(entrepreneur-environmentalist); 13 and February 26
3. Manish Verma from Kanpur (agriculture-Dalit
entrepreneur);
4. Krishna Yadav from Bulandshahr (woman
entrepreneur);
5. Colonel Subhash Deshwal from Bulandshahr
(agriculture-entrepreneur);
6. Dr Jai Singh from Bahraich (banana
production).
▪ Each recipient will be given a cash award of Rs
11 lakh, a certificate of appreciation, and a
shawl.

UP to promote Maha Kumbh 2025 at

International Tourism Fair in Spain
▪ In a major initiative to position Uttar Pradesh
Kumbha Mela (static)
as a leading global tourism destination, the
Kumbh Mela is celebrated 4 times over 12 years, on
Yogi government is set to showcase the state’s
these four banks:
tourism offerings at the international tourism
1. The Shipra at Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh
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2. The Ganges at Haridwar in Uttarakhand Different Types of Kumbh:
3. The Godavari at Nashik in Maharashtra • The Kumbh Mela is celebrated 4 times over a
4. At the confluence of the Ganges, the Yamuna, course of 12 years.
and the mythical Sarasvati at Prayagraj • At Haridwar and Prayagraj, Ardh-Kumbh Mela
(Formerly Allahabad) in Uttar Pradesh. is held every 6th year.
• The Maha Kumbh Mela is celebrated at Prayag
Frequency of Kumbh Mela after 144 years (after 12 ‘Purna Kumbh
1. Kumbh Mela, which is held every third year in Melas’).
each of the four places mentioned above. • Maagh Kumbh is celebrated every year in the
2. Ardh Kumbh Mela takes place every 6th year in month of Maagh (Jan-Feb) in Prayagraj.
rotation between Haridwar and Prayagraj. • Background: The Maha Kumbh Mela,
3. Purna Kumbh Mela happens every 12th year at transcribed by Adi Shankaracharya, originates
four Kumbh Mela sites. from the Puranas, describing gods and
4. Maha Kumbh Mela occurs every 144 years demons battling for the sacred pitcher of
after completing the 12 Purna Mela. Amrit, with Lord Vishnu (as Mohini) securing it
 It has been inscribed on UNESCO's from demons.
Representative List of Intangible Cultural • AncientOrigins: Duringthe Maurya and Gupta
Heritage of Humanity (2017). periods (4th century BCE to 6th century CE), the
Kumbh Mela began as smaller gatherings of
Maha Kumbh Mela begins in Prayagraj pilgrims from across the Indian subcontinent.
• Harshavardhana king of the Pushyabhuti
with Amrit Snan
dynasty started the organisation of the Kumbh
fair at Prayagraj.
• Akbar promoted religious tolerance and
granted Naga Sadhus the honour of leading
the royal entry to the Mela in 1565.
• In the 19th century, James Prinsep chronicled
its ritualistic practices and socio-religious
▪ 45-day Maha Kumbh from 13th January dynamics.
to 26th February 2025, • recognized by UNESCO in 2017 as
▪ biggest gathering of human beings in the an intangible cultural heritage of humanity for
world, starting its enduring ancient traditions.
▪ with the ‘Shahi Snan’ on Paush Purnima at the
Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna Akharas can be categorised based on their
and mystical Saraswati rivers.
▪ Shahi Snan (Royal Bath): Procession of saints favoured deity.
and Akharas (spiritual orders) performing • Shaiva Akharas: Worship Lord Shiva in various
ceremonial baths. Also known as 'Rajyogi forms.
Snan,' it signifies the start of the Maha Kumbh • Vaishnava Akharas: Worship Lord Vishnu in
Mela. various forms.
▪ The word ‘Kumbh’ comes from the • Udaseen Akharas: Founded by Chandra Dev
root ‘kumbhak’ (the sacred pitcher of elixir of (son of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh Guru).
immortality). • Union Minister for Culture and Tourism
Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated
This gathering takes place at 4 different places, Kalagram this at Mahakumbh Nagar in
namely: Prayagraj - which will showcase the rich and
• In Haridwar, on the banks of the Ganges. vibrant culture of the country.
• In Ujjain, on the banks of Shipra.
• In Nashik, on the banks of Godavari (Dakshin
Ganga).
• In Prayagraj, at the confluence of the Ganges,
the Yamuna, and the mythical
invisible Saraswati.

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Indian railways organises ‘Paint My City’ trained to assist devotees in overcoming

language challenges.
campaign in Prayagraj
Netra Kumbh: Special attention given to
healthcare at Mahakumbh to combat
vision impairment

▪ Prayagraj’s railway stations have been

transformed into centres highlighting Indian
art and heritage.
▪ The walls now feature artworks that depict
themes such as the Ramayana, Krishna Leela, ▪ Netra Kumbh (Eye Camp): is an eye care
Lord Buddha, Shiva Bhakti, Ganga Aarti, and program that takes place during the Maha
women empowerment. Kumbh Mela. It aims to provide free eye care
services to millions of people, including
Bhashini Platform Enhances Multilingual pilgrims and local residents
Accessibility for Devotees at Mahakumbh ▪ Over 500 doctors from more than 150
hospitals aim to treat five lakh (500,000) eye
in Prayagraj
patients.
▪ The Ministry of Electronics and Information
▪ The camp plans to distribute three lakh
Technology (MeitY) has integrated its Bhashini
(300,000) free spectacles and perform 50,000
language translation platform to provide
cataract surgeries.
multilingual support at the Maha Kumbh 2025,
▪ Dant Kumbh (Dental Camp): For the first
held from January 13 to February 26.
time, a 'Dant Kumbh' will be organized by
▪ This initiative aims to ensure seamless
the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP).
communication and greater accessibility for
▪ Gyan Kumbh (Knowledge
millions of pilgrims attending the world’s
Confluence): The Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan
largest spiritual event.
Nyas is organizing the 'Gyan Mahakumbh' in
▪ Bhashini’s ‘Digital Lost & Found Solution’ is a
bringing together over a thousand
key feature, enabling visitors to register lost or
prominent educators, university vice-
found items using voice inputs in their native
chancellors, education ministers,
languages, with real-time text and voice
and secretaries from both central and state
translations simplifying interactions.
governments.
▪ A multilingual chatbot further assists pilgrims
▪ Green Kumbh Initiative: Shiksha Sanskriti
with queries and navigation through kiosks,
Utthan Nyas and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak
while instructions and guidelines are
Sangh's (RSS) environmental activities have
translated into local languages, ensuring a
launched the 'Ek Thaila, Ek Thali' (One Bag,
user-friendly experience.
One Plate) initiative.
▪ The platform also enhances communication
▪ Vidya Kumbh: Children from laborer families -
between pilgrims and police officers, breaking
Free books, pens, and other educational
down language barriers for a smoother
materials will be distributed
experience.
▪ In collaboration with the UP Police, Bhashini’s
CONVERSE feature supports communication
with the 112 emergency helpline, with officers

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Maha Kumbh 2025: World’s First celebrating the first anniversary of the pran
pratishtha ceremony on January 11, as per
Mahamrityunjaya Yantra Installed in
the Hindu calendar.
Prayagraj ▪ Ram Katha Museum is under plans, which will
▪ The world's first 52- be housed at the erstwhile sangrahalaya
foot-long, 52-foot- (archives) building, 4 kilometres from the
wide and 52-foot-tall temple site.
'Mahamrityunjaya ▪ The museum, which will also showcase the
Yantra' has been findings from archaeological excavations to
installed at Tapovan Ashram in Jhunsi Havelis offer “concrete evidence of the temple’s
in Prayagraj, the land of Maha Kumbh ancient roots”.
▪ Mahamrityunjaya (victory to death) Yantra ▪ It will span over 40,000 square feet and
makes one healthy and courageous by freeing become the second-largest attraction in
him from the fear of death, disease and Ayodhya once completed.
danger. ▪ While the state government owns the building,
▪ The Mahamrityunjaya Yantra was created in 52 the temple trust will fund the project, which is
days at a cost of Rs 4 crore. estimated to be completed in the next two
▪ A total of 151 'acharyas' are chanting years.
'Mahamrityunjaya Mantra' sitting under this ▪ Spanning three floors – lower ground, ground,
Yantra since Makar Sankranti on January 14. and first – the museum will be organised into
▪ These saints are consecrating 11,11,111 26 sections, each offering a unique perspective
Rudrakshas. on the life and legacy of Lord Ram.
▪ These Rudrakshas will be sent by post to the
devotees, who visit Maha Kumbh, free of cost. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi
▪ Mahamrityunjaya Mantra consists of 52
letters, which are actually the 52 energy Adityanath to Inaugurate All India Radio’s
centres in the country. Special 'Kumbhvani' Channel and 'Kumbh
Mangal' dhwani at Prayagraj
ISKCON and Adani Group Collaborate to
Serve Meals at Maha Kumbh Mela

▪ Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani joined

hands with the International Society for
Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) to serve meals
to devotees at the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela
in Prayagraj. ▪ Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi
▪ The collaboration is part of the Mahaprasad Adityanath, will inaugurate All India Radio’s
Seva initiative, which will run throughout the special Kumbhvani Channel (FM 103.5
Mela, till February 26, 2025. MHz), dedicated to Mahakumbh 2025
▪ In addition to the Mahaprasad Seva, the ▪ The live updates broadcast by KumbhVani will
initiative will also distribute five lakh copies of be especially beneficial for those who
the Geeta Saar to devotees, further enhancing are unable to attend the Kumbh in Prayagraj.
the spiritual experience of the attendees. ▪ The Chief Minister will also launch the Kumbh
Mangal Dhwani.
Ram Katha museum in Ayodhya
▪ The Ayodhya Ram Mandir was inaugurated
on January 22, 2024 and the trust is

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Uttar Pradesh to Privatise Two Power ▪ Kashi Tamil Sangamam is being organized by
the Ministry of Education, Govt. of India in
Distribution Companies
collaboration with other ministries including
▪ The Uttar Pradesh government has initiated
Culture, Textiles, Railways, Tourism, Food
steps toward privatizing or forming Public-
Processing, I&B etc. and the Govt. of UP.
Private Partnerships (PPP) for two of its loss-
making electricity distribution companies
(discoms): Google Cloud & UP Partner to Launch
▪ Dakshinanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Ltd Open Network for Agriculture Signed
(DVVNL) and Purvanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam between Uttar Pradesh and Google Cloud
Ltd (PVVNL).
(India)
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
launches Kashi Tamil Sangamam 3.0, KTS
Portal

▪ The UP government has signed an MoU with

Google Cloud (India) to launch the Gemini-
powered and Beacon-enabled Uttar Pradesh
Open Network for Agriculture.
▪ one-stop access to advisory services, credit,
mechanization, and market connectivity for
▪ Union Minister for Education, Shri selling their produce.
Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the ▪ Farmers will also gain real-time, accurate
registration portal for the 3rd edition of Kashi information on microclimates and market
Tamil Sangamam (KTS). prices
▪ KTS 3.0 will be held from 15th – 24th February What is Sanskriti Utsava?
2025 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (10-day-long ▪ The Uttar Pradesh government will organize
event ) “Sanskriti Utsava” to commemorate the
▪ Kashi Tamil Sangamam is an annual state’s foundation day “Uttar Pradesh Diwas”
programme started in 2022 by the Govt. of between January 2 to January 26, 2025.
India, to celebrate, reaffirm and and ▪ The Sanskriti Utsava will commemorate ‘Uttar
rediscover the age-old links between Tamil Pradesh Diwas.’
Nadu and Kashi – two of the country's most ▪ The event’s theme is ‘Uttar Pradesh Parv –
important and ancient seats of learning. Hamari Sanskriti-Hamari Pehchaan.’
About Uttar Pradesh Statehood Day
This year, the government has decided to bring around • On 24th January 1950, the United
1000 delegates from Tamil Nadu under five Provinces was officially renamed Uttar
categories/groups: Pradesh.
▪ (i) Students, Teachers, and Writers • The initiative to celebrate UP Day was
▪ (ii) Farmers and Artisans (Vishwakarma introduced by Governor Ram Naik.
Categories) • Since 2018, UP Day has been celebrated as
▪ (iii) Professionals and Small Entrepreneurs a three-day event, highlighting the
▪ (iv) Women (SHG, Mudra Loan beneficiaries) state’s history, culture, and achievements.
▪ (v) Start-up, Innovation, Edu-Tech, Research
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Dhanauri Wetland Notification

Who Declares Wetlands?

State Governments notify wetlands under their
jurisdiction for conservation measures.

Uttar Pradesh’s Unveils Aerospace and

▪ Context: The National Green Tribunal (NGT)
Defence Policy 2024
has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to
provide a detailed status report within four
weeks regarding the notification of the
Dhanauri Wetland, near the Jewar airport, as a
wetland.
▪ Location: Situated in Dhanauri village near
Dankaur in Gautam Buddha Nagar district,
Uttar Pradesh.
▪ River Association: Though primarily a
standalone wetland, it forms part of
the Yamuna River basin ecosystem. ▪ The Uttar Pradesh government approved a
▪ Features and Uniqueness: new Aerospace and Defence Unit policy to
▪ Home to 217 bird species, attract Rs 50,000 crore of investments and
including 150 Sarus Cranes, the state generate jobs for 1 lakh people.
bird of Uttar Pradesh. ▪ The state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief
▪ Recognized as an Important Bird Area Minister Yogi Adityanath in Prayagraj also
(IBA) by BirdLife International. approved an FDI policy among 10 key
▪ During peak migratory seasons proposals aimed at accelerating the state's
(November-March), it hosts up development
to 50,000 waterfowl. ▪ Under this policy, the state government will
▪ Documented by the Bombay Natural offer up to 80 per cent subsidy on land to the
History Society (BNHS) for its foreign firms investing in the state.
ecological significance. ▪ The Ministry of Defence has set an ambitious
What is a Ramsar Site? target to double the country's A&D production
• A Ramsar Site is a wetland designated for to USD 25 billion and exports to USD 5 billion
international importance under the Ramsar by 2025-26.
Convention of 1971, a global treaty for ▪ By 2047, the A&D manufacturing sector is
wetland conservation and sustainable use. expected to contribute 25 per cent to the
• Wetlands chosen as Ramsar sites meet criteria nation's GDP.
based on their ecological, biodiversity, or ▪ The Cabinet also approved the subsidy
cultural significance. payment to UPSIDA (UP State Industrial

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Development Authority) for the land allotted ▪ The event celebrates the ancient ties between
to M/s Ashok Leyland Ltd. Tamil Nadu and Kashi
▪ As part of this initiative, Rs 250 crore has been ▪ This time with the theme Maharishi
approved as a capital subsidy for Triveni Agasthyar, honouring the sage's contributions
Engineering and Industries Ltd in Moradabad, to Tamil culture and India's shared heritage
and Rs 10,749 crore as SGST reimbursement ▪ The theme of the programme is based on 4-S
for Gallant Ispat Ltd. in Mirzapur. — saint tradition, scientists, social reformers
and students.
Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh ▪ Maharishi Agastya gave ‘Aditya Hridya Stotra’
related to the war between Lord Ram and
Kumar Khanna tables ₹8.09 lakh crore
Ravana.
Budget ▪ His knowledge of Siddha medical system
(Bharatiya Chikitsa) guides all of us.
▪ Agastya Rishi’s birth anniversary is celebrated
as National Siddha Day.
▪ The program is being organized by the Union
Ministry of Education under the ‘Ek Bharat-
Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative.
▪ The first edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam was
held from November 16th to December
▪ Uttar Pradesh - Rs 8,08,736 crore Budget for 16th 2022
the 2025-26 financial year in the state
assembly. Judicial Commission visits Maha Kumbh
▪ The main focus of the Budget was on economic stampede spot
growth, research & development (R&D) and
Information Technology. The Budget
allocation has been 9.8% higher in
comparison to the last year’s Rs 7,36,437
crore.
▪ The Budget focuses on several areas, as 22%
have been assigned for development , 13%
granted for education and 11% for agriculture
and 6% has been awarded for healthcare. ▪ A three-member judicial commission set up by
the Uttar Pradesh government to investigate
stampede at the Maha Kumbh, which left at
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi
least 30 people dead and 60 injured, -
Adityanath inaugurated Kashi-Tamil Prayagraj , Uttar Pradesh.
Sangamam-3.0 ▪ The panel is led by Harsh Kumar, a retired
judge of the Allahabad High Court.

Janjati Sanskritik Samagam 2025 to be

held at Mahakumbh
▪ Janjati Sanskritik Samagam 2025 will be held
at Mahakumbh, Prayagraj with over 15,000
tribals from across the country set to
▪ The CM inaugurated the program at ‘Namo participate.
Ghat’ in Varanasi in the presence of Union ▪ During the six-day event, everyone will pledge
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and to protect the culture and traditions of tribals.
Union Minister of State for Information and ▪ The year 2025 has been declared as Janjatiya
Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs L Gaurav Varsh to commemorate the 150th
Murugan. birth anniversary of Birsa Munda.
▪ 10 days event - From February 15 -24.

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Mahakumbh in Prayagraj Sets World ▪ The Indian skimmer has been chosen as the
mascot for the Festival, symbolizing the
Record with Over 50 Crore Devotees
confluence of faith and conservation.
▪ In Uttar Pradesh, the skimmer bird breeds
along the Ganga, Yamuna, and Chambal rivers,
with an estimated population of around 1,000
in the state
▪ The bird plays a crucial role as an indicator of
river health.

▪ making it the largest congregation in the

history for any religious, cultural, or social
event, the Uttar Pradesh government claimed.

Climate Conference on theme of ‘faith and

climate change’ held at Mahakumbh in
Prayagraj

About Indian Skimmer:

• It is native to South Asia.
• It gets its name from
▪ A Climate Conference on the theme of faith the way it feeds, flying
and climate change was held at the low over the water
Mahakumbh in Prayagraj on the theme surface and
“Kumbh ki Aastha evam Jalvayu Parivartan”. ‘skimming’for fish.
▪ The conference was inaugurated by Uttar • It is mainly found
Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, with some
▪ It was organised by the Uttar Pradesh populations extending to Nepal and Myanmar.
government, in partnership with the • Conservation status: IUCN: Endangered
International Forum for Environment,
Sustainability and Technology (iFOREST), an Maha Kumbh: 300 Sanitation Workers Set
organisation of scientists and Guinness World Record
environmentalists. ▪ In a remarkable achievement, 300 sanitation
workers at Maha Kumbh 2025 have secured a
Nature and Bird Festival 2025 at Guinness World Record for the first-ever
Mahakumbh in Prayagraj coordinated river cleaning effort.
▪ The Nature and Bird Festival- 2025 inaugurated ▪ On February 15, 300 employees entered the
at the Mahakumbh on the banks of the river and speed up the cleanliness drive.
Sangam in Prayagraj.
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▪ A total of 15,000 sanitation workers are ▪ The project aims to replace plastic with
expected to join the effort in the coming days. sustainable biopolymers, promoting
environmental protection. This initiative aligns
Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 concludes in with India’s goal of self-reliance and
sustainability.
Prayagraj on Maha Shivratri
First foundation day of Kalki Dham in
Sambhal

▪ Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 concluded on

February 26 - final Amrit Snan (sacred bath) on
Maha Shivratri.
▪ Mela began on January 13
▪ Maha Kumbh Mela featured 6 sacred snans
1. Paush Purnima (January 13)
2. Makar Sankranti (January 14)
3. Mauni Amavasya (January 29)
4. Basant Panchami (February 3) ▪ Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel
5. Maghi Purnima (February 12) attended the first foundation day of the Shri
6. Maha Shivratri (February 26) Kalki Dham Temple in Sambhal district
▪ On February, 19 2024, PM Modi laid the
foundation stone of the temple in the
Uttar Pradesh is home to India’s first presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi
biopolymer plant Adityanath.
▪ It is dedicated to the Kalki Avatar (incarnation)
that is yet to appear in the world. According to
Hindu Mythology, it will be the Tenth and final
incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

UP CM Adityanath unveils Sify Infinit

Spaces’ Data Centre Campus in Noida

▪ Sify Infinit Spaces Ltd., a data centre provider,

▪ Balrampur Chini Mills Limited has laid the its AI-ready data-centre campus Sify Noida 02
foundation for India's first industrial-scale PLA is ready for operations.
biopolymer plant in Kumbhi, Uttar Pradesh, in ▪ The facility was inaugurated by Chief Minister
the presence of CM Yogi Adityanath. of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath.
▪ Kumbhi Sugar Mill Complex in Lakhimpur ▪ North India’s largest data centre campus, Sify
Kheri district at a cost of ₹2,850 crore. Noida 02 is an important milestone in India’s
▪ It will produce biopolymers using biological AI mission and digital infrastructure.
methods, supporting eco-friendly industrial
growth.
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Uttar Pradesh Adopts Digital Monitoring

for Routine Child Vaccination Through
RISE App
▪ In Uttar Pradesh routine vaccination among
children will now be monitored digitally via
‘Rapid Immunisation Skill Enhancement’
(RISE) app, a platform to be used by nurses,
ANMs and health workers engaged in
premises of the Garhi. This has been followed
vaccination in Uttar Pradesh.
strictly so far.
▪ The app (RISE) plays a crucial role in capacity
▪ Hanuman Garhi is a revered temple in
building for vaccinators, ensuring they stay
Ayodhya, believed to have been established in
updated with evolving guidelines and the
the 10th century. It is the main seat of Nirvani
incorporation of new technologies in
Akhara
immunisation programmes
▪ It is said that Lord Ram entrusted Hanuman
with the guardianship of his birthplace.
Ram Darbar to Be Installed in Ayodhya ▪ Thus, the people of Ayodhya often refer to
Temple on Akshaya Tritiya, Full Hanuman as their king and the temple’s
Completion by Oct 2025 “gaddi nasheen” His representative, who can’t
▪ On the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, leave the post.
April 30, the Ram Darbar will be ▪ The land for Hanuman Garhi is believed to
ceremoniously placed in the sanctum have been given by the Nawab of Awadh in
sanctorum on the first floor of Ayodhya’s Shri the 18th century, when the priest of the temple
Ram Janmabhoomi temple. cured his unwell son.
▪ The entire construction of the Ram Temple is
projected to be completed by October 2025. UP launched world's first ceramic waste
park in Khurja
Cafe Rista Initiative

▪ The state government of Uttar Pradesh has

▪ The Uttar Pradesh Police has launched Cafe launched a unique initiative by establishing
Rista, a public-friendly café inside the Noida ‘Anokhi Duniya,’ the world’s first park made
Police Commissionerate. entirely from ceramic waste.
▪ The initiative aims to fosterv stronger bonds ▪ Constructed at a cost of Rs 5.86 crore,
between police personnel and civilians. ▪ Located in Khurja, Bulandshahr district, known
as the “ceramic capital” of India, the park is
Gaddi Nasheen of Hanuman Garhi set to open by the end of September 2025.
▪ Mahant Prem Das, the Gaddi Nasheen of
Hanuman Garhi, is set to break a centuries-old UP CM Yogi Adityanath Announces
tradition by visiting the Ram Temple in
Cashless Medical Treatment for All State
Ayodhya on April 30, 2025.
▪ The Gaddi Nasheen has never left the temple Teachers
premises, a rule established in the 18th ▪ Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
century. announced a significant benefit for the
▪ The rule book of Ayodhya's Hanuman Garhi teachers, stating that all teachers in the state
states that the chief priest should not leave the would now be able to avail cashless medical
treatment,

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▪ It is celebrated in her birthplace Barsana,
Mathura and the entire Braj region on the
eighth day of the bright half of the lunar
month of Bhadrapada.

Purple Fest 2025

▪ This facility would cover teachers in primary,

upper-primary, secondary, and aided schools
and colleges, as well as Shiksha Mitras,
instructors, and cooks.

UP CM launches Samarth Uttar Pradesh

campaign to crowdsource ideas for ‘Vision
2047’
▪ Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the
“Samarth Uttar Pradesh – Viksit Uttar Pradesh
▪ Purple Fest 2025 was organized by the Indian
@2047” campaign in Lucknow, urging citizens
Sign Language Research and Training Centre
to help shape the state’s Vision Document for
(ISLRTC) in collaboration with Amity
2047.
University, Noida on 10-11th September
▪ The campaign will run from September 5 to
2025.
October 5
▪ It celebrated inclusion, dignity, and
▪ The campaign, includes a new Samarth Uttar
empowerment of persons with disabilities
Pradesh portal that allows people to submit
(Divyangjan) through cultural, entrepreneurial,
suggestions on 12 priority sectors, from
and educational activities.
agriculture and health to education, industry,
▪ A national-level festival celebrating the
IT, infrastructure, tourism, social welfare,
creativity, rights, and empowerment of
security and good governance,
Divyangjan.
▪ the theme of “economic strength, innovation
▪ Supported by the Department for
and vitality”.
Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
(DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice
UP: Radha Ashtami Celebrated With and Empowerment.
Devotion, Enthusiasm in Barsana,
Mathura Cultivation of the exotic flower Eustoma.
▪ Birth anniversary of the Radha Rani, the chief ▪ The National Botanical Research Institute
consort of the (NBRI) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh - recently
god Krishna. achieved a breakthrough by cultivating the
▪ She was the exotic flower, Eustoma, native to Mexico and
daughter of America, in Odisha after successfully growing
Vrishbhanu and it on its campus in Lucknow.
Kirtidevi.
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▪ In this temple, the principal deity stands in the
‘tribhanga’ posture, which is tilted at three
angles (got the name “Banke”).
▪ It was established by Swami Haridas, a guru of
the famous singer Tansen.
▪ The present temple complex was constructed
in 1864.
▪ Architecture of the temple is influenced by the
Rajasthani style.
▪ One unique feature of the Banke Bihari temple
▪ Eustoma, also known as Lisianthus or Prairie is that there are no bells on the premises.
Gentian, is a herbaceous annual flower from ▪ In the freedom struggle, this temple was the
the gentian family.
main center of revolutionary activities; from
▪ It is prized globally for its long vase life and
here, the revolutionary newspaper
vibrant colors, making it a premium
“Bundelkhand Kesari” was published secretly.
ornamental flower.

17th BioFach India to Begin in Greater

Banke Bihari Temple row: Supreme Court
Noida with Focus on Organic Growth
sets up 14-member panel to oversee
functioning

▪ 17th edition of the event, happening 30 Aug –

1 Sep 2025 at the India Expo Centre & Mart,
Greater Noida.
▪ Over 27 Farmer Producer Organization (FPOs)
from the North Eastern Region will showcase
▪ Shri Banke Bihari Ji Temple in Vrindavan,
their wide range of products
Mathura (U.P.) is one of the most visited
▪ Jointly organized by:
Krishna temples in India.
▪ NürnbergMesse India Pvt. Ltd., and
▪ It is traditionally managed by Goswami
▪ The Agricultural & Processed Food
priests/sevayats (descendants of the original
Products Export Development
founders).
Authority (APEDA), under the aegis of
▪ Over the years, issues came up regarding
the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
Mismanagement of temple funds, Poor
▪ The scheme provides end-to-end support to
facilities for lakhs of pilgrims, Internal disputes
farmers engaged in organic cultivation,
among Goswami groups about control.
focusing on production, processing,
▪ The UP government brought an ordinance
certification, and marketing.
(2025) to take over administration by creating
a Temple Trust - This was opposed by the
Goswamis UP Cabinet Approves Atal Bihari Vajpayee-
▪ The SC found the UP govt acted in “haste” and Chevening Scholarship for Higher
stayed the ordinance (i.e., put it on hold). Education in UK
▪ To ensure devotees don’t suffer from ▪ Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has
mismanagement in the meantime, the SC on 8 approved the “Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari
Aug 2025 set up a 14-member interim panel Vajpayee-Chevening Uttar Pradesh State
headed by retired Allahabad HC judge Justice Government Scholarship Scheme.”
Ashok Kumar.
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▪ 5 outstanding students from Uttar Pradesh
will be awarded scholarships each year to
pursue a one-year master’s degree at a
reputed UK university
▪ The scheme will be launched from the
academic year 2025-26 and will remain in
effect for three years-2025-26, 2026-27, and
2027-28.
▪ The scholarship will be implemented through a
joint collaboration between the Government
of Uttar Pradesh and the UK’s Foreign, ▪ Kalanamak is a traditional variety of paddy
Commonwealth and Development Office with black husk and strong fragrance.
(FCDO). ▪ It is considered a gift from Lord Buddha to the
▪ The scholarship package will cover tuition fees, people of Sravasti when he visited the region
examination and research expenses, a after enlightenment.
generous monthly living allowance, and round- ▪ It is traditional, non-basmati aromatic
trip economy class airfare rice grown in eastern Uttar Pradesh,
▪ The state government will contribute particularly in Siddharth nagar, where it has
approximately around 23 lakh rupees per been designated as an ODOP (one district one
student, while the remaining amount will be product) item.
borne by UK’s FCDO. ▪ It is also grown in 11 districts of the Terai
region of north-eastern Uttar Pradesh and in
Nepal, the traditional variety has been prone
Youth Spiritual Summit Concludes With to ‘lodging’, a reason for its low yield.
Kashi Declaration for Drug-Free India ▪ Lodging: Lodging is a condition in which the
top of the plant becomes heavy because of
grain formation, the stem becomes weak, and
the plant falls on the ground.
▪ It is a nutritional powerhouse. It is rich in iron
and antioxidants, has a low glycemic index,
and is naturally gluten-free, making it a
healthy dietary choice, especially for diabetics.
▪ Kalanamak rice was granted the Geographical
Indication (GI) tag in 2013 for the state
▪ The Youth Spiritual Summit, held under the of Uttar Pradesh
theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat
(Drug-free Youth for Developed India)
▪ From 19-21 July, 2025
NCW introduces Yashoda AI to boost
▪ Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs women’s access to AI and Cybersecurity
and Sports, the summit brought together over training
600 youth leaders from more than 120
spiritual and socio-cultural organisations
▪ The Youth Spiritual Summit concluded in
Varanasi with the adoption of the Kashi
Declaration, setting a national roadmap for
youth-led action against drug abuse.

Kalanamak Rice
▪ The Uttar Pradesh government, in consultation ▪ ‘Yashoda AI: Your AI SAKHI’ to advance
with the commerce ministry, plans to promote women’s AI literacy and digital awareness
the export of Kalanamak rice to countries was held at the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule
with majority or large Buddhist populations. Rohilkhand University, Bareilly.

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• It is the initiative of the National Commission Biosphere Part of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
for Women (NCW) in collaboration with Zone
Future Shift Labs (FSL). Governance Managed by Uttar Pradesh Forest
• To empower women, especially from rural and Department
semi-urban communities, with essential skills About Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and Category Details
Digital Safety. Location Lakhimpur Kheri & Bahraich
• The program aims to host in-depth discussions districts, Uttar Pradesh
on critical issues such as AI-driven Eco-region Terai-Bhabar belt of Himalayan
crimes, digital privacy, and practical safety foothills
strategies. Established 1987 (under Project Tiger)
National Commission for Women Constituent 1. Dudhwa National Park
• It is an autonomous and statutory Zones 2. Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary
body established in 1992 under the National 3. Katarniaghat Wildlife
Commission for Women Act, 1990, to protect Sanctuary
and promote women’s rights in India. Facts Dudhwa is the last stronghold of
• Composition: The Commission shall consist of northern swamp deer
a Chairperson, 5 Members, and a Member- (barasingha).
Secretary who are nominated by the Central Famous conservationist Billy Arjan
Government. Singh worked here
• Term: The Chairperson and every Member
shall hold office for a period of three years.
Gomti River
Uttar Pradesh has launched India's first
jungle safari via Vistadome train

▪ The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced

a first-of-its-kind Vistadome coach service
connecting the Katarniaghat Wildlife Context: The Gomti River in Lucknow is at risk of
Sanctuary to the DudhwaTiger Reserve in becoming ecologically dead due to rising untreated
Pilibhit. sewage, declining oxygen levels, and increasing faecal
▪ A Vistadome train or Vistadome coach is a coliform levels.
special tourist-friendly train coach introduced Origin:
by Indian Railways that offers panoramic • Arises from Gomat Taal (Fulhaar
views of scenic routes through glass rooftops, Jheel) near Madho Tanda, Pilibhit district,
large windows, and rotating seats. Uttar Pradesh.
About Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary Course:
Feature Details • Flows entirely through Uttar Pradesh,
Location Bahraich district, Uttar Pradesh traversing districts like Lucknow, Sitapur,
Established 1975 Sultanpur, Jaunpur, Faizabad, and others.
Area Approx. 400 sq km • Joins the Ganga River at Kaithi in Ghazipur
River Lies along the banks of Ghaghara district.
River Length & Basin:
• Total Length: ~960 km
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• Drainage Area: ~18,750 sq km (7,240 sq miles)
• Perennial river with sluggish flow except
during the monsoon season.
• Major Tributaries: Sai River, Chowka River,
Kathina River, Saryu River, and Sarayan River.

Uttar Pradesh adds 12 new products

under ODOP scheme taking it to 74
▪ The Yogi
Adityanath
government
launched the
One District, One
Product (ODOP)
Scheme in Uttar Pradesh on 24 January 2018.
▪ Due to its success, it was later adopted by the
Central Government to promote regional
development by identifying and promoting a
specific product from each district.

Cabinet approves 6th semiconductor Unit

to be set up near Jewar airport in UP
▪ The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime
Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the
establishment of one more semiconductor unit
under India Semiconductor Mission.
▪ Already five semiconductor units are in
advanced stages of construction.
▪ The unit approved is a joint venture of HCL
and Foxconn.
▪ The new semiconductor unit will attract
investment of Rs 3,700 crore.
▪ Foxconn is a global major in electronics
manufacturing.
▪ Together they will set up a plant near Jewar
airport in Yamuna Expressway Industrial
Development Authority or YEIDA.
▪ This plant will manufacture display driver chips
What is a Semiconductor?
for mobile phones, laptops, automobiles, PCs,
• Semiconductors also referred to as ‘chips’ are
and myriad of other devices that have display.
highly complex products to design and
▪ Plants Under India Semiconductor Mission
manufacture, providing the essential
– Four plants – including a fab and three
functionality for electronic devices to process,
assembly units – are in Gujarat and one
store and transmit data.
assembly and packaging plant is under
• The chip comprises interconnections
construction in Assam.
of transistors, diodes, capacitors and resistors,
layered on a wafer sheet of silicon.

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Uttar Pradesh tops country in digital ▪ NAVYA aims to empower adolescent girls aged
16 to 18 years, who have completed at least
registration of Waqf properties on
Class 10, by providing them with vocational
'UMEED' portal training—particularly in non-traditional job
▪ The Uttar Pradesh state has topped the roles—opening up pathways to participate in
country in the digital registration of Waqf emerging sectors of the economy.
properties on the Centre’s ‘Ummeed’ portal, ▪ As part of the initiative, both ministries will
completing the process for 92,832 properties formalize a framework for institutional
within the stipulated timeframe. convergence, aligning efforts to deliver
About UMEED Portal integrated skill training to adolescent girls.
▪ The ‘Unified Waqf Management, ▪ NAVYA will draw on the strengths of
Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development established national schemes, including the
(UMEED) Portal is a centralised digital Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY),
platform to register Waqf properties across to ensure the delivery of high-quality
the country. vocational education.
▪ It aims to promote better management and
enhance transparency.
▪ It serves as a centralized digital platform for
Union Cabinet approves global potato
real-time uploading, verification, and research center in Agra, Uttar Pradesh
monitoring of Waqf properties.
▪ Under this initiative registrations of properties
are facilitated by respective State Waqf Boards.
▪ Legal Support: It was formed under the Unified
Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency
and Development Act, 1995.
▪ Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Minority Affairs

Government to Launch ‘NAVYA’ – A Joint

Pilot Initiative for Skilling Adolescent Girls
Under Viksit Bharat@2047 Vision

▪ The Union Cabinet approved a proposal to set

up a regional wing of the Peru-based
International Potato Center (CIP), a premier
research-for-development organisation with a
focus on the potato and sweet potato.
▪ The proposed CIP-South Asia Regional Center
▪ The central government is set to launch NAVYA (CSARC) will come up at Singna in Agra district,
– Nurturing Aspirations through Vocational and cater not only to farmers in India’s potato
Training for Young Adolescent Girls in belt states, like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West
Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh. Bengal, but also to South Asian countries.
▪ The initiative marks a joint pilot programme by What is the International Potato Center (CIP)?
the Ministry of Women and Child Development ▪ Headquartered in Lima, Peru, the CIP was
(MWCD) and the Ministry of Skill Development founded in 1971 with a focus on the potato,
and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), aimed at sweet potato and Andean roots and tubers.
empowering adolescent girls through targeted ▪ In India, Uttar Pradesh (15 million tonnes),
vocational training. West Bengal (15 million tonnes) and Bihar (9

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
million tonnes) were the top three potato Kanwar Yathra
producers in 2020-21.
▪ Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab also
have significant production.
As of now, at least two different ICAR centres work
on tuber crops:
▪ The Shimla-based ICAR-CPRI (Central Potato
Research Institute) is working on the potato,
▪ The Thiruvananthapuram-based ICAR-CTCRI
(Central Tuber Crops Research Institute) is
working on the sweet potato. ▪ NEWS: Delhi Chief Minister recently said no
nuisance will be tolerated during Kanwar Yatra,
Salkhan Fossil Park days after glass shards were found scattered
along a stretch of the yatra route in Shahdara.
▪ Kanwar Yathra - It’s an annual pilgrimage,
held in the Hindu month of Shravan (typically
July–August), where Shiva devotees (known as
Kanwariyas), primarily in North India, fetch
holy water from the Ganges River and carry it
back to their local Shiva temples (often
barefoot and walking distances of hundreds of
kilometers).
▪ The term “Kanwar” refers to a special carrying
apparatus, typically a bamboo pole, with two
equal loads (usually pots filled with Ganga
water) suspended from either end.

▪ Recently, the Salkhan Fossil Park has been India’s first Equine Disease-Free
added to UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Compartment (EDFC)
Heritage Sites.
▪ It is also known as Sonbhadra Fossils Park
located in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
▪ It is nestled amidst the verdant embrace of the
Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary and within the
Vindhyan mountain range.
▪ It is home to a rich repository of fossils dating
back approximately 1.4 billion years, making it
one of the oldest and most well-preserved
About India’s first Equine Disease-Free
fossil sites in the world.
▪ The site’s fossil assemblage, scattered across Compartment (EDFC):
various formations, primarily features an A scientifically managed, internationally recognised
exceptional collection of stromatolites, i.e. zone that ensures horses are free from specified
equine diseases, allowing them to participate in global
formations created by communities of
cyanobacteria or blue-green algae. trade and competitions.
▪ It is home to Prehistoric stromatolites and ▪ Established at: Remount Veterinary Corps
living relics of the Mesoproterozoic. (RVC) Centre & College, Meerut Cantonment,
▪ Salkhan is much older than sites like Shark Bay Uttar Pradesh
in Australia and Yellowstone the USA. ▪ Recognised by: World Organisation for Animal
▪ The site’s Proterozoic stromatolites illustrate a Health (WOAH).
critical watershed in the early history of life on ▪ Established under: Ministry of Fisheries,
Earth: The Great Oxidation Event. Animal Husbandry and Dairying
Key Features of the EDFC

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▪ Disease-Free Status: Officially declared free Punjab), Shri Takht Sachkhand Shri Hazur
from Equine Influenza, Glanders, Surra, Equine Sahib (Nanded, Maharashtra), and Shri
Piroplasmosis, and Equine Harmandir Ji Sahib (Patna Sahib, Bihar).
Infectious Anemia. India has also remained ▪ Applications are processed fully online, via
free of African Horse Sickness since 2014. IRCTC, with selection based on transparency
▪ Robust Biosecurity Protocols: Implements and socio-economic criteria
strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
covering hygiene, pest control, animal health President Murmu to inaugurate Mahayogi
surveillance, waste management, and
Guru Gorakhnath AYUSH University in
sanitation.
▪ Compartmentalisation Standards: Follows Gorakhpur
WOAH’s Terrestrial Animal Health Code,
maintaining a sub-population of animals with a
defined health status.
▪ 24/7 Surveillance & Monitoring: Continuous
veterinary screening ensures early detection
and containment of infections.

‘Bauddha Teerth Darshan Yojana’ and

‘Panch Takht Yatra Yojana’
▪ President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the
Mahayogi Guru Gorakhnath AYUSH University
in Gorakhpur, in the presence of Governor
Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi
Adityanath.

75th Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra

(PMDK) Inaugurated in Badaun, Uttar
Pradesh
▪ Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced ▪ The Union Ministry of Social Justice &
two new pilgrimage schemes—‘Bauddha Empowerment, Government of India,
Teerth Darshan Yojana’ and ‘Panch Takht Yatra inaugurated the 75th Pradhan Mantri Divyasha
Yojana’ for Buddhists and Sikh devotees. Kendra (PMDK) at Government Medical
▪ Under both proposed schemes, a minimum of College, Badaun, Uttar Pradesh
Rs 10,000 per person will be provided as ▪ to empower Divyangjan (persons with
financial assistance to ensure easy access to disabilities) and senior citizens.
sacred destinations. ▪ The inauguration ceremony will be graced
▪ The purpose of the Bauddha Teerth Darshan by Union Minister of State for Social Justice &
Yojana is to help Hindu/Buddhist residents of Empowerment, Shri B.L. Verma
Uttar Pradesh undertake pilgrimages to major ▪ Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra is a unique
Buddhist sites across the country. initiative aimed at providing integrated
▪ Buddhist monks be given priority in the services under one roof—including
selection of beneficiaries under this scheme. assessment, evaluation, counselling,
▪ Similarly, the Panch Takht Yatra Scheme will distribution, and post-distribution care—for
benefit Sikh devotees. Under this scheme, Sikh eligible Divyangjan and elderly beneficiaries.
devotees from Uttar Pradesh will be taken on a ▪ The newly established PMDK at Badaun will
pilgrimage to the five sacred Takht Sahib sites provide assistive aids and appliances under the
of Sikhism. Assistance to Disabled Persons for
▪ These sites include Shri Anandpur Sahib Purchase/Fitting of Aids/Appliances (ADIP)
(Punjab), Shri Akal Takht Sahib (Amritsar, Scheme for Divyangjan and the Rashtriya
Punjab), Shri Damdama Sahib (Talwandi Sabo, Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) for senior citizens.

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▪ Devices such as tricycles, wheelchairs, hearing ▪ Generate clean energy using underutilised
aids, walkers, artificial limbs, and mobility track space.
support accessories will be offered free of cost ▪ Reduce dependence on fossil fuels and
to eligible beneficiaries. cut carbon footprint.
Features:
Indigenously Developed Kavach 4.0 ▪ Removable design → panels can be lifted for
maintenance or emergencies.
Commissioned on Mathura-Kota Section
▪ Compact installation → no need for large land
of the Delhi-Mumbai Route acquisition.
▪ Indian Railways has commissioned indigenous ▪ 15 KWp capacity → supports auxiliary power
railway safety system Kavach 4.0 on the needs at railway units.
Mathura-Kota section of high-density Delhi- ▪ Pilot project → model for replication across
Mumbai route. India.
▪ Railways has indigenously designed,
developed, and manufactured the Kavach
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has
Automatic Train Protection System
▪ Kavach is an indigenously developed train officially approved the renaming of
safety system. It is designed to prevent Jalalabad town in Shahjahanpur district,
accidents by monitoring and controlling train Uttar Pradesh, to Parashurampuri.
speeds.
▪ This is the first commissioning of the latest
Kavach version and a step towards
modernization of railway safety systems in the
country.
▪ Development of Kavach started in 2015. The
system was extensively tested for over 3 years.
▪ After technical improvements, the system was The State government had told the Centre that
installed in South Central Railway (SCR). The Jalalabad is known as the birthplace of Parashuram
first operational certificate was granted in
2018.
▪ Based on the experiences gained in SCR, an
India’s first urban public transport
advanced version ‘Kavach 4.0’ was developed. ropeway under trial runs in Varanasi, Uttar
It was approved in May 2025 for speeds up to Pradesh
160 kmph. ▪ Trial run of the
▪ Kavach components are being manufactured country’s first
indigenously. urban ropeway
in Varanasi will
Indian Railways Commissions First continue for
Removable Solar Panel System Between three months
▪ The ₹807 crore
Tracks at BLW, Varanasi project aims to
Indian Railways has commissioned the country’s first improve urban
removable solar panel system installed between transport and
railway tracks. reduce traffic congestion in the city.
What it is? ▪ The ropeway will cover a distance of 3.75 km,
▪ A 70-metre-long solar installation with 28 linking Banaras Cantt Railway Station with
removable panels generating 15 KWp power. Godowlia Chowk.
▪ Placed between railway tracks, ensuring ▪ The project is expected to cut travel time from
efficient use of space. 45-50 minutes to just 15 minutes
Launched on: August 2025 at Banaras Locomotive ▪ Three stations—Cantt, Vidyapeeth, and
Works, Varanasi by the Ministry of Railways. Rathyatra—are already constructed
Objective:
▪ Promote green and sustainable rail transport.

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Uttar Pradesh to host 19th National arrest memos, and other police documents.
Instead, the names of the accused's parents
Jamboree of Bharat Scouts and Guides
will be used for identification.
▪ Public Displays: Caste-based symbols, slogans,
and references on vehicles, signboards, and
public spaces are prohibited.
▪ Political Rallies: Caste-based political rallies
have been banned, as they are considered a
threat to public order and national unity.

UP Police Issues Guidelines for Mission

Shakti Centres
▪ The Uttar
Pradesh Police
have announced
▪ Uttar Pradesh will host the 19th National
comprehensive
Jamboree of the Bharat Scouts and Guides, a
guidelines to
major youth event that will bring together
establish
thousands of young people from India and
Mission Shakti
abroad.
Centres in all
▪ The week-long event, set to be inaugurated
1,647 police
by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will take
stations across
place in Lucknow's Vrindavan Scheme from
the state.
23rd to 29th November 2025.
▪ This initiative, launched under the Mission
▪ The first Jamboree in India was held
Shakti 5.0 campaign by Chief Minister Yogi
in Hyderabad in 1953.
Adityanath, aims to enhance women's safety,
dignity, and self-reliance.
UP govt prohibits caste-based political ▪ Leadership: Each centre will be led by a sub-
rallies, public displays & caste-related inspector, preferably a woman.
markings in police records ▪ Team Composition:
▪ 1–4 additional sub-inspectors
▪ 4–15 constables, with at least 50%
female representation
▪ 1–2 female home guards
▪ Counsellors and psychologists, as
required
Tenure: Personnel will serve a tenure of 3–5 years,
with transfers contingent upon specialized training.
Infrastructure:
▪ Dedicated rooms equipped with computers,
records, and stationery
▪ Separate restrooms for women
▪ Counselling rooms for psychological and legal
support
▪ Uttar Pradesh government, following a
Functions:
directive from the Allahabad High Court,
▪ Handle cases related to crimes against
issued a comprehensive order prohibiting
women, including domestic violence,
caste references in police records, public
harassment, and trafficking
displays, and political rallies.
▪ Oversee Anti-Romeo Squads
▪ This move aims to promote social harmony
▪ Maintain FIR records related to women's
and eliminate caste-based discrimination.
crimes
▪ Police Records: The caste column has been
removed from First Information Reports (FIRs),
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▪ Coordinate with other welfare institutions such India’s First Forest University to Come Up
as One Stop Centres, legal services, and NGOs
in Gorakhpur
▪ Run awareness and cyber safety initiatives
▪ Mission Shakti - Launched by the Ministry of
Women and Child Development in 2021
▪ operates from 2021 to 2026 and is structured
into two key sub-schemes:
▪ Sambal: Focused on the safety and
security of women, including the
establishment of One Stop Centres
(OSCs) that provide integrated services
like legal and psycho-social
counselling.
▪ Samarthya: Aimed at the
▪ Uttar Pradesh's first forest university is set to
empowerment of women through skill
be established in Gorakhpur. The campus will
development, financial literacy, and
be built on 125 acres and will focus on detailed
entrepreneurship support.
study of forests, wildlife and environmental
sciences.
Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show in ▪ The campus will be located near the Jatayu
Greater Noida Conservation and Breeding Center.
▪ The university will offer subjects such as
forestry, agroforestry, social forestry and
horticulture.

Adam Chini Rice Variety

▪ BHU revived and improved Adam Chini
(traditional aromatic black rice) using
mutagenesis, making it shorter, faster-
maturing, higher-yielding while keeping its
aroma.
▪ The Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show ▪ Adam Chini / Adamchini Chawal: Short-
(UPITS) 2025 at the India Expo Centre & Mart grained, aromatic black rice from Eastern UP,
in Greater Noida, from September 25 to 29, known for sugar crystal–like grains, strong
2025. fragrance, and excellent cooking quality.
▪ Partner Country: Russia is the partner country, ▪ Region: Grown in Chandauli, Varanasi,
▪ The trade show, under the theme “Ultimate Mirzapur, Sonbhadra (Vindhya foothills).
Sourcing Begins Here” ▪ GI Tag
▪ It will have three core objectives- innovation, ▪ Received GI tag on 22 Feb 2023 (valid
integration, and internationalization. till Nov 2030).
▪ Proposed by Ishani Agro Producer
U.P. Cabinet gives nod to set up District Company & Human Welfare
Association.
Divyang Rehabilitation centres in all 18 ▪ Ensures protection and premium
divisional headquarters branding as Vindhya Black Rice.
▪ Aim: Improve services for persons with Feature Traditional BHU Improved
disabilities across the state. Height 165 cm ~105 cm
Duration 155 days ~120 days
DDRCs will help with: Yield 20–23 q/ha 30–35 q/ha
▪ Accessing government welfare schemes. Aroma/quality Present Retained; often
▪ Providing counselling, physiotherapy, speech superior to Basmati
therapy, and other clinical services
Geographical Indication

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▪ GI Tags protect products with unique qualities India Unveils First MWh-Scale Vanadium
or reputation linked to a specific geographic
Flow Battery at NTPC NETRA
region.
▪ Breakthrough in long-duration energy storage
▪ Governed by the GI Act, 1999; enforced from
(LDES) and renewable energy integration.
15 Sept 2003.
▪ Located in: NTPC NETRA (National Energy
▪ First GI of India: Darjeeling Tea (2003).
Technology Research Alliance), Greater Noida,
▪ Administered by: GI Registry, Chennai (under
Uttar Pradesh
Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade
▪ Organisation Involved: Developed by NTPC’s
Marks).
R&D Centre (NETRA) under the Ministry of
Power.
Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry ▪ Aim: To strengthen India’s energy transition
organises Divya Kala Mela at Lucknow and grid resilience by developing indigenous,
University, UP safe, and long-duration storage technologies
that reduce dependence on imported lithium.
Key Features:
▪ Capacity: 3 MWh — India’s largest and first-of-
its-kind installation
▪ Technology: Uses vanadium electrolyte instead
of lithium; highly scalable, safe, and long-
lasting
▪ Lifespan: 15–20 years with minimal
degradation
▪ Applications: Supports renewable energy
integration, microgrids, and industrial storage
▪ Eco-friendly: Enables recycling of
electrolytes and non-flammable operation
The Vanadium Redox Flow Battery (VRFB):
▪ Advanced liquid-electrolyte–based energy
storage system, designed as a sustainable
alternative to lithium-ion batteries for grid-
scale storage.
▪ It enables large-scale, long-duration energy
retention crucial for renewable energy

Varanasi to Host 4th Kashi Tamil

▪ The Department of Empowerment of Persons
Sangamam in December
with Disabilities (DEPwD), is organizing the
▪ 2–15 Dec 2025, Varanasi | Valedictory:
Divya Kala Mela from 15–23 November 2025
Rameswaram (15 Dec)
at Lucknow University.
▪ Theme: Let us Learn Tamil – Karpom Tamil
▪ The National Divyangjan Finance and
▪ Under: Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (cultural
Development Corporation (NDFDC), a premier
integration)
institution under DEPwD, is the nodal agency
▪ Link: Strengthens Tamil Nadu–Kashi
for the event.
civilizational ties
▪ Mela features handicrafts, handloom,
▪ History: King Parakrama Pandya brought
embroidery, packaged food and regional
sacred lingam from Kashi to Sivakasi; Pandyas
products from J&K and North-East.
built Kasi Viswanathar Temple,
▪ 26 Divya Kala Melas in the last three years
Tenkasi(Southwest Tamil Nadu, near Kerala
have promoted cultural diversity and
border).
community participation.

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Lucknow Launches First Animal Birth Arunachala Kavi: Tamil poet who composed hymns
praising Lord Rama.
Control Training Centre
▪ Location: Jarhara, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
▪ Launched By: Lucknow Municipal Corporation Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi
(LMC) Adityanath declared a public holiday on
About the Initiative Valmiki Jayanti
▪ India’s first dedicated Animal Birth Control • Occasion: To
(ABC) Training Centre. commemorate the birth
▪ Aims to improve management and sterilisation anniversary of
of street dogs in Lucknow and other regions. Maharishi Valmiki, the
Collaborating Agencies revered sage and
▪ Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) author of the
▪ Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) Ramayana.
▪ Government of Uttar Pradesh • Celebrated on the full
▪ Humane World for Animals India moon day (Purnima) of
Objective the Ashwin month (September–October).
▪ Promote scientific, safe, and ethical About Maharishi Valmiki
sterilization of stray dogs. • He is regarded as the first poet (Adi Kavi) of
▪ Help reduce stray dog–human conflict and Sanskrit literature.
improve public health. • Known for his teachings on truth,
righteousness.
FM Nirmala Sitharaman Inaugurates Life and Transformation
Renovated Brihaspati Kund in Ayodhya • In his early life, Valmiki was said to be a
robber.
• He met Sage Narada, who guided him to the
path of penance and self-realization.
• During his long meditation, ants built a
mound (Valmika) around him.
• When he emerged after years of penance, he
was called “Valmiki”, meaning “one born
from the ant-hill.”

Uttar Pradesh Launches Swadesh Mela in

All 75 Districts to Promote MSMEs &
Indigenous Products
▪ The Kund has undergone complete
renovation and beautification.
▪ Dedicated especially to devotees from South
India, strengthening the cultural bond
between North and South India.
▪ Brihaspati Kund
▪ Mentioned among the 108 sacred
ponds (Kunds) of Ayodhya in the
Vedas, Puranas, and Upanishads.
▪ Ancient spiritual and pilgrimage site.
Three Statues at Brihaspati Kund:
Tyagaraja Swamigal: Saint-composer of Carnatic
▪ Duration: October 9–19 (10 days)
music; devotee of Lord Rama.
▪ Aim: To promote local and indigenous
Purandara Dasa: Father of Carnatic music from
products ahead of Diwali
Karnataka.

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▪ Objective: To provide a district-level platform ▪ Coverage: From Pilibhit to Ghazipur (entire
for artisans and small businesses to boost local Gomti stretch).
production and self-reliance (Atmanirbhar ▪ New Wetlands: Ekana Wetland and Sajan
Bharat). Lake in Lucknow to boost biodiversity and
water retention.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi ▪ Length: ~960 km.
▪ Origin: Madho Tanda, Pilibhit district, Uttar
Adityanath will inaugurate the Ayodhya’s
Pradesh.
new wax museum ▪ Confluence: Kaithi, Ghazipur district, with the
Ganga River.
▪ Major city: Lucknow (worst affected by urban
pollution).
▪ Linked to: Namami Gange Mission (tributary-
level rejuvenation).
▪ Significance: Improves biodiversity,
groundwater recharge, and urban water
sustainability.

▪ Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath

will inaugurate the world's first Ramayana-
themed wax museum during the Deepotsav
celebration .
▪ Spread over 9,850 square feet and built at a
cost of ₹6 crore, the fully air-conditioned
museum houses 50 life like wax statues of
characters from the Ramayana.

Gomti Rejuvenation Mission Launched for

River Restoration

U.P. CM announces age relaxation,

reservation for Agniveers in police
▪ Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has
announced a 20% horizontal reservation and a
three-year age relaxation for former Agniveers
in police recruitment for positions like
Constable, Mounted Constable, and Fireman.
▪ Launched by: Uttar Pradesh Government in ▪ This reservation will be applied within each
October 2025. category (SC, ST, OBC, General) and will be
▪ Aim: Restore natural flow and water quality of effective from 2026, when the first batch of
the Gomti River. Agniveers completes their service
▪ Target: Stop 95% of urban sewage from About Agnipath Scheme
entering the river. ▪ Scheme aims to keep the forces younger,
▪ Approach: Ecosystem restoration, wetland fitter, and reduce pension burden
creation, and pollution control.

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▪ Recruitment of soldiers (Agniveers) for 4 years Lucknow enters UNESCO list as ‘Creative
of service.
City of Gastronomy’
▪ 17.5 to 21 years age limit (23 years allowed
▪ Lucknow has
only once in 2022).
officially been
▪ Applies only to non-officer ranks in Army,
declared a
Navy, Air Force.
UNESCO
▪ After 4 years, only up to 25% are absorbed
‘Creative City of
into regular service.
Gastronomy’
▪ Monthly salary approx. ₹30,000–40,000 over 4
during the 43rd
years.
Session of the
▪ 30% salary deduction + 30% govt. contribution
UNESCO General
goes into Seva Nidhi corpus.
Conference, in in
▪ Lump-sum payout of around ₹11–12 lakh after
Samarkand,
4 years (tax-free).
Uzbekistan.
▪ ₹48 lakh life insurance during service.
▪ The global recognition celebrates the city’s
▪ Additional ex-gratia for death or disability
centuries-old Awadhi cuisine, living food
while serving.
traditions and inclusive cultural heritage.
Indian Cities in the UCCN
Youth employment schemes by Uttar ▪ Kozhikode (Literature) and Gwalior (Music)
Pradesh government —Rojgaar Sangam feature in this list.
Portal & OTHERS ▪ Earlier, Jaipur (Crafts and Folk Arts), Varanasi
Rojgaar Sangam (Sewayojan UP) Portal (Music), Chennai (Music), Mumbai (Film),
▪ Online platform linking job seekers with Hyderabad (Gastronomy), and Srinagar (Crafts
employers. and Folk Arts) have also held the spot.
▪ Provides government, private, outsourced jobs UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)
and Rojgar Melas, matching candidates by ▪ Established: 2004
education, skills, qualification ▪ Purpose: Promote cooperation among cities
Mukhyamantri Yuva Swarozgar Yojana using creativity as a driver for sustainable
▪ Launched 15 Sept 2018 to promote youth urban development (aligned with SDG-11:
entrepreneurship. inclusive, safe, resilient, sustainable cities).
▪ Eligibility: 18–40 years, UP resident, high ▪ Creative fields (7): Crafts & folk arts, media
school pass. arts, film, design, gastronomy, literature,
▪ Loan up to ₹25 lakh at 6% interest for business music.
(machinery, raw materials, working capital). ▪ Examples (Gastronomy cities): Alba (Italy),
▪ Must not be a bank defaulter. Income limits: Arequipa (Peru), Bergen (Norway), Belem
₹2 lakh (OBC/Minority/General) & ₹2.5 lakh (Brazil), Bendigo (Australia).
(SC/ST)
Scheme for Training of SC/ST (UP) U.P. Factories (Amendment) Act enforced;
▪ Provides skill + entrepreneurial training for allows govt to extend max daily working
SC/ST youth, including women.
hours to 12
▪ Training: 1 month theory + 3 months practical,
▪ Daily working hours can be extended to 12
plus toolkits for chosen trade.
hours (with consent) — weekly cap: 48 hours.
▪ Eligibility: 18–45 years.
▪ Continuous work allowed up to 6 hours (with
▪ Literacy not required for non-technical trades;
written consent).
technical trades require Class 8.
▪ Overtime limit raised from 75 to 144 hours per
Yuva Sathi Portal (UP)
quarter (in exceptional workload).
▪ Unified portal offering info on skill
▪ Women allowed night shifts with written
development, employment, entrepreneurship,
consent & mandatory safety provisions.
startups, scholarships, vocational training, self-
▪ Overtime pay: Double wages for work beyond
employment, competitive exams, career
daily limit.
counselling, sports, and health.

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Mustafabad village to be renamed Kabir Uttar Pradesh to Observe Statewide Road

Dham: UP CM Yogi Adityanath Safety Month from January 1 to 31
▪ Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
has directed that a statewide “Road Safety
Month” with a focus on the 4E model
“Education, Enforcement, Engineering and
Emergency Care” will be observed next year
from January 1 to 31.
▪ The campaign be implemented strictly on the
4E model — education, enforcement,
engineering and emergency care — with equal
▪ Village of Mustafabad in Lakhimpur Kheri
focus on all four pillars.
district will be proposed to be renamed
“Kabirdham” to reflect its cultural and
historical link with the saint-poet Sant Kabir Prime Minister inaugurates Rashtra Prerna
Sthal in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh to Create Kalyan Singh
Nagar, Its 76th District

• Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced

the initiation of the process to create a new
▪ 25 Dec 2025: PM Narendra Modi visited
district named Kalyan Singh Nagar to honor
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on the 101st birth
the legacy of former Chief Minister Kalyan
anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Singh.
▪ Rashtra Prerna Sthal: Landmark national
• The new district will be carved out of parts of
memorial and inspirational complex of
Aligarh and Bulandshahr.
enduring national significance.
• Kalyan Singh (1932–2021):
▪ Cost & area: ~₹230 crore; spread over 65
• He was born on 5th January, 1932 in
acres.
Atrauli, Aligarh (Uttar Pradesh).
▪ Unveiling: 65-ft bronze statues of Atal Bihari
• He served twice as the Chief Minister Vajpayee, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, and
of Uttar Pradesh, first from 1991 to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, linked to the
1992 and again from 1997 to 1999. Jansangh tradition, at the new Rashtriya Prerna
• He also held the posts of Governor of Sthal.
Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh.
• On March 28, 2022, President Ram
Nath Kovind honoured Kalyan Singh
Parvati-Arga Bird Sanctuary
▪ The Government has declared the Parvati-
with Padma
Arga Bird Sanctuary of Uttar Pradesh as an Eco
Vibhushan (posthumously). In the
sensitive zone.
same year, the Government of India
About Parvati-Arga Bird Sanctuary
also released a postal stamp in his
▪ Location: It is situated in Gonda district of
honour.
Uttar Pradesh.
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▪ It is a permanent freshwater environment
consisting of two oxbow lakes namely Parvati
and Arga.
▪ It is designated as Ramsar site.
▪ Fauna: It is the critically endangered white-
rumped vulture (Gyps bengalensis) and Indian
vulture (Gyps indicus), and the endangered
Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus)
have all been recorded.
▪ Invasive species such as the common water
hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is also found
here.
▪ Flora: The Vegetation of the Sanctuary is
representative of that of the indo-gangetive
ecosystem.
What is an Eco-Sensitive Zone? Purpose of declaring ESZs
▪ It is also known as Ecologically Fragile Areas ▪ To act as a transition zone from areas of high
(EFAs). protection to areas involving lesser protection.
▪ These are areas notified and regulated by the ▪ An ESZ could extend up to 10 km around a
Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and protected area.
Climate Change (MoEFCC) around Protected
Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Gujarat
1. G-SAFAL Gujarat Launches G-SAFAL to Uplift 50,000
st
2. 1 Biodiversity Heritage Site Underprivileged Women
3. New District – VAV Tharad ▪ Under the leadership of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra
4. International Kite Festival Patel, the state government has introduced G-SAFAL
5. UCC (Gujarat Scheme for Antyodaya Families for Augmenting
6. GP-DRASTI drone program Livelihoods), an initiative aimed at strengthening the
st
7. 1 Tribal Genome Sequencing Project livelihoods of Antyodaya families (underprivileged
8. Pre harappan Site in Kutch families), empowering women, and promoting economic
9. Off-Grid Green Hydrogen Pilot Plant self-sufficiency.
10. Gujarat’s Fourth Solar Village ▪ This initiative is expected to uplift 50,000 Antyodaya Anna
Yojana (AAY) cardholder families across 25 talukas in 10
11. Mahisagar (Mahi) River
districts of Gujarat over the next five years.
12. Pavagadh Kalika Mata Temple
13.
G-SAFAL is structured around four key Pillars: 5. "This scheme aims to empower
1. Social Security, which is for facilitating access underprivileged families by helping them
to government welfare schemes and develop additional income sources for a
strengthening social security; sustainable livelihood.
2. Livelihood Creation, for providing grants to 6. Beneficiaries will receive comprehensive
generate wealth and establish multiple income training and guidance, along with a grant of Rs
sources; 80,000 to create new opportunities for
3. Financial Inclusion, by enabling beneficiaries financial stability.
to connect with banks, savings programs, 7. G-SAFAL also focuses on women's
credit facilities, and insurance services; empowerment, with a 'field coach'
4. Social Development and Empowerment for
enhancing life skills through training programs
and encouraging active participation in self-
help groups.

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Gujarat village’s inland mangrove to be ▪ At 14, Banaskantha district includes the

highest number of talukas in Gujarat and is
state’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site
the second largest district area-wise.
▪ The Vav-Tharad district will be created from 8
out of these 14 talukas
▪ the new Vav-Tharad district will comprise
eight talukas and four municipalities, the new
Banaskantha district will have six talukas and
two municipalities.

▪ 32.78 hectare area of Guneri village in Lakhtar

tehsil of Kutch district, which is a natural
inland mangrove site, has been declared as
the first Biodiversity Heritage Site of Gujarat.
▪ The Gujarat government made the
announcement on after considering a
recommendation from the Gujarat
Biodiversity Board.
▪ This will ensure conservation and enrichment
Archaeological Experiential Museum
of the flora and fauna in the area “through a Launched in Vadnagar
management plan
▪ The announcement has been done under the
provisions of The Biodiversity Act, 2002.
▪ The Guneri inland mangrove site is the last
remains of its kind in India.
▪ The Guneri mangrove site is located at a
distance of 45 km from the Arabian Sea and
four km from the Kori Creek.
▪ The Guneri inland mangroves are presumed to ▪ The Union Ministry of Culture and State
have originated during the Miocene period or Government of Gujarat, inaugurated a state-
on the bank of the lost river (the Saraswati of-the-art museum and archaeological
River) in the Great Rann of Kachchh. interpretation centre in Vadnagar.
▪ The Saraswati, a mythological river, is ▪ The town's architectural legacy, including the
assumed to have once run in the Great Rann Kirti Toran, Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, and
of Kachchh during 3000-4000 B.C. Sharmistha Lake, and the presence of various
▪ The Western Kutch and areas surrounding the religious traditions.
Guneri mangroves have records of limestone The museum complex will feature three main
depositions. The Guneri inland mangroves structures:
have existed on these limestone depositions ▪ The Main Museum Building: Housing a
for centuries — thus making it a unique comprehensive collection of artifacts and
biodiversity site interactive exhibits.
▪ A 50-meter Connecting Bridge: Linking the
Gujarat govt approves creation of new museum building to the excavation site.
district named Vav-Tharad ▪ A Permanent Structure over the Excavation
▪ The Gujarat government approved the Site: Providing visitors with a safe and
bifurcation of Banaskantha district to create a informative view of the archaeological
new district. remains.
▪ The new Vav-Tharad district will have its
headquarters in Tharad town.
▪ With the formation of this new district, the
number of districts in Gujarat will reach 34.
▪ Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
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Gujarat International Kite Festival 2025 Significance

• Earliest proof of a structured overland trade
organised by Gujarat Tourism Department
network in Harappan civilization.
from January 11 to 14. • Shows organized logistics and infrastructure
for long-distance commerce.

Gujarat to become second state to

implement Uniform Civil Code after
Uttarakhand

Kotada Bhadli, Gujarat – Earliest Harappan

Caravanserai
▪ Study by: Deccan College, Symbiosis School for
Liberal Arts & ASI
▪ Period: Mature Harappan Phase (2300–1900
BCE)
▪ Location: Kutch district, Gujarat – on inland ▪ Gujarat is to become the second state in the
trade routes linking Dholavira, Lothal, country to implement the Uniform Civil Code
Shikarpur. (UCC) after Uttarakhand.
▪ Key Findings ▪ The state government has formed a high-level
▪ Identified as earliest known caravanserai — a committee under the chairmanship of Justice
fortified rest stop for traders and pack animals. Ranjana Desai to evaluate and draft a Uniform
▪ Served as a rural trade hub for short halts, not Civil Code (UCC) for the state.
permanent habitation. ▪ The committee invited suggestions from
Excavation evidence: residents, socio political organizations , the
▪ Multi-roomed complex, fortified walls, open deadline of submitting the suggestions has
courtyards for goods & animals. been extended till April 15, 2025.
▪ Confirmed through GPR, isotopic, and
satellite analyses. Uniform Civil Code ( Article 44)
• The Uniform Civil Code refers to a single set of
laws governing personal matters such
as marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance,
and succession for all citizens of India.
• The concept of UCC is mentioned in Article 44
of the Indian Constitution as a Directive
Principle of State Policy, which states that the
state shall endeavor to secure a uniform civil
code for citizens throughout the territory of
India.
• However, it's important to note that this is not
a legally enforceable right but a guiding
principle for the state.

What is Kaizen Philosophy?

▪ NEWS: The Gujarat Administrative Reforms
Commission (GARC) submitted its first report
recommending the adoption of Kaizen, a
Japanese method of continuous improvement,
in government operations.

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About Kaizen Philosophy: have been revised to a uniform rate of 6
• Kaizen, derived from the Japanese words "kai" percent, based on the seating capacity of the
(change) and "zen" (good), translates to "good vehicles.
change" or "continuous improvement".
• It is a philosophy and management approach Gujarat police’s GP-DRASTI drone program
that emphasizes incremental, ongoing ▪ Gujarat police have
improvements in all aspects of a business or employed quadcopter
organization, involving everyone from the CEO drones to track
to the assembly line workers fugitives and find
Core Features of Kaizen: missing children.
• Continuous Improvement: Encourages small, ▪ under the GP-DRASTI
incremental changes for long-term efficiency. program, they will
• Employee Involvement: Every worker is now be actively used
empowered to suggest process improvements. at the police station
• Standardization: Streamlined procedures to level, especially for
maintain consistency. crimes related to bodily harm and violence on
• Waste Elimination (Muda): Cuts down the streets of major cities.
unnecessary steps, time, or resource use.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Enhances service
Madhavpur Ghed fair to begin in Gujarat
delivery to meet citizen needs.

Gujarat Slashes EV Motor Vehicle Tax to ▪ The five-day Madhavpur Ghed fair began at
1% to Boost Green Mobility Madhavpur in the Porbandar district of
▪ The Gujarat Gujarat.
government has ▪ The fair celebrates the wedding of Lord
announced a Krishna with Rukmini as per the Hindu
reduction in the motor mythology.
vehicle tax rate on ▪ Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel
electric vehicles from inaugurated the fair in the presence of Union
the existing 6 percent Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.
to only 1 percent, ▪ The festival commenced on Ram Navami and
offering a 5 percent will continue for 5 days
rebate. ▪ The Madhavpur Mela of Gujarat shares its
▪ The decision has been made to boost electric connect to the Mishmi Tribe of Arunachal
vehicle adoption, protect the environment, Pradesh.
and promote the tourism sector. ▪ The Mishmi Tribe traces its ancestry to the
▪ This green initiative, valid until 31st March legendary King Bhishmak and through him to
next year, is now live on the VAHAN 4.0 portal. his daughter Rukmini and Lord Krishna.
▪ Additionally, the previously applicable tax rates ▪ The fair will also witness participation from
of 8 percent and 12 percent on passenger Gujarat and eight north-eastern states —
vehicles classified under the maxi category
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Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, ▪ Developed by CG
Meghalaya, Sikkim, Tripura and Nagaland. Semi Private
Limited, at
Ahmedabad’s Famous Saudagari Block Sanand, Gujarat.
▪ The facility is one
Print
of India’s first
▪ The famous Saudagari
full-scale
block print, prepared
Outsourced
by the artisans of
Semiconductor
Jamalpur in
Assembly and
Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Test (OSAT) plants.
▪ Saudagari block
▪ It provides end-to-end solutions for chip
printing is an ancient
assembly, packaging, testing and post-test
textile printing technique - practiced in
services, covering both traditional and
Ahmedabad for nearly 300 years.
advanced packaging technologies.
▪ The term "Saudagiri" comes from the Persian
word "sauda," meaning "to trade". It was used
as a general term for the blocks used in PM Modi flags off ‘Made in India’ battery
printing and the printed fabrics themselves, electric vehicle ‘E-Vitara’ and inaugurates
which were traded with Siam (modern-day hybrid battery electrodes plant in Gujarat
Thailand).
▪ Ajrakh Craft – GI tagged from Kutch, Gujarat

1 May- Gujarat Day

▪ PM Modi flagged off e-VITARA, Maruti Suzuki’s

first global strategic battery electric vehicle
(BEV), from the company’s manufacturing
▪ also known as Gujarat Gaurav Din, facility in Hansalpur, Ahmedabad.
▪ commemorate the establishment of the state ▪ The Made-in-India BEVs will be exported to
of Gujarat from the division of the Bombay more than 100 countries, including advanced
State on 1 May 1960, after the Bombay markets such as Europe and Japan.
Reorganisation Act, 1960 came into effect on ▪ India will now serve as Suzuki’s global
the linguistic lines. manufacturing hub for electric vehicles,
▪ The demand for a separate state for Gujarati- ▪ PM Modi also inaugurated the TDS Lithium-Ion
speaking people dates back to 1928 when the Battery plant in Hansalpur, a joint venture
Mahagujarat Movement was formed. between Toshiba, Denso and Suzuki.
▪ The facility will manufacture hybrid battery
electrodes, ensuring that over 80% of the
India Launches Major OSAT Facility For
battery value is produced within India.
Semi-Conductor in Gujarat
▪ Union Minister of Electronics and Information
Gujarat Launches India’s First Tribal
Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw along with
Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Bhupendra Patel Genome Sequencing Project
inaugurated one of India’s first end-to-end ▪ A pioneering genomic research initiative to
Semiconductor OSAT Pilot Line Facility sequence the genomes of 2,000 tribal

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individuals across 17 districts of Gujarat to Gujarat becomes the 24th State/UT to
enhance precision medicine.
achieve 100% Rail electrification
▪ Launched By: Implemented by the Gujarat
▪ Gujarat has become the 24th State/Union
Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC).
Territory to achieve 100% electrification of rail
Objectives:
tracks.
▪ To identify genetic risk markers linked
▪ The first electric train to run in India was
to inherited disorders like:
from Mumbai to Thane in 1925.
▪ Sickle cell anaemia, Thalassemia,
▪ In the first five-year plan (1951-1956), the
Hereditary cancers
central government set a target to electrify
▪ To develop personalised healthcare protocols
the country's 141 km of rail routes.
based on tribal genetic profiles.
▪ To achieve railway electrification, the Indian
Railway has set up the Central Organisation for
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade receives Railway Electrification, which is headquartered
approval to establish off-campus centre at in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) in Uttar
GIFT City Pradesh.
▪ The Ministry of Education, Government of
India, has approved the establishment of an PM Modi launches multiple development
off-campus centre of the Indian Institute of projects worth around 24,000 crore
Foreign Trade (IIFT), New Delhi, at GIFT City,
rupees at Dahod, Gujarat
Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
▪ May 26 holds special significance as it marks
▪ The centre will be set up in accordance with
the day he first took the oath as Prime
the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be
Minister in 2014
Universities) Regulations, 2023.
▪ Prime Minister inaugurated the Locomotive
▪ It will offer IIFT’s flagship MBA (International
Manufacturing plant of the Indian Railways in
Business) programme, along with specialised
Dahod. This plant will produce electric
short-term training courses and research in
locomotives of 9000 HP for domestic purposes
international trade and related fields.
and for export
▪ Established in 1963 under the Ministry of
▪ He also flagged off the first electric
Commerce & Industry, IIFT is a premier
locomotive manufactured from the plant.
institution dedicated to capacity building in
international trade.
▪ It was declared a Deemed to be University in Ancient Human Presence in the Great
2002, holds an A+ grade from NAAC, and is Rann of Kutch
accredited by AACSB, making it part of a select
group of globally recognised business schools.

PM Modi launches multiple development

projects worth around 24,000 crore
rupees at Dahod, Gujarat
▪ May 26 holds special significance as it marks
the day he first took the oath as Prime
Minister in 2014
▪ Prime Minister inaugurated the Locomotive
▪ Recent archaeological research led by the
Manufacturing plant of the Indian Railways in
Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar
Dahod. This plant will produce electric
(IITGN) has revealed evidence of human
locomotives of 9000 HP for domestic purposes
habitation in the Great Rann of Kutch dating
and for export
back at least 5,000 years before the Harappan
▪ He also flagged off the first electric
civilisation.
locomotive manufactured from the plant.
▪ Discoveries were made near Khadir Bet, an
island close to the famous Harappan site
Dholavira in the Great Rann of Kutch.

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▪ These ancient people were hunter-gatherers ▪ The festival is associated with the beginning of
who ate seafood like oysters and snails. rains in the Kutch region of Gujarat.
▪ They left behind large heaps of shells, called ▪ During Ashadhi Bij, the moisture in the
shell middens, which helped date their atmosphere is checked to predict which crop
presence. would do best in the coming moa
▪ Stone tools and pottery pieces were Traditional New Year Festivals in India
discovered alongside the shells, showing how Name Features
people lived and worked. Chaitra Marks the beginning of the new year
▪ Using carbon dating - Accelerator Mass Shukla of the Vikram Samvat also known as
Spectrometry (AMS) on the shells, researchers Pratipada the Vedic (Hindu) calendar.
confirmed that this settlement is 5,000 years Gudi Padwa Celebrated in the Deccan region
older than the Harappan era. and Ugadi including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh
▪ Long ago, the area had mangroves and higher and Maharashtra.
sea levels, making it a coastal habitat rich in Navreh Lunar New Year celebrated in
seafood. Kashmir. Falls on the first day of the
▪ Similar shell sites are found along the Arabian Chaitra Navratras.
Sea coast — places like Oman and Pakistan — Sajibu Celebrated by Meiteis in Manipur.
suggesting possible early coastal links. Cheiraoba Observed on the first day of Manipur
▪ It pushes back history of human life in Kutch, lunar month Shajibu.
showing people lived there long before cities Cheti Chand Celebrated by Sindhi community.
like Dholavira emerged. Birth anniversary of Ishta Deva
Uderolal/Jhulelal, the patron saint of
India’s First Off-Grid Green Hydrogen Pilot Sindhis.
Plant Bihu Celebrated thrice a year - Rongali or
▪ Adani Group recently commissioned India’s Bohag Bihu in April, Kongali or Kati
first off-grid 5-megawatt green hydrogen pilot Bihu in October and Bhogali or Magh
plant in Kutch, Gujarat Bihu in January.
▪ Location: Kutch, GujaratIt is a 5 MW green Baisakhi Celebrated as the Indian
hydrogen plant developed by Adani New thanksgiving day by farmers.
Industries Limited (ANIL), the clean energy arm Foundation of the Khalsa Panth was
of Adani Enterprises Ltd. laid on this day by Guru Gobind
▪ An off-grid green hydrogen plant is a facility Singh.
that produces hydrogen using electrolysis Losoong Also known as Namsoong, is the
powered by renewable energy sources, such as Sikkimese New Year.
solar or wind, and is not connected to the main
electrical grid. Early Harappan Burial Discovery in
▪ This means the plant relies entirely on its own Gujarat’s Lakhapar
renewable energy generation for the hydrogen ▪ A 5,300-year-old
production process. Early Harappan
settlement and burial
PM extends Ashadhi Bij greetings to the discovered in
Global Kutchi Community Lakhapar village,
Kutch
▪ The newly
excavated Early
Harappan habitation
and burial site dated to c. 3300–2600 BCE.
▪ Excavation conducted by University of
Kerala’s Department of Archaeology.
Key Findings:
▪ It falls on the second day of Shukla paksha of ▪ Human Burial with Pre-Prabhas Pottery:
Ashada month of Hindu calendar.

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▪ First of its kind in Gujarat—buried Narendra Modi from Odisha by giving a virtual
directly in a pit with no markers or flag off – departed from Surat
architecture. ▪ Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and
▪ Pottery type links it to Chalcolithic Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil were present
cultures of Saurashtra (e.g., Prabhas at Udhna Railway Station
Patan, Datrana). ▪ The inaugural train will commence regular
▪ Harappan-Style Architecture: Sandstone and services starting October 5
shale structures indicating planned ▪ This train will connect important districts of
construction and social organization. the five states of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh,
▪ Cultural Interaction Evidence: Ceramics and Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Gujarat,
habitation layers resemble Early Harappan thereby strengthening the connectivity
sites in Sindh, pointing to cross-regional between these states.
exchanges. ▪ Amrit Bharat Express is a new category of
semi-high-speed, affordable, non-AC express
Gujarat tops in production and export of trains introduced by Indian Railways under the
Amrit Bharat Station Scheme initiative.
processed potatoes in India
▪ These trains are designed to offer faster and
▪ Gujarat recorded a total production of 48.59
better intercity connectivity for common
lakh tonnes of potatoes in the 2024–25
passengers at a lower fare than premium
season, which includes varieties cultivated for
trains like Vande Bharat.
processing into French fries and wafers
▪ Features of Amrut Bharat Express
▪ The State has emerged as the top producer of
▪ Facilities of 22 coaches including
processed potatoes in India, followed by
sleeper and general class
Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.
▪ Capacity of more
▪ Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, and Aravalli are
than 1800 passengers
the leading districts in Gujarat for potato
▪ Speed of 130 km per hour
cultivation
▪ CCTV cameras in all coaches,
▪ Processing-grade potato varieties cultivated in
emergency facilities, LED boards
Gujarat include Lady Rosetta, Kufri Chipsona,
▪ Train with engines at both ends
and Santana.
▪ These varieties are used by frozen food
processors and quick-service restaurants and PM Modi participated in ‘Samudra se
are also exported, particularly to Middle Samriddhi’ in Gujarat, launched multiple
Eastern countries. development projects

Prime Minister Modi virtually flags off

Gujarat’s first Amrit Bharat Express train

▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in

the 'Samudra se Samriddhi' event in
Bhavnagar, Gujarat, launching development
projects totalling over ₹34,200 crore
Maritime Infrastructure (₹7,870 crore)
▪ Mumbai International Cruise Terminal at
Indira Dock inaugurated to enhance cruise
tourism.
▪ Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (Kolkata):
▪ The train connects Udhna in Surat, Gujarat, to
Foundation stone laid for a new container
Brahmapur in Odisha was flagged off by PM
terminal and associated facilities.
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▪ Paradip Port: New container berth and cargo ▪ It is estimated that the scheme will save the
handling facilities to be developed. government Rs. 75,000 crore per year in
▪ Kamarajar Port (Ennore): Firefighting facilities electricity costs.
and modern road connectivity to be ▪ The scheme has an outlay of Rs 75,021 crore
established. and is to be implemented till FY 2026-27.
▪ Chennai Port: Coastal protection works,
including sea-walls and revetments, to be Gujarat Becomes First State to Support
undertaken.
Cruise Bharat Mission
▪ Car Nicobar Island: Sea-wall construction for
enhanced coastal resilience.
▪ Deendayal Port (Kandla): Multi-purpose cargo
berth and Green Bio-Methanol Plant to be
developed.
▪ Patna & Varanasi: Ship repair facilities to be
set up, boosting inland waterway
infrastructure.

Dhordo Becomes Gujarat’s Fourth Solar

Village Under PM Surya Ghar Yojana ▪ Aiming to boost coastal tourism in the state,
▪ PM Modi officially dedicated Dhordo as a the Gujarat government is in the process to
“Solar Village” to the nation during the frame its Cruise Shipping Policy aligned with
‘Samudra Se Samriddhi’ programme in the national Cruise Bharat Mission (CBM)
Bhavnagar, Gujarat. ▪ The proposed routes have been divided into
▪ Dhordo is the fourth solar-powered village in three clusters, including Padala Island–Rann of
the State, after Modhera in Mehsana, Sukhi in Kutch, Porbandar–Veraval–Diu and Dwarka–
Kheda, and Masali in Banaskantha. Okha–Jamnagar.
▪ Dhordo, a remote village in Gujarat’s Kutch ▪ CBM was launched by Union Minister of Ports,
internationally acclaimed as the ‘Best Tourism Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda
Village’ by the United Nations World Tourism Sonowal on September 30, 2024.
Organisation (UNWTO) ▪ The Cruise Bharat Mission aims to make India
▪ As part of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli a global cruise tourism hub within the next
Yojana, every residential electricity decade with a goal to increase sea cruise
connection in Dhordo has been solarised, tourism tenfold by 2029.
ensuring that homes generate their own clean
energy Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel launches Jan
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Suraksha Santrupti Abhiyan in
▪ It was launched on February 15, 2024, and
aims to provide free electricity to households
Gandhinagar
in India. ▪ Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel
▪ Households will be provided with a subsidy to launched the Jan Suraksha Santrupti Abhiyan
install solar panels on their roofs. in Gandhinagar
▪ The scheme provides for a subsidy of 60% of ▪ The campaign will be held across the country
the solar unit cost for systems up to 2 kW from July 1 to September 30.
capacity and 40 percent of additional system ▪ It aims to identify eligible citizens who have
cost for systems between 2 to 3 kW capacity. not yet received benefits under government
▪ The subsidy has been capped at 3 kW capacity. welfare schemes and to deliver those benefits
▪ For special states, an additional 10% Subsidy to them.
will be applicable per kW. ▪ The schemes covered include: Pradhan
▪ It would help one crore families get up to 300 Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, Pradhan
units of free electricity per month with savings Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Atal Pension
of up to Rs 18,000 annually Yojana, and Jan Dhan Yojana. The campaign
also includes updating KYC for Jan Dhan
accounts.

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HM Amit Shah lays foundation stone of ▪ Empties into: Arabian Sea via the Gulf of
Khambhat as estuary
country’s first cooperative university,
Major Dams on Mahi River: Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam
Tribhuvan Sahakari Vishwavidyalaya at (Rajasthan), Kadana Dam (Gujarat)
Anand, Gujarat. Cities and Districts Along the Course:
▪ Dhar, Ratlam (MP)
▪ Banswara (Rajasthan)
▪ Mahisagar, Vadodara, Kheda (Gujarat)
Uniqueness - Intersects the Tropic of Cancer twice —
a rare geographic occurrence unique to Indian rivers.

Gujarat’s Samras Gram Panchayats

▪ Gujarat witnessed a unique electoral
phenomenon.
▪ Out of 4,564 Gram Panchayats scheduled for
▪ Union Minister of Cooperation and Home elections, 761 villages bypassed voting.
Affairs Amit Shah laid the foundation stone ▪ These villages, termed ‘Samras Panchayats’,
for India’s first national cooperative chose leaders by consensus.
university ▪ Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel disbursed Rs
▪ The university has been named after 35 crore to these villages via Direct Benefit
Tribhuvandas Kishibhai Patel, a pioneer of the Transfer in July 2025. Financial incentives are
cooperative movement in India and a key provided to encourage this practice. Grants
figure behind the foundation of Amul. vary by population size, from Rs 3 lakh for
▪ Patel was born in 1903 in Kheda, Anand, and smaller villages to Rs 13 lakh for larger ones.
died in 1994.
▪ The foundation laying event, held during
Sardar Patel’s 150th birth anniversary year,
India’s First Make-in-India Green
also marked a key initiative in the Hydrogen Plant Commissioned at Kandla
International Year of Cooperatives

Mahisagar (Mahi) River

▪ A section of
the Gambhira
bridge near Mujpur
in Vadodara,
Gujarat collapsed
on 9 July 2025,
causing multiple
vehicles to fall into
the Mahisagar
River, resulting in
nine confirmed deaths.
▪ The Mahisagar or Mahi River is one of the few
west-flowing rivers in peninsular India,
revered for its cultural and ecological
significance.
▪ Origin: Near Minda village in Dhar district,
Madhya Pradesh
▪ Approximately 500 meters above sea level in
the Vindhya Range
States It Flows Through: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan,
and Gujarat.

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▪ The Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla, has ▪ Corporate Animal Welfare
commissioned India’s 1st Make-in-India Green Model: Received Prani Mitra Award from the
Hydrogen Plant in the port sector at Kandla Animal Welfare Board of India
▪ Deendayal Port (previously called Kandla
port) is situated in the Kandla Creek and is 90 Prime Minister Modi virtually addresses
kms from the mouth of the Gulf Of Kachch in
the foundation stone
Gujarat.
▪ It is a protected natural [Link] is recognized laying ceremony of
as one of major ports in India. Sardardham Phase-II,
▪ It was constructed in the 1950s as the chief Kanya Chhatralaya,
seaport serving western India, after the
partition of India from Pakistan left the port of
Ahmedabad
Karachi in Pakistan.

Vantara offers to set up rescue centre for

elephant Madhuri in Kolhapur
▪ Vantara will set
up a rescue
facility for 36-
year-old
elephant
Madhuri, which
was relocated
to its centre in
Gujarat’s ▪ This initiative aims to empower young women
Jamnagar last by providing them with the opportunity to
week following pursue education and fulfill their aspirations.
a court order, in ▪ The new hostel facility will accommodate
the Nandani area of Maharashtra’s Kolhapur 3,000 girls, supporting their educational
for her rehabilitation. endeavors.
▪ Vantara’s statement came amid the ongoing
silent marches held by the Jain community in Pavagadh Kalika Mata Temple (places in
Kolhapur protesting the relocation of the
elephant, which was with the Swastishri Jinsen news )
Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sansthan ▪ Pavagadh Kalika Mata TempleIt is a Hindu
Mutt or Nandani Matha for over three temple complex and pilgrim centre at the
decades, to Jamnagar. summit of Pavagadh Hill in Panchmahal
▪ Vantara (meaning Star of the Forest) is a District, Gujarat.
private, non-commercial wildlife rescue and ▪ The presiding deity is Maa Kali (Kalika Mata), a
rehabilitation centre. form of Goddess Durga/Shakti.
▪ Developed by the Reliance Foundation, it is ▪ It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India.
led by Anant Ambani as a philanthropic ▪ It lies at an elevation of 762 meters above sea
initiative under Reliance Industries. level. It is located on a cliff surrounded by
▪ Location: Located inside the Jamnagar dense forest cover.
Refinery Township, Gujarat, spanning 3,500 ▪ The temple is believed to be over 1,000 years
acres in Motikhavdi village, Jamnagar district. old, with its origins tracing back to the 10th–
▪ Inaugurated: March 2025 11th centuries.
▪ Mission: To provide care, conservation, and ▪ Mahakali’s idol was installed here in the 12th
rehabilitation for injured, abandoned, and [Link] saw patronage and renovations
rescued animals. under the Solanki Rajput dynasty, who ruled
▪ First-of-its-Kind in India: Largest privately large parts of Gujarat.
managed facility for animal welfare and ▪ Today, the temple is a part of the Champaner-
biodiversity rescue. Pavagadh Archaeological Park, which was

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declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in ▪ The Central Government has introduced
2004 Pavagadh Kalika Mata Temple initiatives like the Sarathi Platform and Hindi
Architecture Shabd Sindhu Kosh to make Hindi more
accessible.
India Launches First Multi-Lane Free Flow
Tolling Cyclone Shakhti intensifies in Arabian Sea,
▪ To provide seamless and barrier-free tolling heads towards Gujarat coast
experience to National Highway users the ▪ The India Meteorological
Indian Highways Management Company Department (IMD)
Limited (IHMCL), a company promoted by confirmed the formation
NHAI, has signed an agreement with ICICI of Cyclone Shakhti over
Bank, to implement country’s first the northeast Arabian
comprehensive Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) Sea.
tolling system at Choryasi Fee Plaza in Gujarat ▪ Named “Shakhti” under
on NH-48. the World
▪ Choryasi Fee Plaza in Gujarat will serve as the Meteorological
first barrier-free toll plaza in the country - Organisation’s regional naming system.
enabling seamless Electronic Toll Collection Origin:
through FASTag. ▪ Formed due to low-pressure development
over warm Arabian Sea waters in early October
Amit Shah Inaugurates India’s Largest 2025.
Why Bay of Bengal Gets More Cyclones than Arabian
Sports Complex in Ahmedabad’s
Sea?
Naranpura Warmer Waters:
▪ Bay of Bengal is semi-enclosed and landlocked,
retaining warm water (29–30°C year-round).
▪ Arabian Sea remains cooler due to stronger
winds and evaporation.
Moisture Availability:
▪ Bay receives abundant moist air from rivers
▪ Union Home Minister and Minister of and monsoon flows.
Cooperation Shri Amit Shah inaugurated the ▪ Arabian Sea is influenced by dry winds from
Veer Savarkar Sports Complex, constructed at Oman and Yemen, limiting cyclone intensity.
a cost of about ₹825 crore, at Naranpura, External Triggers (Pulses):
Ahmedabad. ▪ Typhoons from the Pacific often enter Bay of
▪ Spread over 1 lakh 19 thousands square Bengal as low-pressure systems, which then
meters, the massive sports complex is intensify.
comprehensive and state-of-the-art. ▪ Arabian Sea does not get such external inputs.
▪ jointly developed by the Government of India
and the Government of Gujarat.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala
Sitharaman launches the nationwide
Amit Shah Inaugurates 5th All India
‘Aapki Punji Aapka Adhikar’campaign in
Rajbhasha Sammelan 2025
Gujarat
▪ Duration: October–December 2025 (3 months)
Objective
▪ To ensure people can easily locate and recover
their unclaimed funds through simplified
digital and institutional mechanisms.
▪ Inaugurating Hindi Day and the 5th All India ▪ Covers bank deposits, insurance payouts,
Rajbhasha Sammelan at Mahatma Mandir in dividends, shares, and mutual fund proceeds
Gandhinagar. left unclaimed.

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
create national
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to rural policy by
next year's Delhi
Inaugurate First Ever Vibrant Gujarat
summit.
Regional Conference in Mehsana ▪ Scale: 10,000+
▪ Ganpat University, Mehsana delegates, 1,200
▪ Partner Countries: Japan, South Korea, corporates, 500
Vietnam, Netherlands experts, 300
Highlights: startups, ; focuses
▪ First edition of VGRC to boost regional industry on rural
and MSMEs innovation,
▪ “Udyami Mela” and millet-themed food court cooperative-led growth.
to showcase local entrepreneurship and ▪ Organisers: National Bank for Agriculture and
cuisine Rural Development (NABARD) and the Internet
and Mobile Association of India .
Gujarat will observe ▪ Digital launches: 13+ services under Sahakar
Krushi Vikas Diwas on Sarathi .
▪ Tech integration: Sahakar Sarathi to unify all
October 14 as part of cooperative banks with modern banking tools,
Vikas Saptah real-time tracking, KYC, documentation.
▪ To mark PM Narendra
Modi’s 24 years in
public service. Pa Pa Pagli Project
▪ Gujarat’s Dahod
Siddi Tribal Community Achieves 72% district has
gained attention
Literacy Rate for a play-based
▪ Origin: Descendants of the Bantu people of early childhood
Africa; arrived in India education model
▪ 7th century: With Arab merchants in Anganwadi
▪ 16th century: With Portuguese and British (as centres, where the UNICEF-supported “Pa Pa
slaves, servants, blacksmiths, carpenters, Pagli” initiative has improved learning
masons) outcomes and confidence among children
▪ Distribution: Mainly in Gujarat, Maharashtra, aged 3–6 years.
Karnataka, and Telangana ▪ “Pa Pa Pagli (First Steps of the Child)” is a play-
Status: oriented pre-school education initiative of the
▪ Classified as Scheduled Tribe (ST) on January 8, Gujarat Women and Child Development
2003 Department.
▪ Listed among Particularly Vulnerable Tribal ▪ It targets children aged 3–6 years enrolled in
Groups (PVTGs) Anganwadi centres, especially in educationally
▪ Occupation: Agriculture, forest produce backward districts like Dahod.
collection, and manual labor ▪ Key features: Play-based learning, Life-skills
▪ Language: Speak Konkani, Urdu, or Marathi focus,Anganwadi upgradation,Digital learning
Culture: aids,Support from UNICEF India
▪ Known for vibrant folk music and dance
▪ Famous Dhamal (male dance) and Rasda
performances
Gujarat Tops India With 5 Lakh Rooftop
Solar Installations
Amit Shah Inaugurated EARTH Summit ▪ Gujarat remains the leading state in rooftop
solar installations, having installed over
2025 in Gandhinagar 500,000 systems with a total capacity of 1,879
▪ 3-part EARTH Summits: Strengthen rural megawatts under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli
economy, solve issues across 4 rural ministries, Yojana.

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▪ The state has Gujarat Assembly Deputy Speaker
already achieved
Jethabhai Bharwad resigns
50 per cent of its
▪ Gujarat Assembly
target to install 1
Deputy Speaker
million
Jethabhai Bharwad
residential
resigned from his post
rooftop solar
handed over his
systems by
resignation to Speaker
March 2027.
Shankar Chaudhary.
▪ In total, Gujarat
▪ The veteran BJP MLA
has installed
was elected as the
more than 1.1 million rooftop solar systems
Deputy Speaker for the first time in September
over the years
2021 and was re-elected to the post after the
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana:
Assembly elections in 2022.
▪ Launched on 15 February 2024 to provide free
electricity to Indian households.
▪ Rooftop solar subsidy: 60% cost subsidy up to Gujarat approves Indian AI Research
2 kW; 40% for 2–3 kW; capped at 3 kW. Organisation at GIFT City
▪ Model Solar Village: One model solar village to
be developed in each district.
▪ Local body incentive: ₹1,000 per rooftop
installation to ULBs and PRIs (Gram Panchayat
level).

National Maritime Heritage Complex

(NMHC) at Lothal ▪ Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel
▪ India and the Netherlands have signed an granted in-principle approval for the
MoU to cooperate on the development of the establishment of the Indian AI Research
National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) Organisation (IAIRO) to strengthen research
at Lothal, Gujarat. and development in artificial intelligence.
▪ The National Maritime Heritage Complex ▪ The proposed facility will be set up under a
(NMHC) is a flagship cultural and heritage public-private partnership (PPP) model through
project of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and a tripartite collaboration involving the State
Waterways (MoPSW) aimed at showcasing government, the Central government and the
India’s 4,500–5,000-year-old maritime legacy Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA),
through a world-class museum and cultural ▪ The IAIRO would be operationalised as a
complex. special purpose vehicle (SPV) at GIFT City near
▪ Location: Lothal, near Ahmedabad, Gujarat Gandhinagar from January 1 and would be
▪ Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Ports, Shipping and registered as a non-profit entity under Section
Waterways 8 of the Companies Act, 2013.
▪ Developed as India’s first comprehensive ▪ The project aligns with the objectives of the
national institution dedicated exclusively to India AI Mission of the Union Ministry of
maritime heritage. Electronics and Information Technology, as well
▪ About Lothal: Part of the Indus Valley as the AI Action Plan of the State government’s
(Harappan) Civilization cultural landscape Science and Technology Department.
▪ Excavated in 1957 by the Archaeological ▪ IAIRO is envisioned as a multidisciplinary hub
Survey of India for artificial intelligence, with core activities
▪ Dates back to around 2400 BCE including advanced research and development,
▪ Recognised for the discovery of creation of AI-based products and solutions,
the world’s earliest known man-made and fostering collaboration among academic
dockyard institutions, industry, start-ups and the
government.

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Madhya Pradesh
1. Parth Yojana PARTH Yojana: Preparing Youth for Recruitment in
2. GCC Policy Security Services
3. Datia Airport
4. 1st PPP Green Waste Processing Plant
5. Sewa Pakhwada
6. Sahariya tribe
7. Gond Paintings
8. Hindi Medium MBBS College

▪ Madhya Pradesh has launched an innovative scheme called PARTH Yojana (Police Army Recruitment Training
& Hunar) to prepare its youth both physically and mentally for careers in the Indian Army, police,
paramilitary forces, and other such services.
▪ Under this scheme, candidates will receive comprehensive pre-recruitment training, which includes physical
fitness preparation, written examination coaching (focusing on subjects like general knowledge,
mathematics, and English), and personality development guidance.
▪ Training centers will be established at divisional levels, and the entire program will be overseen by district
sports and youth welfare officers.
▪ Support will also come from rural youth coordinators and departmental employees.
▪ A key component of the PARTH Yojana is the development of the MPYP (Madhya Pradesh Youth Platform)
Portal, which aims to bring all young individuals in the state onto a unified digital platform.
▪ This portal is designed to connect youth with opportunities in skill development, career guidance, and
employment.

World’s largest 3D rangoli created in Madhya Pradesh becomes the state with
Bhopal for Swami Vivekananda’s Birth highest number of vultures in country
anniversary

▪ In Madhya Pradesh, a unique rangoli has been

made at Shaurya Smarak in Bhopal on Swami
▪ Conclusion of the first phase of the 2025
Vivekananda’s birth anniversary and National
vulture census.
Youth Day, enters Golden Book of World
▪ According to the state Forest Department, the
Records as the world’s largest 3D rangoli.
total number of vultures in the state was
▪ This rangoli depicting a picture of Swami
12,981. In the last census, there were 10,845
Vivekananda has been made in 18 thousand
vultures in the state.
square feet area.
▪ The Forest Department has been conducting
▪ Indore artist Shikha Sharma Joshi and her
the vulture census in the state since 2016.
team took 48 hours to make this 3D rangoli.
▪ In the world, there are 23 types of vulture
species, of which 9 species are found in India.
Madhya Pradesh is home to seven species of
vultures.

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Madhya Pradesh Unveils India’s First GCC Project in Madhya Pradesh will submerge vital tiger
habitats Satpura and Melghat Tiger Reserves.
Policy
About Morand-Ganjal Irrigation Project:
What it is: A dam-based irrigation project aimed at
improving agricultural productivity in Madhya Pradesh.
Rivers Involved: Morand and Ganjal Rivers (major
tributaries of the Narmada River)
Location: Covers Hoshangabad, Betul, Harda, and
Khandwa districts in Madhya Pradesh.
▪ The Morand-Ganjal Irrigation Project,
originally proposed in 1972, received approval
from the Madhya Pradesh government in
2017.
▪ It aims to provide irrigation facilities to 211
▪ Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in villages across the districts of Hoshangabad,
the country to bring a dedicated Global Betul, Harda, and Khandwa, covering over
Capability Centre (GCC) policy that looks to 52,000 hectares of land
position the state as a leading hub for global ▪ The NTCA has strongly recommended
innovation and collaboration. exploring alternative sites to minimise
▪ The Madhya Pradesh GCC Policy 2025 environmental damage.
combines incentives for capital expenditure,
payroll, upskilling, and research and
Datia Airport Gets DGCA Nod, Becomes
development with a designated nodal agency
responsible for its implementation. MP’s 8th Airport
▪ The policy targets sectors such as IT, finance,
engineering, human resources, and emerging
technologies, with a particular emphasis on
artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity.
▪ This groundbreaking policy is India's first
dedicated framework for fostering GCC ▪ The Directorate General of Civil Aviation
growth in tier-2 cities, signalling a strategic (DGCA) has granted Datia Airport a license as
shift towards decentralizing business hubs a public aerodrome, under the 3C/VFR
beyond traditional metro cities. category (allows for operations of regional
▪ The policy is aimed at attracting over 50 GCCs aircraft in visual flight conditions)
and generating more than 37,000 direct jobs, ▪ Before September 2024, there were only five
thereby establishing Madhya Pradesh as a airports licensed for public use in Madhya
centre of excellence for IT/ITeS, advanced Pradesh which include Bhopal, Indore,
analytics, R&D and digital transformation. Jabalpur, Khajuraho, and Gwalior.
▪ The Madhya Pradesh State Electronics ▪ On September 9, 2024, Rewa Airport received
Development Corporation Limited (MPSeDC) license, and its inauguration was done by PM
will act as the nodal agency responsible for Modi on October 20, 2024.
implementing the policy. ▪ In December 2024, Satna Airport was granted
▪ A dedicated Policy Implementation Unit (PIU) public aerodrome license.
will oversee project approvals, incentive
allocation, and compliance monitoring to
PM Modi launched Madhya Pradesh’s
ensure seamless execution and investor
support. industrial policies at Global Investors
Summit
Morand-Ganjal Irrigation Project in ▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated
the mega 'Invest Madhya Pradesh - Global
Madhya Project
Investors Summit-2025' in Bhopal to showcase
Context: The National Tiger Conservation Authority
the state's infinite possibilities for investors and
(NTCA) has warned that the Morand-Ganjal Irrigation
industrialists.

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pellets, serving as an alternative to coal and
promoting energy conservation.
▪ The Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) will
earn approximately Rs 3,000 per tonne in
royalty for supplying wood and branches to
the facility.

Rangpanchami Ger procession witnessed

lakhs of participants
▪ In Madhya Pradesh, the traditional Ger was
▪ The summit will be held till February 25. taken out on Rangpanchami in Indore, the
▪ Bhopal has become the centre of the country's cleanest city in the country.
largest investment conference, while Madhya ▪ 'Ger’ - a fag yatra or Holi processions
Pradesh is emerging as an industry hub. ▪ The history of the Ger procession on
Rangpanchami in Indore is related to the
PM Modi lays the foundation stone of Holkar dynasty.
Bageshwar Dham Medical and Science ▪ It is celebrated on the fifth day after Holi and
people put colours and gulal on each other
Research Institute
Madhya Pradesh Government to Provide
Permanent Power Connections to Farmers
for Just Rs 5

▪ in Garha village, Chhatarpur district, Madhya

Pradesh
▪ be built in an area of 10 acres and a 100 bed
facility would be ready in the first phase.
▪ The Cancer hospital worth over Rs 200 crore ▪ Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav
will offer free treatment to underprivileged ▪ This initiative aims to enhance their livelihoods
cancer patients and will be equipped with by ensuring uninterrupted electricity for
state-of-the-art machines and have specialist agricultural needs.
doctors.
PM Modi lay foundation of PM MITRA
India’s First PPP Green Waste Processing Park, launch 'Sewa Pakhwada' in Madhya
Plant in Indore Pradesh on September 17
▪ On September 17, 2025, PM Modi visited Dhar
district in Madhya Pradesh to lay the
foundation stone for India's first Pradhan
Mantri Mega Integrated Textile Region and
Apparel (PM MITRA) Park.
▪ PM MITRA Park: A Game-Changer for India's
▪ Under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban,
Textile Industry
Indore launched India’s first green waste
▪ Location: Bhaisola village, Badnawar tehsil,
processing plant, developed through a Public-
Dhar district.
Private Partnership (PPP) model.
▪ Area: 2,158 acres.
▪ Aims to revolutionize the city’s waste
▪ Investment: Over ₹23,000 crore from leading
management system by converting green
textile companies.
waste into valuable resources.
▪ The park is based on the 5F vision — Farm-to-
▪ Built in Bicholi Hapsi, the plant will recycle
Fibre-to-Factory-to-Fasion-to-Foreign
wood and branches to produce wooden

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▪ PM Modi also launched the fortnight-long ▪ In Madhya Pradesh, the government has
'Sewa Pakhwada’ and two key initiatives banned stubble burning (parali). The decision
aimed at improving the health and nutrition has been taken in view of the increase in cases
of women and children: of stubble burning in the fields after
▪ Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar: A harvesting.
campaign dedicated to empowering ▪ The government has also clarified that if a
women and families. farmer burns stubble in his field, that farmer
▪ Rashtriya Poshan Maah: The 8th will not be given the benefit of 6000 rupees
edition of the national nutrition month under the Chief Minister Kisan Kalyan Yojana.
campaign. ▪ Also, these farmers will not be able to sell their
crops at the minimum support price.
Sahariya Tribe About Stubble Burning
NEWS: A remarkable genetic study conducted by • A stubble burn refers to the act of setting on
researchers revealed a possible genetic link associated fire straw that has been left over after the
with the unusually high rate of tuberculosis (TB) in the harvest of grains, such as paddy, wheat, etc.
Sahariya tribe of central India. • Stubble burning is used to remove Paddy crop
▪ Recent research indicates that the IRGM1 residues from fields in preparation for sowing
gene and rare mitochondrial haplogroups N5 wheat, which is done around the end of
and X2 play a significant role. The overall September and the beginning of November.
vulnerability results from a complex interaction • Reasons for stubble burning: Cheaper
between genetic, socioeconomic, and than alternative disposal methods,
environmental factors weed management, pest control etc.
▪ It is one of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal
Groups (PVTG) and is among the most
disadvantaged and vulnerable population
groups in the country.
▪ Six-lakh population (Census 2011) is mainly
spread across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan,
and Uttar Pradesh Steps taken by government to reduce stubble burning
▪ The Sahariya community is also called by the • Framework by the Commission for Air Quality
names Seher, Sair, Savar, Saonar, Sahra, etc. Management (CAQM):
▪ The Sahariyas mostly live in a separate area in • In-situ Crop Residue Management: It
the village, which is called ‘Seharana’. involves machines procurement,
▪ They are known for their dance, the Saharia setting up of Custom Hiring Centers
Swang, which is performed during the month (CHCs), high yield and short duration
of Holi. paddy varieties, staggering of
▪ The dance is performed to the beats of the harvesting schedule, extensive use of
dhol, nagari, and matki. bio-decomposer.
▪ It features a male dressed in female attire who • Ex-situ Crop Residue
dances around the male performers. Management: Alternative usage of
paddy straw viz. Biomass Power
Madhya Pradesh bans stubble burning Projects, Co-firing in Thermal Power
Plants, Feed stock for 2G Ethanol
plants, Feed stock in Compressed
Biogas plant, packaging materials etc.
▪ Financial support mechanisms: financial
assistance for procurement of agricultural
machinery and equipment to small and
marginal farmers.
▪ State level Initiatives:
▪ Uttar Pradesh: "Parali Ke Badle
Govansh Khaad" (cow manure in
exchange for stubble) aimed at curbing
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stubble burning and promoting Narmada Parikrama
sustainable farming practices.
▪ Punjab: Mobile apps like i-Khet (for
facilitating farmers to have access to
the agriculture machinery/ equipment
for In-situ management of crop
residue), and "Cooperative Machinery
Tracker" are in place to ensure
availability of Crop Residue
Management (CRM) machines.

Bhagoria Dance, Gond Paintings &

Narmada Parikrama from Madhya
Pradesh have been honoured as India's
Intangible Cultural Treasure

• The Narmada Parikrama is a spiritual

pilgrimage involving a circumambulation of
the Narmada River, a sacred river in India. It's
a journey, typically on foot, that covers
approximately 3,500 kilometers.
• The Narmada River serves as a traditional
boundary between North and South India.
• origin from the Amarkantak peak of Maikal
mountain. It drains a large area in Madhya
▪ Bhagoria Dance, Gond Paintings & Narmada Pradesh besides some areas in the states of
Parikrama from Madhya Pradesh have been Maharashtra and Gujarat. It flows into the
honoured as India’s Intangible Cultural Gulf of Khambhat.
Treasures, with official inclusion in the • It is a West flowing river of the peninsular
National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage by region flowing through a rift valley between
Sangeet Natak Akademi – UNESCO’s Nodal the Vindhya Range on the north and the
Agency in India. Satpura Range on the south.
• The Narmada River has several notable dams:
• Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat,
Gond Paintings • Indira Sagar Dam in Madhya Pradesh,
• It is a famous
• the Maheshwar Dam also in Madhya
folk art of the
Pradesh.
Gond tribal
• Omkareshwar Dam and Bargi Dam,
community of
both in Madhya Pradesh.
central India.
• It is done to
preserve and
communicate
the culture of
the Gond tribal
community.
• Themes: Gond
tribes are highly interlinked with nature and
this appears in their paintings too they
include animals, mahua tree, mythological
stories, Hindu gods, Local deities and
folktales etc.

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Bhagoria Dance ▪ The scheme aims to motivate immediate

assistance to accident victims, increasing their
chances of survival.

Madhya Pradesh’s Jal Ganga Sanvardhan

Abhiyan Initiative
▪ The Jal Ganga
Sanvardhan Abhiyan
is a major initiative
by the Madhya
Pradesh
Government
towards water
conservation.
▪ Bhagoria is celebrated by Bhils and Bhilalas
▪ Launched under the
tribes in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is
guidance of Prime
celebrated in the month of March before the
Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the campaign is
festival of Holi.
being implemented from March 30 to June 30,
▪ This festival is celebrated in West Nimar and
with the goal of conserving and rejuvenating
Jhabua districts in Madhya Pradesh. It is also
rivers, water sources, and wetlands.
known as Bhagoria Haat festival.
▪ In Khandwa district, with support from local
▪ It derives its name from the word ”Bhag”
citizens and administration, the Ghoda
which means to run
Pachhad River — a tributary of the Narmada —
▪ A haat is organised in the form of a marriage
has been revived.
market where young boys and girls are
allowed to choose their partners.
▪ According to the tradition, the boy is supposed Ujjain to host Spiritual & Wellness Summit
to apply red powder (gulal) on the face of the on 5th June
girl whom he chooses as his wife.

Rahveer Scheme for Accident Victims

▪ The Madhya Pradesh government has
announced the rollout of the Centre’s
‘Rahveer Yojana’,
aimed at saving
the lives of road
accident victims.
▪ The scheme is
initiated by the
Union Ministry of
Road Transport
and Highways. ▪ Will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Mohan
▪ It encourages Yadav
citizens (good ▪ Based on the theme 'Wellness-A New
samaritans) to help road accident victims by Perspective’
transporting them to a hospital or primary ▪ During the event, the Chief Minister will hold
health centre. meetings with major investors, policymakers,
▪ If a person takes an injured victim to a hospital and representatives of organisations from the
within the ‘golden hour’ (the first one hour wellness sector.
after the accident), they will be eligible for a ▪ The summit aimed at positioning Madhya
reward of ₹25,000. Pradesh as a global wellness hub and to
▪ This reward has been increased from the establish Ujjain as an internationally
earlier amount of ₹5,000. recognised centre of wellness.

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Indore Launches India’s First QR-Based Prime Minister extended wishes to states
Digital House Address System of Chhattisgarh Madhya Pradesh, Haryana,
Karnataka, and Kerala on their foundation
day (1st November)
Name of Year of Carved Regions
State Formation Out of Merged to
States form the
State
Madhya 1956 – Parts of
Pradesh former
Madhya
Bharat,
▪ The Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) in
Vindhya
Madhya Pradesh has launched a digital house
Pradesh,
address project, with officials claiming it to be
Bhopal State,
the first such initiative in the country.
Central
▪ The project involves the installation of special
Provinces and
digital plates with unique QR codes outside
Berar, United
every house in the city.
Provinces,
▪ The project is linked to the Digipin (Digital
and Bombay
Postal Index Number) system of the central
State
government.
Karnataka 1956 – Kannada-
▪ Scanning the QR code shows the Global
speaking
Positioning System (GPS)-based digital
regions of
address of the house.
Southern
India
India’s First Hindi-Medium MBBS College (Formerly
to Open known as
Mysuru)
Kerala 1956 – Travancore-
Cochin united
with Malabar
and
Kasaragod
taluk of South
Canara
Haryana 1966 Punjab –
Chhattisgarh 2000 Madhya –
▪ In a landmark step towards promoting regional Pradesh
language education in medical studies,
Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh is set to become
home to India’s first Hindi-medium MBBS
MP Police mandates Bhagavad Gita
college. sessions for constables under training
▪ The institution, expected to commence in the ▪ The Madhya Pradesh Police training wing has
2027–28 academic session, will offer medical directed all its training centres to conduct
education, examinations, and clinical training Bhagavad Gita recital sessions for recruits.
entirely in Hindi, making it a historic move in ▪ Objective: To help trainees lead a “righteous
the country’s medical education system. life” and build ethical conduct.
▪ Earlier, the ADG (Training) had also directed
recitation of Ramcharitmanas during the
inauguration of training sessions in July 2025.

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▪ The initiative links moral teachings with
behavioural training of police personnel
(ethics, discipline, duty).

What Are Carbide Guns?

▪ More than 60
people, primarily
children, were
hospitalized in
Bhopal following
severe injuries About INTERPOL Red Notice
sustained from ▪ A Red Notice is a global request to locate and
the use of provisionally arrest a person for
makeshift extradition/surrender.
“calcium carbide ▪ Based on an arrest warrant/court order from
guns” during the requesting country.
Diwali celebrations. ▪ Not an arrest warrant; member countries act
About Calcium Carbide per their own laws.
▪ It is a compound with the chemical formula ▪ Purpose: International alert for a wanted
CaC2. fugitive.
▪ It is commonly referred to as ‘masala’ in fruit What it contains
markets. ▪ Identification details: name, DOB, nationality,
▪ It is a grayish-black lump or crystalline powder hair/eye colour, photos, fingerprints.
with a garlic-like odor. ▪ Crime details: serious offences like murder,
▪ It is manufactured by heating a lime and rape, child abuse, armed robbery, fraud.
carbon mixture to 2000 to 2100°C (3632 to Issuance & Limits
3812°F) in an electric arc furnace. ▪ Issued by INTERPOL on member country
Uses request; must follow INTERPOL rules.
▪ Produces acetylene gas when mixed with water ▪ For fugitives wanted for prosecution or serving
— highly flammable. a sentence.
▪ Used in steel making, metal cutting, and as a ▪ INTERPOL cannot compel any country to
reducing agent. arrest.
▪ Misused as an artificial fruit-ripening agent in India’s Role
some countries. ▪ CBI is India’s National Central Bureau (NCB) for
Health & Safety Hazards all Red Notice matters, including wildlife
▪ Causes dizziness, vomiting, throat irritation, crimes.
ulcers, and weakness.
▪ Acetylene gas is explosive and dangerous to
handle.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan
▪ Fruit contamination can leave arsenic and Yadav has declared the state free of
phosphorus residues. Naxalism, following surrender of two
▪ Banned under the Prevention of Food Maoists in Balaghat
Adulteration Rules, 1955 and FSS (Prohibition
& Restriction on Sales) Regulations, 2011. district
▪ Campaign: The
surrender took place
INTERPOL Red Notice Success In Madhya
during
Pradesh the ‘Rehabilitation to
▪ Recently, the Madhya Pradesh State Tiger Rejuvenation’
Strike Force in a coordinated operation with campaign, which aims
the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau has to integrate former
successfully apprehended an international Naxals back into mainstream society.
wildlife offender wanted under an INTERPOL
Red Notice (RN).
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▪ Leadership: The success is attributed to the Abhyuday Madhya Pradesh Growth
determination of the Prime Minister and the
Summit
guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah
to eliminate Naxalism by 2026.

Madhya Pradesh to Introduce Rolling

Budget from 2026-27

▪ Madhya Pradesh is set to become the first

state in India to introduce a rolling budget
framework, with indicative estimates prepared
for three consecutive financial years.
▪ A rolling budget includes multi-year indicative
estimates. ▪ The state-level Abhyuday Madhya Pradesh
▪ Capital expenditure for 2025-26 stands at a Growth Summit – Investment to Employment
record Rs 82,513 crore. is being held in Gwalior.
▪ Rolling budgets allow periodic revision based ▪ Theme “Investment to Employment – Atal
on performance. Sankalp, Ujjwal Madhya Pradesh”,
▪ The summit, organised on the birth
anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal
Bihari Vajpayee, highlights the state’s
commitment to investment-led employment.
Maharashtra
1. 10th Ajanta Ellora International Film Maharashtra FDA Allows Homeopathic Practitioners
festival to Prescribe Allopathic Medicine
2. Pavana River
3. Dashavtar theatre
4. Smruti Mandir
5. Patanjali Mega Food and Herbal Park
6. Khultabad renamed as Ratnapur
7. Mission Vaishnavi
8. Adishakti Abhiyan
9. Tamhini Wildlife Sanctuary
10. Shaktipeeth Expressway
11. Urban Maoism Bill ▪ The Maharashtra Food & Drugs Administration has, in a recent
12. India’s First Smart Intelligent Village directive, allowed homeopathic practitioners, who have
completed a certificate course in modern pharmacology, to
prescribe allopathic medications.
▪ In June 2014, the Maharashtra government had changed the definition of ‘registered medical practitioner’,
▪ by amending the Maharashtra Medical Council Act, 1965, to include homeopathic practitioners who had
completed a certificate course in modern pharmacology that was recognised by the State government.

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10th Ajanta-Ellora International Film • Mula River, which later merges with the
Mutha River, forming the Mula-Mutha
Festival begins in Maharashtra
River, ultimately drains into the Bhima

▪ January 15-19 at Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar,

Maharashtra River (largest tributary of the Krishna River).
▪ Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker has appointed • A dam is built on this river at Pavana Nagar,
as the honorary chairman for the 10th Ajanta- called the "Pavana Nagar Dam".
Ellora International Film Festival (AIFF). • It provides drinking water to Pune and Pimpri-
▪ Following the inauguration, the opening film, Chinchwad.
“Little Jaffna”, a highly acclaimed French and
Tamil language film, will be screened Dashavatar theatre performances started
▪ Sai Paranjpye to
receive the in Maharashtra and North Goa region
Padmapani
Lifetime
Achievement
Award
▪ Padma Bhushan
award in 2006
▪ The prestigious award carries a cash prize of
INR 2,00,000/-, Golden Padmapani Trophy,
Shawl
for his/her outstanding contribution to cinema

Pollution in the Pavana river

The National Green Tribunal recently directed the
state-appointed rejuvenation committee to convene a
meeting of stakeholders to set a new timeline for
implementing the action plan that would tackle
pollution in the Pavana river.
About Pavana River:
• It is situated in the west of Maharashtra state,
in the Pune District.
• The river is a notable river crossing Pune
city and divides Pune City and the Pimpri-
Chinchwad area.
• Origin: It originates from the Western Ghats, ▪ It is a traditional folk theater performed
about 6 km south of Lonavala. in Maharashtra and Northern Goa region,
• confluence with the Mula River near Pune with a history of 800 years.
city. ▪ Theme of Dashavatar Theatre : The stories
presented in these shows are based on the 10
incarnations of Vishnu namely Matsya,

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
Koorma, Varaha, Narsimha, Wamana, Prime Minister Modi lays foundation
Parashurama, Ram, Krishna, Buddha and Kalki.
stone of Madhav Netralaya Premium
Maharashtra Govt Partners with Microsoft Centre in Nagpur, Maharashtra
to Launch MahaCrimeOS AI Against
Cybercrime
▪ Satya Nadella,
Microsoft
Chairman and
CEO, launched Maharashtra Inaugurates First-Ever
MahaCrimeOS Temple Dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji
AI, an AI- and
Azure-
Maharaj in Bhiwandi
▪ Bhiwandi town of
powered
Maharashtra’s Thane
platform with
district
the
▪ CM Fadnavis referred to the
Maharashtra Government’s Special Purpose
site as a “national temple”
Vehicle (MARVEL) and Microsoft India
▪ The temple’s structure was
Development Center (IDC)
designed by architect Vijaykumar Patil.
▪ AI decreased the turnaround times of
▪ The 6.5 feet idol of the Maratha king, was
investigations by 80 per cent. This will allow
sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, who also carved the
state-wide police stations to digitally register
idol for the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
and investigate cybercrimes using
standardised, AI-powered workflows.
Maharashtra: ‘Patanjali Mega Food and
Herbal Park’ to be inaugurated in MIHAN
PM Modi Pays Tribute at Smruti Mandir in area of Nagpur
Nagpur ▪ Patanjali Ayurved mega
food processing plant
which has been set up
with an investment of Rs 1,500 crore in Nagpur
will begin operations
▪ Patanjali's orange processing plant in Nagpur is
the biggest and most advanced in Asia.

▪ PM Modi paid floral tribute to Rashtriya Bar Council Of Maharashtra & Goa Issues
Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) founder Dr. Keshav Circular Exempting Advocates From
Baliram Hedgewar at Smruti Mandir in
Wearing Black Coats From March 1st to
Nagpur, who founded in 1925 in Nagpur, in
response to perceived threats to Hindu culture June 30th
and society, particularly during British colonial ▪ The exemption from
rule. wearing black coats
▪ He also visited Deekshabhoomi to pay honour was earlier
to BR Ambedkar. available only
▪ Deekshabhoomi, also written as Deeksha during the months
Bhoomi, is a sacred monument of Navayana of May to June.
Buddhism located in Nagpur city in the state of ▪ It is resolved that months of ‘summer’ for the
Maharashtra; where B. R. Ambedkar with dress rules shall mean and include the months
approximately 400,000 of his followers, between March 1 to June 30.
mainly Dalits, embraced Buddhism on Ashoka ▪ Rules framed under section 49(1)(gg) of the
Vijaya Dashami on 14 October 1956. Advocates Act, 1961, prescribe a dress code
for all practicing advocates.
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The First Commercial Sea Shipment of Khultabad to be renamed ‘Ratnapur’, says

Indian Bhagwa Pomegranates Maharashtra Minister
Context: In a major boost to ▪ The Maharashtra
India’s fresh fruit exports, the government will
first commercial sea shipment of rename
Indian Bhagwa Pomegranates Khultabad, the
successfully arrived in New York. historic town
• A landmark commercial housing Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb,
sea shipment carrying to ‘Ratnapur’, Social Justice Minister Sanjay
Indian Bhagwa Shirsat
variety pomegranates ▪ The renaming aligns with the government’s
arrived on the U.S. East Coast in March. ongoing efforts to restore pre-Mughal names
• Origin: The fruits were sourced from farms of places that were altered during the Mughal
affiliated with Kay Bee Exports, Maharashtra, era.
and processed through APEDA’s supported ▪ Khultabad was originally known as Ratnapur.
irradiation facility in Navi Mumbai. ▪ In recent years, Aurangabad was renamed
• Variety: Bhagwa – known for its deep red Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Osmanabad
color, superior taste, high antioxidant content, became Dharashiv
and long shelf life (up to 60 days under trial
conditions). 1 May- Maharashtra Day
About Agricultural and Processed Food Products ▪ Commemorates the
Export Development Authority (APEDA): formation of the
• What it is: The Agricultural and Processed state from the
Food Products Export Development Authority division of the
(APEDA) is a statutory body promoting Bombay State on 1
agricultural exports. May 1960, after the
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India. Bombay
• Established: Under the APEDA Act of 1985; Reorganisation Act,
operational from 13th February 1986. 1960 came into effect
• Ministry: Operates under the Ministry of on the linguistic lines.
Commerce and Industry, Government of India. ▪ The Samyukta Maharashtra Samiti (United
Maharashtra Committee) was established in
Hindi made compulsory as 3rd language in 1956 to push for a separate state for Marathi-
Maharashtra Schools under NEP 2020 speaking individuals.
ABOUT MAHARASHTRA (Static)
Geography & Location
▪ Location: Western India, bordered by Gujarat,
Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana,
Karnataka, Goa, and the Arabian Sea.
▪ Largest City: Mumbai
Population (2011 Census): ~11.2 crore (second-most
populous state)
History
▪ Ruled by Satavahanas, Yadavas, Bahmanis,
▪ The Maharashtra government has announced Mughals, and Marathas.
that Hindi will be a compulsory third language ▪ The Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji
from Classes I to V in Marathi and English Maharaj is the most notable era.
medium schools, in line with the National ▪ Played a key role in India’s freedom struggle
Education Policy, NEP 2020. (e.g., Quit India Movement started in Mumbai,
▪ Currently, only Marathi and English are 1942).
mandatory from Classes I to IV in these Economy
schools. ▪ GSDP Rank: 1st among Indian states

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▪ Industries: Finance, Film (Bollywood), IT Maratha community launches ‘Mission
(Pune), Manufacturing, Textiles, Agriculture
Vaishnavi’, decides to socially boycott
▪ Major Crops: Cotton, Sugarcane, Soybean,
Grapes families demanding dowry
Major Rivers: Godavari, Krishna, Bhima, Tapi
Tourism & Culture
▪ UNESCO Sites: Ajanta & Ellora Caves,
Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Terminus
▪ Forts: Raigad, Sinhagad, Pratapgad
▪ Hill Stations: Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar,
Matheran
▪ Festivals: Ganesh Chaturthi (most famous),
Gudi Padwa, Diwali, Eid
▪ Dance Forms: Lavani, Tamasha ▪ IN the wake of the death of Vaishnavi–the 23-
year-old woman who died by suicide following
alleged constant harassment and torture over
Maharashtra Launches ‘Disha Abhiyan’ for dowry demand, the Maratha community has
Uniform Education of Students with launched ”Mission Vaishnavi” to ensure that
Intellectual Disabilities no other young woman from the community
▪ Maharashtra becomes the first state in India becomes a victim of the social evil.
to implement such a state-wide, uniform ▪ The Maratha community has also decided to
curriculum for students with intellectual socially boycott families which indulge in
disabilities dowry harassment and has made it
▪ Developed by the Jai Vakil Foundation and compulsory for families to equally share the
certified by the National Institute for the marriage expenditure.
Empowerment of Persons with Intellectual
Disabilities (NIEPID), Raghuji Bhosale I
▪ The program aims to improve teaching NEWS: The
standards and learning outcomes for these Maharashtra
students. government
▪ It has been rolled out in 453 special schools successfully reclaimed
across the state, focusing on academics, life the 18th-century ceremonial sword of Raghuji
skills, and vocational training Bhosale I at auction in London for ₹47.15 lakh,
Aspect Details including all costs.
Initiative Disha Abhiyan – standardized About Raghuji Bhosale I:
curriculum for students with • Founder of the Nagpur-based Bhosale
intellectual disabilities dynasty, active during the early 18th century.
Developed by Jai Vakil Foundation • Loyal Maratha general under Chhatrapati
Certification NIEPID Shahu Maharaj.
Implementation 453 special schools across all • Raghuji led pivotal military campaigns in
districts of Maharashtra Bengal in 1745 and 1755, greatly expanding
Support IEP checklists, multisensory the Maratha Empire’s territory into Bengal and
Systems pedagogy, digital portal, educator Odisha.
training • His dynasty ruled over the mineral-rich
Impact ~18,000 students & ~2,600 Vidarbha region known for iron and copper.
educators • Honoured with the title ‘Senasaheb Subha’ by
Alignment Developed India 2047 mission Shahu Maharaj for his military excellence.
Next Step Nationwide rollout through • Promoted weapon craftsmanship; the
NIEPID–JVF MoU Bhosales were known for artisanal
weapons using imported blades and local hilts.

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India’s First Electric Heavy Truck Fleet Maharashtra Launches ‘Adishakti Abhiyan’
Launched for Women’s Empowerment
▪ The Adishakti Abhiyan aims to ensure the
effective implementation and awareness of
various government schemes for women and
children
▪ The campaign will address key issues such as
malnutrition, infant and maternal mortality,
domestic violence, sexual harassment, and
child marriage
▪ It will also promote increased participation of
women in the Panchayati Raj system.
▪ India achieved a significant milestone in ▪ The government will also introduce the
sustainable logistics with the launch of its first Adishakti Awards to encourage active
fleet of electric heavy trucks at the Jawaharlal participation and reward outstanding work.
Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai. ▪ Gram Panchayats will be evaluated annually
▪ The fleet comprises 50 electric heavy-duty from January 1 to December 31, and award
trucks equipped with swappable batteries, ceremonies will be held in the first week of
facilitating quick battery replacements and March.
minimizing downtime.
▪ Selection will occur at the taluka, district, and
▪ JNPA aims to expand this fleet to 80 trucks by
state levels.
the end of 2025 and convert 90% of its
▪ A total budget of ₹10.50 crore has been
internal heavy truck fleet—approximately 600
approved for the campaign’s execution
vehicles—to electric by December 2026.

Maharashtra launches Mahavistar App

Navi Mumbai International Airport
ahead of Kharif Season
receives DGCA’s Aerodrome Licence to
▪ Maharashtra government launches Mahavistar
commence operations App to support farmers ahead of the Kharif
▪ The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) season.
has received its Aerodrome Licence from the ▪ Meeting: The initiative was discussed in a
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), State-level Kharif season review meeting
officially clearing the path for commercial chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
operations. ▪ Mahavistar App: Provides farming methods,
▪ The airport, developed as a joint venture crop-specific stages, instructional videos, and
between the Adani Group and the City and real-time commodity prices.
Industrial Development Corporation of ▪ Digital Sheti Shala: Educates farmers on
Maharashtra (CIDCO) modern farming techniques and best practices.
▪ The app includes an AI-powered chatbot
acting as a digital friend.
▪ Farmers urged to adopt digital platforms and
modern farming techniques.
▪ Farmers are encouraged to register seeds on
the SATHI portal.
▪ The portal aims to trace the origin of seeds
and combat bogus seeds effectively.
Additional Fact:
▪ The kharif season in India, also known as the
monsoon season, generally runs from June to
September.
▪ The rabi season, or winter season, typically
spans from October to March

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Konkan Railway Corporation Limited India's largest cruise terminal

(KRCL)
▪ The Maharashtra
government
officially approved
the merger of
Konkan Railway
Corporation
Limited (KRCL) with
Indian Railways,
clearing the last
hurdle for full integration.
▪ KRCL is a special purpose vehicle created ▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated
under the Ministry of Railways in 1990, India's largest cruise terminal, the Mumbai
distinct from Indian Railways. International Cruise Terminal (MICT), at Indira
▪ Coverage: The line stretches 741 Dock in Mumbai.
km through Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, ▪ Size & Capacity: Spanning 415,000 sq. ft., MICT
and coastal Kerala, connecting Roha to is designed to handle up to 1 million
Mangaluru. passengers annually and accommodate five
▪ Strategic Importance: cruise ships simultaneously.
▪ Built across the Western Ghats, it ▪ The terminal features 72 immigration and
overcame extreme terrain check-in counters, wave-inspired ceilings, and
with engineering innovation, modern interiors
showcasing Indian technical expertise. ▪ The MICT has been developed as part of the
▪ Acts as a lifeline for passengers and Cruise Bharat Mission and has been designed
freight, reducing travel time as per latest global standards.
significantly and enabling economic
integration of the Konkan region. Vidarbha’s ‘Zudpi’ scrub lands are ‘forest’
• Why Separate from Indian Railways? lands
• KRCL was structured as a joint
venture model:
• GOI (51%), Maharashtra
(22%), Karnataka (15%), Goa
and Kerala (6% each).
• Its separation allowed independent
decision-making and faster project
execution in difficult geography.

Maharashtra Cabinet approves AVGC-XR

policy 2025 with ₹3,268 crore outlay
▪ The Maharashtra Cabinet, led by Chief Minister
Devendra Fadnavis, approved the AVGC-XR
Policy 2025, a transformative initiative aimed
at establishing Maharashtra as a global leader
in the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming,
Comics, and Extended Reality sectors.
▪ projections to attract ₹50,000 crore in private ▪ The Supreme Court of India ruled that Zudpi
investments by 2050. jungle lands in Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region
▪ AVGC-XR parks will be developed in cities must be classified as forest lands.
including Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Chhatrapati ▪ State government was suggesting that it
Sambhajinagar, Kolhapur, Satara, and Nagpur should be denotified as forest area and
reclassified as revenue land in order to pave
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way for infrastructure and other development Tamhini Wildlife Sanctuary
works. ▪ Maharashtra forest department partnered
About Zudpi Jungles with Microsoft and the Centre for Youth
▪ Zudpi (meaning bushes or shrubs) lands meant Development and Activities (CYDA), Pune, for
an inferior type of unoccupied lands with eco-restoration of Tamhini Wildlife Sanctuary
bushy growth. ▪ It is a protected forest area located in
▪ These lands consist of low Murmadi soil (arid the Western Ghats near Pune, Maharashtra.
soil with gravel and soft stones) where tree ▪ It covers an area of 49.62 [Link].
growth was not possible, and hence these
were dominated by shrubs and other dry
India’s First Underwater Museum and
vegetation.
▪ According to experts, these are extremely Artificial Coral Reef to Be Developed
ecologically important areas that act as Around INS Guldar in Maharashtra
wildlife corridors.
▪ Found mainly in the Eastern Vidarbha Region
of Maharashtra.

Maharashtra CM inaugurates Chhatrapati

Shivaji Maharaj Bharat Gaurav Tourist
Train at CSMT

▪ India’s first underwater museum and artificial

coral reef will be developed around the
decommissioned warship INS Guldar near
Nivati Rocks at Vengurla in Sindhudurg district
▪ IRCTC in collaboration with the Maharashtra of Maharashtra.
government and Indian Railways launched a ▪ The initiative, supported by the central
specially curated “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj government, aims to boost marine
circuit train tour” to showcase the glorious conservation and tourism, offering scuba
history and the grand heritage of Maratha king diving and future submarine tours.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. ▪ The ship was decommissioned in January 2024.
▪ The first Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Bharat
Gaurav tourist train embarked on its maiden
Maharashtra Makes Hindi ‘General’ Third
journey from Mumbai on the five-day journey
Language in Schools
Maharashtra to launch geo-tagged 13-digit
infra IDs from Oct 1
▪ Each of the infrastructure development
projects in Maharashtra will now have a geo-
tagged 13-digit alphanumeric unique ID which
will now be used as a primary reference
number once the administrative approval is
granted to the project.
▪ aimed at enhancing inter-departmental and
inter-organisational coordination.
▪ The government has also decided to complete
registration of all infra projects in the last five ▪ The Maharashtra government issued a new
years by March 2026. order stating that Hindi will “generally” be the

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third language in Marathi and English medium 9 'Clean Plant' Projects to be Launched
schools from Classes 1 to 5.
across the Country
▪ but students were allowed to choose from
▪ India’s first International Agri Hackathon
other Indian languages in the place of Hindi.
Concluded in Pune in the presence of Chief
▪ The class-wise number of students to learn
Minister of Maharashtra, Shri. Devendra
another language as a third language should
Fadnavis and Union Minister for Agriculture
be at least 20
and Farmers Welfare, Shri. Shivraj Singh
▪ If at least 20 students express their desire to
Chouhan
learn another language instead of Hindi, a
▪ Organized by Department of agriculture,
teacher will be made available to teach that
Maharashtra State, Collector Office Pune,
language; otherwise, the language will be
MPKV College of Agriculture Pune from June
taught online
1–3, 2025
▪ Marathi will be a compulsory language in all
▪ The union government has launched the
medium schools.
‘Clean Plant Programme’ for grapes, oranges
and pomegranates from Maharashtra; the
Maharashtra: Cabinet approves MahaAgri- programme will be implemented pan-India
AI 2025-29 to transform agri sector whereby farmers will get the said horticultural
▪ The Maharashtra Cabinet has approved plants ‘disease-free’.
MahaAgri-AI 2025-29, the state’s agriculture- ▪ Nine ‘Clean Plant Projects’ will be started
artificial intelligence policy. across the country, three of which will be
▪ It aims to bring significant transformation in started in Maharashtra
the agriculture sector through the use of ▪ The ‘Clean Plant Programme’ for grapes will
artificial intelligence, generative AI, drones, be started in Pune; that for oranges in
computer vision, robotics, and predictive Nagpur; and that for pomegranates in
analytics. Solapur, Maharashtra
▪ The policy will support key digital agriculture ▪ Modern nurseries too will be set up along with
initiatives including AgriStack, Maha-Agritech, these projects
Mahavedh, CropSAPP, Agmarknet, Digital ▪ Through these nurseries, eight crore disease-
Farming Schools, and Maha-DBT. free seedlings will be available to the farmers
▪ The State Cabinet has granted an extension to every year.
the Mahavedh project under the central
government’s WINDS (Weather Information Samruddhi Mahamarg opens fully, cuts
Network Data System) initiative.
down travel time from Mumbai to Nagpur
▪ Under this, automated weather stations will be
established at the gram panchayat level to by 9 hours
ensure accurate, localised weather information
across the state.
▪ Approval has also been given for a two-fold
increase in the pension for individuals
imprisoned during the emergency and their
surviving spouses will now also be eligible for
pension benefits under the revised Gaurav
Yojana.
▪ The Maharashtra Industrial Development ▪ Project Name: Hindu Hrudaysamrat Balasaheb
Corporation has been allotted over 29 hectares Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg
of land in the Nashik district for setting up a ▪ Designed by - the Maharashtra State Road
Tribal Industrial Cluster. Development Corporation
▪ Connecting: 701-kilometre connectivity from
Mumbai to Nagpur
▪ The six-lane expressway will reduce the travel
time between the two cities by half from 17
hours to around 8 hours.

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Land Acquisition: ▪ A substantial loan of ₹12,000 crore will be
▪ Over 8,800 hectares acquired sourced from the Housing and Urban
▪ Involved 24,000 farmers across 10 districts Development Corporation (HUDCO).
Type: Greenfield, access-controlled six-lane ▪ The total estimated cost of the project is over
expressway (expandable to eight lanes) ₹84,000 crore.
First Phase Inauguration: December 2022 ▪ The project is modelled after the Nagpur-
Common Name: Often called the Mumbai-Nagpur Mumbai Samruddhi Mahamarg, an access-
Expressway controlled highway.
Planned During: Devendra Fadnavis’s first term as
Chief Minister in 2016 Kolhapuri Chappal

Shaktipeeth Expressway
▪ The Shaktipeeth Expressway is infrastructure
project in Maharashtra.
▪ Approved by the Maharashtra Cabinet on June
24, 2025, it aims to connect 12 districts from
Pawnar in Wardha to Patradevi on the
Maharashtra-Goa border.
▪ The project has a budget of ₹20,787 crore,
with ₹12,000 crore earmarked for land
acquisition.
▪ However, it faces strong opposition from NEWS: India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappal makers
farmers in the proposed corridor. have objected to luxury brand Prada’s 2026 collection,
alleging unauthorised imitation of their heritage
footwear design.
▪ Kolhapuri chappals are handcrafted leather
sandals,
▪ Traditionally made in Kolhapur and adjoining
districts in Maharashtra and parts
of Karnataka, such as Belgaum, Bagalkot, and
Dharwad.
▪ Received Geographical Indication (GI) status
in 2019.
▪ Jointly registered by artisans
from Maharashtra and Karnataka.
▪ The GI tag ensures only registered producers
can market products under the “Kolhapuri”
name.

Project Overview Maharashtra govt withdraws its 3

▪ The Shaktipeeth Expressway spans 802
kilometres. It is designed to reduce travel time
language policy for schools
between Nagpur and Goa from 18 hours to 8
hours.
▪ The expressway will connect key pilgrimage
sites known as Shakti Peethas, enhancing
religious tourism. It will link 18 religious
shrines across Maharashtra and Goa.
Funding and Implementation
▪ The Maharashtra Road Development ▪ Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis revoked the
Corporation (MSRDC) is responsible for government resolutions (GRs) issued on April
implementing the project. 16 and June 17 on the contentious three-

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
language policy, inducting Hindi as the third ▪ The Bill, which provides for punishment
language in primary schools. ranging from two to seven years in prison
▪ The first GR had made Hindi mandatory third ▪ Maharashtra becomes the fifth state to pass
language for students from Class 1 to 5, while such a Bill. It will now be tabled in the upper
the second one made it optional (if there are house for further deliberations.
at least 20 students per class opting for the ▪ Other 4 – Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha,
alternative) Jharkhand
▪ The CM also announced the formation of a
committee led by Dr Narendra Jadhav to take Maharashtra’s Urban Maoism Bill passed
a relook into the three-language policy in
in State Assembly
primary sections.

Carnac bridge renamed after Operation

Sindoor, to be reopened

▪ The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation ▪ Official Name: Maharashtra Special Public

(BMC) is set to reopen the new Carnac bridge Security (MSPS) Bill, 2025.
after rechristening it as “Sindoor bridge”, in ▪ Objective: To prevent unlawful activities by
honour of Operation Sindoor — the military Left-Wing Extremist (LWE) or similar
operation launched against terror sites in organisations, especially in urban areas.
Pakistan. Features:
▪ Built in 1868, Carnac bridge is one of the ▪ Unlawful Organisation Declaration: Govt can
oldest bridges of the city and is named after label any group supporting LWE as unlawful.
Sir James Rivett-Carnac, who served as ▪ Punishable Offences: Membership,
Governor of Bombay from 1839 to 1841. fundraising, or aiding such organisations.
▪ Penalties: 2–7 years’ imprisonment and ₹2–5
lakh fine and offences are non-bailable and
Maharashtra declares
cognizable.
Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav ▪ Unlawful Activity Defined: Actions threatening
as state festival public order or aiding violence.
▪ Sarvajanik ▪ Investigation & Oversight: Only DySP and
Ganeshotsav in above can probe and advisory board includes
Maharashtra was retired HC judge and govt pleader.
started by Lokmanya
Tilak in 1893. Minister Bhupender Yadav launched the
Native Food Matters initiative at
Maharashtra Enacts Special Public Govardhan Eco Village in Palghar
Security Law 2024
▪ The Maharashtra Assembly on July 10, 2025
passed the Maharashtra Special Public
Security Bill, 2024,
▪ Aimed at preventing “unlawful activities of
Left Wing Extremist organisations or similar
groups”.

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▪ Union Minister for Environment, Forest and via NHSRCL (National High Speed Rail
Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, Corporation Limited)
inaugurated the Native Food Matters initiative ▪ Completion targeted by 2030, with
at the Govardhan Eco Village (GEV) in Wada infrastructure, viaducts, and station
Taluka, Palghar district, Maharashtra. construction in rapid progress.
▪ This program, developed by ISKCON, aims to What is E10 Shinkansen?
promote traditional food practices and ▪ The E10 Shinkansen is Japan’s next-
nutrition security by encouraging the generation high-speed bullet train being
consumption of native, seasonal foods. developed to replace the older E2 and E5
▪ The program also supports community-based series.
awareness drives like Meri Maati Meri Thaali ▪ Designed by East Japan Railway Company (JR
and Poshan Sakha-Sakhi to further encourage East) in partnership with UK-based design
the adoption of native foods firm Tangerine.
▪ Design Inspired by cherry blossom petals
Ahmednagar Railway Station Renamed
‘Ahilyanagar’ in Honour of Ahilyabai Pavana River
Holkar
▪ The Maharashtra
government
renamed
Ahmednagar
district to
Ahilyanagar in
honor of Ahilyabai
Holkar, the 18th-
century Maratha
▪ NEWS: Citizens staged a creative protest in
queen renowned for her administrative and
Akurdi (Pune) against the ₹1,500-crore Pavana
philanthropic contributions.
River Rejuvenation Project, approved recently
▪ Location: Situated in the Pune Division of
by the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal
Central Railway, Maharashtra.
Corporation (PCMC), citing threats to
biodiversity and natural ecology.
E10 Shinkansen Bullet Train ▪ Location: Pune district, Maharashtra.
▪ India and Japan have jointly announced the ▪ Origin: Arises 6 km south of Lonavala in
introduction of the the Western Ghats.
E10 Shinkansen ▪ Course: Flows eastward then turns south;
trains on merges with the Mula River near Pune.
the Mumbai- ▪ Confluence Chain:
Ahmedabad bullet Pavana → Mula → Mula-Mutha → Bhima → Krishna
train corridor. River.
Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-
Speed Rail (MAHSR) Maharashtra to Observe August 7 as
▪ India to be the first
country outside Sustainable Agriculture Day Honouring Dr.
Japan to adopt E10 M.S. Swaminathan
Shinkansen. ▪ Maharashtra government has announced
▪ Tunnel between BKC and Thane (21 August 7 will be celebrated annually as
km) includes India’s first undersea rail tunnel, “Sustainable Agriculture Day” to mark the birth
now partially completed. centenary of Bharat Ratna Dr. M. S.
▪ Japan provides funding, tech expertise, and Swaminathan, the architect of India’s Green
rolling stock; India manages execution Revolution.

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
▪ Dr. Swaminathan’s Maharashtra: Govt announces insurance
pioneering research in
coverage for Govindas of Dahi Handi
enhancing wheat and
▪ The Maharashtra government has announced
rice productivity
insurance coverage for 1.5 lakh Govindas
helped India achieve
participating in the upcoming Dahi Handi
food self-sufficiency
festival during Gokulashtami.
and economic
▪ To ensure their safety, the government will
stability.
bear the insurance cost through The Oriental
▪ In recognition of his
Insurance Company at a rate of 75 rupees per
contributions, the Government of India
participant.
awarded him the Bharat Ratna in 2024.
▪ An amount of 1.12 crore rupees will be
▪ The United Nations also acknowledged him as
allocated from the Sports Development Fund
the father of the economic environment.
for this purpose.
▪ Dr. M.S. Swaminathan Bio-Happiness Centres
▪ The scheme will be implemented in
will be set up in all agricultural universities
coordination with the Maharashtra State Dahi
across the state to commemorate his legacy.
Handi Govinda Association and the Sports and
Youth Services Department.
Maharashtra Introduces 10% EWS Quota
In Private Medical Colleges Maharashtra Cabinet Approves 105-Km
▪ Maharashtra has introduced 10 per cent
Freight Corridor Linking Vadhavan Port to
reservation for the Economically Weaker
Section (EWS) in private medical colleges from Samruddhi Expressway
the current academic year. ▪ The Maharashtra cabinet has approved the
▪ Persons who are not covered under the construction of a 105-km express freight
scheme of reservation for SCs, STs and OBCs corridor connecting the upcoming Vadhavan
and whose family has gross annual income port in Palghar to the Samruddhi Expressway
below Rs 8 lakhs are to be identified as EWSs at Bharvir in Nashik district.
for benefit of reservation. ▪ The high speed corridor will reduce the travel
▪ It clarified that “Income shall also include time from five hours to just one and a half
income from all sources i.e. salary, agriculture, hours.
business, profession, etc. for the financial year ▪ The connector link is crucial to support the
prior to the year of application.” expected increase in cargo traffic from
Vadhavan Port, which is part of the Centre’s
Sagarmala initiative and is expected to
India’s First AI-Powered Anganwadi Centre
become a major hub for international
maritime trade.

ICRISAT’s AI-based Agromet Advisory

Service
▪ Recently, International Crops Research
Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)
and ICAR have launched an AI-based context-
specific Agromet Advisory Service to boost
farming.
▪ to provide real-time, personalised climate
▪ The Maharashtra government inaugurated advisory services to farmers - enabling them
the nation’s first AI-powered Anganwadi to make informed decisions amid increasing
centre in Waddhamna village, Nagpur district. climate variability.
▪ This pilot project under Mission Bal Bharari ▪ The project will first be implemented in
introduces advanced digital tools to early Maharashtra
childhood education in rural India.

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▪ Insights from this phase will inform a national ▪ Voice of Indian Communication Technology
rollout and serve as a model for South-South Enterprises (VOICE) leads the technology
expansion. deployment.
▪ The village uses drone-assisted farming, smart
Tesla launches first charging facility at irrigation, and soil sensors to improve
productivity.
Bandra-Kurla Complex in Mumbai
▪ Satnavri’s gram panchayat is equipped with
▪ Global EV
WiFi and digital governance tools
giant Tesla launched
▪ Education is enhanced with AI-integrated
its first charging
digital books, remote learning platforms, and
facility in the country
smart Anganwadi centres.
- in the Bandra-Kurla
▪ The initiative involves 15 private firms
Complex
collaborating under the ‘Make in India’
▪ it plans to set up
campaign.
three more such
facilities, one each at
Lower Parel, Thane Marbat festival of Nagpur
and Navi Mumbai by ▪ Originating in the
the September quarter. 19th century, the
event was
designed to ward
India’s First Smart Intelligent Village
off evil spirits
through effigies
known as
Marbats,
representing
societal ills.
▪ The Marbat
festival falls on ‘Tanha Pola’, the day after
Pola when people in rural Maharashtra and
Chhattisgarh express gratitude to their bulls
for their contribution to their farming
activities.
▪ Shravana Amavasya → Pola (bull-worship
festival).
▪ On this Bhadrapada Shukla Prathama, Nagpur
celebrates the Marbat Festival.
▪ the festival day when effigies of Kala (Black)
and Pili (Yellow) Marbat were paraded and
burned in Tanha Pola processions
▪ The village of Satnavri in rural Nagpur is at the ▪ A Marbat is a large, colourful female effigy
forefront of India’s rural digital that is traditionally crafted for this unique
transformation. Selected under a state-backed festival.
pilot project, it aims to become the nation’s ▪ Giving company to the Marbats are smaller
first ‘Smart Intelligent Village’. male effigies known as Badgyas made by
▪ The initiative integrates advanced technology various communities across the city. These
into daily rural life, covering agriculture, small effigies also represent evils in society and
education, healthcare, governance, and carry placards of social issues.
finance. A flood-like situation prevails across the
▪ The initiative involves 15 private firms
collaborating under the ‘Make in India’
Krishna River basin
campaign. NEWS: All 30 gates of the Basava Sagara Reservoir
have been opened due to the incessant rainfall and
heavy inflows from Maharashtra.
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▪ The Basava Sagara Reservoir, also known as ▪ It is located in the Osmanabad District of
the Narayanpur Dam, is a large reservoir and Maharashtra.
dam on the Krishna River in the Yadgir district ▪ Established on May 23, 1997, the sanctuary
of Karnataka spans approximately 22.38 [Link].
▪ Krishna in south-central India is one of India’s ▪ The sanctuary lies in the Balaghat mountain
longest rivers - 1,290 km. range of the Sahyadri hills.
▪ Course: The river rises in Maharashtra state in ▪ A significant attraction within the sanctuary is
the Western Ghats range near the town of the ancient Ramling Temple dedicated to Lord
Mahabaleshwar Shiva.
▪ It passes through Maharashtra, Karnataka, ▪ Nearby, there’s a waterfall and a cave
Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh and meets associated with local legends involving figures
the Bay of Bengal at Hamasaladeevi in Andhra from the Ramayana, such as Ravana and
Pradesh, on the east coast. Jatayu.

Maharashtra Approves Longer Working

Hours in Private Sector

▪ The Krishna River Basin extends over an area

of about 2,58,948 sq. km, which is nearly 8 ▪ On September 3, 2025, the Maharashtra
percent of the total geographical area of the Cabinet, led by CM Devendra Fadnavis, gave
country. approval to amendments to increase the daily
▪ It is bounded by the Balaghat range on the working hours:
north, by the Eastern Ghats on the south and ▪ Shops and Establishments: From 9 to
the east, and by the Western Ghats on the 10 hours
west. ▪ Factories & Industrial Units: From 9 to
▪ The principal tributaries joining Krishna are 12 hours
the Ghataprabha, the Malaprabha, the Bhima, ▪ The state plans to amend the Factories Act,
the Tungabhadra, and the Musi 1948 and Maharashtra Shops and
Establishments Act, 2017 to implement this
Yedshi Ramling Ghat Wildlife Sanctuary change.
▪ Double overtime pay is mandated.
▪ Employers must obtain written consent for
extended hours.
▪ Workers must be informed and scheduled
properly to ensure rest and compliance.
▪ According to the government, the move is
expected to facilitate ease of doing business,
attract new investment, promote job creation,
▪ A young male tiger recently travelled 450 km and simultaneously ensure wage protection
from Vidarbha to make his home in Yedshi and improved rights for workers, including
Ramling Ghat Wildlife Sanctuary, a modest double pay for overtime.
jungle in Maharashtra’s that had not seen a big
cat settling in decades.

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Mumbai’s Mandale Metro Depot : Asia’s ▪ Nine Day festival which will continue till 30th
of November is organised at Reshimbagh
Largest Facility
Ground in East Nagpur.

SHORT NEWS SEGMENT

❑ India celebrates 8th Naturopathy Day at
Nisarg Gram, Pune. Naturopathy is healing
through water, air, diet, and natural elements.

▪ Mumbai inaugurated the Mandale Depot for

Metro Line 2B, marking a major transport
milestone.
▪ It is now Asia’s largest metro depot, boosting
efficiency and connectivity across the city’s
eastern & western corridors.
▪ Built on 30.45 hectares, it can stable 72 eight-
coach trains.
▪ The two-level car shed holds 36 trains per
level.
▪ Depot includes 29 km of internal tracks and
India’s longest metro test track (965 m).
▪ Metro Line 2B: 23.643 km, fully elevated, with Waste to Art Wall
20 stations. ▪ The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC)
launched a unique initiative titled “Waste to
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Inaugurates Art Wall” at Prem Nagar, Satranjipura Zone.
▪ The project aims to beautify public spaces
Nagpur Book Festival 2025 while promoting awareness on cleanliness
and waste management.
▪ Method: Discarded waste materials are reused
creatively to make artistic walls in public
spaces.
▪ Goal: Transform waste into public art, inspire
community participation in cleanliness, and
encourage recycling & re-use

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates final

phase of Mumbai’s first fully underground
Metro 3
▪ Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the ▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the
first Nagpur Book Festival 2025, jointly final phase of Mumbai Metro Line-3, also
organized by National Book Trust (NBT), called Aqua Line.
Maharashtra Government and Zero Mile
Youth Foundation in Nagpur
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▪ Mumbai’s first fully underground Metro Manjeera River Flood
corridor became fully operational after the ▪ Tributary of: Godavari River
inauguration of the 10.99-km-long final ▪ States Covered: Maharashtra, Karnataka,
stretch between Acharya Atre Chowk and Telangana
Cuffe Parade stations. ▪ Origin: Balaghat Range, near Ahmednagar
▪ Course: Forms the Maharashtra–Telangana
Navi Mumbai International Airport border in its final stretch

Total Length: 724 km

Major Tributaries: Haldi (Haridra), Lendi, Nalla,
Manyad, Terna, Tawarja, Gharni
Major Projects:
Singur Dam / Singur Reservoir
Nizam Sagar Project

Inaugurated by: Prime Minister of India

Cost: ₹19,650 crore
Location: Ulwe, Navi Mumbai
Vision: India’s first fully digital, 5G-enabled, eco-
sustainable airport
• Design: Lotus-inspired architecture, 12 petal
columns

India’s first Cooperative-Run Compressed

Bio-Gas and Potash Granule Project
Launched at Kopargaon
▪ Inaugurated by:
Union Home &
Cooperation
Minister Amit Shah
▪ Output: 12
tons/day of
Compressed Bio-
Gas (CBG) and 75 The CCEA has approved four multitracking
tons/day of potash railway projects
granules
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)
▪ Feedstock: Jaggery
chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved
and molasses
four multi-tracking railway projects worth ₹24,634
Support: National Cooperative Development
crore under the Ministry of Railways.
Corporation (NCDC) funded 15 cooperative sugar
Approved Projects:
factories
Wardha – Bhusawal (Maharashtra) – 3rd & 4th lines,
New Initiative: ‘Pulses Self-Reliance Mission’ launched
314 km
with ₹11,300 crore for 6 years
Gondia – Dongargarh (Maharashtra & Chhattisgarh) –
▪ Launched by: National Cooperative
4th line, 84 km
Development Corporation (NCDC)
Vadodara – Ratlam (Gujarat & Madhya Pradesh) – 3rd
▪ Objective: To make India self-sufficient in
& 4th lines, 259 km
pulse production through cooperatives.
Itarsi – Bhopal – Bina (Madhya Pradesh) – 4th line,
237 km
Total Network Addition: ~894 km

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Project Details: Union Home Minister Amit Shah
States Covered: Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh,
Inaugurates India Maritime Week in
Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh
Districts Covered: 18 districts Mumbai
Aspirational Districts Covered: Vidisha (MP) and
Rajnandgaon (Chhattisgarh)
Completion Target: By 2030–31
Significance:
Enhances rail capacity, reduces congestion, and boosts
freight and passenger efficiency.
Improves connectivity between major industrial and
agricultural regions.

Project Trinetra: AI Predictive Policing ▪ The India Maritime Week 2025 is being held in
Mumbai from 27 October to 31 October.
▪ The five-day event, being organized by the
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways in
partnership with the Indian Ports Association,
▪ The event aligns with the government’s
Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime
Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, aiming to elevate
India’s global maritime footprint.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah

Inaugurates Deep-Sea Fishing Boats at
Mazagaon Dock, Mumbai
▪ Launched by: Akola Police, Maharashtra
▪ Led by: SP Archit Chandak
▪ Full Form: Targeted Risk-based Insights for
Next-crime Estimation & Tactical Resource
Allocation
▪ India’s first AI-driven predictive policing
project.
Key Points ▪ Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit
▪ Uses AI, data analytics & machine learning to Shah inaugurated two deep-sea fishing boats
predict repeat crimes. at Mazagaon Dock, Mumbai, during India
▪ Helps identify crime hotspots and allocate Maritime Week 2025.
resources strategically. ▪ The initiative, under the Pradhan Mantri
Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) with
DRI seizes smuggled 46,640 pieces support from Maharashtra Govt., NCDC, and
firecrackers worth ₹4.82 crore under the Department of Fisheries, promotes
cooperative-led deep-sea fishing, empowering
“operation fire trail” at Nhava Sheva port
fishing co-ops to access high-value marine
▪ Agency: Directorate of Revenue Intelligence
resources.
(DRI)
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
▪ Operation: “Operation Fire Trail”
• Launched on 10 Sept 2020 for 2020–25
▪ Objective: To curb illegal import of Chinese-
(extended to 2025–26), is implemented by the
origin fireworks and firecrackers into India.
Dept. of Fisheries with National Fisheries
Development Board as the nodal agency.
• It’s an umbrella scheme with Central Sector
and Centrally Sponsored components.
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• India is now the 2nd-largest fish producer (8% ▪ Service Type: Satellite-based broadband
global share), creating 58 lakh livelihoods and through Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites (~550
empowering 99,018 women. km altitude)
▪ Traditional Comparison: Geostationary
Aurangabad Railway Station Renamed satellites orbit at 35,786 km → higher latency
▪ Latency: As low as 25 milliseconds (vs. ~600 ms
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
for GEO satellites)
▪ Mechanism:
▪ Network of LEO satellites forming a
constellation
▪ Linked via optical inter-satellite links
(ISLs) → transmits data directly
between satellites
▪ Reduces dependence on local ground
stations
▪ Aim:
▪ Connect remote schools, health
centres, and rural institutions
▪ The Aurangabad railway station in
▪ Enable online education, telemedicine,
Maharashtra was inaugurated in 1900, during
and e-governance
the reign of Mir Osman Ali Khan, the 7th
▪ Promote digital inclusion in far-flung
Nizam of Hyderabad.
regions
ABOUT CITY :
▪ Outcome Expected: Reliable high-speed, low-
▪ Aurangabad was founded in 1610 by Malik
latency internet for remote Maharashtra
Ambar, the Siddi general of the Nizamshahi
villages
dynasty of Ahmadnagar.
▪ The city was named Khirki or Khadki at the
time, and its name was changed The Maharashtra government has
to Fatehpur by Malik Ambar’s son Fateh Khan officially declared leprosy a “notifiable
in 1626. disease.”
▪ In 1653, the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb
invaded the Deccan and set up his capital in
the city, which he renamed Aurangabad.

Maharashtra Inks First Starlink Pact To

Boost Rural Internet

▪ Reporting is now mandatory within 14 days of

▪ Maharashtra – First Indian state to sign pact
diagnosis in Maharashtra.
with Starlink Satellite Communications Pvt. Ltd.
What are notifiable diseases?
▪ Parent Company: SpaceX (USA), founded by
▪ It is any disease that is required by law to be
Elon Musk
reported to government authorities.

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▪ Responsibility of notifying any disease and the “Aadi Chitra” – National Tribal Painting
implementation lies with the state
Exhibition Opens in Mumbai
government.
▪ The collation of information allows the
authorities to monitor the disease, and
provides early warning of possible outbreaks.
▪ Other notified diseases: AIDS, hepatitis,
dengue, etc.
▪ Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is
a chronic infectious disease caused by a type
of bacteria called “Mycobacterium leprae”.
▪ The disease affects the skin, the peripheral
nerves, mucosal surfaces of the upper
respiratory tract and the eyes.
▪ Leprosy is known to occur at all ages ranging
from early childhood to old age. ▪ Organised by Ministry of Tribal Affairs &
▪ Leprosy is not inherited, but it is transmitted TRIFED.
via droplets, from the nose and mouth, during ▪ Showcases India’s indigenous tribal art
close and frequent contact with untreated traditions.
cases. Features tribal art forms from:
▪ Maharashtra: Warli
Radio Parwaaz — Yerawada Women’s ▪ Odisha: Saura, Pattachitra
Prison launches first dedicated community ▪ Madhya Pradesh: Gond, Bhil
▪ Gujarat: Pithora
radio
DRI disrupts major gold smuggling and
melting syndicate in Mumbai under
“Operation Bullion Blaze”
▪ The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI)
has busted a major gold-smuggling syndicate
in Mumbai under 'Operation Bullion Blaze’.
▪ The operation uncovered an organised racket
that was involved in smuggling gold into India,
melting it in covert furnaces and illicitly selling
the refined bullion into the grey market.
▪ Parwaaz = Flight (symbol of freedom &
aspiration).
▪ Two inmates trained as Radio Jockeys.
Maharashtra Agriculture Department
▪ Follows Radio YCP launched in 2014 for men’s Unveils New Logo and Slogan
wing. ▪ The Maharashtra
▪ Joint initiative: India Vision Foundation (Delhi) Agriculture
+ SLB (global tech firm). Department has
▪ Aim: rehabilitation, confidence-building & unveiled a new logo
constructive engagement of women inmates. and slogan marking its
Yerawada Prison (Pune) : first visual identity
▪ Gandhi began hunger strike (1932) against revamp in 38 years.
separate electorates for Depressed Classes. ▪ Devendra Fadnavis
▪ Poona Pact signed: 24 September 1932, at released the new
Yerawada Central Jail. emblem in Mumbai.
▪ Agreement between Dr. B.R. Ambedkar & ▪ The redesigned emblem represents farmers’
Mahatma Gandhi. strength, technological progress, and

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environmentally sustainable growth in Maharashtra Sets
agriculture.
Guinness World
▪ Slogan: “Sashwat Sheti, Samruddha Shetkari”
(Sustainable Farming, Prosperous Farmer). Record with
▪ Logo designer: Virendra Bhaidas Patil installing 45,911
(Bhusawal). Solar Agriculture
▪ Slogan writer: Siddhi Bharat Desai.
Pumps under the
The state government of Maharashtra ‘Magel Tyala Saur
recently launched Project Mahadeva Krushipump’
▪ Maharashtra scheme within a
Government single month.
launched the
Mahadeva Football Maharashtra Ends the Century-Old Pagdi
Initiative (Project
Mahadeva) to train System with New Legislation
60 rural and remote ▪ The move will speed up redevelopment of old
young football buildings, prevent collapses, and reduce loss
players with world- of life and property.
class facilities. ▪ Over 19,000 rent-controlled buildings operate
▪ Programme targets Under-13 (U-13) boys and under the Pagdi system, many built before
girls to create a strong long-term football 1960.
development pathway. ▪ Proposed rules: Tenants get Floor space Index
▪ A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was (FSI) equal to current area; landlords get FSI as
signed between School Education, Sports and per land entitlement; EWS/low-income Pagdi
Youth Welfare Department, Maharashtra occupants get incentive FSI for free
Institute for Transformation (MITRA), Western reconstruction.
India Football Association (WIFA) and Village ▪ These buildings, tenants, and agreements are
Social Transformation Foundation (VSTF). legally valid and protected under the Rent
Control Act.
DRI Busts ₹192-Crore Mephedrone Factory
in Maharashtra Under ‘Operation
Hinterland Brew’

What is the pagdi system?

▪ Pagdi is a traditional tenancy rental model,
▪ Operation Hinterland Brew is a targeted anti- where the tenant is a partial owner of the
narcotics operation conducted by house, enjoys nominal rental rates, and also
the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence has the rights to sublet and sell the property.
(DRI) to identify and destroy clandestine drug ▪ The pagdi system, where tenants enjoy near-
manufacturing units operating in remote or lifelong occupancy in exchange for an upfront
rural regions. payment and nominal rent, continues to shape
▪ Part of broader national efforts under Nasha a large share of Mumbai’s older housing stock.
Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan to curb the production,
trafficking, and distribution of synthetic drugs.

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▪ They are legally recognised but criticised for between Adani Airports Holdings Ltd (74%)
maintenance issues, redevelopment hurdles, and CIDCO() City and Industrial Development
and informal cash dealings.

India’s Largest Circular Stone Labyrinth

Corporation of Maharashtra Limited (26%).

▪ It is envisioned as India’s first fully digital, 5G-
enabled, and eco-sustainable airport, designed
to complement the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
International Airport (CSMIA).

▪ Archaeologists recently discovered a Bombay High Court Bars Civilian Awards

remarkable circular stone labyrinth in the
as Name Prefixes
Boramani grasslands of Solapur, Maharashtra,
identified as the largest of its kind ever
recorded in India.
About India’s Largest Circular Stone Labyrinth
▪ It is approximately 50 feet by 50 feet in size
and has 15 concentric circles formed from
small stone blocks.
▪ The rings guide movement inward toward a
tightly coiled spiral at the center, creating a
design that reflects both precision and
symbolic intent.
▪ This structure dates back to nearly 2,000 years
ago and is linked to Indo-Roman trade during
the Satavahana dynasty period.
▪ Its design mirrors Mediterranean/Roman
▪ The Bombay High Court reaffirmed that civilian
labyrinths (seen on Roman coins) and features
honours—Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma
a central spiral, associated in India with the
Vibhushan, and Bharat Ratna—are not official
Chakravyūha.
titles.
▪ Chakravyūha, described in the Mahabharata,
▪ Hence, they cannot be used as prefixes or
is a complex multi-layered military formation.
suffixes to names in legal documents, court
▪ Earlier, the largest known circular labyrinth in
proceedings, or official records. The
India (11 circuits) was at Solapur.
observation arose during the hearing of a writ
▪ Though a larger square labyrinth exists at
petition involving a 2014 Padma Shri awardee,
Gedimedu in Tamil Nadu, this is now the
Dr Sharad Hardikar.
largest circular stone labyrinth in India.
▪ The Supreme Court in Balaji Raghavan v.
Union of India had held that Padma Awards
Navi Mumbai International Airport starts and the Bharat Ratna do not amount to
commercial flight operations “titles” under Article 18(1) of the
▪ The Navi Mumbai International Airport Constitution, which prohibits titles other than
(NMIA) began commercial operations on military or academic distinctions.
December 25
▪ The Navi Mumbai International Airport is
a state-of-the-art greenfield airport developed
under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP)

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Chhattisgarh
1. Green GDP Chhattisgarh first state to link forest ecosystem with
2. 1st Supercritical Thermal Power Plant Green GDP
3. First GaN-based semicon plant ▪ The moves aimed to highlight the direct link between
4. Child Marriage free Panchayats significant environmental contributions of forests like clean
5. Madku island air, water conservation, biodiversity and the state’s
6. Sneh Milan Mela economic progress.

What is Green GDP?

▪ Green GDP is an economic indicator that aims to measure the true economic performance of a country while
considering the environmental impact of economic activity.
▪ It's calculated by subtracting the costs of resource depletion and environmental degradation from a
country's traditional GDP.
▪ It is also known as environmentally adjusted domestic product.

PM allowed Ramnami tribe members to ▪ Supercritical thermal power plants operate at

conditions above the critical pressure and
place their peacock-feather crown on him
temperature of water. This unique operation
— breaking protocol. allows for more efficient energy production.
▪ Origin: 19th-century
Chhattisgarh; peaceful Foundation stone for India's first GaN-
anti-caste movement.
▪ Founder: Parsuram based semicon plant laid in Raipur
Bhardwaj, a low-caste ▪ The foundation stone for India’s first Gallium
sharecropper’s son. Nitride (GaN)-based semiconductor
▪ Tattoo “Ram” across manufacturing plant was laid in Nava Raipur.
body/face → symbol of ▪ The plant belongs to Polymatech Electronics.
nirgun Ram (formless God) & omnipresence. ▪ The ceremony was conducted by Chhattisgarh
▪ Worship Ram in any form ;Wear peacock Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.
▪ The plant aims to produce 10 billion chips
crown & ghungroos
annually by 2030.
▪ 1910: Won legal case against upper-caste
Gallium Nitride (GaN) is globally considered a game-
challenge → right to tattoo/inscribe “Ram”
changer in the semiconductor industry.
▪ Equality, gender parity, Bhajans & dance
GaN chips are:
culture with ghungroos
▪ Faster
▪ Once ~6 lakh; now ~1 lakh or fewer (some
▪ More energy-
estimates ~20,000)
efficient
▪ Highly durable
Chhattisgarh’s First Supercritical Thermal ▪ Making them
Power Project ideal for next-generation technologies
▪ Chhattisgarh State Power Generation ▪ Until now, India imported GaN chips
Company Limited (CSPGCL), an entity of the
state government, will set up the first super Surajpur Declared Child Marriage-Free
critical thermal power project (SCTPP) in
Panchayats Milestone
Korba district.
▪ The foundation stone for the plant was laid by
PM Modi on March 30
▪ The project will be part of an expansion plan
of the Hasdeo Thermal Power Station (HTPS)
located in Korba.
▪ The station already has a 1,340 megawatt
(Mw) plant and the new one with a capacity of
1,320 Mw will come in the same premises.
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▪ The Surajpur district of Chhattisgarh achieved Chhattisgarh, marking a breakthrough in
a landmark success in 2025 by declaring 75 India’s strategic mineral exploration.
village panchayats as Child Marriage-Free
Panchayats.
▪ This recognition came during the launch of the
Healthy Women, Empowered Families
campaign and National Nutrition Month.
▪ The declaration was based on the absence of
any child marriage cases in these panchayats
for over two years.
▪ The campaign against child marriage in
Surajpur is part of a broader state effort
launched in March 2024 by Chief Minister
▪ Location: Located in Mahasamund district,
Vishnu Deo Sai with UNICEF’s support.
Chhattisgarh, 70 km from Raipur,
▪ The goal is to establish Chhattisgarh as a Child
Marriage-Free State.
▪ Surajpur’s success is the first major outcome of Coal India's First Fully Women-Operated
this initiative. Dispensary Inaugurated at SECL
Headquarters, Bilaspur - Chhattisgarh
Yoga and Sudarshan Kriya for prisoners

▪ The Chhattisgarh government has introduced

Yoga and Sudarshan Kriya across all district ▪ Vasant Vihar Dispensary at the SECL
jails as part of a prison reform initiative, aiming
Headquarters, Bilaspur, formally inaugurated
to rehabilitate inmates through mental peace,
as Coal India’s first dispensary to be operated
self-discipline, and positivity.
entirely by women.
▪ An ancient Indian practice combining physical
postures (asanas), breathing exercises
(pranayama), and meditation for holistic well- Madku Island
being.
▪ Sudarshan Kriya: A rhythmic breathing
technique developed by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
(Art of Living Foundation), designed to
harmonize body, mind, and emotions.
▪ Implemented under the “Prison Course” with
support from the Art of Living Foundation.

Chhattisgarh Emerges as Major Ni–Cu–PGE ▪ NEWS: Chhattisgarh High Court has been
Mineral Belt with Breakthrough Discovery closely monitoring development works at
Madku Dweep due to its cultural and historical
in Mahasamund value.
▪ A potential Nickel–Copper–Platinum Group ▪ It is situated on the banks of the Shivnath
Elements (Ni–Cu–PGE) mineral zone has been River (longest tributary of the Mahanadi
discovered in the Bhalukona–Jamnidih block, River), in the Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh.

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▪ The name Madku stems from the fact that the ▪ Nutritionally enhanced rice, made by blending
island is in the shape of a frog. rice with micronutrients like iron, folic acid,
▪ Madku Island is popularly known as Kedar and vitamin B12 , then extruded and reshaped
Tirth and Harihar Kshetra Kedar Dweep. to resemble natural rice grains.
▪ Madku Dweep is also home to several ancient ▪ Purpose: combat anaemia & malnutrition
and unique idols of Lord Shiva, Ganesha,Shiv- ▪ Blend ratio: 1:100 (FRK : normal rice)
Parvati, Nandi, and various other Gods.
▪ Archaeologists have successfully excavated 19
temples on Madku Dweep.
▪ The island has hosted an annual Christian fair
since 1909, known as Masihi Mela

SECL Organises First ‘Sneh Milan Mela to

Build Stronger Community Relations

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export

Development Authority :Ministry of Commerce
▪ Established: Act of 1985 (effective 13 Feb
1986)
▪ Role: promote agri & processed food exports,
▪ South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) quality standards, financial support, market
organized its first-ever ‘Sneh Milan Mela’ in linkages
Surajpur, Chhattisgarh, uniting over 600 SECL
employees, families, and villagers through PM Modi Inaugurated India’s First Digital
cultural programs and traditional cuisine to Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum
foster goodwill and trust with local
communities.
▪ Parent organization: Coal India
▪ Headquarters: Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, India
▪ Date founded: 1985
▪ Subsidiaries: Chhattisgarh East West Railway
Ltd, Chhattisgarh East Railway Limited

APEDA Facilitates First Export of Fortified

Rice Kernel from Chhattisgarh to Costa
▪ Location: Chhattisgarh
Rica ▪ Cost: ₹50 crore
▪ Structure: ~650 sculptures across 14 galleries
▪ Events:
▪ Unveiled statue of Shaheed Veer
Narayan Singh
▪ Released e-booklet “Aadi Shaurya”
▪ Planted a sapling under ‘Ek Ped Maa
Ke Naam’ campaign
▪ Museum Theme & Focus: Presents
Chhattisgarh’s tribal resistance history
Key Gallery Themes:
▪ Major tribal uprisings: Halba Kranti, Sarguja
Kranti, Bhopalpattanam Kranti, Paralkot Kranti,
Tarapur Kranti, Meria Kranti, Koi Kranti,

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Lingagiri Kranti, Muria Kranti, and Bhumkal dance during a village festival at Judiya Para in
Kranti (led by Gundadhur & Lal Kalindra Singh) Jagdalpur.
▪ Women’s resistance: Highlights Rani Cho-Ris ▪ Dandami Maria, also known by other names
Kranti (1878) — early women-led protest like Bison Horn Maria and Khalpati Maria.
▪ Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh & 1857 revolt: ▪ It is a tribal community which lives in
Chronicles his role in Chhattisgarh’s first Chhattisgarh.
freedom struggle and martyrdom ▪ Identity: Named after their distinctive bison-
▪ Freedom movement participation: Jhanda horn–shaped headgear, usually worn during
Satyagrah and Jungle Satyagrah — showcasing ceremonies.
tribal participation in Gandhi’s movements ▪ Language: Speak Dandami Maria; some also
speak Gondi dialects .
The Dandami Madia tribe recently ▪ Economy: Mainly agriculture, supported by
hunting and fishing.
performed the Bison Horn Maria dance at ▪ Beliefs: A mix of Hinduism and animistic
a village festival in Judiya Para, Jagdalpur beliefs.
▪ Social system: The ghotul (youth dormitory for
unmarried boys and girls) is a key institution;
divorce and widow remarriage are permitted.
▪ Culture: The Bison Horn Maria dance is
performed at village festivals by both men and
women.

▪ Recently, members of the Dandami Madia tribe

perform the traditional Bison Horn Maria

Goa
1. Union Territory Foundation Day India's First Exploration Licence Auction and AI-
2. first UT to implement PM Driven Mineral Targeting Hackathon Launched in
Vishwakarma Yojana Goa
3. Mega North India StartUp Expo
4. 72nd ‘All India Police Hockey
Championship
5. Sound-Based Anti-Drone System
6. Tawi Festival
7. India’s First Battery Storage
Gigafactory ▪ Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy and
8. Operation Kamdhenu Goa's Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant jointly launched the
9. Kashmir Marathon Initiatives auction of 13 Exploration Licence (EL) blocks for critical
10. Haar Choudhah Festival minerals in Dona Paula, Goa
11. Z-Morh project ▪ a significant reform aimed at unlocking the nation's
12. Omar Abdullah as new CM untapped critical and deep-seated mineral resources.
13. Authenticity Seal for Jammu & ▪ The licenses are for the exploration blocks for minerals like
Kashmir Crafts REE (rare earth elements), zinc, diamond, copper, PGE
(platinum group minerals) and others.
▪ This initiative, facilitated through a transparent online bidding process, is set to accelerate systematic
mineral exploration, enhance private sector participation, and reduce import dependency.
▪ Critical Minerals - essential for the functioning of our modern technologies, economies or national
security and
▪ Top Producers : Chile, Indonesia, Congo, China, Australia, and South Africa.

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30 May Goa Statehood Day ▪ The 10th Ayurveda Day will be celebrated on
23rd September 2025 at the All India Institute
of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa
▪ The 2025 theme-"Ayurveda for People &
Planet"
▪ For the first time, Ayurveda Day will be
observed on a fixed calendar date—23rd
September
▪ Ayurveda Day was first observed in India in
2016.
▪ The Government of India (Ministry of AYUSH)
declared it to be observed every year on
▪ Goa is the smallest state by area, was a Dhanvantari Jayanti (the birth anniversary of
Portuguese colony for over 450 years until it Lord Dhanvantari, regarded as the Hindu God
was liberated by India in 1961 by Operation of Medicine).
Vijay and was given the status of union
territory along with Daman and Diu in 1987. VP Dhankar inaugurated statues
▪ On 30th May 1987 Goa was granted
of Acharya Charaka and Sage Sushruta at
statehood, making it the 25th state of the
Indian Union. Goa’s Raj Bhavan
▪ Panaji was designated as the capital of Goa,
and Konkani was declared the official
language
▪ Borders:
▪ It is surrounded by Maharashtra to the
north and Karnataka to the east and
south, with the Arabian Sea forming its
western coast.
▪ Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks:
▪ Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
▪ Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary
▪ Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
▪ Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
▪ Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
▪ Mollem National Park
The Vice-President of India inaugurated statues
▪ "Churches and Convents of Goa" recognized as
of Acharya Charaka and Sage Sushruta at Goa’s Raj
a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986
Bhavan, as part of an initiative to promote India’s
▪ Chief Minister: Pramod Sawant
ancient medical heritage
▪ Governor : P. S. Sreedharan Pillai
Acharya Charaka - Father of Indian Medicine :
• Identity & Period: Charaka (c. 100 BCE–200
Goa to Host Historic 10th Ayurveda Day CE) was a legendary Ayurvedic physician
with Global Outreach • Associated Kingdom: Flourished in the region
of Taxila under the patronage of the Kushan
ruler Kanishka.
Area Contributions
Medicine Developed internal medicine;
(Kayachikitsa) emphasized digestion,
metabolism, and immunity
Charaka Samhita One of the oldest and most
authoritative Ayurvedic texts,
covering diagnostics,
treatments, and ethics

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Tridosha Theory Explained Vata, Pitta, and Ghumot

Kapha – three biological ▪ Goa’s traditional percussion instrument
energies governing health Ghumot is witnessing revival debates around
Preventive Stressed balanced diet, heritage conservation and wildlife protection,
Medicine exercise, and mental health for after it was declared the State Heritage
disease prevention Instrument in 2019.
Clinical Diagnosis Detailed descriptions of ▪ A traditional mud-based membranophone
symptoms, causes, and percussion instrument of Goa, crafted from
treatment for 1,500+ diseases clay with one side covered by animal skin.
Ethics in Emphasized compassion, ▪ Origin: Migrated to Goa through tribal
Medicine discipline, and the moral duties communities and early settlers and deeply
of a physician embedded in oral histories.
▪ Types: Variants in size and form for children,
About Sage Sushruta - Father of Surgery and Plastic women, amateurs, and professionals.
Surgery: ▪ Caste Associations: Historically crafted
• Identity & Period: Sushruta (c. 600 BCE) was by tribal potters and played by both Hindu and
an ancient surgeon Christian communities—showcasing Goa’s
• Associated Kingdom: Practised in Kashi syncretic cultural ethos.
(Varanasi), possibly under the rule of King How it is made?
Divodasa. ▪ Clay Pot
Area Contributions Shaping: Crafted
Plastic Described rhinoplasty (nose from special
Surgery reconstruction) in detail refined clay;
Instruments Classified and described over 300 shaped as a
surgical procedures & 100 surgical pumpkin-like earthen pot in 3 parts and
instruments tapped to remove air bubbles.
Techniques Developed methods like suturing, ▪ Firing: The pot is sun-dried and kiln-fired for
incision, bone-setting, etc. durability and resonance.
Anatomy & Based on dissection and empirical ▪ Membrane Preparation: Traditionally used
Physiology observation monitor lizard skin (now banned) and replaced
Patient Care Emphasized hygiene, bandaging, with goat, buffalo skin, or synthetic materials.
and ethical surgery ▪ Assembly & Tuning: Membrane is stretched,
tied with coir rope, and tuned for the desired
Goa Becomes India’s First State with 100% sound quality.
Features:
Cyber Fraud Response System ▪ Construction: Handmade clay pot (ghumat),
tuned skin membrane (earlier monitor lizard
skin, now goat or synthetic).
▪ Sound: Produces sharp, earthy beats integral
to Goan folk music.
▪ Techniques: Requires skilled tapping to
achieve perfect resonance—knowledge of
rhythm crucial.
▪ Goa is the first Indian state police force to ▪ Legal Shift: Post-2019, usage of monitor lizard
achieve 100% cyber fraud response skin prohibited under Wildlife Protection Act,
accessibility. 1972 and artisans adapted to legal
▪ The 1930 cloud-based centre supports real- alternatives.
time supervision and conference calling. ▪ Ghumot is neither a Hindustani classical nor
▪ Over 5,000 cyber-related calls have been a Carnatic classical music instrument in the
handled since the launch. strict sense.
▪ Cyber fraud losses in Goa stand at around Rs ▪ Cultural Symbol: Central to Goa’s folk
100 crore for the current year. identity—played in Sao Joao festival, Ganesh

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Chaturthi, Shigmo, Mandos, and Catholic pre- Dhirio-Bull Fighting
wedding rituals.

Goa Achieves Full Functional Literacy

under ULLAS
▪ Chief
Minister of
Goa, Dr. ▪ Goa state Assembly legislators across party
Pramod lines demand the legalisation of bull fighting
Sawant, which is locally called Dhirio in Goa.
officially ▪ Bull fighting, locally referred to as dhirio or
declared dhiri, is an integral part of Goa’s cultural
the State of fabric.
Goa to be ▪ It is organised after the harvest season.
officially ▪ In India, bull fights like Jallikattu were banned
fully literate under the ULLAS - Nav Bharat for animal cruelty by the Supreme Court in
Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy 2014, but later the court upheld the
Programme), marking a significant milestone 2017 Tamil Nadu Amendment to the
in India’s journey towards achieving full Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, which
literacy by 2030, as envisioned in the National permitted the tradition.
Education Policy (NEP) 2020. ▪ Other forms of bull fighting, such as in Goa,
▪ This makes Goa the second state of the were also banned by the Bombay High Court
country to cross the nationally prescribed 95% in 1997 and upheld by the Supreme Court,
benchmark for full literacy. making them illegal.
▪ The announcement was made during the
grand celebration of Goa’s 39th Statehood
Day (May 30, 2025)
What are RoRo ferries, which Goa hopes
▪ ULLAS - Understanding of Lifelong Learning will replace traditional boats?
for All in Society, also known as Nav Bharat
Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy
Programme) is a centrally sponsored scheme
implemented from 2022-2027.
▪ The scheme, aligned with NEP 2020, targets
adults (aged 15 years and above) who can’t go
to school.
▪ ULLAS aims to empower them with ▪ The Goa government has launched two Roll
foundational literacy, numeracy, and critical on-Roll off (RoRo) ferry boats – ‘Gangotri’ and
life skills. ‘Dwarka’ – on the Chorao-Ribandar route in
▪ The scheme has five components - the Mandovi river.
Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, Critical ▪ The ferries, with a higher capacity, will replace
Life Skills, Basic Education, Vocational Skills the conventional boats and drastically cut
and Continuing Education. travel time for commuters.
▪ NOTE: Recently the Union Territory (UT) of ▪ It is the first-of-its kind RoRo ferry service in
Ladakh has been declared 1st UT to achieve Full India
Functional Literacy under the ULLAS-Nav ▪ Each RoRo ferry can accommodate up to 100
Bharat Saksharta Karyakram after having passengers, at least 15 four wheelers and 30-
achieved over 97% literacy. 40 two wheelers, significantly easing the load
on traditional ferry services. With a running
speed of 10 knots – twice that of conventional
ferries
▪ The ferry boats have been designed and built
by Vijai Marine Shipyards and would be

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operating on a Built-Own-Operate-Transfer ▪ Pension Fund Regulatory and Development
basis. Authority (PFRDA), in collaboration with
GoaMiles (Goa’s app-based taxi service) and
“Prayas” - A First-of-its-Kind Integrated HDFC Pension Fund, launched a unique
initiative to extend the National Pension
Neuro Rehabilitation Centre Launched at
System (NPS) to the driver community.
AIIA Goa ▪ Target: Around 5,000 drivers on the GoaMiles
▪ On September 26, 2025, the Ministry of Ayush platform.
inaugurated “Prayas”, an Integrated Neuro- ▪ Social Security for All: “Every Profession, One
Rehabilitation Centre at the All India Institute Pension.”
of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa ▪ Awareness Campaign: “NPS Zaruri Hai
▪ The centre focuses on providing holistic,
patient-centred neuro-rehabilitation,
The "Majhe Ghar" scheme
particularly for children with neurological and
Union Home Minister
developmental conditions
Amit Shah launched Goa’s
“Prayas” is a pioneering multidisciplinary centre in
new flagship housing
India that integrates:
scheme “Majhe Ghar” (My
▪ Ayurveda
Home) on October 4,
▪ Physiotherapy
2025, at the Dr. Shyama
▪ Yoga
Prasad Mukherjee
▪ Speech Therapy
Stadium in Panaji.
▪ Occupational Therapy
▪ Modern Paediatrics
What is the Scheme
About?
PFRDA jointly Launches National Pension ▪ It is a housing welfare programme started by
System (NPS) for Goa’s Driver Community the Goa government.
▪ The aim is to give secure and affordable
houses to nearly 50% of Goa’s population.
▪ It mainly helps long-term residents who have
built homes on government lands (village
community lands).

Main Features
▪ Ownership Rights: People living for years on
government or comunidade land will now get
legal ownership of their homes.
▪ Even plots given earlier under the old 20-Point
Housing Programme, will now have ownership
given to the current occupants.
Who Can Apply?
• Only permanent residents of Goa who belong
to economically weaker sections and do not
own any other property.
Goal:
• To ensure every Goan family has a legal home
and housing security.

19 December - Goa's Liberation Day

▪ The Goa Liberation Day is celebrated on
December 19 every year to mark the success of
‘Operation Vijay’ undertaken by the armed

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forces in 1961 to liberate the State from Statehood to Goa after its liberation:
Portugal. ▪ As a result, Goa was brought under the control
Operation Vijay: of the Indian government and became a part
▪ A 36-hour of the Indian Union as the Union Territory of
military Goa, Daman and
operation Diu.
(started on ▪ However, in 1967,
December 18, a plebiscite was
1961 and held to determine
concluded on whether or not
December 19, 1961), was about the liberation the state should
of the Portuguese territories of Goa, Daman merge with
and Diu. Maharashtra and
▪ This was possibly the Indian armed forces’ the majority of
first tri-service operation. Goans voted
▪ The Indian Air Force bombed the Portuguese against a merger.
airbase at Dabolim while the army advanced ▪ It remained a
from the north and east into Goa. Union Territory
▪ The Indian Navy was tasked with preventing until 1987, when
hostile action by Portuguese warships, securing it was granted statehood. Goa became India’s
access to Mormugao harbour, and securing the 25th state, while Daman and Diu remained a
Anjadip Island off the coast of Karwar. Union Territory
▪ By the evening of December 19, 1961,
Portuguese Governor General Vassalo De Silva
had signed the surrender document after
Indian armed forces (led by the army and
backed by the air force and navy) had
outnumbered and outgunned the Portuguese.

Telangana
1. Rythu Bharosa scheme SS Rajamouli unveils India’s first Dolby certified post-
2. Kanuma Festival production facility at Nagarjuna’s Annapurna Studios
3. Rajiv Vikasam scheme ▪ Hyderabad, Telangana
4. Bhu Bharati Portal ▪ Launched in collaboration with Dolby, the facility aims to
5. SC Categorisation Act redefine the audio-visual standards of Indian filmmaking,
6. Bathukamma Festival with an intention to ensure cinematic experiences that meet
global benchmarks.
7. Operation Muskaan XI
▪ Rajamouli’s Academy-award-winning RRR—special footage
8. Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project
of which was also played at the grand event—was the first-
ever Indian film to release in Dolby Cinema

Nagoba Jatara ▪ Tribal people from Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh,

▪ Nagoba Odisha, Karnataka, Jharkhand and Madhya
Jatara is a Pradesh belonging to the Mesaram clan of
tribal Gond tribe offer prayers at the festival.
festival held ▪ The Gusadi Dance performance by dancers
in Keslapur from the Gond tribe is a major special
village, attraction of the event.
Adilabad district, Telangana. ▪ It is the second biggest tribal festival in India,
▪ This year from January 28 to February 4 after the Medharam Jathara (Sammakka
▪ Nagoba, the serpent deity. Saralamma Jatara), held in Telangana itself.

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VisionNxt: India’s 1st AI, EI fashion Architectural Features

▪ Built on a 6-feet high star-shaped platform with
forecasting platform launched at NIFT’s
intricately carved walls, pillars, and ceilings
40th Foundation Day in Hyderabad ▪ Earthquake-proof design: Gopuram bricks
made of clay, acacia wood, chaff, and
myrobalan fruit (amla family); bricks are light
enough to float on water, reducing collapse
risk during earthquakes
▪ Sandbox Technique: Foundation pit filled with
sand-lime, jaggery, and black myrobalan, acting
as a cushion during earthquakes
▪ UNESCO Status: Inscribed in 2021 as “Kakatiya
Rudreshwara (Ramappa) Temple, Telangana”
▪ The National Institute of Fashion Technology
(NIFT) celebrated its 40th Foundation Day,
Telangana farmers to receive ₹12,000 per
with an event showcasing VisionNxt, a fashion
forecasting platform driven by Artificial acre annually of agricultural land under
Intelligence (AI) and Emotional Intelligence Rythu Bharosa scheme
(EI).
▪ Developed under the Ministry of Textiles,
VisionNxt offers research and trend insights
tailored to the diverse needs of India’s fashion
and retail sectors.

Permanent Representative of India to

UNESCO-Paris visited the Ramappa ▪ Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy
Temple ▪ Farmers in Telangana will receive ₹12,000 per
▪ Recently, ambassador and Permanent acre annually under the Rythu Bharosa
Representative of India to UNESCO-Paris visited scheme, an increase from the current ₹10,000
the Ramappa Temple and reviewed the ▪ Further, families of landless farm labourers
preservation and conservation efforts will receive a similar amount annually under
undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of the newly introduced Indiramma Atmeeya
India (ASI) and the State government. Bharosa scheme
Ramappa (Rudreswara) Temple : Telangana ▪ Schemes will start on 26th January, 2025
▪ Period & Dynasty: Built in 1213 AD during the ▪ The Rythu Bharosa scheme is not applicable
Kakatiya Empire to non-agricultural lands (mining, hills, real
▪ Builder: Recharla Rudra, general of Kakatiya estate ventures, roads, lands used for
king Ganapati Deva residential, industrial, and commercial
▪ Presiding Deity: Ramalingeswara Swamy purposes, lands converted as Nala and the
▪ Other Name: Rudreswara Temple lands acquired by the government for various
▪ Unique Feature: Named after its chief sculptor projects).
Ramappa; probably the only temple in India
named after an architect Telangana celebrates Kanuma with cattle
worship, processions, rural sports
▪ In Telangana, people celebrated Kanuma, the
cattle festival with traditional fervour and joy
on the third day of the Sankranti festival. It is
also celebrated in Andhra Pradesh.
▪ Rural people worship cattle and agricultural
tools on this occasion

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▪ A significant highlight of this festival is the Centre- State Relation
bullfight and betting on the cattle, known as
Pasuvula Panduga.
▪ A similar bullfight festival, Jalikattu, is
celebrated in Tamil Nadu.

IITH and Coal India Limited to establish

centre of clean coal energy and net zero
▪ Indian
Institute of
Technology
Hyderabad
and Coal India
Limited (CIL)
in a significant ▪ Indian constitution provides for a federal
development structure with a strong centre. The seventh
signed a schedule of the Constitution mentions the
Memorandum legislative, administrative, and financial
of powers between the two. The seventh
Understanding to establish the Centre of Clean schedule divides the powers into three lists –
Energy & Net Zero (CLEANZ). ▪ Union or List I contains 100 subjects
▪ The centre will focus on cutting-edge research, on which only the Parliament has the
technology development, and skill power to make law.
enhancement for sustainable energy solutions ▪ State or List II contains 59 subjects on
which the State legislature has the
Telangana launches Rajiv Yuva Vikasam power to make law.
▪ Concurrent or List III contains 52
scheme; financial assistance to Backward subjects on which the Centre and State
Classes youth can make law, but in case of conflict
▪ The government has decided to provide between the central and state laws,
financial the central law will prevail over the
assistance of state law.
₹6,000 crore to ▪ Residuary Power—Article 248 gives the
five lakh residuary power to the central government.
unemployed This means that Parliament has the power to
Backward make laws on any subject not mentioned in
Classes youth under Rajiv Yuva Vikasam the seventh list, e.g., service tax.
enabling them to take up self-employment. Committee and Commission on Centre-State
▪ Each of the selected beneficiaries will be Relations
provided with financial assistance of ₹3 lakh Sarkaria Commission (1983)
under the scheme enabling them to opt for ▪ The Indira Gandhi government set up a
self-employment. commission on centre-state relations in 1983.
It was headed by Justice Rajinder Singh
Telangana government launches first free Sarkaria.
M M Punchi Commission (2007)
fine rice scheme through ration shops
▪ It was established by the Manmohan Singh
▪ The country’s first scheme to distribute fine
government in 2007 and chaired by Justice
rice (sanna biyyam) at free of cost to the poor
Madan Mohan Punchhi.
through ration shops.
▪ The state government will supply 6 kilograms
of fine rice per person per month at free of
cost through the Public Distribution System
(PDS) to all eligible ration cardholders.

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The Telangana government will launch its marginalised groups within these
communities.
‘Bhu Bharati’ portal for land records
▪ According to the notification, Scheduled
management Castes in the state will be divided into three
▪ The portal will categories – Group I, II and III.
initially be ▪ Within the 15 percent quota for SCs:
implemented as ▪ Group I will get 1 percent reservation;
a pilot project in ▪ Group II will get 9 percent
three mandals in the state reservation;
▪ Group III will get 5 percent
Telangana notifies heatwave as ‘State- reservation.
specific disaster’, enhances ex-gratia to ₹4 ▪ Group I consists of 15 socio-economically
backward castes, Group II has 18 and Group III
lakh has 26 such castes.
▪ The Telangana government has declared
heatwaves, sunstrokes, and sunburns as a
‘State-Specific Disaster’.
17 September Hyderabad Liberation Day
▪ It has also enhanced the financial relief
provided to families of heatwave victims to ₹4
lakh per deceased person.
▪ Until now, only ₹50,000 was offered to the
families under the Apathbandhu scheme.
▪ The enhanced financial relief would be
provided from the State Disaster Response
Fund (SDRF).

Telangana Becomes First State to

Implement SC Categorisation Act

▪ The Telangana government has notified the

implementation of the Telangana Scheduled
Castes (Rationalisation of Reservations) Act
2025.
▪ The State has issued a gazette notification with
April 14, 2025 as the appointed day for
categorisation of Scheduled Castes (SC) into
three groups.
▪ Telangana has become the first State into the
country to operationalise the classification of
the Scheduled Castes after the Supreme
▪ marking the integration of the erstwhile
Court’s land mark judgment on August 1 last
Hyderabad State into the Indian Union in
year upholding the constitutionality of sub-
1948.
classifying the SCs and Scheduled Tribes (STs)
to grant separate quotas for the most

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▪ The princely state of Hyderabad, ruled by the Telangana Plans Bathukamma Festival on
Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan, was the largest
the Scale of Rio Carnival
princely state in India at the time of
Independence (1947).
▪ The Nizam resisted accession to India,
supported by his militia, the Razakars, who
indulged in violence and communal atrocities.
▪ India could not allow an independent
Hyderabad in the heart of the country due to
strategic and security concerns.
▪ On 13 September 1948, the Indian Army ▪ Bathukamma—a name derived from the
launched “Operation Polo” (also called the Telugu words Bathuku (life) and Amma
Hyderabad Police Action). (mother)—translates to Mother Goddess come
▪ Within five days, on 17 September 1948, alive, honouring Goddess Gauri
Hyderabad surrendered, and the state was ▪ This year from 22-30 September (nine days)
integrated into India. ▪ The 9-day celebrations kick off at the historic
Thousand Pillar Temple in Warangal
Governor of Telangana Shri Jishnu Dev ▪ The festival begins on the day of Mahalaya
Varma launches HYSEA’s CSR exchange Amavasya
▪ The final day of Bathukamma, known as
portal
Pedha or Saddula Bathukamma falls two days
before Dussehra.
▪ Women, during the festival, make small
‘Bathukammas’, and then later immerse them
in water.
What Is Rio Carnival?
▪ Held annually in Rio de Janeiro, recognized as
the largest Carnival celebration in the world,
drawing over 2 million revelers per day

Telangana Legislative Assembly passes bill

ensuring 42% reservation for Backward
Classes in local body polls
▪ The Telangana Legislative Assembly
unanimously passed the Panchayat Raj
(Amendment) Bill, 2025 and Telangana
Municipalities (Amendment) Bill 2025.
▪ The two bills propose to lift the 50 per cent
ceiling on total reservations and enabling 42%
▪ The Hyderabad Software Enterprises reservation for Backward Classes (BCs) in
Association (HYSEA) launched the HYSEA panchayats, municipalities, and urban local
ImpactHub: bodies.
▪ A first-of-its-kind CSR Exchange Portal, ▪ In Telangana’s local body polls: SCs already
during the Sustainable Development have ~17% reservation, STs have ~10%.
Summit & Awards 2025 at the ▪ The 50% cap (from Supreme Court rulings like
Hyderabad International Convention Indra Sawhney, 1992) applies to the total
Centre (HICC). reservations (SC + ST + BC + others) in any
▪ The portal aims to connect corporates with election, education, or employment.
vetted NGO projects, facilitating impactful
collaborations in areas such as education,
environment, and community health.

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India’s newest public health university to Telangana CM launches ‘Indira Soura Giri
be headquartered in Hyderabad Jala Vikasam’ to provide free solar pumps
for tribal farmers
▪ Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy launched the
“Indira Soura Giri Jala Vikasam” at Macharam
village in Amrabad mandal of Nagarukurnool
district
▪ The Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH),
▪ The scheme, with an outlay of Rs 12,600 crore,
Hyderabad, along with its Bengaluru and
aims to empower 2.1 lakh tribal farmers by
Bhubaneswar campuses, has been granted the
providing solar powered irrigation facilities,
status of an institution, deemed to be a
particularly those holding land under the
university,
Forest Rights Act (RoFR) and ensuring
▪ under a distinct category by the Ministry of
comprehensive development of six lakh acres
Education.
of Rights of Forest Records (RoFR) lands over
the next five years.
Hyderabad prepares to fight child ▪ The scheme will commence in 2025-26 and will
exploitation with Operation Muskaan XI be implemented till 2029-30 on a 100 percent
subsidy on saturation mode.

Telangana govt’s expert group to

formulate first-of-its-kind ‘Composite
Backwardness Index’
▪ The Telangana government’s expert working
group has decided to formulate a first-of-its-
kind ‘Composite Backwardness Index’ using
the caste census data to measure disparities
across the 243 sub-castes enumerated in the
survey.
▪ The survey was formulated to study, analyse
and interpret data collected under the Social
Education Employment Economic Political
Caste (SEEEPC) Survey of 2024.
▪ The committee includes retired Supreme Court
Justice Sudarshan Reddy as chairman
▪ The “relative backwardness” of the subcastes
will be measured using 43 parameters in rural
and urban areas
▪ The project is inspired by constitutional
principles and builds on the legacy of the
Mandal Commission, which used 11
parameters to rank backwardness.
▪ Hyderabad police launched Operation ▪ According to the SEEEPC survey 73 sub-castes
Muskaan - XI, a month-long initiative from July account for 96% of Telangana’s population.
1 to July 31 These include:
▪ Aimed at tracing missing children and rescuing ▪ 10 Scheduled Caste (SC) sub-castes
minors from various forms of exploitation, ▪ 7 Scheduled Tribe (ST) sub-castes
including begging, child labour, trafficking, and ▪ 45 Backward Classes (BC) sub-castes
bonded labour. ▪ 11 Other Caste (OC) sub-castes
▪ The police would use facial recognition
software ‘Darpan’ to identify the missing and
unidentified children

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Telangana to host 72nd Miss World aims to provide enhanced protection to the
region's biodiversity.
Pageant from May 10–31
16-year-old Vishwanath Karthikey
Padakanti scales the Globe - Youngest
Indian to complete 7 Summits challenge
▪ Hyderabad teenager
Vishwanath Karthikey
Padakanti recently
became the youngest
Indian and the second
youngest person in
the world to
complete the
▪ The event is set to take place at the HITEX legendary 7 Summits
Exhibition Centre and will feature participants challenge.
from over 120 countries. This marks the ▪ The ‘Seven Summits‘ is a challenge first
second consecutive year that India will host proposed and then completed by Richard
the international beauty competition. Bass in 1985.
The reigning Miss World, Karolina Bielawska ▪ It consists of climbing to the highest point on
from Poland, will crown her successor at the each of the seven continents
grand finale. Femina Miss India World 2023, ▪ Kilimanjaro: Africa (5,892 m)
Nandini Gupta (from Rajasthan), will ▪ Elbrus: Europe (5,642 m)
represent India on the international stage. ▪ Aconcagua: South America (6,962 m)
▪ 71st edition of Miss World pageant was held at ▪ Denali: North America (6,194 m)
the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, ▪ Kosciuszko: Australia (2,228 m) or Puncak
Maharashtra Jaya/Carstensz Pyramid: Oceania (4,884 m)
▪ Mount Vinson: Antarctica (4,892 m)
Tiger corridor of Kawal notified as ▪ Mount Everest: Asia (8,848 m)
Kumram Bheem Conservation Reserve
Earliest known reference to Telangana in a
600-year-old stone inscription in Tellapur,
Hyderabad

▪ The Telangana government has officially

notified the Kumram Bheem Conservation
▪ A 1418 CE stone inscription found in Tellapur,
Reserve, encompassing the critical tiger
near Hyderabad, may be the earliest known
corridor linking the Kawal Tiger Reserve in
reference to “Telangana” in stone.
Telangana with the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger
▪ The site is near a temple and a graveyard
Reserve in Maharashtra.
named after Habeeb Hasan Habshi, likely of
▪ This area serves as a vital ecological link
African origin; such individuals were
between the two major tiger reserves
historically present in the Deccan (e.g., Malik
▪ Legal Status: By designating this corridor as a
Ambar).
conservation reserve under Section 36A of the
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, the government

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▪ The inscription is part of a tradition of digging ▪ The Centre has set a target to scale turmeric
wells for village water supply and recording the exports to $1 billion by 2030
act in stone.
▪ It is located at the base of two gently tapering Composition of National Turmeric Board:
monoliths, hidden among homes. ▪ A Chairperson to be appointed by the Central
▪ According to Sibghat Khan of the Deccan Government.
Archive, it could be the first epigraphical use ▪ A Secretary to be appointed by the
of the term “Telangana.” Department of Commerce.
▪ A related document shows Telangana was part ▪ Members from the Ministry of AYUSH,
of the Bahmani Sultanate. Departments of Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture &
▪ It mentions Nagoju, an artisan who also made Farmers Welfare, Commerce & Industry of the
gold ornaments for the Sultan’s wife. Union Government.
▪ The scribe of the inscription was Rudroju ▪ Representatives from the top two turmeric
Sirigiroju. growing states of Maharashtra and Telangana
and from the state of Meghalaya, which is
Telangana’s Folk Festival Bonalu Kicks Off famous for its Lakadong Turmeric, will also be
part of the Board. States will be represented
with Devotion and Celebration
on the Board by rotation.
▪ Bonalu is a Hindu Festival where Goddess
▪ Select national/state institutions involved in
Mahakali is worshiped.
research, representatives of turmeric farmers
▪ It is an annual festival celebrated in the twin
and exporters.
Cities Hyderabad and Secunderabad and other
Status of Turmeric in India
parts of Telangana state, India.
▪ Turmeric, often referred to as the “Golden
▪ Bonalu is celebrated usually during Ashada
Spice,” holds immense economic potential for
Masam that falls in July/August.
Indian farmers, particularly those in 20 states
▪ Every year, the festival starts at Golconda Fort.
including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra
▪ Special poojas are performed for goddess
Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and
Yellamma during the first and last day of the
Meghalaya.
festival.
▪ The largest producing states of Turmeric are
▪ The festival is considered as a form of
Maharashtra, Telangana, Karnataka and Tamil
thanksgiving to the Goddess after the
Nadu.
fulfillment of vows.
▪ The leading export markets for Indian Turmeric
▪ Bonam literally means Meal in Telugu, which is
are Bangladesh, UAE, USA and Malaysia.
an offering to the Mother Goddess.
▪ India is responsible for over 70% of the world’s
turmeric production, with 30 varieties of
Union Home Minister Amit Shah turmeric being grown in the country.
inaugurated Turmeric Board headquarters
in Nizamabad in Telangana Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh
Inaugurates India’s First-of-its-Kind State-
of-the-Art Animal Stem Cell BioBank and
Laboratory at NIAB, Hyderabad
▪ India’s first-of-its-kind State-of-the-Art Animal
Stem Cell Biobank and Animal Stem Cell
Laboratory was inaugurated at the National
Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB) in
Hyderabad
▪ The facility aims to advance regenerative
medicine, disease modelling, and
▪ Farmers will no longer have to rely on reproductive biotechnology for livestock.
middlemen as the National Turmeric Board ▪ Supported by the National Biopharma Mission
will establish the entire value chain — of DBT–BIRAC, it will also enable the
packaging, branding, marketing and export,

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preservation and study of animal stem cells
and their derivatives.

Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project in

Telangana

▪ Phase 2: November 25–27, 2025

‘Jaagrut Hyderabad – Surakshit

Hyderabad’ campaign launched to fight
cyber crimes across Telangana
▪ Launched by: Telangana DGP B. Shivadhar
▪ The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) Reddy
in Telangana has recently come under intense ▪ Type: State-wide cyber crime awareness
scrutiny. campaign
▪ National Dam Safety Authority ▪ Aim: Urge citizens to fight rising online fraud
(NDSA) reported significant structural damage through vigilance and self-awareness.
and design flaws in the project. ▪ The Commissioner administered a ‘Cyber
▪ The project, once hailed as a lifeline for Pledge’ to participants, reinforcing collective
Telangana, now faces questions regarding its responsibility against cyber fraud.
foundation, planning, and governance.
▪ Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is a large- Hyderabad Police Launches
scale multi-stage irrigation project on the
Godavari River in Kaleshwaram, Bhupalpally #SafeRideChallenge to Promote
district, Telangana. Responsible Driving
▪ It utilises over 1,800 km of canal network to
irrigate 16 lakh acres across 13 districts.
▪ Initially estimated at ₹71,000 crore, costs have
escalated beyond ₹1 lakh crore.
▪ CAG termed it economically unviable
(benefit–cost ratio less than 1).
▪ Very high annual power & operational costs
(~₹10,000 crore).

Telangana to Host ‘Telangana–North East

Connect’ Techno-Cultural Festival in Two ▪ Launched by: V. C. Sajjanar, Hyderabad City
Phases Police Commissioner
▪ It’s a techno-cultural festival aimed at ▪ Social Media Campaign
strengthening ties between Telangana and the ▪ Riders post a short video/photo before starting
eight North-Eastern states of India. their trip — showing helmet or seat belt use.
▪ Organized by the Telangana government along Tag 3 friends/family to take the same pledge.
with the Governor’s office, in collaboration
with the Ministry of Development of North India’s First Semiconductor Innovation
Eastern Region (MDoNER). Museum Opens
▪ The festival’s vision includes building “cultural, ▪ Name: T-Chip Semiconductor Innovation
social and developmental linkages” between Museum (T-Chip SIM)
Telangana and the North East. ▪ Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
▪ Phase 1: November 20–22, 2025
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▪ Organizer / Owner: T-Chip (a semiconductor / as bodies ensuring fair, neutral, depoliticised
chip ecosystem company) recruitment.
▪ Exhibits India’s first indigenous AI chip, a Feature UPSC (Union SPSC JSPSC
reusable rocket engine, and next-generation Public (State (Joint
EV and display systems. Service Public State
Commission) Service Public
Kolam tribes Commissi Service
▪ A pilot bamboo plantation on) Commissi
project launched in Adilabad on)
district (Telangana) aims to Appointi President of Governor President
restore traditional ng India of the of India
livelihoods of the Kolam Authority State
tribal community. Term 6 years or 65 6 years or 6 years or
About the Kolam Tribe yrs 62 yrs 62 yrs
▪ Also known as Kolamboli, Kulme, or Kolmi. Resignati President Governor President
▪ Found mainly in Madhya Pradesh, and also in on To
parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Removal Only Only Only
Pradesh. By President President President
▪ Classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal (after SC (Governor (after SC
Group (PVTG). reference) may reference)
▪ History & Culture : In the 12th century, Kolams suspend)
served as priests for the Gond tribe, Grounds Insolvency, Same as Same as
representing their deities. for paid UPSC UPSC
▪ Social Structure :Divided into clans such as Removal employment,
Chal Deve, Pach Deve, Saha Deve, and Sat mental/physi
Deve. cal unfitness
▪ Maintain a distinct religious and social Service President Governor President
identity within the central Indian tribal belt. Condition
▪ Marriage: Same-clan marriages prohibited; s Decided
clan name used as surname. Rituals: Celebrate By
Matya (Churaghali), Bai-Baki, Sati, Jaitur Pooja, Annual President → Governor Governors
and Waghai Pooja. Report Parliament → State of all
Submitte Legislature States →
2025 National Conference of Chairpersons d To State
Legislature
of State Public Service Commissions
s
hosted by the Telangana
▪ The 2025 National Conference hosted by the
Telangana PSC on December 19–20 to address
Structural Difference: UPSC vs State PSCs:
recurring issues in recruitment. Point UPSC State PSCs
Appointments Merit-based, Often
Background of PSC: neutral politicised
▪ 1. Montagu–Chelmsford Reforms (1918) : Representation Zonal norms No fixed norms
Proposed an independent, merit-based, ensured
politically neutral recruitment body. Admin Setup DoPT support Weak planning
▪ 2. First Public Service Commission (1926) : → timely exams → delays
Started permanent, professional recruitment Resources Strong central Fiscal shortages
system for the Union. funding
▪ 3. Government of India Act, 1935 : Created
separate PSCs for provinces Hyderabad to use bioremediation to
▪ 4. Constitution of India (1950) : PSCs retained clean up Hussainsagar lake
under Articles 315–323 (Part XIV). Recognised About Lake:

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▪ It is an artificial lake located in Hyderabad, ▪ Model based on Canadian system (Centre
Telangana. appoints provincial heads).
▪ It is also called Tank Bund and lies on a
tributary of River Musi. Telangana to Name US Consulate Road
▪ It was built during the reign of Ibrahim Quli
‘Donald Trump Avenue’
Qutub Shah by Hussain Shah Wali in 1562 AD.
▪ Telangana : The state has proposed to name a
▪ It is renowned for its monolith of Lord Buddha
road
that stands right in its centre.
alongside the
▪ It had been of significance in the early days
United States
since it connected the twin cities of
Consulate
Hyderabad and Secunderabad.
General in
Hyderabad’s
Telangana DGP pushes for ‘Safe Village’ financial
programme to curb human-trafficking district after
▪ Director General of Police B. Shivadhar Reddy Trump. It will
announced it . be called
▪ The programme will start on a pilot basis in ‘Donald
seven districts, supported by NGOs. Trump
▪ Based on results, it may be expanded to other Avenue’.
districts. ▪ Currently, the high-profile road in front of the
heavily fortified consulate in Nanakramguda is
CAG to Establish Centre of Excellence for referred to as US Consulate Road.
Financial Audit in Hyderabad
▪ CAG will set up a Centre of Excellence in International Rural Innovation Challenge
Hyderabad. 2026
▪ Aim: Build advanced audit skills and
standardised financial audit methods.
▪ The hub will promote innovation, research,
global best practices, and strengthen
professional development in auditing.

11th edition of India Photo Festival in

Hyderabad from November 20
▪ The India Photo Festival (IPF) is set to return to
Hyderabad for its 11th edition, with the State
Art Gallery, Madhapur, hosting the event from
November 20 to January 4.
▪ Supported by the Government of Telangana
The Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia
and Tourism Department.
and the Pacific (CIRDAP), in partnership with the Rural
▪ Organised by the Light Craft Foundation.
Economic and Educational Development Society
(REEDS) launched the India Regional edition of the
Raj Bhavan in Telangana renamed as Lok CIRDAP–REEDS International Rural Development
Bhavan Innovation Challenge 2026 in Hyderabad.
▪ Telangana Governor’s official residence Theme “One Innovation. Endless Change. Countless
renamed from Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan. Smiles”,
Governor of India– The initiative seeks to identify, recognise, and promote
▪ Article 153 → Governor for each state; same proven rural innovations that have demonstrated
person can be Governor for multiple states. measurable impact at the grassroots level across Asia
▪ Article 155 → Governor appointed by and the Pacific.
President (not elected).

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Andhra Pradesh
1. Mana Mitra WhatsApp-Based ‘Mana Mitra’ to Offer 161 Govt
2. Flamingo Festival Services in Andhra Pradesh
3. Zero Poverty – P4 Policy
4. Quantum Computing Village
5. Operation SWARNA
6. Machilipatnam Greenfield Port
7. ‘One Family, One Entrepreneur’
8. Operation Lungs
9. 41st IATO Convention
▪ For the first time in the country, the Andhra Pradesh government has launched WhatsApp Governance
titled ‘Mana Mitra’
▪ The State government has allotted an official WhatsApp number
▪ in the first phase, the government was introducing 161 public services through Mana Mitra - Governance
and in the second phase another 360 services would be enabled.

PM Modi inaugurated, lay foundation Potti Sriramulu’s 58-

stone of projects worth over ₹2 lakh cr in Foot Statue to be
Andhra Pradesh Installed in Amaravati
▪ Andhra Pradesh
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has
announced it will install a 58-foot statue of
freedom fighter Potti Sriramulu in the
upcoming capital of Amaravati.
▪ Potti Sriramulu - the man known for being
instrumental in the creation of the separate
▪ He will lay the foundation stone for NTPC
Telugu-speaking state of Andhra Pradesh
Green Energy Limited’s Green Hydrogen Hub
from Madras Presidency on 1st October, 1953
Project at Pudimadaka near Visakhapatnam.
▪ Born on March 16, 1901, in then Madras, Potti
▪ This will be the first Green Hydrogen Hub
Sriramulu’s family originally belonged to
under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
Nellore. His sacrifice earned him the monicker
▪ foundation stone laying of South Coast Railway
`Amarajeevi’.
Headquarters at Visakhapatnam

Andhra Pradesh’s ‘Zero Poverty – P4

Flamingo Festival 2025 Concludes in
Policy’ Initiative
Andhra Pradesh
▪ Andhra Pradesh
▪ The Flamingo
Chief Minister
Festival 2025 in
Chandrababu
Andhra Pradesh,
Naidu launched
celebrating the
the ‘Zero Poverty
arrival of migratory birds, particularly
- P4’ initiative under Swarnadra 2047 vision
flamingos, to Pulicat Lake and Nelapattu Bird
with an aim to ensure poverty-free Andhra
Sanctuary.
Pradesh by 2029.
▪ An annual event celebrating the arrival of
▪ The ambitious programme seeks to bridge the
migratory birds, focusing on flamingos, to
socio-economic divide by encouraging the
Pulicat Lake and Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary.
wealthiest 10% of the population to support
▪ Locations: Spread across five key sites
the bottom 20% of the poorest families,
Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, Atakanithippa, BV
fostering inclusive growth.
Palem (Pulicat Lake), Government Junior
▪ The ‘P4’ initiative stands for Public-Private-
College in Sullurpet, and Sri City.
People Partnership, wherein affluent

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individuals willing to contribute are
designated as ‘Margadarsies’ (mentors), while
the underprivileged beneficiaries are identified
as ‘Bangaru Kutumbams’ (golden families).

India’s First Quantum Computing Village

under making in Amaravati

▪ India is making a major technological

▪ Unlike larger river systems, the Swarnamukhi
breakthrough with the launch of its inaugural
is independent, meaning it does not join or
Quantum Computing Village in Amaravati,
receive water from major river networks.
Andhra Pradesh - spread across 50 acres
▪ Its flow is heavily dependent on rainfall,
▪ In a high-level meeting chaired by the Real-
particularly in its upper catchment.
Time Governance Society (RTGS), top
▪ Its main tributary is the Kalyani River, across
technology players including IBM, TCS, and
which the Kalyani Dam was constructed in
L&T came together to shape the roadmap for
1977
this pioneering project.
▪ Key highlights of the discussion included the
design of an Iconic Building to be constructed Melioidosis
by L&T, housing advanced quantum systems
provided by IBM, with a possibility of
expanding the facility for decades to come.

Operation SWARNA
▪ The Tirupati Urban Development Authority
(TUDA) recently announced Operation
SWARNA,
▪ a massive plan to rescue the River
Swarnamukhi from the clutches of land
grabbers, revive its flow area and rejuvenate it
to ensure sustenance.
▪ It is a river in Andhra [Link] is an east-
flowing river basin
▪ Course: It rises at an elevation of 300 m in the ▪ Recently, health authorities have confirmed
Eastern Ghat ranges near Pakala village in the melioidosis in a patient from Turakapalem
Chittur district of Andhra Pradesh. village in Andhra Pradesh.
▪ It runs generally in the northeastern direction ▪ It is caused by an infectious disease caused by
passing through the famous Tirupati hills the environmental Gram-negative bacterium
before joining into the Bay of Bengal. Burkholderia pseudomallei.
▪ Its total length is 130 km. ▪ It is seasonal, with 75–85% of cases occurring
▪ It flows through the sacred regions of during the rainy season.
Tirumala and Srikalahasti, where notable ▪ It has a high case fatality rate (CFR) ranging
Hindu temples like the Srikalahasteeswara from 16% to 50% in known endemic regions.
Temple are located. ▪ It is an infectious disease endemic in Southeast
Asia, northern Australia, much of the Indian

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subcontinent, southern China, Hong Kong, and
Taiwan.
▪ It is common in people living with: Diabetes,
Alcohol use disorder, Chronic kidney disease
Chronic lung disease (like cystic fibrosis or
COPD).
▪ Symptoms: Fever, headache, trouble breathing
and Stomach or chest pain etc.
Transmission of Melioidosis
▪ Touching contaminated soil with the hands or
feet, especially if there are small cuts in the What is Machilipatnam?
skin. ▪ Machilipatnam (historically known as
▪ Drinking contaminated water that has not Masulipatnam or Bandar) is a coastal city in
been chlorinated Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, located at
▪ Breathing in contaminated dust or water the mouth of the River Krishna along the Bay
droplets of Bengal.
▪ Exposure to severe weather events such as Ancient History & Trade Heritage:
tropical monsoon storms, cyclones, hurricanes ▪ Satavahana Era Port: Thrived as a maritime
and typhoons. hub as early as the 1st century AD, under the
▪ Treatment: At present, there is no vaccine Satavahana rule.
available for melioidosis. ▪ Medieval Prominence: Flourished during
Golconda Sultanate, famed for muslin and
textile exports to Persia, Europe, and
Andhra Pradesh Green Hydrogen Valley
Southeast Asia.
Declaration 2025 ▪ European Trade Posts: Dutch, British,
▪ The Andhra and French established factories here in the
Pradesh 17th century.
government Decline of Masulipatnam:
launched the ▪ Policy Shift: Lost prominence in the 18th
Green Hydrogen century when British colonial focus shifted to
Valley Madras (Chennai).
Declaration 2025 ▪ Natural Siltation: The port also suffered due to
▪ The declaration coastal sedimentation and lack of
aims to establish modernisation post-independence.
Andhra Pradesh as India’s largest green Strategic Importance in Modern Times:
hydrogen ecosystem ▪ Greenfield Port Revival: Under construction at
▪ It focuses on four key objectives – accelerating Manginapudi, with advanced engineering like
green hydrogen production and infrastructure, tetrapods and breakwater protection.
promoting domestic manufacturing and ▪ Capacity & Expansion: can handle 80,000-
innovation, building technical and research tonne ships.
capacity, and encouraging global partnerships. ▪ Inland Connectivity: Telangana to build a dry
port and freight corridor to connect with
Machilipatnam Greenfield Port in Andhra Machilipatnam.
Pradesh is nearly complete ▪ Export-Import Gateway: Expected to handle
▪ Nearly 48% of construction of the coal, cement, pharma, fertilisers, and
Machilipatnam Greenfield Port in Andhra container cargo.
Pradesh is complete, with operations set to ▪ Economic Multiplier: Boost to employment,
begin by end of 2026. land value, and logistics infrastructure in
▪ This revival links back to Machilipatnam’s Andhra Pradesh’s coastal corridor.
ancient legacy as a thriving port city during
the Satavahana and Golconda eras.

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GVMC launches AI-based ‘Project SARTHI’ ▪ Accessing digital forms and grievance
redressal
for Smart Traffic Management in
▪ The MEPMA (Mission for Elimination of
Visakhapatnam Poverty in Municipal Areas) will facilitate
▪ Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal training and financial support, enabling
Corporation (GVMC) women to secure loans of ₹2 to ₹2.5 lakh to
▪ ‘Project SARTHI’ - Systematic Augmented establish their centres.
Radial Traffic & Hoop Induction, a pilot
initiative to implement an AI-based Integrated Andhra Pradesh Launches Sarvepalli
Traffic Management System (ITMS) in the city.
▪ The project, being implemented in Radhakrishnan Student Kits
coordination with the Traffic Police
Department, involves five IT companies
working across selected city stretches.
▪ It includes Automatic Number Plate
Recognition (ANPR), Red Light Violation
Detection (RLVD), and Facial Recognition
Systems (FRS).

Andhra Pradesh launches ‘Digi-Lakshmi’ ▪ The scheme has been named the ‘Sarvepalli
scheme to empower urban poor women Radhakrishnan Vidyarthi Mitra Kits’.
▪ The state government is providing schools kits
▪ In a major step toward digital inclusion and
to over 35 lakh school-going students free of
women-led entrepreneurship, the Government
cost.
of Andhra Pradesh has launched the ‘Digi-
▪ Radhakrishnan served as the country’s second
Lakshmi’ scheme to establish 9,034 Common
President, from 1962 to 1967. His birthday on
Service Centres (CSCs) across all Urban Local
September 5 is observed as Teachers’ Day.
Bodies (ULBs).
▪ Aims to digitally empower urban poor women
and operationalize the government’s ‘One Andhra Pradesh Launches Smart Mosquito
Family, One Entrepreneur’ (OF-OE) vision. Surveillance System
▪ It's designed to digitally empower poor ▪ Andhra Pradesh
women who are part of Self-Help Groups government is set to
(SHGs), giving them entrepreneurial launch the pilot,
opportunities. called the Smart
▪ The plan is to set up 9,034 Common Service Mosquito
Centres (CSCs)—also called “ATOM kiosks”— Surveillance System
in urban areas across the state. (SMoSS), in 66
▪ These CSCs will be run by eligible SHG women, locations across six
who will receive specific training and support. municipal
Eligible women must meet these criteria: corporations —
▪ SHG membership: Actively involved in an SHG Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Kakinada,
for at least 3 years. Rajamahendravaram, Nellore, and Kurnool.
▪ Married & local: Residing in the service area. ▪ SMoSS uses AI-powered mosquito sensors,
▪ Age: Between 21–40 years. drones, and other devices to detect mosquito
▪ Education: Must hold a graduate degree. species, gender, population density, and
▪ Tech-ready: Owns a smartphone and has basic weather conditions such as temperature and
digital skills. humidity.
▪ Through kiosks, these women will offer around ▪ When mosquito numbers cross the safe limits
250 different public services, such as: in an area, automatic alerts will be sent so
▪ Submitting applications for civic teams can act fast and carry out spraying
government schemes, certificates, and or fogging operations.
licenses
▪ Online payment of utility bills
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Andhra Pradesh partners with Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu

CreativeLand Asia to set up ‘Creatorland’ - marks June 4 as 'people's verdict day'
country’s first Transmedia Entertainment ▪ Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu
Naidu declared June 4 as 'Praja Teerpu Dinam'
City in State
(people's verdict day), marking one year
▪ Creatorland will have immersive theme parks,
anniversary of both the defeat of the previous
gaming zones, global cinema co-production
YSRCP government and the announcement of
zones and it will also help drive job creation,
2024 election results.
skill development, tourism and digital
▪ The TDP-Janasena-BJP alliance won 164 seats
innovation
in the 2024 Andhra Pradesh assembly
elections, decisively defeating the YSRCP to
PM Modi lays foundation, inaugurates form the new government.
projects worth Rs 58,000 crore in Andhra
Pradesh Andhra Pradesh Bans Totapuri Mangoes
▪ Prime Minister from Karnataka
Narendra Modi ▪ The Andhra Pradesh
inaugurated and government has
laid the foundation banned the entry of
for 94 projects juicy Totapuri
worth ₹58,000 mangoes from other
crore in Andhra states into Chittoor
Pradesh, including district.
capital city ▪ Notably, Andhra
institutions, national highways, railway Pradesh’s Chittoor district is home to several
upgrades, and defence-related installations. mango processing and pulp extraction
▪ A major highlight was the relaunch of companies that procure Totapuri mangoes
construction for the greenfield capital city of from local markets.
Amaravati, a key initiative and 'dream project' ▪ Totapuri, also known as Bangalore or
of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Sandersha, is a mango cultivar grown in the
Chandrababu Naidu. bordering districts of Andhra Pradesh,
▪ He also launched nine Central projects worth Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
₹5,028 crore, including a DRDO missile testing ▪ Known for their elongated shape and distinct
centre in Nagayalanka, Unity Mall in Vizag and parrot beak-like tip (hence “Totapuri”), the
six national highway projects. variety is valued for its juice and pulp.

Andhra Pradesh government launched Tirumala Gets India’s First AI-Based

‘One Family, One Entrepreneur’ Command Centre for Pilgrims
▪ The A.P. government has launched the flagship ▪ Tirumala became
programme ‘One Family, One Entrepreneur’ home to India’s first
Policy for Economic Growth AI-powered
▪ with a mission to foster a culture of Integrated Command
entrepreneurship in every household. and Control Centre
▪ By encouraging AI adoption, the policy will (ICCC)
equip citizens with the skills and tools ▪ Inaugurated by
necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving Andhra Pradesh Chief
digital economy Minister N.
▪ an innovation hub to be developed near Chandrababu Naidu and Vice President CP
Tirupati and Renigunta Radhakrishnan.
▪ Andhra Pradesh Becomes First State to Offer ▪ This pioneering initiative aims to enhance
Governance Through WhatsApp (Mana Mitra crowd management, safety, and cybersecurity
initiative launched with Meta to provide 161 at the Sri Venkateswara Temple
civil services to citizens in its first phase
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▪ Equipped with over 6,000 AI-enabled cameras, Eluru man becomes Andhra Pradesh’s first
the system processes 360,000 data points per
para-swimmer to conquer English
minute
▪ Utilizes 3D visualizations and predictive Channel, Palk Strait
analytics to monitor and manage pilgrim flow,
aiming to increase the current capacity of
4,500 pilgrims per hour to 5,500.
▪ Incorporates facial recognition technology for
identifying individuals and detecting
anomalies, aiding in the prevention of thefts
and other untoward incidents

First Indian epigraphical reference to

Halley’s comet found in 15th century
copper plate inscription in
Mallikarjunaswamy temple in Srisailam

▪ Balaga Ganesh, a para-swimmer from Eluru,

has etched his name into the record books by
completing two of the most challenging open-
water swims in the world — the English
Channel and the Palk Strait — within a span of
just two months.
▪ Found on a 1456 CE copper plate from the ▪ Ganesh (38) was part of the ‘Pride of India – A
Vijayanagara period at Srisailam temple, Team’, a six-member relay team that
Andhra Pradesh. successfully swam across the English Channel,
▪ Written in Sanskrit using the Nagari script. covering a distance of 34 km from England to
▪ Mentions a comet and meteor shower, France in the Atlantic Ocean
matching the 1456 appearance of Halley’s ▪ The swim took the team 13 hours and 37
Comet. minutes, making it a historic achievement for
▪ Dated to June 28, 1456 CE (Śaka 1378, all involved.
Āshāḍha ba. 11). ▪ Mr. Ganesh is the first para-swimmer from
▪ The inscription records a grant made by the Andhra Pradesh to achieve this distinction.
Vijayanagara ruler Mallikarjuna to a Vedic ▪ Ganesh swam 28 km across the Palk Strait —
scholar on Śaka 1378, Dhātru Āshāḍha ba. 11, from Sri Lanka to India — in just 10 hours and
corresponding to Monday, June 28, 1456 CE. 30 minutes, becoming the first para-swimmer
▪ The grant was issued ‘in order to mitigate the from the Telugu States to complete the
great calamity believed to arise due to the crossing.
appearance of a comet and the associated
meteor shower
▪ The king donated a village named Simgapura,
located in Kelajhasima of Hastinavati Vemṭhe,
as an agrahāra to a Brahmana named
Limgaṇarya, a Vedic scholar from Kaḍiyalapura.
▪ while references to dhumaketus (comets) are
found in ancient and medieval Indian texts,
this is the first inscriptional record that has
been discovered.

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ESIC launches SPREE–2025 campaign to accommodate more than 7,000 students per
year.
expand social security in Andhra Pradesh
▪ This first-of-its-kind campus will be a world-
▪ The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation
class centre for Artificial Intelligence and
(ESIC) launched a comprehensive campaign on
emerging technologies.
Wednesday to promote its Scheme for
Promotion of Registration of Employers and
Employees (SPREE–2025) at its regional office Andhra Pradesh to become single-use
in Andhra Pradesh. plastic-free by June 2026
▪ The initiative aims to widen social security
coverage for workers across the State.
▪ The scheme seeks to expand social security
under the ESI Act by providing medical care,
cash benefits during sickness, and maternity
benefits for women employees

GVMC launches ‘Operation Lungs’ to

reclaim encroached open spaces in
Visakhapatnam
▪ The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal
Corporation (GVMC) has launched ‘Operation
Lungs – Life to Urban Green Spaces’, a
▪ In a landmark move toward environmental
dedicated drive to remove encroachments
conservation, the Andhra Pradesh government
from reserved open areas in the city.
has committed itself to making the State
▪ The Town Planning wing initiated the
single-use plastic-free by June 5, 2026.
operation on Saturday, clearing illegal
▪ The initiative, spearheaded by Chief Minister
occupations from 15 designated open spaces
N. Chandrababu Naidu, begins with the Andhra
across various approved layouts and zones.
Pradesh Secretariat, which will officially go
plastic-free from August 15, 2025.
BITS Pilani to have advanced AI+ campus
at Amaravati in Andhra Pradesh A.P. police to launch ‘Operation Trace’ to
identify missing and kidnapped girls from
August 1-31
▪ The Women and Child Safety Wing will
conduct the operation in association with the
IGPs, DIGs and Superintendents of Police (SPs)
and other officers across the State

AP Govt Announces ₹1 Crore Cover for

Municipal Staff

▪ BITS Pilani has announced that it will build

India’s first AI Plus Campus in Amaravati,
Andhra Pradesh, with admissions starting in
2027
▪ It will be a first-of-its-kind greenfield campus in
Amaravati, capital city of Andhra Pradesh, by ▪ Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu
investing around ₹2,000 crore to announced ₹1 crore insurance coverage for

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regular workers of municipalities and ₹20 lakh ▪ The ‘Seven Summits‘challenge consists
for the outsourced workers in the event of of climbing to the highest point on each of the
death in accidents. seven continents, including:
▪ In cases of permanent disability, the same 1. Kilimanjaro: Africa (5,892 m)
amount will be ensured. He also announced 2. Elbrus: Europe (5,642 m)
education support up to ₹8 lakh for their 3. Aconcagua: South America (6,962 m)
children. 4. Denali: North America (6,194 m)
5. Kosciuszko: Australia (2,228 m)
Andhra Pradesh Government will soon set or Puncak Jaya: Oceania (4,884 m)
6. Mount Vinson: Antarctica (4,892 m)
up the country’ largest Central Library in
7. Mount Everest: Asia (8,848 m).
Amaravati.
▪ Amaravati would Healthcare initiative Bharat BRAIN to be
soon house the
country’s largest launched at Amaravati soon
and most modern ▪ The Andhra Pradesh government officially
Central Library, launched the Bharat Biodesign Research and
spread across 2 Innovation (BRAIN) programme at the Ratan
lakh sq. ft., and Tata Innovation Hub in Amaravati
designed as a ▪ This initiative aims to:
“world-class hub ▪ Position Andhra Pradesh as a global
of knowledge.” hub for health-tech and digital health
innovation.
▪ Create a start-up ecosystem and drive
Andhra Pradesh to host 41st IATO
entrepreneurial capacity-building in
Convention in 2026 healthcare.
▪ 41st Indian Association of Tour Operators ▪ Enable solutions that are exportable
(IATO) Convention will be hosted by Andhra to emerging markets, aligning global
Pradesh in Visakhapatnam in 2026. expertise with local implementation.
▪ the 40th IATO annual convention held at Puri
in Odisha from August 22 to 24 Mana Mitra: Andhra Pradesh’s WhatsApp
▪ IATO works to promote tourism and advocate
for the interests of India's tour operators Governance Model – A Blueprint for
Digital India
A.P. DSP Harshitha Manikanta scales
Mount Elbrus

▪ Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)

Harshitha Manikanta, attached to the
Railways wing of the Andhra Pradesh Police,
has scaled Mount Elbrus, the tallest peak of
Europe. ▪ Andhra Pradesh expanded its WhatsApp
▪ The 5,642-metre-high mountain is in the Governance platform ‘Mana Mitra’ to offer
Caucasus range along the Russia–Georgia 200+ citizen services, now covering 738
border. services across 36 departments

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▪ The Centre plans to replicate this model Centre for Energy and Cyber Resilience in
nationwide Visakhapatnam.
▪ Mana Mitra is India’s first WhatsApp-based ▪ The initiative aligns with the state’s push to
governance platform, launched by the Andhra modernise its power sector and secure critical
Pradesh government in January 2025 to electricity infrastructure amid rising
deliver public services digitally. technological risks.
▪ Single Number Access: Citizens send a ▪ Andhra Pradesh targets 160 GW of green
message to 9552300009 on WhatsApp. energy generation.
▪ Menu-Driven Service: A chatbot presents ▪ The partnership was announced during the
available services (education, revenue, RTC, 30th CII Partnership Summit in Visakhapatnam.
endowments, tourism, tax payments, etc.).
▪ Instant Document Delivery: Certificates (like
income, caste, hall tickets) are delivered
digitally with QR code verification.
▪ Real-Time Governance Dashboard: Tracks
requests and service delivery for transparency.

25,807 cases registered under ‘Operation

Safe Campus Zone’ in Andhra Pradesh
▪ ‘Operation Safe Campus Zone’ aims at
preventing the sale of cigarettes and illicit
drugs within 100 yards of educational
institutions.
▪ The Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law
Enforcement (EAGLE), in association with the ‘Operation Sambhav’ foils Maoists’ bid to
law and order police of various districts,
revive movement in Andhra Pradesh
conducts raids on shops near educational
▪ Launched by: Andhra Pradesh Police (with
institutions
CRPF support).
▪ Start: June 2025.
Amaravati Quantum Valley (AQV) ▪ Location: Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) district —
initiative Maredumilli Agency area.
▪ C-DOT (Centre for Development of ▪ Reason: Intelligence on presence of
Telematics) has signed an MoU with the Chhattisgarh-based Maoists.
Andhra Pradesh Government to join the ▪ Objective: Stop Maoists from using
Amaravati Quantum Valley (AQV) initiative. Maredumilli hill range as a shelter zone.
▪ To build a quantum-technology ecosystem in
Amaravati. PM Narendra Modi inaugurated multiple
▪ Aim: Develop talent, collaboration,
development projects worth around
infrastructure, and global partnerships in
quantum computing , quantum 13,430 crore rupees in Kurnool
communication , quantum sensing.
▪ The initiative aims to make Amaravati a
globally competitive hub for quantum
research.

Andhra Pradesh Partners With WEF for

Energy and Cyber Resilience
▪ Kurnool-III Pooling Station Transmission
▪ The Andhra Pradesh government has entered a
Project – ₹2,880 crore; adds 6,000 MVA
strategic collaboration with the World
capacity for renewable energy transmission.
Economic Forum to establish a dedicated
▪ Orvakal (Kurnool) & Kopparthy (Kadapa)
Industrial Areas

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▪ Sabbavaram–Sheelanagar Greenfield Highway ▪ Aim: Promote Jan Bhagidari (public
– ₹960 crore; six-lane highway to decongest participation), restore degraded ecosystems,
Visakhapatnam and enhance trade. and strengthen rural livelihoods.
▪ Srikakulam–Angul Natural Gas Pipeline (GAIL)
: 422 km long (124 km in Andhra Pradesh, 298
km in Odisha).
▪ Indian Oil LPG Bottling Plant (Chittoor) – ₹200
crore; capacity 60 TMTPA to strengthen LPG
supply in southern India.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister rolls out

Excise Suraksha app, sets up SIT
▪ Purpose: To curb spurious liquor by allowing
consumers to verify liquor quality at licensed
outlets.
▪ Launch Date: Available on Google Play Store –
October 13, fully operational from October 16.
▪ Key Feature: Tracks manufacturing and sale Ministry of Tourism to organise Carnatic
details of liquor bottles scanned by consumers Music Festival 'Krishnaveni Sangeetha
or sellers. Neerajanam 2025' in Vijayawada on 6th
▪ Promotes safe, transparent, and accountable
liquor sales in the State.
and 7th December 2025

Andhra Pradesh Dy CM Pawan Kalyan

launches Kumki Camp and Project
HANUMAN
20-acre Kumki Elephant Training Camp
▪ Purpose: Train Kumki elephants to monitor
and manage wild herds entering human areas
from Tamil Nadu & Karnataka via Mudumalai ▪ The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India,
& Bannerghatta (Western Ghats). in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture,
▪ Goal: Improve wildlife care, rehabilitation, Sangeet Natak Academy and supported by
conflict monitoring, and veterinary support. Andhra Pradesh Tourism, is organising the
New Initiative: 3rd edition of Krishnaveni Sangeetha
▪ Project HANUMAN (Healing and Nurturing Neerajanam in Vijayawada on 6th and 7th
Units for Monitoring, Aid & Nursing of Wildlife) December 2025.
for better human-wildlife conflict ▪ Theme, “Celebrating the Richness of Telugu
management. Music Traditions,”
Carnatic Music –
Watershed Mahotsav: Guntur, Andhra • Name comes from Sanskrit Karnataka Sangītam
Pradesh. → “traditional/codified music.”
▪ Union Minister of Agriculture will inaugurate • Based on Ragam (Raga) and Thalam (Tala);
Watershed Mahotsav developed in TN, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh,
▪ A national festival promoting community Karnataka (Dravidian cultural region).
participation in sustainable watershed Evolution
management and holistic soil and water • Terms Hindustani & Carnatic first appear in
conservation in rural India. Sangeeta Sudhakara (14th c.).
▪ Part of the National Watershed Conference • Styles became distinct after Mughal era.
2025, organised by the Department of Land • Purandardas – Father of Carnatic Music.
Resources (DoLR), Ministry of Rural
Development.

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Two-Day PESA Festival to Begin in 3 Gujarat

4 Himachal Pradesh
Visakhapatnam
5 Jharkhand
6 Madhya Pradesh
7 Maharashtra
8 Odisha
9 Rajasthan
10 Telangana

Narsapuram Lace Craft

▪The Prime Minister
highlighted
Narsapuram Lace
Craft in Man Ki
Baat as a model of
women-led
economic empowerment and cultural
continuity.
▪ The craft’s Geographical Indication (GI) tag has
renewed national attention on this traditional
▪ Ministry of Panchayati Raj will organise the livelihood of the Godavari region.
PESA(Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled ▪ Narsapuram Lace Craft is a handmade crochet
Areas) Act) Festival in Visakhapatnam on 23– lace tradition, where fine threads are
24 December 2025, marking the anniversary transformed into intricate lace products using a
of the PESA Act.
single crochet hook, reflecting high skill and
▪ The festival will showcase tribal culture and
patience.
cuisine and traditional games such as Chakki
▪ Region: West Godavari and Dr. B.R.
Khel, Uppanna Barelu, Cholo & Puli Meka,
Ambedkar Konaseema districts of Andhra
Mallakhamba, Pithul, Gedi Daud, and Sikor.
Pradesh.
▪ Aim: Empower tribal communities by providing
▪ History: Introduced in 1844 when lace-making
a national platform to celebrate, preserve, and
techniques were taught to local women
promote their traditions.
by European missionaries.
▪ The PESA Act was enacted in 1996 “to provide
Key characteristics:
for the extension of the provisions of Part IX
▪ Raw materials: Uses fine cotton threads, along
of the Constitution relating to the Panchayats
with silk, rayon or synthetic yarns for
to the Scheduled Areas”.
decorative and export-quality products.
▪ Part IX, comprising Articles 243-243ZT of the
▪ Tools: Crafted using crochet hooks of varying
Constitution, contains provisions relating to
sizes to produce different textures and lace
municipalities and cooperative societies.
densities.
Provisions:
▪ Technique: Involves looping and interlocking
▪ Under the Act, Scheduled Areas are those
stitches manually to form delicate lace
referred to in Article 244(1), which says that
structures without machinery.
the provisions of the Fifth Schedule shall
▪ Design motifs: Features floral, paisley
apply to the Scheduled Areas and Scheduled
and geometric patterns inspired by nature and
Tribes in states other than Assam, Meghalaya,
Tripura, and Mizoram. traditional aesthetics.
▪ The Fifth Schedule provides for a range of
special provisions for these areas.
▪ Currently , the areas covered under the
Fifth Schedule in 10 states are:
# state name
1 Andhra Pradesh
2 Chhattisgarh
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Karnataka
1. Garudakshi Initiative Karnataka Forest Department launches ‘Garudakshi’
2. HMPV cases online FIR system to curb wildlife crimes
3. Pragati Patha Scheme ▪ The Karnataka Forest Department has launched the
4. Naxal Free State ‘Garudakshi’ online FIR system to curb forest
5. Banglaore City University encroachments, illegal tree-felling, poaching, and
6. Almatti Dam unauthorised entry into forest areas.
▪ developed in collaboration with the Wildlife Trust of India
7. Operation Abhyaas
▪ Previously, FIRs were manually recorded on paper using
8. Dhwanispandana Yojane
carbon copies
9. Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara
▪ The system will be implemented on a pilot basis in the
Temple Bengaluru Urban, Bhadravathi, Sirsi and Male
Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary divisions.

First case of HMPV detected in Bengaluru blocked nose, sore, throat, fever and
wheezing.
• The estimated incubation period is three to six
days.
• In most people, the illness goes away on its
own within a few days, with rest and
supportive care at home.
• In a few people however, complications such
as bronchitis or pneumonia may arise,
▪ An 8-month-old baby in Bengaluru has been requiring medical care.
detected with Human Metapneumovirus Transmission
(HMPV), first case in India • It spreads through contact with an infected
▪ Delhi Govt has issued advisory for Human person or touching objects that have the virus
MetaPneumoVirus (HMPV) and other on them.
respiratory viruses. • Treatment: There is no vaccine and there is no
▪ As part of the recommendations, hospitals specific antiviral to treat HMPV. Most people
have been instructed to promptly report require over-the-counter medications to
Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute relieve fever and pain, possibly with a
Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases through the decongestant. Antibiotics will not work for
IHIP Portal. HMPV.
▪ The recommendations come in the wake of
reports of increased respiratory illnesses in
BMCRI to Set Up South India’s First
China.
About Human Metapneumovirus: Infectious Disease Research Lab
• It is a respiratory virus that causes mild
infections similar to that caused by a common
cold.
• It was first identified by scientists in 2001
which belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, of
which respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), measles
and mumps are also members.
• It is generally seen in winter and early spring.
• Children, the elderly and those with weakened ▪ Bangalore Medical College and Research
immune systems are more susceptible to the Institute (BMCRI) will host the Indian Council
infection and to developing complications from of Medical Research’s (ICMR) first Infectious
it. Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory
Signs and symptoms (IRDL) in south India.
• Symptoms can resemble those caused by a
common cold. They include a cough, runny or
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▪ This will be a part of seven proposed IRDLs Soligas and Tiger Conservation in BRT
being set up across the country.
Tiger Reserve
Ancient Umamaheshwara metal sculpture
found at Taggunje in Udupi district of
Karnataka
▪ A Umamaheshwara metal
sculpture, which was
probably made in the 17th
century in the 12th
century style, has been
found at Taggunje in Ajri
village of Kundapura taluk
in Udupi district of
Karnataka.
▪ Made of five metals, it is a rare combination of
Shaiva-Shaktha and Naga cult,
▪ two lines written on the surface of the
platform.
▪ The first line reads Murthy Saakshi, which
means ‘on the witness of this idol’.
▪ The second line says ‘G 3 ke ra Shu 14’, which
means gold of 3 gadhyanas was used in
preparing this idol, and it contains 14% gold
▪ The writing is in Kannada with script of the
17th century.
▪ The Umamaheshwara cult was founded by
Soma Sharma of Gujarat in the 10th-11th
century.
▪ Within no time, it became popular in the
Indian sub-continent.
▪ It was influenced by Vajrayana Buddhism, and
love is its central theme.

Karnataka Govt. will launch ‘Pragati Patha’

scheme to improve rural road network ▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a
reference to Soligas of BRT Tiger Reserve in
Karnataka State. in the 119th edition of Mann
Ki Baat
▪ The tiger is worshipped as a god and is
referred to as “Dodda Nayi”
▪ Soligas was the first tribal community living
inside a tiger reserve and getting their forest
rights recognised by a court in a judgment in
2011.
▪ The National Tiger Conservation Authority
(NTCA) report on the tiger population for BRT
▪ The government will invest ₹5,190 crore to
Tiger Reserve indicated the presence of 69
improve and develop 7,110 km of rural
tigers in 2014.
network roads under the scheme,
▪ This number went up to 86 in the 2018 report.
▪ Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
However, the NTCA’s 2022 report noted a
▪ Governor - Thawar Chand Gehlot
decline in the tiger population and attributed it
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to the presence of humans and habitat ▪ Andhra Police rose ‘Greyhounds’; special
degradation. forces to deal with naxalism in the state.

About Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Ellie, Asia’s first life-sized animatronic
Reserve
elephant, unveiled in Bengaluru
• Location: It is located in the Chamarajanagar
district of Karnataka State.
• The tiger reserve derives its name from
'BILIGIRI ', the white rocky cliff which has a
temple of Lord 'VISHNU', locally known as
‘Rangaswamy’.
• Made a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1974.
• BRT Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger
Reserve in 2011.

Tiger Reserves In Karnataka

1. Bandipur Tiger Reserve ▪ Asia’s first hyper-realistic life-sized animatronic
2. Bhadra Tiger Reserve elephant, Ellie, was unveiled at St. Joseph’s
3. Biligiri Ranganatha Temple Tiger Reserve School.
4. Anshi Dandeli (Kali) Tiger Reserve ▪ Voiced by actor and environmental activist Dia
5. Nagarhole Tiger Reserve Mirza and launched by People for the Ethical
Treatment of Animals (PETA) India.
Karnataka Declared ‘Naxal-Free’ After
Final Surrender Karnataka issues circular to facilitate ‘right
to die with dignity’ based on 2023
Supreme Court order
▪ In line with the modified Supreme Court
Judgment dated January 24, 2023, in Common
Cause v. Union of India, (2018) the Karnataka
Government has issued a circular on January
30, 2025, to facilitate the right to die with
▪ Karnataka has been declared Naxal-free dignity for terminally ill patients
following the surrender of a Naxalite in ▪ The move is based on a Supreme Court ruling
Chikkamagaluru district. of 2023 which stated that the Right to Life
Naxalism in India under Article 21 of the Constitution
▪ The term Naxalism derives its name from the encompasses the right to die with dignity.
village Naxalbari of West Bengal. ▪ The Karnataka Government has issued an
▪ It originated as rebellion against local order directing to set up medical boards in the
landlords who bashed a peasant over a land state’s hospitals to facilitate requests for
dispute. dignified deaths.
▪ The rebellion was initiated in 1967, with an ▪ Primary and Secondary Medical Boards,
objective of rightful redistribution of the land comprising three registered medical
to working peasants under the leadership practitioners each.
of Kanu Sanyal and Jagan Santhal. ▪ This will immensely benefit those who are
Steps taken by the Government terminally ill with no hope of recovery, or are
▪ Operation Green Hunt: It was started in 2010 in a persistent vegetative state, and where the
and massive deployment of security forces was patient no longer benefits from life-sustaining
done in the naxal-affected areas. treatment.
▪ Aspirational Districts Programme: Launched in ▪ An Advance Medical Directive (AMD), or a
2018, it aims to rapidly transform the districts living will, in which a patient can record their
that have shown relatively lesser progress in wishes about their medical treatment in the
key social areas. future.

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
▪ the request from the patient’s family must Google unveils ‘Ananta,’ its largest campus
pass muster with two medical boards in the
in India
hospital
▪ The Secondary Medical Board must also have
a registered medical practitioner nominated
by the District Health Officer

Karnataka Governor launches Braille-

enabled Indian Constitution
▪ Google unveiled its largest campus in India—
Ananta, meaning “infinite” or “limitless” in
Sanskrit—one of Google’s largest campuses
(office) in the world
▪ Located in Mahadevapura, Bengaluru, Ananta
has a seating capacity of over 5,000

Bangalore City University to be Renamed

After Dr. Manmohan Singh
▪ To mark 75 years of the Constitution, Sankara ▪ Karnataka Chief
Eye Hospital in collaboration with CII Young Minister Siddaramaiah
Indians (YI) Bengaluru, has brought out a announced during his
Braille-enabled version of the Indian budget speech in the
Constitution. Legislative Assembly
▪ Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot that Bangalore City
launched the Braille version. University will be
▪ A Braille version of the Indian Constitution, the renamed Dr
project seeks to foster a more inclusive society, Manmohan Singh
ensuring that everyone, regardless of their Bengaluru City
vision ability, has equal access to foundational University, in honor of the former Prime
knowledge about their nation Minister of India, who passed away on
December 26, 2024
▪ Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s 13th Prime
National Horticulture Fair in Bengaluru
Minister, was known for his role in economic
from February 27 to March 1 liberalization and financial reforms, which
played a crucial part in shaping modern India’s
economy.

Almatti Dam
NEWS: Karnataka has proposed raising the Almatti
Dam height from 519.60 m to 524.256 m, expanding
its capacity from 173 TMC to 300 TMC.
▪ The fair will be organised at the Indian Council ▪ A hydroelectric and irrigation project forming
of Agricultural Research (ICAR) - Indian the main reservoir of the Upper Krishna
Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) Irrigation Project.
▪ Theme - ‘Horticulture for Vikasit Bharat - ▪ Commissioned in 2005, with an installed
Nutrition, Empowerment and Livelihood’. power generation capacity of 290 MW.
▪ The focus will be on promoting varieties and ▪ Located in Bijapur (Vijayapura) district,
technologies which will help in improving Karnataka (with submergence in Bagalkot)
nutrition levels in the country. ▪ River: Built across the Krishna River, one of
South India’s major east-flowing rivers.

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Major Dams on Krishna River: ▪ Togalu
▪ Almatti Dam – Karnataka. Gombeyatta
▪ Narayanpur Dam – Karnataka. is a traditional
▪ Srisailam Dam – Andhra Pradesh/Telangana form of
border. shadow
▪ Nagarjuna Sagar Dam – Telangana/Andhra puppetry from
Pradesh. Karnataka,
▪ Jurala Project (Priyadarshini Dam) – Telangana. ▪ meaning "play
▪ Pulichintala Project – Andhra Pradesh. of leather
▪ Prakasam Barrage – Andhra Pradesh. dolls" in
Kannada.
Lakkundi Group of Monuments Proposed ▪ It involves using handmade leather
puppets to depict stories, often from
for UNESCO Tentative List
the Hindu epics Ramayana and
Mahabharata.

Popular Puppetry in India (Static)

Puppetry State Type
Pavakoothu Kerala Glove
Kathputli Rajasthan String
Kundhei Odisha String
▪ The Karnataka government, in collaboration
Gombeyatta Karnataka String
with INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and
Bommalattam Tamil Nadu String
Cultural Heritage), has prepared a final stage
Putul Nautch West Bengal Rod
proposal to include ancient temples and
Yampuri Bihar Rod
monuments located in the Lakkundi area of
Gadag district in the UNESCO Tentative List. Togalu Karnataka Shadow
▪ UNESCO Tentative List is a preliminary list in Gombeyatta
which a member country includes the sites Tholu Bommalata Andhra Pradesh Shadow
that it wants to nominate as a World Heritage Ravanachhaya Odisha Shadow
Site in the future
▪ Location: Lakkundi, Gadag district, Karnataka Jenu Kuruba Tribe
▪ Period: 10th to 12th century AD ▪ The Jenu Kuruba
▪ Rule: Western Chalukya / Kalyana Chalukyas tribe has made
▪ The region is famous for temple architecture, headlines in 2025 for
water structures and technological innovation. returning to their
Major Monuments in Proposal ancestral village in
✓ Lakkundi Monuments the Nagarhole Tiger
• Kashi Visvesvara Temple Reserve.
• Manikesvara Temple ▪ This marks assertion
• Nanneswara Temple of Indigenous rights in India. After being
• Brahma Jinalaya – 1007 CE evicted 40 years ago, over 50 families have
• Musukina Bavi – Stepwell begun rebuilding their homes.
✓ Surrounding Sites ▪ Their return is driven by a spiritual connection
to the land and a desire to revive their
What is ‘Togalu Gombeyaata’ traditional lifestyle.
▪ NEWS: The Torchbearer of ‘Togalu ▪ The Jenu Kuruba is recognized as a Particularly
Gombeyaata’ – a 96 years old Bhimavva Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), primarily
Shillekyathara, was awarded Padma Shri 2025. found in the Kodagu and Mysore districts of
She is a puppeteer from Koppal, Karnataka, Karnataka.
stands as a living legend of India’s folk theatre ▪ The name "Jenu Kuruba" originates from
traditions. Kannada, where "jenu" means honey. This
▪ Togalu Gombeyaata – name reflects their traditional occupation of

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honey collection, gathering food, and unclaimed bodies during a time of famine and
managing forest produce. disease.
▪ The Jenu Kuruba community's primary sources
of income have historically been land and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to inaugurate
forest resources.
Kusum-C project on June 11
▪ They are also referred to by the names "Then
Kurumba" or "Kattu Naikar."
▪ They live in small settlements called Hadi.

Operation Abhyaas: Civil defence drill held

in Bengaluru and Raichur

▪ On June 11, 2025, the Chief Minister of

Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, will officially launch
the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam
Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) –
Component C at Gauribidanur in
Chikkaballapura district.
▪ In response to the Ministry of Home Affairs ▪ The KUSUM–C scheme aims to provide
(MHA) directive to conduct drills, various farmers with reliable daytime electricity by
stakeholders conducted the civil defence installing solar units near agricultural electricity
exercise, Operation Abhyaas, at the Civil feeders - ensuring high-quality power supply
Defence Headquarters at Ulsoor, Bengaluru, for agricultural pump sets
Karnataka ▪ The PM KUSUM scheme, launched in 2019,
aims to add Solar capacity of 34,800 MW by
Rare find: 16th century inscription in March 2026 with the total Central Financial
support of ₹ 34,422 crore.
Haveri district of Karnataka records death
Key Components of PM KUSUM:
of 6,307 people owing to drought ▪ Component A: Installation of grid-connected,
decentralized solar or renewable energy-based
power plants (up to 2 MW).
▪ Component B: Installation of standalone solar
agriculture pumps (up to 7.5 HP) in off-grid
areas.
▪ Component C: Solarization of existing grid-
connected agriculture pumps, including feeder-
level solarization.

Karnataka Raises Tobacco Buying Age to

▪ A sculptural inscription was discovered near 21, Bans Hookah Bars and Public Smoking
Chandrashekara temple at Guttala, in Haveri
district of Karnataka.
▪ The inscription documents the death of 6,307
people due to drought, marking it as the first
historical record in India of a humanitarian
disaster caused by a natural calamity.
▪ The inscription tells the story of Marulayya, a
man who performed the final rites for 6,307 ▪ The Karnataka government has raised the
legal age for purchasing tobacco products
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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
from 18 to 21 and increased penalties for ▪ This bridge will reduce the distance from
violations, with fines going up from ₹200 to Sagara town to Sigandur where the famous
₹1,000. Chowdeshwari temple is situated.
▪ In a decisive move to safeguard public health, ▪ Sudarshan Setu, India’s longest cable-stayed
the Karnataka government has amended the bridge, in the Gulf of Kutch. Also known as
Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act Signature Bridge, it links mainland Gujarat
(COTPA), 2003, introducing significant legal with Bet Dwarka island off Okha coast in
reforms. Devbhumi Dwarka.
▪ Buffer Zone Enforcement: Sale of tobacco About Sharavati River
banned within 100 metres of any educational ▪ It is an important west-flowing river in the
institution. state of Karnataka. A major part of the
▪ Ban on Loose Cigarettes: Prohibits the sale of Sharavati river basin lies in the Western Ghats.
single cigarette sticks. ▪ On its way, the Sharavathi forms the Jog Falls,
▪ Fine for Public Smoking: Raised from ₹200 to one of the highest waterfalls in India, where
₹1,000 under Sections 21, 24, and 28. the river falls from a height of 253 m.
▪ Major Tributaries: Nandihole, Haridravathi,
Sculpture of Buddha, three rock-cut caves Mavinahole, Hilkunji, Yennehole, Hurlihole,
found at Kadri and Nagodihole
▪ A headless sculpture
of the Buddha and a Dariya Bahadur Island
group of three rock ▪ Udupi police recently registered a case against
cut caves of great eight individuals who allegedly entered the
importance were restricted Dariya Bahadur within Malpe police
found during a station limits.
recent ▪ About Dariya Bahadur Island
archaeological ▪ Located in the Udupi district,
exploration Karnataka. It is among the four islands
conducted at Kadri in Mangaluru near Malpe Beach.
▪ The sculpture is stylistically datable to the 4th ▪ It is also known as Bhadragada Island,
or 6th century A.D. or Lighthouse Island.
▪ The sculpture was found in a water tank near ▪ Home to Daira Bahadurgarh Fort which
the Kadri Manjunatha temple is built by Basavappa Naik of Bidanur.
▪ The Dhyana Buddha image belongs to ▪ Legend: King’s treasure buried here to
Mahayana Buddhism and caves also belong to escape Haider Ali’s invasion (mid-18th
the Mahayanists. century).

Union Minister Nitin KSRTC launches ‘Dhwanispandana Yojane’

Gadkari inaugurates to aid visually impaired passengers
India’s second longest ▪ The Karnataka State Road Transport
cable-stayed sigandur Corporation (KSRTC) has taken a major step
towards inclusive public transportation by
bridge in Karnataka launching ‘Dhwanispandana Yojane’, an
▪ Sigandur bridge in initiative to assist visually impaired passengers
Karnataka, also with easier and independent mobility.
known as the ▪ Under this initiative, audio device systems
Ambaragodlu- have been installed on nearly 200 buses
Kalasavalli Bridge - Constructed across operating on various routes in Mysuru city.
Sharavati river backwaters in Sagar taluk of ▪ These devices can be activated by visually
Shivamogga district in Karnataka impaired users through a remote key, which
▪ It is 2.44 km long and16 metre wide. announces route numbers and other details,
enabling passengers to identify their desired
buses independently.
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Karnataka proposes a new Devadasi Karnataka govt to levy groundwater

legislation with clauses on paternity test, extraction charges; meters now
right to property mandatory for all users
▪ In a bid to strengthen the legislation against
the centuries-old Devadasi system, the
Karnataka government is working on
introducing a new law.
▪ The new legislation, Karnataka Devadasi
(Prevention, Prohibition, Relief and
Rehabilitation) Bill, is currently being
discussed to replace the more than four-
decade-old Karnataka Devadasi (Prohibition
and Dedication) Act, 1982 .
‘Legitimate child’
▪ Any child of a Devadasi will be deemed as a
“legitimate child” and will have the right to
property with inheritance and succession
following the Hindu Personal Law.
▪ The proposed legislation also provides the
option for unwilling children of a Devadasi not ▪ The Karnataka government has recently
to be compelled to declare the name of their introduced new charges for groundwater
father while applying for government identity extraction, which came into effect from July
cards such as such as passport, PAN, Aadhaar, 2025. This is a significant policy shift aimed at
and driving licence regulating groundwater usage and promoting
▪ While the existing law has set punishment to sustainability.
be a maximum of three years for dedicating ▪ The state govt has decided to impose charges
women as a Devdasi, the proposed law ranging from Rs 1 to Rs 35 per cubic metre on
increases the imprisonment term to a individuals, housing societies, commercial
maximum of five years with minimum establishments, industries, and mining
imprisonment to be two years and a fine of ₹1 operators
lakh. ▪ It is mandatory to obtain a No-Objection
Certificate (NOC) from the Karnataka Ground
Water Authority (KGWA) before digging a new
Kempegowda International Airport gets its
borewell.
own signature ▪ All existing borewells, regardless of their age,
fragrance must be registered with the KGWA.
▪ To enhance the ▪ All borewell drilling agencies must also be
passenger registered with the KGWA.
journey through ▪ Violations of the new norms will attract
a deeper penalties ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 2 lakh,
sensory depending on consumption levels.
connection, the
Kempegowda Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Temple
International
Airport (KIA) has
unveiled its
signature fragrance, Dancing Bamboo, which
has been deployed at Terminal 2 (T2).

NEWS: The Temple recently welcomed the formation

of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) by the Karnataka

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government to probe the allegation of mass secret ▪ Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) will
burial of unidentified bodies in the pilgrimage centre. build the Airbus H125 helicopters here.
▪ It is a Hindu temple in the town of ▪ This initiative aims to boost India’s aerospace
Dharmasthala in Karnataka. capabilities and meet defence and civil aviation
▪ It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who here is needs.
worshipped as Lord Manjunatha.
▪ The temple dates back 800 years. It has ASTraM app
Madhwa Vaishnava priests and is ▪ Launched by: Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP)
administered by a hereditary Jain family, the with Aarohan Foundation’s Police Marshals
Heggades. ▪ Involvement: College students can report
traffic violations via app
1st November- Kannada Rajyotsava Day ▪ App: ASTraM (Automated System for Traffic
(Karnataka Formation Day) Management) – real-time digital platform for
▪ This was the day in monitoring & enforcement
1956 when all the Objectives
Kannada language- ▪ Encourage citizen participation in traffic
speaking regions of management
South India were ▪ Enable real-time reporting of violations to
merged to form the authorities
state of Karnataka. ▪ Promote data-driven regulation, accountability,
▪ Formed under the States Reorganisation Act, and community-police cooperation
1956.
Constitutional Provision IISc professor Arpita Patra summits
Article 3 authorises the Parliament to: highest volcanic peaks of four continents
▪ Form a new state by separation of territory ▪ A professor at the Indian
from any state or by uniting two or more states Institute of Science (IISc)
or parts of states or by uniting any territory to has summited the highest
a part of any state. volcanic peaks of four
▪ Increase the area of any state, continents in the last one
▪ Diminish the area of any state, year.
▪ Alter the boundaries of any state, She climbed the highest volcanic
▪ Alter the name of any state. peaks of four continents:
▪ However, Article 3 lays down two conditions: 1. Mt. Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters), Africa
▪ The Bill can be introduced in the Parliament 2. Mt. Elbrus (5,642 meters), Europe
only with the prior recommendation of the 3. Mt. Giluwe (4,367 meters) Oceania
President; 4. Mt. Pico de Orizaba (5,636 meters) in North
▪ Before recommending the bill, the President America.
has to refer the same to the state legislature
concerned for expressing its views within a
First-Ever Air Shipment of GI Tagged Indi
specified period.
▪ The President (or Parliament) is not bound by and Puliyankudi Limes
the views of the state legislature and may ▪ The Agricultural and Processed Food Products
either accept or reject them, even if the views Export Development Authority (APEDA)
are received in time. facilitated the first-ever air shipment of GI-
tagged Indi Lime (Karnataka) and Puliyankudi
Lime (Tamil Nadu) to the United Kingdom.
India’s First Private Helicopter Line
▪ A Geographical Indication (GI) is a form of
Launched by Airbus and Tata Intellectual Property Right (IPR) that identifies
▪ India is set to establish its first helicopter final goods as originating from a specific
assembly line in the private sector at Vemagal, geographical region, where their quality,
Kolar district, Karnataka. reputation, or other characteristics are
essentially linked to that origin.

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▪ GI tags are registered under the Geographical Karnataka Menstrual Leave Policy for
Indications of Goods (Registration and
Working Women
Protection) Act, 1999.
▪ Issued by: the Geographical Indication Registry,
Chennai, under the Department for Promotion
of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry
of Commerce and
Industry.
About Indi Lime (Karnataka):
▪ Region: Cultivated
mainly in Vijayapura district, Karnataka.
▪ Distinct Features: Known for high juice yield,
zesty aroma, and balanced acidity.
▪ Special Attributes: Valued in
▪ Provides 1 paid menstrual leave/month (12
culinary, traditional medicine, and cultural
per year).
practices, reflecting Karnataka’s deep-rooted
▪ Applies to govt offices, IT firms, garment units,
agrarian heritage.
MNCs, and private establishments.
About Puliyankudi Lime (Tamil Nadu):
▪ Eligible age: 18–52 years; covers permanent,
▪ Region: Grown extensively in Tenkasi district,
contractual, outsourced women employees.
known as the “Lemon
▪ Leave can’t be carried forward; must be used
City of Tamil Nadu.”
in the same month.
▪ Variety: Especially the
▪ No medical certificate needed.
Kadayam Lime, prized
▪ Aims to reduce stigma and recognise
for its thin peel, strong acidity, and high juice
menstrual health as a workplace issue.
content (≈55%).
▪ Nutritional Value: Contains 34.3 mg/100g of
ascorbic acid, rich in Vitamin C Bengaluru’s Unique Garbage Dumping
and antioxidants, aiding immunity and Festival
digestion. ▪ Garbage Dumping Festival launched by Greater
▪ Recognition: Received GI tag in April 2025, Bengaluru Authority and BSWML to address
acknowledging its regional uniqueness and improper waste disposal.
superior quality. ▪ Concept: Waste was deliberately dumped
outside homes of residents repeatedly ignoring
NCBS and ICTS Launch CALIBRE to garbage norms to create awareness and
Advance AI-Driven Biological Research in enforce accountability.
▪ Penalties: ₹2.8 lakh fines imposed on 218
India households.
▪ The National Centre for Biological Sciences ▪ Leadership: Campaign led by Kare Gowda,
(NCBS) and the International Centre for CEO, Bengaluru Solid Waste Management.
Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), both under ▪ Future Plan: Set up 65 waste kiosks across
the Tata Institute of Fundamental Bengaluru for segregated waste collection and
Research (TIFR), have jointly launched the community participation.
Centre for Artificial Learning and Intelligence
for Biological Research and Education
Bengaluru Traffic Police launch ‘Cobra
(CALIBRE) in Bengaluru.
▪ The centre aims to develop tools, datasets, and Beat’ to tackle micro-level congestion
frameworks tailored to India’s biodiversity, ▪ Purpose: Manage micro-level traffic congestion
healthcare, and agricultural sectors, making AI via rapid response
more relevant to local contexts. ▪ Cobras: 3–4 first responders per station; each
covers 2 fixed routes during peak hours
▪ Tasks: Clear stalled vehicles, illegal parking,
errant U-turns, and blocked intersections

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▪ Impact: Ensures real-time traffic management Arcot, Walajapet (Anaicut), Kanchipuram, and
and smoother flow across Bengaluru Chingleput.
▪ Cultural significance: Ancient temples like
Koraga Tribe Kolaramma Temple, Someswara Temple
▪ A genomic study by (Kolar), and major Kanchipuram temples lie
Mangalore University along its banks.
& Yenepoya University found a distinct ▪ Arcot Dam: One of Tamil Nadu’s oldest
ancestry possibly linked to the Indus Valley irrigation dams, historically important.
Civilisation.
▪ Classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Karnataka to release first-of-its-kind Child
Group (PVTG). Rights Index
Population (Census 2011) ▪ The Karnataka State Commission for Protection
▪ Total: 1582 (Male: 778, Female: 804) of Child Rights (KSCPCR) is set to launch a Child
▪ Language: Koraga Bhasha and Tulu Rights Index, a first-of-its-kind document in the
country.
Culture & Society ▪ Shows each department’s child-related laws,
• Traditional craft: Basket-making schemes, and implementation status.
• Dance & rituals with strong cultural identity ▪ Helps departments know which schemes/laws
• Matrilineal society apply and what to improve.
• Clan system: “Bali”
• Village head: Mooppan (senior-most person) Karnataka police launch ‘Sanmitra’
• Musical instruments: Dholu (Drum), Voote
initiative to combat drug abuse
(Flute)
▪ Sanmitra: Karnataka
Religion
Police initiative.
• Follows Hinduism with distinct tribal beliefs
▪ Supports,
• Worship spirits (Bhutas), believe in magic &
rehabilitates, and
rituals to ward off evil
monitors substance-
abuse affected individuals.
Ksheera pilot project launched in ▪ Focus: Empathy , guidance , structured rehab,
Vijayapura district of Karnataka not just enforcement.
▪ Inaugurated by: Prashanth Prakash (Founding
partner, Accel India) Karnataka Launches KEO, an Affordable
▪ Location: Vijayapura district, Karnataka
AI-Ready Personal Computer
▪ Purpose: Promote animal husbandry and boost
KEO stands for Knowledge-driven, Economical,
milk production
Open-source.
▪ Implemented by: BLDE Society + Krishikalpa
▪ Developed by:
Foundation + Akshayakalpa Foundation
Karnataka Govt (IT &
▪ Focus: Sustainable dairy farming
Electronics Dept) +
KEONICS (Karnataka
Palar River : Two Persons Washed Away State Electronics Development Corporation).
▪ Origin & Course: Rises in the Nandidurg hills ▪ Purpose: Low-cost, AI-ready PC to bridge
(Kolar, Karnataka), flows first as an digital divide for students, homes, small
underground stream (Guptagamini) and businesses
surfaces near Bethamangala. ▪ Processor: Open-source RISC-V
▪ Flows 93 km in Karnataka, 33 km in Andhra ▪ On-device AI: Dedicated AI core → works
Pradesh, and 222 km in Tamil Nadu, finally without internet
meeting the Bay of Bengal at Vayalur.
▪ Tributaries: Seven in total; Cheyyar and
Ponnai are the major ones.
▪ Cities on its banks: Ramanaickenpet,
Vaniyambadi, Ambur, Vellore, Melvisharam,

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GI Mahotsav 3.0 to celebrate India’s designed mainly to preserve public order, not
address hate speech as a distinct offence.
Geographical Indication heritage at CSIR’s
Section 196 BNS: The Most Commonly Invoked
CFTRI Provision
▪ CFTRI A successor to IPC Section 153A, Section 196 penalises:
(Central Food Technological Research Institut) ▪ Promoting enmity between groups
in Mysuru, Karnataka from December 5 to 8. ▪ Acts prejudicial to harmony
▪ The mahotsav will host about 50 curated stalls ▪ Although arrests under this section are
exclusively dedicated to GI-registered artisans. frequent, convictions remain rare — barely
▪ These stalls will showcase and sell authentic GI 20.2% in 2020, as per NCRB data.
products from across South India Section 299 BNS: Protecting Religious Feelings
▪ This provision (equivalent to IPC Section 295A)
Karnataka Unveils e-Swathu 2.0 punishes deliberate and malicious acts
▪ CM Siddaramaiah launched e-Swathu 2.0. intended to outrage religious sentiments.
▪ The platform strengthens Gram Panchayat Section 353 BNS: Incitement Creating Public Disorder
revenue and improves property-related ▪ Section 353 criminalises:
services. ▪ Statements/misinformation inciting offences or
▪ Converts all property records into digital disturbing public order;
format by issuing e-Khata. ▪ All these offences are cognisable, allowing
▪ Enables rural homeowners to apply online police to arrest without a warrant, and carry
using Aadhaar/mobile OTP, eliminating visits to penalties of up to three years.
panchayat offices. Online Hate Speech
▪ Section 66A IT Act was used earlier but struck
Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes down in 2015 for being vague and
unconstitutional.
(Prevention) Bill, 2025
RiNK Initiative by KLE CTIE at the Mundhe
Banni Startup Meetup
▪ The KLE Centre for Technology Innovation and
Entrepreneurship (KLE CTIE), in strategic
partnership with Mundhe Banni and Avantro
Labs, launched the RiNK Initiative – Rise in
North Karnataka.
▪ This transformative program reverses talent
migration by facilitating tech professionals’
return from metros and enabling GCCs,
startups, and enterprises to scale in North
▪ The Bill proposes 2–10 years’ imprisonment for Karnataka.
hate-speech and hate-crime offenders.
▪ It also introduces collective liability for Nirmala Sitharaman launches ‘VijAIpatha’
organisations involved in hate-related labs in Hosapete govt. schools
offences. ▪ Union Minister for Finance and Corporate
▪ Karnataka govt says the Bill is needed because Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman launched
India lacks any law that explicitly defines or ‘VijAIpatha’, a pilot Artificial Intelligence (AI)
addresses hate speech, creating a long- education initiative .
standing gap in the criminal framework. ▪ Aimed at equipping government school
How Hate Speech Is Currently Regulated in India students with future-ready skills in Artificial
▪ India lacks a standalone statute defining or Intelligence, Science, Technology, Engineering
penalising hate speech. and Mathematics (STEM), robotics, coding and
▪ Instead, police rely on scattered provisions of digital innovation.
the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which are

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▪ The initiative, implemented by the Cyient About Bhima River
Foundation in partnership with the Karnataka ▪ It is a perennial river and the largest tributary
government. of the Krishna River.
▪ Origin: It originates near Bhimashankar Temple
Bhima River Latest News in the Bhimashankar hills in the Western Ghats.
▪ It flows through the states of Maharashtra,
Karnataka, and Telangana.
▪ Confluence: It merges into the Krishna River in
Karnataka’s Raichur district.
▪ Drainage Area: The Bhima drainage area is
defined by the Western Ghats (west), the
Balaghat Range (north), and the Mahadeo Hills
(south).
▪ 75 percent basin area lie in the state of
Maharashtra.
Major Tributaries of Bhima River
▪ Recently, the Karnataka government urged the
▪ Right Bank: Indrayani River, Mula River, Mutha
central government’s intervention over
River and Pavana River.
Maharashtra’s excess use of Bhima river water.
▪ Left Bank: Sina and Nira etc.

Kerala
1. Belur Village Kerala to launch 1st project on collection, disposal of
2. Mannan Community expired medicines
3. Attukal Pongala
4. Senior Citizen Commission
5. first State to achieve total digital
literacy
6. ‘Jyothi’ Scheme
7. Thrissur Pooram festival
8. Radio Nellikka
9. Onam 2025
10. Matsya Shakti Project

▪ Kerala is set to become the first state in India to scientifically collect and dispose of expired and unused
medicines from households
▪ The project titled ' nPROUD' (New Programme for Removal of Unused Drugs) will be inaugurated by Health
Minister Veena George on February 22 in Kozhikode.
▪ The medicines collected in this way will be scientifically processed at the Kerala Enviro Infrastructure
Limited (KEIL) waste treatment plant, which is approved by the Central and State Environment
Departments.

Centuries-old relics unearthed in Belur ▪ The unearthed objects, crafted primarily from
brass and other alloys include intricately
village
shaped figurines and ritualistic items.
▪ In a remarkable
▪ spirit worship’ practices that were prevalent
archaeological
in North Kerala between 16th and 17
find, remnants
centuries. The Namaskara mudra (a folded-
of centuries-
hand gesture in prayer) seen in some of the
old ‘spirit
metal forms
worship’ rituals have emerged from the soil of
Parakkalai Valiyadukka in Belur village, Kerala

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Raman Rajamannan, king of Mannan ▪ The ritual made it to the Guinness Book of
World Records in 2009 for being the largest
tribe, to attend Republic Day parade
religious gathering of women on a single day
▪ Raman
when over 2.5 million took part in it.
Rajamannan,
▪ Attukal temple is also known as the “women’s
the king of
Sabarimala”.
the Mannan
▪ Lakhs of Women prepare the Pongala to
community
appease their favourite deity, the Attukal
and the only tribal king in Kerala, will
Bhagavathy (also known as Goddess Kannaki
participate in the Republic Day parade in Delhi.
or Bhadrakali) for the peace and prosperity of
▪ as guests of the Scheduled Tribes (SC)
their families.
Development department.
▪ In ‘pongala’, devotees prepare a mix of rice,
▪ The Mannan community is mainly settled in
jaggery and scrapped coconut in pots in
the buffer zone area of the Idukki Wildlife
makeshift brick stoves.
Sanctuary at Kozhimala, Kerala , the hub of the
tribe with 48 settlements ruled by a king, the
only such community in southern India. ‘Gosamrudhi’ cattle insurance scheme
▪ The King is an integral part of the traditional launched in Ernakulam
functions and festivities of the community ▪ The ‘Gosamrudhi’ insurance scheme for dairy
farmers and cattle under their care, a joint
About Mannan Community: venture between the Central and State
• The Mannan is a scheduled tribe (ST) of governments under the National Livestock
Kerala. Mission, has been launched in Ernakulam
• It is the only Adhivasi tribal dynasty with a district, Kerala.
kingship currently existing in South India. ▪ The insurance scheme provides coverage to
• The life of the Mannan Community is closely dairy farmers and their cattle, including cows
related to Tamil culture. and buffaloes, against risks such as animal
• They speak a dialect similar to Tamil but death and a decline in milk yield.
without a script. ▪ For an animal costing around ₹65,000, the
• It is believed that they were originally from insurance premium will be ₹1,356 for general
Tamil Nadu and later migrated to Idukki during category farmers and ₹774 for those in the
the period of Poonjar Rajavamsham (kings). SC/ST category.
• Nearly 97 percent of the Mannan community's ▪ For a three-year cover, the premium will be
population reside in Idukki District. ₹3,319 for the general category and ₹1,892 for
• They follow a matrilineal system of descent, the SC/ST category.
and their ruler, the Raja Mannan, is elected by ▪ Paying a premium of ₹100 will provide an
community headmen from among those accident cover of ₹5 lakh for the farmer. All
eligible by heredity. 3,325 milch animals and their owners are
• Their primary occupation is entitled to this insurance cover.
agriculture, including coconut harvesting,
cultivation of herbs, etc. ASI discovered over 110 megalithic
• They practice Hinduism
structures discovered in Kerala
“Attukal Pongala” ▪ The Archaeological
▪ Attukal Pongala is a 10- Survey of India (ASI)
day religious festival has stumbled upon a
celebrated at the cluster of over 100
Attukal Bhagavathy megaliths near
Temple in Malampuzha dam in
Thiruvananthapuram, Palakkad, Kerala during
Kerala. a recent exploration
▪ On the ninth day there expedition.
is a huge gathering of millions of women on
the temple surroundings.

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▪ Megalithic structures are structures, which are media platforms under the ‘Digi Kerala’
built for burials using large, often rough initiative of the Local Self-Government
stones, without mortar or cement. department
▪ Such chambers were common during Neolithic ▪ The programme includes people over 60 years
and Bronze Ages. old, going beyond the National Digital Literacy
▪ The ASI said that most of the burials are of Mission's age limit.
Cists variety ▪ Digi Kerala started as a pilot project in
▪ Cist grave is a small stone-built coffin-like box Pullampara in 2022 to teach digital skills to all
or ossuary used to hold the bodies of the dead. residents.
▪ Megaliths, large stone structures, are found ▪ Ernakulam was declared the first fully digital
across India particularly in the southern India. literate district in Kerala
Most notable sites are Brahmagiri in
Karnataka and Adichanallur in Tamil Nadu. The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB)
and IIT Bombay have launched a pilot
Kerala Became First State To Establish
project to explore Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)
Senior Citizens Commission
technology
Context: The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) and
IIT Bombay have launched a pilot project to explore
Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, aiming to integrate
Electric Vehicles (EVs) into the State’s power grid for
enhanced renewable energy management.

▪ Kerala has become the first state in India to

pass a law creating a commission for senior
citizens, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan
▪ The commission will prioritise addressing the
hardships faced by the elderly, including
neglect, exploitation, and loneliness.
▪ Additionally, the commission will take the lead • Definition: V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) is a system
in implementing initiatives to utilise the skills where Electric Vehicles (EVs) communicate
of senior citizens for the benefit of society. with the power grid to return stored energy,
enabling two-way electricity flow.
• Developed by: The concept was first proposed
Kerala to become first State to achieve
in the late 1990s by Dr. Willett Kempton and
total digital literacy researchers at the University of Delaware.

Kerala Launches ‘Jyothi’ Scheme to

Educate Migrant Children
▪ The Kerala government has launched a
comprehensive initiative aimed at ensuring
access to education for the children of
migrant workers.
▪ Titled "Jyothi", the programme seeks to bring
all children of migrant workers aged 3 to 6 into
the anganwadis while ensuring those aged 6
▪ Over 21 lakh people identified as ‘digitally and above are fully integrated into public
illiterate’ taught to make voice and video calls schools.
using smartphones, access govt. services, to
carry out Internet banking, and use social
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Kozhikode Joins WHO’s Global Age-

Friendly Cities Network

▪ Kozhikode city has been honoured with

another global recognition in the form of a
membership in the World Health Transshipment port
Organisation’s Global Network of Age-friendly • A transshipment port is a port where goods are
Cities and Communities (GNAFCC) offloaded and loaded onto a different ship to
▪ With this membership, Kozhikode joins a continue their journey to their final
network of cities that formulate policies, destination.
provide services, and develop infrastructure
aimed at supporting the elderly—helping Kerala: Thrissur Pooram festival held at
them remain healthy, active, and creative in Vadakkumnathan temple
old age

PM Modi dedicates to nation Vizhinjam

International Deepwater Multipurpose
Seaport in Kerala

▪ It is celebrated annually in the Malayalam

month of Medam (April-May) at
the Thekkinkadu Maidanam in Thrissur.
▪ Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated ▪ Often referred to as the “mother of all
Vizhinjam International Deepwater Poorams”, it is one of the largest temple
Multipurpose Seaport worth Rs 8,800 crore to festivals in Kerala.
the nation in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. ▪ Historical origin: Initiated by Raja Rama
▪ built by Adani Ports and SEZ Private Limited. Varma, famously known as Sakthan
▪ This is India’s first international deepwater Thampuran, the Maharaja of Cochin (1790–
transshipment port with a natural depth of 1805).
more than 18 meters, scalable up to 20 ▪ Features the participation of 10 different
meters. temples, replacing the earlier Arattupuzha
• Vizhinjam is India’s first dedicated Pooram, which was Kerala’s largest festival
transhipment port and also the country’s first before Thrissur Pooram.
semi-automated port. Key highlights:
• It sits just 10 nautical miles from a key ▪ Majestic elephants, adorned in traditional
international shipping route and has naturally attire, are a central attraction.
deep waters, making it ideal for large cargo ▪ Traditional orchestra music (Panchavadyam)
ships. adds vibrancy to the festival.

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Vruthi Campaign money from the State Disaster Response Fund

(SDRF), for expeditious relief efforts.
About SDRF:
▪ The State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) is a
financial resource used by state governments
to respond to notified disasters.
▪ It's primarily used to provide immediate relief
to victims of disasters. The fund is constituted
under Section 48(1)(a) of the Disaster
▪ NEWS: The recent ‘Clean Kerala Conclave Management Act, 2005.
2025’ showcased innovative practices and ▪ The Central contribution is 75% for general
collective achievements in waste management category states and 90% for special category
▪ Kerala launched the ‘Vruthi’ campaign in states (like North Eastern States and Himalayan
October 2024 to combat the rising waste crisis states).
through mass public participation and
decentralized solutions.
• ‘Vruthi’ means cleanliness of body and mind.
Kerala Becomes First State to Mandate
• It is a statewide behavioural change Robotics Education for All Class 10
campaign for garbage-free Kerala. Students
• Part of the ‘Malinya Muktham Nava ▪ Kerala has
Keralam’ mission. emerged as
• Key Features: the first state
• Involves all societal levels — from the in the
Chief Minister to sanitation workers. country to
• Mobilises Haritha Karmasena, youth, make robotics
schools, artists, and local bodies. education
• Focuses on technology-neutral and mandatory
context-specific solutions like for all 4.3
composting, local segregation, etc. lakh students
• Encourages competition among local of class 10,
bodies for achieving 100% garbage- starting from
free status. the upcoming academic year on June 2.
▪ The integration of robotics into the tenth-
Kerala government declares Kochi grade ICT textbook, specifically the sixth
shipwreck a State disaster chapter titled "The World of Robots" in the
▪ Kerala Government has declared the wreckage first volume, will empower students to explore
of ship ELSA 3 in the Arabian sea 14.6 nautical fundamental robotics concepts through
miles off the Kerala coast as a State-Specific engaging activities.
disaster considering the potentially serious Kozhikode district gets official flower, bird,
environmental, social, and economic impact. animal and tree
▪ The order permits the State Disaster ▪ Melastoma malabathricum (Athirani) has been
Management Authority to mobilise resources, designated the official flower of Kozhikode
including personnel and significant sums of district.
▪ Ceyx erithaca (Meniponman) is the official
bird.
▪ Pachliopta pandiyana (Malabar rose) is the
official butterfly.
▪ Hopea erosa (Theyyakam) is the official tree.
▪ Cycas circinalis (Eenthu) the official heritage
tree.
▪ Lutrogale perspicillata (Otter) the official
aquatic animal.

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▪ Pangio bhujia (Pathala Poontharakan) the ▪ The objective of Radio Nellikka is to promote
official fish. child rights, safety, and empowerment through
▪ Manis crassicaudata (Indian Pangolin) the accessible, engaging audio content.
official animal. ▪ It aims to create a child-friendly Kerala by
spreading awareness on laws, mental health,
and responsible parenting.

World’s largest container ship MSC Irina

docks at Vizhinjam seaport in Kerala
▪ The world’s largest
container ship MSC
IRINA made a historic
debut at Vizhinjam
Kerala’s Vithoot Afforestation Programme international seaport.
▪ The vessel, which was
▪ Kerala’s forest department launched an
on its maiden visit to a
innovative
South Asian port,
afforestation effort,
docked at the port,
coinciding with World
highlighting Vizhinjam’s capabilities in handling
Environment Day
ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs).
▪ This was the aerial
▪ The MSC IRINA, billed as the world’s largest
distribution of
container ship by TEU (twenty-foot equivalent
thousands of seed
unit) capacity.
balls across the
state’s woods and
vacant land, a strategy unprecedented in scope Ship M.V. Wan Hai 503
within India to promote ecological restoration. ▪ A massive fire erupted
▪ The extensive ‘Vithoot’ programme, which on the Singapore-
translates to ‘seed shower’, is designed to flagged container ship
rehabilitate Kerala’s natural ecology and M.V. Wan Hai 503 off
mitigate human-wildlife conflicts. the Kerala coast, near
Kozhikode, prompting
concerns of a potential
Radio Nellikka
oil spill and
▪ The Kerala State Commission for Protection of
environmental hazard.
Child Rights (KeSCPCR) will launch Radio
▪ The ship was en route from Colombo to
Nellikka, an exclusive internet radio station for
Mumbai when the fire broke out.
children.
India’s First Butterfly Sanctuary
Inaugurated in Kerala’s Aralam Forest
▪ The Kerala State Wildlife Board officially
renamed the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in
Kannur as the Aralam Butterfly Sanctuary,
making it India’s first protected forest
dedicated entirely to butterflies.
▪ The renamed sanctuary is one of the richest
butterfly habitats in Kerala, with over 266
▪ Radio Nellikka is a child-centric internet radio recorded species — more than 80 percent of
platform initiated by KeSCPCR to spread all butterflies found in the state.
awareness, education, and rights-based ▪ establishment in 1984
content tailored for children and their
guardians.
Objective:

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Kerala’s First Skin Bank to Open in Centre for Pedagogical Innovation and
Publishing.
Thiruvananthapuram
▪ Kerala’s first skin bank is ready at the
Government Medical College,
Thiruvananthapuram.
▪ The inauguration of the facility has been
scheduled for July 15 to coincide with the
World Plastic Surgery Day observance.
▪ Skin banks are a valuable asset in the
treatment of burn victims and patients with
severe skin injuries. Skin banks collect and
store skin from donors.
▪ Dedicated to elevating teaching and learning
in management education
Kerala’s KITE Initiative ▪ Designed to create, publish, and disseminate
▪ Kerala’s KITE (Kerala Infrastructure and high-quality educational content such as case
Technology for Education) initiative was studies, simulations, books, research notes,
recently recognised by the United Nations and monographs
Children’s Fund (UNICEF) as a global best ▪ It plans to blend Indian traditional knowledge
practice in responsible Educational with global educational practices.
Technology (EdTech). ▪ Gyanodaya will run its own manuscript
▪ It has gained both national and international platform named ‘Pandulipi’. It will promote
attention for ethically integrating Artificial collaboration among learners, authors, and
Intelligence (AI) in school education. educational institutions.
▪ KITE is the official technology arm of the
General Education Department of the
Government of Kerala.
Ambrosia Beetle Threatens Rubber
▪ It was launched to promote ethical, inclusive, Plantations In Kerala
and open-source-based AI integration in public
schools.
Key Features of the KITE AI Initiative:
▪ Promotes Equity - All students—rich or poor,
urban or rural—get equal access to digital
education.
▪ Uses Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) -
Instead of expensive software ▪ Rubber plantations in Kerala have been under
▪ Protects Privacy - Student data is not shared threat since an ambrosia beetle-fungus
with private companies, which is a big issue in alliance has been attacking trees, causing
many EdTech models. severe leaf fall and rapid drying.
▪ Trains Teachers - Thousands of teachers are ▪ The infection also affects total latex production
trained to use tech in classrooms the right way. from rubber trees, causing economic and
▪ Builds Digital Skills - Students learn agricultural losses.
programming, animation, video editing, and ▪ The beetles get their name from the ambrosia
even robotics via Little KITES IT Clubs. fungi that call the beetle their home.
▪ Uses Safe Platforms - Kerala created its own ▪ The name ‘ambrosia’ is not taxonomic but
educational tools and platforms instead of ecological.
depending on global tech giants. ▪ These beetles are native
to Central and South
IIM Kozhikode Launches ‘Gyanodaya’ A America.
Centre for Pedagogical Innovation ▪ They were first reported
in India in the cashew trees of Ponda, Goa, in
▪ Recently, the Indian Institute of Management
2012.
Kozhikode (IIMK) launched the ‘Gyanodaya’

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▪ The beetle shares a mutualistic relationship Symptoms: sore throat, headache and pain in the
with two fungal species, Fusarium ambrosia forehead, hallucinations, nausea and vomiting, high
and Fusarium solani. fever etc.
▪ The beetles don’t feed on the woody bark of ▪ Treatment: Swift diagnosis and treatment with
trees; the fungi do. specific antibiotics may be useful, but recovery
▪ The beetles bore tunnels called galleries in the is rare.
bark, carry fungi into the galleries, and farm
the fungi to concentrate nutrients. Kerala Declared India’s First Fully Digitally
Literate State
Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis

▪ Recently, Kerala’s ▪ Kerala Chief Minister declared Kerala as

health department has the first fully digitally literate State in India,
sounded an alert in marking the completion of Phase I of the Digi
Kozhikode district after Kerala project.
three back to back ▪ The initiative sought to bridge the digital divide
cases of the rare by training individuals in basic digital skills
primary amoebic across all local bodies.
meningoencephalitis ▪ Mass Coverage: Surveys covered 1.5 crore
(PAM) were reported in individuals from 83.46 lakh families.
the region ▪ Targeted Intervention: Identified 21.88 lakh
▪ It is an infection of the brain and the digitally illiterate persons, of which 21.87 lakh
membranes covering the brain. (99.98%) successfully completed training and
▪ Cause: It is caused by Naegleria fowleri, evaluation.
known as the “brain eating amoeba”. ▪ Inclusive Approach: Even senior citizens
▪ Naegleria fowleri is a free-living amoeba found participated—showcasing accessibility and
in warm, fresh water and soil, and infects inclusiveness.
people when it enters the body through the ▪ Grassroots Orientation: Training delivered
nose. through local bodies, reflecting Kerala’s strong
▪ This is a very rare, but serious disease with a decentralisation and participatory governance
mortality rate of more than 95%.It affects tradition.
mainly young, active people.
▪ It is classified into two main types: Primary Kani Tribe
Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) and
Granulomatous Amebic Encephalitis (GAE).
Transmission: The amoeba that causes the infection
occurs in shallow surface waters and incorrectly
maintained swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas,
particularly in warm climates.
▪ Infection occurs when infected water enters
the nose. This can happen when diving, NEWS: Recently, Kuttimathan Kani belongs to the Kani
jumping, or swimming in freshwater. tribal community who revealed Arogyapacha has died.

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▪ The Kani tribals or Kanikarars are a Matsya Shakti Project
traditionally nomadic community, who now
lead a settled life in the forests of the
Agasthyamalai hills of the Western Ghats in
the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala.
▪ The Kani tribe’s traditional occupations include
the production of handicrafts, seasonal
collection of minor forest products such as
honey and beeswax, and cultivation of edible
▪ Launched in August 2025 by Union Minister of
plants such as tapioca, banana, millets and
State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry &
cash crops.
Dairying (George Kurian) in
▪ They speak Tamil and Malayalam as their
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
language. They have vast knowledge about
▪ Aimed at empowering minority fishing
medicinal plants.
communities through skill development and
▪ Arogyapacha (Trichopus zeylanicus), the
sustainable livelihood training under the
‘miracle plant’ of tribal healers known for its
Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM
anti-fatigue and therapeutic properties, was
VIKAS) scheme.
once a secret well-preserved by the Kani
▪ Managed by ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries
community.
Research Institute (CMFRI) via its Vizhinjam
Regional Centre, in collaboration with the
Muthuvan Tribe Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA)
▪ A one-year, multi-phased program targeting
690 beneficiaries from minority communities.
▪ Participants receive stipends during training
and post-training support to start their own
enterprises or act as consultants
▪ Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM
▪ A rare convention of the Muthuvan VIKAS) scheme launched under the Ministry
community has taken on a novel mission to of Minority Affairs is a central sector scheme.
protect their language and culture, ▪ It provides skill development, leadership
▪ organised a three-day special conference as training and entrepreneurship to minorities
part of the International Day of the World’s and artisan communities all over India.
Indigenous Peoples. ▪ The PM VIKAS Scheme also consolidates five
▪ The Muthuvans, or Mudugars, live on the already existing schemes:
border hill forests of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. ▪ Seekho aur Kamao, USTTAD (Upgrading
▪ They have expertise in traditional medicines - the Skills and Training in Traditional
confidentially preserved and passed on to the Arts/Crafts for Development), Hamari
generations. Dharohar, Nai Roshni Nai Manzil
▪ These tribal people follow a unique system of India International
governance called the ‘Kani System’ - each
Tea Conference to
village is headed by a ‘Kani’, who is
responsible for the administration of the be held in Kochi,
village. Kerala from
▪ Religion and Beliefs: They are animists and September 18-20
spirit worshippers and also worship the forest ▪ The United
gods. Planers
▪ Occupation: Virippukrishi (a form of shifting Association of
cultivation) is their traditional means of Southern India
livelihood, and they cultivate a wide variety of and the Tea
food grains that are used only for Board India will
consumption. organise the

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eighth edition of India International Tea
Convention in Kochi from September 18 to 20.
▪ Theme - “Innovating the Tea Ecosystem for
Tomorrow”

World Coconut Day: Kerala’s Coconut

Development Board Announces Increased network, thereby promoting cultural
Financial Aid for Farmers exchange and tourism.
▪ The board has said that it will produce 2.5 lakh Focus Area Ports along the Malabar Coast,
coconut saplings this year, providing 50 per especially Muziris (modern-day
cent financial aid for farmers. Kodungallur), which was a major
▪ Financial aid for sapling is increased to rupees ancient port.
45 from the present four rupees. Partners UNESCO and 30+ countries that were
▪ Replanting aid is also increased to rupees 350 historically connected through the
from rupees 40. spice trade (Middle East, Europe,
Africa, Southeast Asia).
Onam 2025 - August 26 - September 5 Themes Culture, heritage conservation,
▪ Onam is a maritime history, tourism promotion,
prominent harvest international cooperation.
festival in
Kerala, celebrated to Kerala govt rolls out Prajwala scholarship
commemorate scheme for job aspirants
the homecoming of ▪ Kerala launched guidelines for the Prajwala –
the Asura king Connect to Work scholarship for job aspirants.
Mahabali, who is ▪ Gives ₹1,000/month to candidates aged 18–30
believed to have for up to 12 months.
ushered in peace and ▪ Expected beneficiaries: 5 lakh youths in skill
prosperity to the region. training or competitive exam preparation.
▪ It takes place during Chingam, the first month Targets economically backward youths facing
of the Malayalam calendar, Kollavarsham. financial hardship; amount sent via Aadhaar-
▪ The 10-day festival begins on Atham (first day linked DBT.
of Onam) and culminates on Thiruvonam (last ▪ Eligibility
day). ▪ Must be Kerala resident, 18–30 years,
▪ Key celebrations include the creation family income ≤ ₹1 lakh.
of Pookkalam (flower rangolis), along with ▪ Not eligible if receiving any similar
various traditional rituals such as Vallam Kali government scholarship/aid.
(boat races), Pulikali (tiger ▪ Open for those in recognised skill
dances), Kummattikali (mask dances), training or preparing for UPSC, State
and Onathallu (martial arts). PSC, SSC, defence, banking, railways,
▪ The main attraction is the traditional Onam etc.
sadhya (grand feast).
Parumala Perunnal festival
Spice Route Initiative to string together ancient ports
▪ Parumala Perunnal is a significant annual
and heritage sites in Kerala
festival celebrated at the Parumala Church in
Particular Details
Pathanamthitta district, Kerala.
Launched Department of Tourism, Government
▪ This weeklong event honors the death
by of Kerala
anniversary of Bishop Mar Gregorios
Objective To link ancient ports and heritage
Metropolitan, the first canonized saint of the
sites of Kerala with countries that
Malankara Orthodox Church of Kerala.
were part of the historic spice trade
▪ Held from October 26th to November 2nd.

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Kochi hosted the first BIMSTEC-India ▪ Social Equality: Advocated “One Caste, One
Religion, One God for all human beings.”
Marine Research Network (BIMReN)
▪ Aravipuram Movement (1888): Installed a Siva
Conference to boost blue economy idol at Aravipuram — a bold act challenging
BIMSTEC Blue Economy Researchers’ Forum caste-based temple restrictions.
▪ A biennial platform to connect researchers of ▪ SNDP Yogam: Founded the Shree Narayana
BIMSTEC countries for blue economy Dharma Paripalana Yogam to uplift backward
collaboration in the Bay of Bengal. classes and spread moral and spiritual values.
▪ Announced: 2022 (BIMSTEC Summit, Colombo) ▪ Literary Works: Authored Advaitha Deepika,
▪ Launched: 2024 by the Ministry of External Atmavilasam, Daiva Dasakam, Brahmavidya
Affairs, India Panchakam, and others, promoting Advaita
Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical philosophy and universal brotherhood.
and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC):
▪ 7 countries around Bay of Bengal; formed 6
Sabarimala Temple
June 1997 (Bangkok Declaration). Members:
▪ Event: President
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka,
Droupadi Murmu
Myanmar, Thailand.
became the first
▪ Secretariat: Dhaka.
woman head of state
to offer prayers at the
Kozhikode to be declared extreme Lord Ayyappa Temple,
poverty-free district on October 28 Sabarimala.
▪ District: Kozhikode, Kerala ▪ Location:
▪ Date: To be declared free of extreme poverty Pathanamthitta district, Kerala, in the Western
on 28 Oct 2025 Ghats, at 4,134 ft altitude within the Periyar
▪ Initiative: Part of Kerala’s “No Family Left Tiger Reserve.
Behind” campaign ▪ Deity: Lord Ayyappa (Dharma Shasta) — son of
▪ Approach: Uses multidimensional criteria— Shiva and Mohini
income, shelter, health, education, etc.—to ▪ Pilgrimage: Among the largest in the world —
identify and uplift extremely poor households 40–50 million devotees yearly during
through custom micro-plans Mandalam–Makaravilakku season.
▪ Rituals: Devotees observe a 41-day vratham
President Droupadi Murmu Inaugurates (austerity) before visiting; temple is open to all
faiths.
Mahasamadhi Centenary of Sree Sabarimala Case
Narayana Guru ▪ Women in their ‘menstruating years’ (between
10 to 50 years) were customarily prohibited
from entering the temple.
▪ In 2018, the Supreme Court ruled that the
Sabarimala temple’s exclusion of women aged
10 to 50 was unconstitutional.
▪ The verdict triggered widespread protests and
▪ At Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala (Kerala). remains under review by a larger bench
▪ Birth: 22 August 1856, Chempazhanthy, Kerala;
born into the Ezhava caste (then considered Kerala will officially be first State ‘free of
avarna).
extreme poverty’
▪ Philosophy: Major proponent of Advaita
▪ The extreme poverty eradication programme
Vedanta (non-dualism) following Adi
began in 2021 as one of the first Cabinet
Shankara’s teachings.
decisions of the current Left Democratic Front
▪ Legacy: Social reformer who preached “One
(LDF) government
caste, one religion, one God for mankind.”
Key Contributions of Sree Narayana Guru

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▪ Kerala is the State ▪ 100% Central for UTs without
with the lowest legislature
poverty rate in ▪ Eligible Schools: Govt. schools, Kendriya
the country with a Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas (permanent
poverty rate of buildings).
0.7% of the total
population. Kochi to Host 7th International Seaweed
▪ After ground-level
Expo and Summit in January 2026
surveys, 64,006
▪ The ICAR-CMFRI (Central Marine Fisheries
families across
Research Institute) Kerala will host 7th India
the State were
International Seaweed Expo and Summit 2026
identified as extremely poor, based on factors
(IISE&S 2026), one of the largest seaweed
such as food, health, livelihood, and shelter.
industry gatherings, on January 29-30 , 2026.

Kerala: First Underwater Tunnel to link

Vypin and Fort Kochi
▪ The event will be organised by the Indian
▪ Will reduce the
Chamber of Commerce, CMFRI and CSIR-
existing 16 km road
Central Salt Marine Chemicals Research
journey to just 3 km
Institute (CSMCRI) Gujarat.
beneath the Arabian
▪ A major highlight will be the ‘Seaweed 2030’
Sea.
panel, which will outline a national roadmap
▪ 2.75 km stretch —
to accelerate India’s rise as a global leader in
including 1.75 km of
sustainable seaweed production and high-
bored tunnels and 1
value product manufacturing.
km of cut-and-cover
sections.
Seaweeds
• Marine
Kerala signs MoU with Centre to join PM
algae/plants
SHRI Schools found in
PM SHRI Scheme (2022) shallow
▪ Centrally sponsored initiative to upgrade waters (up to 50 m).
14,500 schools as models of NEP 2020. • Colours: Red, green, brown, black; sizes from
▪ Aim: Provide safe, inclusive, and high-quality microscopic to large forests.
learning with modern infrastructure. • Uses: Edible; fertilizers; source of
▪ Funding: polysaccharides; rich in antioxidants; help fat
▪ 60:40 (Centre:State/UTs with metabolism & diabetes control; have anti-
legislature) inflammatory/antimicrobial properties; used as
▪ 90:10 for NE & Himalayan States + J&K emulsifiers (toothpaste, jelly) & emollients
(cosmetics).

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Tamil Nadu
1. Jallikattu Festival Festival Thaipoosam
2. Kudankulam Plant
3. New Pambam Bridge
4. Kamba Ramayana
5. Tamil New Year Puthandu
6. Anbu Karangal
7. Kariyachalli Island
8. Greater Flamingo Sanctuary in ▪ Thaipusam, also known as Thai Poosam, is a Hindu festival
Dhanushkodi celebrated to honour Lord Murugan (also known as Lord
9. Nalam Kaakkum Stalin’ scheme Kartikeya), the Hindu god of war, victory, and wisdom, while
also being a symbol of courage, determination, and spiritual
growth.
▪ The festival is widely celebrated by the Tamil community in Tamil Nadu India and across the world,
especially in Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, and more.
▪ The name “Thaipusam” is a combination of “Thai” (the Tamil month) and “Poosam,” the star at its highest
point during the festival.
▪ This festival commemorates the occasion when Lord Murugan received the vel spear, the heavenly weapon,
from his mother, Goddess Parvati. Lord Murugan vanquished the evil demon Surapadma

Tamil Nadu CM announced $1 million Thatchankurichi Hosts

prize for deciphering Indus Valley Script First Jallikattu of 2025
The rural town of
Thatchankurichi in Pudukottai
district played host to Tamil
Nadu’s first jallikattu event of
2025, marking the beginning
of the bull-taming festival
season in the State
• Jallikattu, also known as eruthazhuvuthal, is a
▪ Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on bull-taming sport traditionally played in Tamil
Sunday announced a $1 million prize for Nadu as part of the Pongal harvest festival.
experts or organisations that succeed in • A tradition over 2,000 years old, Jallikattu is a
deciphering the scripts of the Indus Valley competitive sport as well as an event to honour
Civilisation for everyone to understand. bull owners
▪ The Chief Minister also announced a ₹2-crore
grant for setting up a chair in the name of Russia ships 6th nuclear reactor for
noted archaeologist and epigraphist Iravatham Kudankulam plant at Tamil Nadu
Mahadevan to continue the research on the
Indus Valley Civilisation at the Chennai-based
Roja Muthiah Library.
▪ Indus Valley civilization is the earliest
known urban culture of the northwestern
regions of the Indian subcontinent. It is one of
the world’s three earliest civilizations
alongwith Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt.
▪ Harappa was the first excavated site
therefore, it is also called Harappan culture. ▪ The Russian government-owned company
▪ It was in 1924 that John Marshall discovered Rosatom has shipped the 6th and final unit of
the existence of an ancient civilization in the the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant being
Indus Valley.

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set up in Kudankulam, Tirunelveli District, ▪ The government has set a target to increase
Tamil Nadu the power capacity to 22480 MW by 2031-32.
▪ The project is being constructed in three ▪ According to the Nuclear Power Corporation of
phases. India (NPCIL) in 2024 there were 24
▪ In each phase two reactors of 1000 MW each operational nuclear reactors in 7 Nuclear
will be constructed. power plants in the country with an installed
▪ The first two reactors of phase one have capacity of 8080 MW.
become operational and the electricity ▪ Asia’s first research nuclear reactor ‘Apsara’
generated is shared between Tamil Nadu and became operational at the Bhabha Atomic
its neighbouring states according to the Research Centre’s Trombay campus in
central government’s power distribution Mumbai and it was closed in 2009.
framework. ▪ The first nuclear power plant to become
operational in India was established at
Tarapur, Maharashtra in 1969.

Tamil Nadu Govt Replaces Rupee Symbol

with Tamil Letter: A Language Debate
Intensifies
▪ The DMK-led
Tamil Nadu
government
dropped the
Devanagari
rupee symbol
and replaced
it with a Tamil
letter in its
logo for the
state Budget
2025-26
▪ The logo, released by the office of Chief
Minister M K Stalin carried ‘ru’, the first letter
of the Tamil word ‘rubaai’ which denotes the
Indian currency in the vernacular language.
About the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant ▪ The rupee symbol '₹' was designed by D Udaya
▪ In 1988 an agreement was signed between Kumar , the son of a former DMK MLA - was
the government of India and the Soviet Union adopted by the whole of Bharat and
to construct a 6000 MW nuclear power plant incorporated into our currency in 2010.
in Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu. ▪ Moreover, the Tamil word ‘Rupaai’ itself has
▪ The nuclear plant will be the largest nuclear deep roots in the Sanskrit word ‘Rupya,’
power plant at a single location in the meaning ‘wrought silver’ or ‘a worked silver
country. coin.’
▪ The power plant consists of 6 units of 1000 ▪ This term has resonated across centuries in
MW capacity each. Tamil trade and literature, and even today,
▪ All six units will be constructed, maintained, ‘Rupaai’ remains the currency name in Tamil
and operated by the government of India- Nadu and Sri Lanka
owned Nuclear Power Corporation of India
(NPCIL). On 6th April PM will inaugurate the new
▪ The Russians are supplying the nuclear
Pamban Bridge
reactors and enriched uranium to be used as
▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate
the fuel for the reactors.
the new Pamban rail bridge, connecting
Ramanathapuram with Rameswaram Island,
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on April 6, 2025, on the occasion of Ram • Language: Written in classical Tamil,
Navami. highlighting regional devotion and cultural
values.
• Cultural Integration: Combines Tamil folk
elements with deep philosophical and spiritual
symbolism.
• Performance Tradition: Traditionally recited
by Kamba Ramayana Mandali in temples; now
being revived through state initiatives.
• The Valmiki Ramayana comprises 24,000
verses organized into seven kandas: Bālakāṇḍa
(Childhood of Rama); Ayodhyakāṇḍa
▪ constructed at a cost of ₹531 crore (Ayodhya); Araṇyakāṇḍa (Forest);
▪ He would also flag off a new train service Kiṣkindhakāṇḍa (Kishkindha); Sundarakāṇḍa
between Tambaram and Rameswaram. (Beautiful); Yuddhakāṇḍa (War); Uttarakāṇḍa
About New Pamban Bridge (Aftermath)
▪ It is India’s first
vertical-lift railway Tamil New Year Puthandu
sea bridge. ▪ Puthandu, or
▪ It connects Tamil New Year,
Rameswaram on marks the first day
Pamban Island to of the Tamil solar
Mandapam on the calendar and is a
mainland in Tamil significant occasion for Tamils worldwide.
Nadu. ▪ Celebrated as the first day of the Tamil month
▪ The total length of the bridge is 2.078 km. of Chittirai.
▪ It will replace the iconic Pamban Bridge, ▪ As per Drik Panchang, Puthandu will be
India's first sea bridge, which opened in 1914. observed on April 14 in India.
▪ The new bridge is being built parallel to the
old Pamban Bridge by Rail Vikas Nigam PM Modi Inaugurates Sea Bridge in Tamil
Limited.
Nadu, Unveils ₹8,300 Cr Projects on Ram
Navami
Kamba Ramayana
▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the
NEWS: Ministry of Culture has
new Pamban Bridge, India’s first vertical lift
launched a comprehensive
railway sea bridge, in Tamil Nadu
initiative to preserve and
▪ Development works worth over Rs. 8300 crore
promote Kamba Ramayana
also inaugurated
recitals in Tamil Nadu.
▪ Modi also flagged off a new train –
▪ Kamba Ramayana, also
Rameshwaram-Tambaram Express – that will
known as Ramavataram, is a Tamil epic based
run between Chennai and Rameshwaram daily
on the Sanskrit Valmiki Ramayana.
using the new bridge.
• Written by:
• Composed by Tamil poet Kambar in
the 12th century CE.
• Patronized by Thiruvennai Nallur
Sadayappa Vallal, whose name
appears every 1,000 verses in
gratitude.
Key Features:
• Structure: Divided into 6 Kandams (chapters),
About New Pamban Bridge
113 Padalams (sections), and around 10,569
▪ It is India’s first vertical-lift railway sea bridge.
verses.

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▪ It connects Rameswaram on Pamban Island to ▪ On 18 July 1967, Madras State was officially
Mandapam on the mainland in Tamil Nadu. renamed to Tamil Nadu.
▪ The total length of the bridge is 2.078 km ( ▪ In 2019, five decades after the state was
cost - ₹550 crore ) renamed, the Government of Tamil Nadu led
▪ It will replace the iconic Pamban Bridge, by the then chief minister of Tamil Nadu
India's first sea bridge, which opened in 1914. Edapadi K Palaniswami, announced that 1st
▪ The new bridge built by Rail Vikas Nigam November of every year will be celebrated as
Limited. Tamil Nadu Day from 2019 to mark the
Advanced Lift Mechanism formation of the state.
• Features a 72.5-metre navigational span that ▪ In July 2022, Government of Tamil Nadu led by
lifts up to 17 metres to allow ships to pass. the then chief minister of Tamil Nadu M K
• Offers 22 metres of clearance above sea level Stalin, announced that 18 July of every year
(vs. 1.5 metres on the old bridge). will be celebrated as Tamil Nadu Day from
• Substructure is future-ready — capable of 2022 to mark the formation of the state.
supporting two rail tracks.
Speedy Crossings, Minimal Delays Tamil Nadu Facts:
• Trains can now cross the bridge in under 5 ▪ Capital: Chennai
minutes, at speeds up to 75 kmph. ▪ Home to Bharatanatyam, one of the oldest
• The old bridge allowed a maximum speed of classical dance forms
just 10 kmph, taking 25–30 minutes to cross. ▪ Nilgiri Hills (Ooty) and Kodaikanal – popular
hill stations
Vishu 2025 - Malayalam New Year ▪ 5 National Parks in Tamil Nadu:
• Mudumalai National Park
• Guindy National Park
• Indira Gandhi (Anamalai) National
Park
• Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
• Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
• Highest Mountain Peak: Doddabetta
Peak (Nilgiri Hills) - Height: 2,637
▪ Vishu celebrated on Monday, April 14, 2025. meters, Near Ooty
▪ The day commemorates Lord Krishna’s victory ▪ State animal - Nilgiri tahr
over the demon Narakasura, symbolizing the ▪ State bird - Emerald Dove
triumph of good over evil. ▪ State flower - Gloriosa Lily
▪ Vishu is a major Hindu spring festival ▪ State tree - Palm Tree
celebrated primarily in Kerala and nearby ▪ State butterfly - Tamil yeoman
regions of Tamil Nadu. ▪ State fruit - Jackfruit
▪ Vishu marks new beginnings and is often
considered the Malayalam New Year.
▪ The festival signifies the Sun’s transition into
Mesha Rashi (Aries).
▪ Vishu is observed on the first day of the
Malayalam month of Medam, (Chingam is the
first month of the Malayalam calendar, but
Vishu occurs in Medam).

July 18 - Tamil Nadu Day

▪ Tamil Nadu was created
on 1 November 1956
with the name Madras
State.

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M.K. Stalin Launches ‘Anbu Karangal’ ▪ Along with issuing ID cards, loans amounting to
₹3,500 crore were also distributed to SHG
Scheme For Orphaned Children
members.
▪ The ‘Anbu Karangal’ programme, provides
▪ SHG women will be able to carry products up
financial aid for the education of orphaned
to 100 km free on government buses
children or those
▪ They will also get discounts in government
who have lost
entities
one parent, until
they turn 18.
▪ In the first phase, Union Cabinet approves Rs 1,853 crore
a total of 6,082 four-lane Paramakudi - Ramanathapuram
children will road project in Tamil Nadu
receive a ▪ covering a stretch of 46.7 km along National
monthly aid of Highway 87 (NH-87).
₹2,000 each until ▪ The upgraded highway aims to ease
they complete their school education. congestion along the busy Madurai–
▪ The initiative is part of the ‘Thayumanavar’ Rameshwaram corridor, which currently relies
programme, which aims to identify and on a 2-lane, boost regional trade, tourism—
support the livelihoods of those living in especially to pilgrimage sites like
poverty. Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi

Tamil Nadu Becomes First State to Issue ID

Cards for Women SHG Members

Restoration of Kariyachalli Island

▪ After the successful restoration of Vaan island

in Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, the
Tamil Nadu government has commenced the
restoration of Kariyachalli island in the Gulf of
Mannar region, under the Tamil Nadu
Sustainably Harnessing Ocean Resource
(TNSHORE) initiative.
▪ Tamil Nadu has become the first state in India ▪ The restoration project, being carried out at a
to issue identity cards to women members of cost of ₹50 crore, is funded by the state
Self-Help Groups (SHGs). government and the World Bank.
▪ The rollout was officially inaugurated in Salem ▪ Kariyachalli Island is one of the 21
district. uninhabited islands in the Gulf of Mannar

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(GoM) Marine National Park, located off the Greater Chennai Police launch ‘Virtual
southeastern coast of Tamil Nadu.
Witness Room’ to enable easy depositions
in court cases

▪ Greater Chennai Police (GCP) launched the

first pilot ‘virtual witness room’.
▪ They will be able to provide evidence in
judicial proceedings across the State without
having to travel long distances.
▪ It is equipped with high-definition VC
Area Decline Over the Years - significant loss of land equipment, audio-video recording and
due to erosion and degradation archiving systems, document visualiser for
presenting exhibits and records, and
soundproofing for privacy and confidentiality

GI tag sought for ‘Sivakasi Fireworks’

Key Interventions & Actions –

▪ Artificial Reef Deployment ▪ The century old fireworks industry in Sivakasi
▪ Degraded coral reefs are being restored to has now approached the Geographical
promote biodiversity and habitat recovery. Indications Registry seeking a tag.
▪ Seagrass beds are also being rehabilitated. ▪ An application was filed by the Tamil Nadu
▪ Over 300 local community members are Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers
directly involved in the restoration work. Association (TANFAMA) for ‘Sivakasi
Fireworks’ under manufactured goods
Gulf of Mannar Region category
▪ The Gulf of Mannar (GoM) is located along the ▪ In India over 80% of fireworks are
southeastern coast of India, between manufactured in this region.
Rameswaram and Thoothukudi, stretching ▪ Its market size is about ₹6,000 crore which is
over 160 km. growing annually at 10%.
▪ It is one of the four major coral reef regions in ▪ Sivakasi, as a dry region, has a climate that is
India, along with: ideal for firework manufacturing.
▪ Andaman & Nicobar Islands
▪ Lakshadweep
Keezhadi excavation
▪ Gulf of Kachchh
NEWS: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has
▪ The GoM Marine National Park consists of:
asked archaeologist Amarnath Ramakrishna to
▪ 21 uninhabited, low-lying islands
resubmit the Keezhadi excavation report with
▪ Rich marine biodiversity, including
revisions, citing the need for scientific accuracy and
over 3,600 species of flora and fauna.
better period classification.

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▪ Keezhadi is an archaeological ▪ A newly notified wildlife sanctuary aimed at
site near Madurai, Tamil Nadu, along protecting migratory wetland birds,
the Vaigai river basin, explored by ASI and especially greater flamingos, in their natural
later by the Tamil Nadu State Archaeology stopover habitat.
Department. Key Ecological Features:
▪ Initial excavations began in 2015 ▪ Home to 128 bird species including flamingos,
herons, sandpipers, and egrets.
Kamlesh Paswan Inaugurates India’s First ▪ Recorded over 10,700 wetland birds in the
2023–24 bird survey.
Agri-Drone Indigenization Hub in Chennai
▪ Supports sea turtle nesting and other marine
biodiversity.
Greater Flamingo:
▪ Scientific Name: Phoenicopterus roseus
▪ Builds cone-shaped mud nests in lagoons.

PM Modi to release commemorative coin

of Rajendra Chola I at Gangaikonda
▪ Union Minister of State for Rural Development
Cholapuram on July 27
Shri Kamlesh Paswan inaugurated Garuda
Aerospace's new Agri-Drone Indigenization
Facility in Chennai
▪ The Minister also inaugurated 300 Centres of
Excellence (CoE) and flagged off Garuda
Aerospace’s DGCA approved Train the Trainer
(TTT) programme.
▪ The launch also witnessed a dynamic live
demonstration of Agri-Drones by highly skilled
Drone Didis
▪ Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder and CEO of
Gangaikonda Cholapuram 1000th
Garuda Aerospace
▪ Garuda Aerospace’s state-of-the-art Agri- anniversary
Drone Indigenization Facility is the country’s ▪ On 27th July in Tamil Nadu - India is
first of its kind hub for the design, commemorating the 1000th anniversary of
manufacturing, and rigorous testing of Rajendra Chola I’s northern expedition, which
advanced Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) led to the establishment of Gangaikonda
Cholapuram, a grand Chola capital and the
Brihadisvara Temple a UNESCO-listed
Greater Flamingo Sanctuary in
architectural marvel.
Dhanushkodi Gangaikonda Cholapuram
▪ It was the imperial capital of the Cholas from
1025 CE to 1279 CE, established by Rajendra
Chola I.
▪ Located in Ariyalur, Tamil Nadu, on the banks
of the Kollidam River - the city housed palaces,
a massive water reservoir (Chola Gangam), and
the Brihadisvara Temple (Gangaikonda
▪ The Tamil Nadu officially notified a Greater Cholisvaram).
Flamingo Sanctuary in Dhanushkodi Rajendra Chola I’s northern expedition
in Ramanathapuram district ▪ His army defeated or overpowered several
▪ The sanctuary covers over 500 hectares and north Indian kingdoms including:
forms part of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere ▪ Pala King Mahipala I of Bengal
Reserve.
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▪ Kings of Kalinga (Odisha), Kosala ▪ Led expeditions to the Ganga
(Chhattisgarh), Bhojas, and other River, built Gangaikonda Cholapuram,
regional powers. and extended influence to Malaysia,
Symbolic Victory: Indonesia, and the Maldives.
▪ Rajendra did not annex these territories Kulottunga Chola I:
permanently but sought symbolic supremacy. ▪ Focused on internal administration
▪ He brought Ganga water in golden vessels and revenue reforms, continuing the legacy of
back to his capital and assumed the title stability.
"Gangaikonda Chola" (the Chola who Political & Administrative Legacy:
conquered the Ganga). ▪ Kudavolai System: A unique electoral practice
▪ He built a new capital called Gangaikonda for choosing local representatives using palm
Cholapuram, which became a powerful symbol leaf ballots (Kudavolai), marking the beginning
of his pan-Indian ambition. of self-governance in rural India.
E.g. Uthiramerur inscriptions provide detailed
Prime Minister Modi releases coin rules for local governance and elections.
commemorating millenary of Rajendra
Chola I’s naval expedition

▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gangaikonda

Cholapuram released a thousand-rupee coin to
Decentralised Village Administration: Power was
mark the “1,000th anniversary of the naval
devolved to Ur, Sabha, and Nagaram assemblies for
expedition of Emperor Rajendra Chola I”.
land management, tax collection, and judicial
▪ The request for the release of the coin was
functions, setting a precedent for grassroots
made by R. Komagan, chairman of the
democracy.
Gangaikondacholapuram Development Council
Economic & Trade Networks:
Trust.
▪ Maritime Trade Expansion: Developed strong
▪ The coin is engraved with an image of the
trade links with Southeast Asia (Srivijaya),
emperor on horseback with a ship as the
China (Song Dynasty), and Arab regions. Chola
backdrop.
ports like Poompuhar and
▪ The Cholas were one of the longest-ruling
Nagapattinam served as global trading hubs.
dynasties in South India, flourishing between
▪ State-Supported Commerce: State granted
the 9th to 13th century CE.
charters to merchant guilds
▪ Their empire stretched across present-
like Manigramam and Ayyavole 500,
day Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and
encouraging overseas commerce and internal
overseas territories like Sri Lanka and parts of
trade.
Southeast Asia
▪ Naval Expeditions: Rajendra Chola, I led naval
Key Chola Rulers and Their Contributions:
campaigns across the Bay of Bengal to Sri
▪ Rajaraja Chola I (985–1014 CE):
Lanka, the Maldives, and the Srivijaya
▪ Strengthened naval power, built
kingdom (Sumatra) — one of the earliest
the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur,
examples of Indian maritime assertion.
and expanded the empire into Sri
▪ Religious Patronage: Supported both Shaivism
Lanka.
and Vaishnavism, facilitating peaceful
▪ Rajendra Chola I (1014–1044 CE):

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coexistence and growth of temples and Tamil Nadu International Kite Festival
mathas across the empire.
2025 to be held from August 14-17

▪ Dravidian Temple Architecture: Refined the

South Indian temple structure with
monumental vimanas (towering sanctums),
pillared mandapas, and axial alignment.
E.g. Brihadisvara Temple
(Thanjavur) and Gangaikonda Kodali Karuppur Silk Sari facing crisis
Cholapuram exemplify Chola architectural ▪ Kodali Karuppur silk sari, a luxury hand-woven
zenith. garment once patronised by the Maratha
kings of Thanjavur, is facing a crisis as its
T.N. CM Stalin inaugurates medical camps traditional handloom weavers dwindle in
number.
under ‘Nalam Kaakkum Stalin’ scheme
About Kodali Karuppur Silk Sari
▪ It derived its name from Karuppur, a village
near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu.
▪ These evolved under the patronage of the
Maratha ruler Serfoji Raja Bhonsle
Chhatrapati II in 1787-1832 and were made
exclusively for the Ranis of Thanjavur up to the
19th century.

Toda Tribe – Preserving India’s

▪ Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin Endangered Languages
inaugurated medical camps across all 38 ▪ Toda tribe of the Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu
districts in the State organised under the is spearheading efforts to preserve their
‘Nalam Kaakkum Stalin’ scheme, aimed at endangered language through SPPEL
taking healthcare to people’s doorsteps. ▪ SPPEL - the Scheme for Protection and
▪ The camps will prioritise people from Preservation of Endangered Languages
economically weaker sections, those with ▪ It focuses on recording, transcribing, and
diabetes and blood pressure, heart patients, archiving Toda language materials, creating
lactating mothers, and pregnant women, educational primers, and uploading them to
among others. online repositories for global access and long-
term preservation.
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▪ Collaborating with the Central Institute of auction mechanisms,
Indian Languages (CIIL) threatening the
▪ Under SPPEL Scheme, the Central Institute of sustainability of small
Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysuru works on growers in the region.
protection, preservation and documentation ▪ Nilgiri tea is a variety
of all the mother tongues/languages of India of Camellia sinensis
spoken by less than 10,000 people which are var. sinensis, grown in
called endangered language the Nilgiris district of
▪ Nodal Ministry - Ministry of Education Tamil Nadu.
▪ Executed by Central Institute of Indian ▪ Known for its brisk,
Languages (CIIL), Mysuru fragrant, and full-
bodied liquor, it is often blended into iced
teas, masala chai, and global tea brands.
Region:
▪ Cultivated mainly in the Nilgiris district, Tamil
Nadu, with smaller areas in Kerala and
Karnataka.
▪ Recognised as a Geographical Indication (GI)
product since 2008.
▪ Produces both orthodox rolled teas and CTC
(crush-tear-curl) teas.
▪ Flavour profile: citrus and floral notes, light
yet full-bodied, retains clarity when cooled
(ideal for iced tea).
▪ Used in blends by global commercial
brands like Nestea.
ADT 60 paddy variety gains traction in ▪ Altitude: 1,000–2,500 metres in the Western
Ghats.
Delta for Thaladi season ▪ Climate: Two monsoons (Southwest &
▪ A new paddy variety, ADT 60, developed by Northeast), alternating fog, rain, and sunshine.
the Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute (TRRI), ▪ Soil: Lateritic loam, rich and well-drained,
Aduthurai, is set to reshape cultivation in the supporting high-quality growth.
Delta during the forthcoming Thaladi season.
▪ Released in January 2025
▪ The new variety matures in 130–135 days and
India’s first port-based Green Hydrogen
has consistently recorded average yields of Pilot Project inaugurated at V.O.
about six tonnes per hectare—10%–20% Chidambaranar (VOC) Port
higher than ADT 54 and nearly 20% more than ▪ Inaugurated by Sarbananda Sonowal at V.O.
ADT 46 Chidambaranar (VOC) Port, Tuticorin, Tamil
▪ One of its biggest advantages is seed viability. Nadu, making it the first port in the country to
ADT 60 retains 85%–90% germination even produce green hydrogen.
after eight months of storage, while ADT 46 ▪ Capacity: 10 Nm³ per hour, set up at a cost
often falls to 30%–40%, forcing farmers to of ₹3.87 crore.
purchase excess seed ▪ Nm3 stands for Normal cubic meter, which is
▪ The variety shows moderate resistance to a unit used to measure the volume of a gas at
major pests and diseases specific "normal" reference conditions of
▪ outturn of up to 75%, with head rice recovery temperature and pressure
around 68% V.O. Chidambaranar Port:
▪ One of India’s 13 major ports, a leading
Nilgiri Tea maritime hub for South India.
▪ Nilgiris tea growers are facing a persistent cost ▪ Located in: Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, on the
price crisis due to low prices for green tea Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal.
leaves (GTL), overproduction, and weak ▪ History:
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▪ Formerly known as Tuticorin ▪ Objective: Promote digital inclusion and
Port, renamed in honour of freedom simplify pension processes through
fighter V.O. Chidambaranar in 2011. technology-driven reforms like the Digital Life
▪ Plays a key role in regional trade, coal Certificate Campaign.
handling, and container movement.
Researchers from Tamil Nadu report heavy
IIT Madras to host ‘Institute Open House metal contamination in the Cauvery River
2026’ from January 2 to 4 and its fish
▪ The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Heavy Metals :
Madras) has announced that it will open its ▪ Metallic elements with high density; toxic at
research and innovation facilities to the public low concentrations
during the ‘Institute Open House 2026,’ ▪ Examples: Hg, Cd, As, Cr, Tl, Pb
scheduled between January 2 and 4, 2026. ▪ Natural in Earth’s crust; enter body via food,
▪ Aim: Give students, teachers, researchers, water, air
industry and visitors first-hand exposure to ▪ Some (Cu, Se, Zn) are essential trace elements
IITM’s academic & research ecosystem. but toxic in excess
▪ Organised under ‘Annaivarakum IITM’ (IIT ▪ Cannot be degraded; they bioaccumulate in
Madras for All) initiative — making IIT Madras organisms over time
accessible to all. ▪ Sources: Industrial & consumer waste, acidic
rain releasing metals from soil
Udhayanidhi Stalin rolls out expansion of ▪ Most harmful: Mercury, lead, cadmium —
Kalaignar sports kit scheme to urban local travel long distances in atmosphere
Cauvery River – Key Facts
bodies
▪ Called “Dakshina Ganga”
▪ Origin: Brahmagiri Hills, Western Ghats
(Karnataka)
▪ Length: ~765 km
▪ Flow: Karnataka → Tamil Nadu
▪ Creates waterfalls, fertile plains
▪ Tributaries: Kabini, Hemavati, Noyil,
Amaravati, Bhavani
▪ Kalaignar sports kit scheme was launched in ▪ Mouth: Bay of Bengal south of Cuddalore, TN
2024 in Tamil Nadu to cover all village ▪ Forms Cauvery Delta — “Garden of Southern
panchayats. India”
▪ Aim: Promote grassroots sports, especially in
rural areas of Tamil Nadu. 17th India Game Developer Conference
Begins in Chennai
Mega Camp under Nationwide Digital Life ▪ Dates: 5–7
Certificate (DLC) Campaign 4.0 at Air Force November 2025
Auditorium, Tambaram, Chennai ▪ Competitions Held:
▪ Conducted by: Department of Pension & 9–12 October 2025
Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW), Ministry of ▪ Prize Money: ₹
Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions. 50,000 – ₹1,00,000
▪ Duration: 1–30 November 2025. ▪ Organised by: Game
▪ Part of Digital India vision to ensure Digital Developer
Empowerment of Pensioners and promote Association of India (GDAI)
Ease of Living. ▪ Objective: Make India a global hub for gaming
▪ Collaboration : CGDA, Banks, India Post innovation, investment & creative talent
Payments Bank, UIDAI, MeitY, NIC, and ▪ Upcoming Initiative: Centre of Excellence for
Pensioners’ Welfare Associations. Gaming to be set up in Chennai within 6
months

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A stampede at actor-politician Vijay’s rally

in Karur, Tamil Nadu, killed 41 people
including nine children with Compressive
asphyxia
▪ Compressive
asphyxia is a type
of mechanical
asphyxiation where
external force presses ▪ A company can choose to avail incentives
on the chest or under the “Special Package of Incentives for
abdomen. Toy Manufacturing” under this policy or the
▪ This prevents the lungs and diaphragm from “Special Incentives for Sunrise Sector” under
functioning normally, leading to lack of TNIP 2021, subject to satisfying the eligibility
oxygen supply. criteria of the applicable policy.

Iron Age Site Discovered in Tamil Nadu Uchi Pillaiyar Temple & Karthigai Deepam
Excavation lit event
▪ Thirumalapuram Excavation – Tenkasi, Tamil
Nadu (2025)
▪ By: Tamil Nadu State Department of
Archaeology (TNSDA)
▪ Discovery: Iron Age burial site near the
Western Ghats.
▪ Early–mid 3rd millennium BCE.
▪ Urn burials filled with cobblestones
▪ The Tamil Nadu government recently informed
▪ Pottery types: White-painted Black-and-Red
the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court
Ware (BRW)
that the deepam (lamp) was lit at the
Uchipillaiyar temple mandapam in
Chennai Becomes First City to Launch Thirupparankundram hill during Karthigai
Real-Time Flood Forecasting System Deepam this year too as it was done for over
▪ Uses live data from rain gauges, weather the last 150 years.
stations, and sensors to predict floods. About Uchi Pillaiyar Temple
▪ Combines 1D/2D hydrologic and inundation ▪ The Uchi Pillaiyar Temple, also known as
models to map flood spread and issue area- Rockfort Temple, is located at the top of
specific alerts. Rockfort Hill, Trichy, in Tamil Nadu.
▪ Integrated with TNSMART for real-time ▪ It is a 7th-century-CE Hindu temple, dedicated
disaster management in Chennai. to Lord Ganesha.
▪ The temple stands 83 metres (272 ft) tall,
Tamil Nadu Unveils Toy Manufacturing perched atop a rock.
▪ Trichy Rockfort hill is made of granite that is
Policy 2025 estimated to be over 3.8 billion years old.
▪ Tamil Nadu released its Toy Manufacturing ▪ It is one of the oldest rock formations in the
Policy 2025 to attract new investments in this world.
niche sector and encourage domestic players ▪ In comparison, the Himalayas are much
to diversify into this segment. younger—they began forming only about 50
▪ Investments above `50 crore with a minimum million years ago when the Indian tectonic
of 50 jobs will qualify for a special incentive plate collided with the Eurasian plate.
package. ▪ The smooth rock was first cut by the Pallavas,
▪ The minimum investment and employment but it was the Nayaks of Madurai who
commitments must be fulfilled within the completed the temples under the Vijayanagara
Standard Investment Period of three years. empire.
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PM welcomed the release of a IIT Madras Pravartak, Education Ministry’s

commemorative postage-stamp SWAYAM Plus partner to launch AI-
honouring Emperor Perumbidugu enabled HR Analytics programme
Mutharaiyar II ▪ The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras
Pravartak Technologies Foundation and the
Union Education Ministry’s SWAYAM Plus
initiative to launch an AI-enabled HR Analytics
programme.
▪ The programme is designed to equip learners
with data-driven and AI-enabled HR
capabilities aligned with emerging workforce
and organisational demands.
▪ The programme is spread over a four-month
▪ Prime Minister of India has welcomed the duration and includes two days of on-campus
release of a commemorative postage-stamp learning at IIT Madras.
honouring Emperor Perumbidugu ▪ SWAYAM, India’s national Massive Open Online
Mutharaiyar II (Suvaran Maran), recognising Course platform, was launched in 2017 by the
his administrative excellence and patronage Ministry of Education to expand access to
of Tamil culture. quality education.
▪ Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar II, also known as ▪ Policy alignment: SWAYAM Plus is aligned
Suvaran Maran or Shatrubhayankar, was a with the National Education Policy (NEP)
prominent ruler of the Mutharaiyar lineage 2020.
who ruled during c. 705–745 CE. ▪ Focus: Provides industry-oriented courses
▪ Belonged to the Mutharaiyar dynasty, a aimed at improving employability and skilling
powerful Tamil ruling lineage. outcomes.
▪ Functioned as feudatories of the Pallavas,
particularly under Pallava king Nandivarman II.
Chennai launches South India’s first AC
▪ Controlled the central Cauvery region,
including Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, EMU train on
Pudukkottai, Perambalur, and surrounding suburban route
areas. ▪ South India’s first
Key Contributions: AC EMU (Electric
▪ Known as a formidable administrator with Multiple Unit)
strategic foresight and governance stability. chugged along the
▪ Fought several battles alongside Pallava Chennai Beach-
forces, helping maintain regional order during Chengalpattu
Pallava decline. corridor, marking
▪ The Mutharaiyars were among the early yet another
temple builders of Tamil Nadu, contributing to significant episode
rock-cut and structural temples. in the suburban rail network.
▪ Their architectural innovations influenced ▪ The Chennai division of Southern Railway
the early Chola temple tradition, even before operates the service.
the rise of Vijayalaya Chola. ▪ The maiden service was flagged off from
Cultural & Religious Patronage: Chennai Beach to Chengalpattu
▪ Patronised Shaivism, while also hosting ▪ The AC EMU service was first introduced in
philosophical debates involving Jain the Mumbai suburban
scholars such as Acharya Vimalachandra,
reflecting religious pluralism.
▪ Supported Tamil language, literature, and
religious institutions, as evidenced by
inscriptions.

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Tamirabharani – Karumeniyar – Nambiyar Kasampatty sacred grove in Dindigul

River Linking Scheme declared Tamil Nadu’s second biodiversity
heritage site

• It is located in Kasampatty village,

near Alagarmalai Reserve Forest, Dindigul
district, Tamil Nadu
• Total area: 4.97 hectares
• First BHS in Tamil Nadu: Arittapatti village in
Madurai district (declared in 2022)
About Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS):
• Biodiversity Heritage Sites are ecologically
▪ Chief Minister M.K. Stalin will inaugurate the fragile areas possessing rich
much-awaited Tamirabharani – Karumeniyar – biodiversity, endemism, and cultural
Nambiyar River linking scheme, which has importance, often conserved by local
been implemented at a cost of ₹900 crore communities.
benefiting over 15,000 acres of lands in rain- • Declared Under: Section 37 of the Biological
shadow regions in Nanguneri, Thisaiyanvilai Diversity Act, 2002.
and Sattankulam areas in Tamil Nadu. • Criteria for Declaration:
▪ The river linking project connects • Areas with:
Tamirabharani, Karumeniyar, and Nambiyar • Rich wild and domesticated species
rivers. diversity
▪ It involves constructing a 73-km-long flood • High endemism or rare species
carrier channel. • Cultural or sacred significance (e.g.,
▪ The goal is to redirect surplus water from the sacred groves)
Tamirabharani to arid regions in Tirunelveli • Ecological corridors or habitats for
and Thoothukudi districts. threatened species
▪ A new barrage will be constructed 6.4 km
downstream to facilitate further water
TN sets up Kurian Joseph committee to
diversion. This will enhance the canal system,
making it more efficient for irrigation review center state relation
purposes. ▪ The Tamil Nadu government has announced
▪ The Thamiraparani is the only perennial the constitution of a three-member
(continuous flow of water) river in Tamil Nadu. committee headed by former Supreme Court
▪ This is the shortest river in the state, the Judge Justice Kurian Joseph to review centre-
Thamirabarani starts in Pothigai hills of the state relations.
Western Ghats in the Ambasamudram taluk, ▪ The Chief Minister, MK Stalin, announced the
▪ flows through Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi decision in the state legislative.
districts and empties at Korkai into the Gulf of ▪ In 1969, MK Stalin's father and former Chief
Mannar (Bay of Bengal). Minister of Tamil Nadu, [Link], set up
a similar committee headed by former Chief
Justice of Madras High Court P V Rajamannar.
The committee will make a recommendation on the
following issues:
▪ Examine the constitutional provisions and
recommend appropriate measures to restore
subjects that the central government has

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transferred from the State List to the
Concurrent List;
▪ Consider recommendations of the
Rajamannar Committee (1969), Sarkaria
Commission (1983) and Punchhi Commission
(2007) on Centre-state relations in the context
of changed socio-political and economic
developments;
▪ Suggest reform to ensure maximum
protect the smooth-coated otter in the
autonomy to the states.
Cauvery Delta and river systems
▪ The Committee is expected to submit its
▪ Distribution: They live in southern and
interim report by January 2026 and its final
Southeast Asia, China, and India, and in Iraq
report within two years.
there is a small population.
▪ They are the largest otter in Southeast Asia
Gold coins from the Vijayanagara-era ▪ They are mostly found in lowlands, coastal
unearthed mangrove forests, peat swamp forests,
▪ 103 gold coins from Vijayanagara period found freshwater wetlands, large forested rivers,
in an earthen pot at Kovilur Shiva Temple, lakes, and rice paddies.
Tiruvannamalai (Jawadhu Hills), TN. ▪ Conservation Status: IUCN: Vulnerable
▪ Temple: Later Chola-period Shiva temple;
coins near sanctum sanctorum. Thanjavur Painting Latest News
Coin Features ▪ Recently, the
▪ Punch-marked, Department of
pure gold, ~5 Posts successfully
mm, varying undertook the
shapes. transmission of a
▪ Boar (Varaha) emblem – symbol of priceless Thanjavur
Vijayanagara royal authority. painting of the Shri
▪ Likely devotional offerings / temple Ram from
endowments. Bengaluru to
▪ Minted during reigns of Harihara II / Ayodhya using its
Krishnadevaraya (14th–16th CE). Logistics Post
Vijayanagara Empire Quick Facts service.
▪ 1336–1646 CE; founded by Harihara I & Bukka I About Thanjavur Painting
▪ Capital: Hampi – major political, religious, ▪ It is a classical South Indian art form originating
trade hub. in the town of Thanjavur (Tanjore), Tamil Nadu,
▪ Known for sophisticated monetary system. around 1600 AD.
Vijayanagara Coinage Highlights ▪ Tanjore or Thanjavur paintings are created on
▪ Gold pagodas (gadyanas), half/quarter wooden panels, commonly known as palagai
pagodas; silver taras; copper jitals. padam.
▪ Religious imagery: Shiva-Parvati, Vishnu- ▪ It flourished under the Nayakas of Thanjavur.
Lakshmi, Balakrishna, Gandaberunda. (double- ▪ It has received the Geographical Indication tag.
headed eagle) ▪ Rich Colors: These paintings are known for
▪ Scripts: Devanagari, Kannada, Tamil; ruler titles their vibrant colors. They often use bright
(e.g., “Sri Pratapa”). shades of red, blue, green, and gold leafwork
▪ Circulated across South India, Sri Lanka, Indian to create an opulent effect.
Ocean trade. ▪ Gesso Work: One of the unique features of
Tanjore paintings is the use of gesso work.
Gesso is a mixture of chalk, gypsum, and glue
Tamil Nadu Launches Smooth-Coated
applied to the surface to create embossed
Otter Conservation Initiative patterns and motifs.
▪ It is a wildlife conservation programme
launched by the Government of Tamil Nadu to
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▪ Theme: Tanjore paintings typically depict Hindu ▪ Gold Leaf: Gold foil or leaf is extensively used
gods and goddesses, especially figures like Lord in Tanjore paintings to embellish the artwork.
Krishna, Lord Ganesha, and Goddess Lakshmi.

Odisha
1. Bikashita Gaon CM Odisha Mohan Charan Majhi presents Rs 2.90
2. Rushikulya Beach lakh crore state budget for 2025-26
3. Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha
Scheme
4. Odia New Year
5. Rath Yatra
6. Unified Health Insurance
7. Debrigarh Wildlife sanctuary
8. Didayi tribe
9. Nabakalebara Ritual
▪ Prioritising capital expenditure which is pegged at 6.1% of
10. Mahanadi water Dispute
Gross State Domestic Product.
▪ will build 75,000 km of world class roads till 2029-30.
▪ The government has proposed an allocation of Rs 17,998 crore for women and children in the budget.
▪ proposed Subhadra Plus, an umbrella scheme to take up new initiatives including Kishori Subhadra,
Subhadra Sanchay, Subhadra Surakhya, Subhadra Sakhi, Subhadra Yatri, Subhadra Sangh (Subhadra Club),
Kuha Subhadra (Call Centre), Subhadra Sahyogi, Subhadra Scholars, and Sujogya Subhadra.
▪ Of these initiatives, Subhadra Surakhya is aimed at ensuring safety and security of women
▪ The Mohan Majhi government has also come up with a new scheme Mukhya Mantri Kanya Bibaha Yojana.
Under the scheme, mass marriages will be performed, and the government will bear all the expenses as
well as provide the gift for the bride.
▪ the state has proposed Rs 208 crore for Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana under which, maternity
benefit of Rs 12,000 will be provided to mothers on the birth of a girl child.
▪ For nutrition of women, adolescent girls and children, though, the allocation under Mukhyamantri
Sampoorna Pusti Yojana (MSPY) will be Rs 526 crore which is Rs 28 crore less than the last budget.

Odisha Govt Launches ‘Bikashita Gaon’ ▪ The state government has made a budgetary
provision of Rs 1,000 crore under the BGBO
Scheme for Village Development
scheme for the financial year 2024-25 and Rs
5,000 crore will be spent in a span of five
years
▪ The BJP government has announced the BGBO
scheme after replacing the 'Ama Odisha Nabin
Odisha' (AONO) scheme launched by the
previous BJD government.

▪ Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched

the 'Bikashita Gaon, Bikashita Odisha' (BGBO)
scheme for rural infrastructure
developmental projects in the state.
▪ The chief minister launched the scheme at
Jankia village, about 30 km from the state
capital.
▪ The implementation of the scheme will end
the divide between villages and towns and
people in rural areas will get all facilities that
are available in the urban areas.

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Record-Breaking Mass Nesting of Olive Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha

Ridley Turtles at Rushikulya Beach Scheme Launched in Odisha

▪ Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi

inaugurated the 11-day famous Adi Mela, and
launched the Shahid Madho Singh Haath
Kharcha Scheme.
▪ The scheme provides a one-time incentive of
▪ Nearly 7,00,000 Olive Ridley turtles have laid ₹5,000 for ST students enrolling in Class IX
eggs in the Rushikulya rookery in Odisha’s and Class XI.
Ganjam district during the eight days of mass ▪ It is designed to encourage higher enrolment
nesting till February 23, 2025. and completion rates for secondary and higher
▪ In 2001, some 741,000 Olive Ridley turtles — secondary education.
the highest in India — had laid eggs in ▪ The financial support is exclusively available
Gahirmatha, for ST students attending government or
Olive Ridley Turtles government-aided schools, and with an
▪ They are the smallest and most abundant of annual family income not exceeding
all sea turtles found in the world. ₹2,50,000.
▪ It gets its name from the olive green ▪ Madho Singh was a prominent figure in India’s
colouration of its carapace (shell). independence movement. He was born around
▪ Scientific Name: Lepidochelys olivacea 1786 in Ghess, Bargarh district.
▪ They are best known for their unique mass ▪ During the First War of Indian Independence in
nesting, called Arribada, where thousands of 1857, Madho Singh emerged as a key leader
females come together on the same beach to of tribal resistance in Odisha
lay eggs.
▪ Distribution:
Odisha Declares Unseasonal Rain a
▪ They are mainly found in the warm waters
of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans. Natural Calamity
▪ Odisha’s Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is
known as the world’s largest rookery (a
colony of breeding animals) of sea turtles.
▪ Conservation Status:
▪ IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
▪ Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule 1
▪ CITES: Appendix I

▪ Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi

declared the unseasonal rain in December last
year a natural calamity.

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▪ farmers who have lost 33 per cent or more ▪ It is an entitlement-based scheme targeting
crops due to the unseasonal rain, would be families identified through the latest Socio-
provided assistance as per the provisions in Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data.
the relief code from the state disaster ▪ The National Health Authority (NHA) allows
response fund (SDRF). States/UTs to use non-SECC beneficiary family
databases for tagging against leftover SECC
Odisha becomes the 34th state to families.
Funding:
implement Ayushman Bharat Pradhan
▪ The funding for the scheme is shared – 60:40
Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana scheme for all states and UTs with their own
legislature, 90:10 in Northeast states and
Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal and
Uttarakhand and 100% Central funding for
UTs without legislature.
Nodal Agency: National Health Authority (NHA)
▪ The State Health Agency (SHA) is the apex
body of the State Government responsible for
the implementation of AB PM-JAY in the State.

CM approves proposal for another

battalion of Odisha Industrial Security
Force
▪ Odisha became the 34th state to implement ▪ Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has
the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan approved a proposal for the creation of
Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) after the National another battalion of Odisha Industrial Security
Health Authority (NHA) of the Union Ministry Force (OISF) in the State
of Health entered into a Memorandum of ▪ A total of 1,040 posts have also been created
Understanding (MoU) with the Department of for this new battalion.
Health and Family Welfare, Government of ▪ The State already has one battalion of OISF in
Odisha. the State.
▪ The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan ▪ Its total number of posts is 1,807.
Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) will be ▪ After the creation of the new battalion, the
implemented in convergence with the existing number of posts in the two battalions will be
Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY) in 2,847.
Odisha.
▪ It will provide a cover of Rs 5 lakh per family 14th April - Maha Vishuba Sankranti and
per annum with additional Rs 5 lakh for Pana Sankranti - Odia New Year
women members.
▪ AB PM-JAY is not only the world's largest
health coverage scheme fully financed by the
government but also the fastest to be
implemented since conception.
▪ The scheme is fully digitized and covers
approximately 45% of India's population
▪ Launched on 23rd September, 2018 in Ranchi,
Jharkhand, it offers a sum insured of Rs.5 lakh
per family for secondary care and tertiary
▪ Pana Sankranti, also known as Maha Bishuba
care.
Sankranti, is the Odia New Year festival
▪ Health Benefit Packages covers surgery,
▪ celebrated on the first day of the Odia
medical and day care treatments, cost of
calendar month of Baisakha, which typically
medicines and diagnostics.
falls on April 14th or April 15th on the
Gregorian calendar
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Odisha's Rath Yatra, Bali Yatra find place in

Centre's intangible cultural heritage list

was built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga

Deva.
• The festival is also known as Festival of

▪ Sangeet Natak Akademi under the Centre's

Ministry of Culture has listed Lord Jagannath’s
Rath Yatra in Puri and Bali Yatra - two major
festivals of Odisha in the national inventory of
intangible cultural heritage list
▪ The Sangeet Natak Akademi is India's apex
cultural body.
What is Bali yatra?
• Bali yatra, literally ‘voyage to Bali’ is one of
the country’s largest open-air fares.
• Baliyatra is a week-long event which begins on
Kartik Purnima (full moon night in the month
of Kartik)
Historical/Cultural Significance:
• It is organised every year to commemorate
the 2,000-year-old maritime and cultural links Chariots, as the deities are carried on three
between ancient Kalinga (today’s Odisha) and massive wooden chariots that are pulled by
Bali and other South and Southeast Asian devotees with ropes.
regions like Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Burma • It begins on the second day of the bright
(Myanmar) and Ceylon (Sri Lanka). fortnight of the month of Ashadha (June-
• According to historians, popular items of trade July) and lasts for nine days.
between Kalinga and Southeast Asia
included pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, silk, Odisha makes first-ever global export of
camphor, gold, and jewellery. Moringa, Parwal to Dubai
▪ Odisha has recorded its first-ever international
export of drumstick (moringa) from the
Rayagada district and pointed gourd (parwal)
to Dubai.
▪ Drumstick or Moringa, often referred to as a
"superfood," is globally recognized for its
exceptional nutritional value. It is rich in
vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Jagannath Rath Yatra:

• It is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates
the journey of Lord Jagannath, his elder
brother Lord Balabhadra, and his younger
sister Goddess Subhadra from their home
temple in Puri, Odisha to their aunt’s temple
in Gundicha, about three kilometres away.
• The festival dates back to at least the
12th century CE, when the Jagannath temple
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Odisha launched unified health insurance • No restriction on the family size, age or
gender.
scheme
• All pre-existing medical conditions covered
from day one of enrolment.
• Nationwide Portability through empanelled
public or private hospital across India.

PM Modi Inaugurates India’s Fully

▪ Odisha launched a unified health insurance Indigenous 4G Stack and 1 Lakh BSNL
scheme, Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri
Jan Arogya Yojana
Towers from Odisha
▪ Besides the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri
Jan Arogya Yojana, the state government’s
health scheme, Gopabandhu Jan Arogya
Yojana, and the newly introduced Ayushman
Vayo-Vandana Yojana, aimed at senior
citizens, will also be integrated into this
initiative.
▪ The scheme will provide health coverage of 5
lakh rupees per family per annum, with an ▪ Prime Minister Modi inaugurated India's first
additional 5 lakh rupees for women members. fully indigenous 4G network and
Under the Ayushman Vayo-Vandana Yojana, all commissioned over 97,500 BSNL towers from
persons aged 70 years and above, regardless of Jharsuguda, Odisha.
income, will be eligible for coverage. ▪ This landmark initiative positions India among
About AB PM-JAY (2018) an elite group of five nations—alongside
Ministry: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare Denmark, Sweden, South Korea, and China—
Type: Centrally Sponsored Scheme under Ayushman that have developed their own telecom
Bharat Mission technology stack
▪ Share of Centre and State is 60:40 (90:10 for ▪ Telecom technology stack refers to the
North Eastern States and the two Himalayan complete set of software + hardware +
States (Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand) network components needed to run a modern
and Jammu and Kashmir mobile telecom network (like 4G or 5G)
▪ Central share is 100% for UTs without ▪ Indigenous 4G Stack: Developed by Bharat
legislature, while the ratio of contribution is Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), the "Swadeshi"
60:40 for those with legislature. 4G stack is a cloud-based, future-ready system
Background: PM-JAY was earlier known as the designed to seamlessly upgrade to 5G.
National Health Protection Scheme (NHPS). ▪ Extensive Coverage: The project, valued at
It subsumed the then-existing Rashtriya Swasthya approximately ₹37,000 crore, includes over
Bima Yojana (RSBY), 2008. 92,600 4G sites commissioned by BSNL and an
Implementing Agencies: National Health Authority additional 18,900 sites funded under the
(NHA) Digital Bharat Nidhi scheme.
Beneficiaries: Identified through Socio-Economic Caste ▪ These installations aim to connect 26,700
Census-2011 (SECC-2011). remote, border, and left-wing extremism-
Features: Provides Health cover of Rs. 5 affected villages, benefiting more than 20 lakh
lakh/family/year for secondary and tertiary care new subscribers
hospitalization. ▪ The rollout extends across multiple states,
• Covers up to 3 days of pre- including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar
hospitalization and 15 days post- Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Assam,
hospitalization expenses. Gujarat, and Bihar, significantly enhancing
• Cashless and paperless healthcare services at connectivity in rural and underserved areas.
the point of care.

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Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary Didayi Tribe

NEWS: Champa Raspeda, a student from Odisha’s

Malkangiri district, has made history by becoming the
first member of the Didayi, a Particularly Vulnerable
Tribal Group (PVTG), to clear NEET 2025.
▪ Odisha’s Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary has
▪ The Didayi tribe, also known as the Didai
received in principle approval from NTCA to
people or Didiya tribe, is an indigenous tribal
become India’s newest tiger reserve after a
community residing in the Malkanagiri district
remarkable ecological and community-led
of Odisha.
transformation.
▪ They are one of 13 Particularly Vulnerable
▪ Located near Sambalpur, bordered by
Tribal Groups (PVTG) in Odisha.
the Hirakud Reservoir.
▪ Odisha currently has two tiger reserves:
the Similipal Tiger Reserve and the Satkosia Odisha launches ‘Shaktishree’ for safety of
Tiger Reserve girls in colleges

▪ The Odisha government launched a special

programme ‘Shaktisree’ to ensure safety of girl
RECENT MOST TIGER RESERVES
students in colleges and universities in the
55 Dholpur – Karauli Rajasthan 2023
state.
Tiger Reserve
▪ The new programme will be implemented in
56 Guru Ghasidas – Chhattisgarh 2024
all 16 universities and 730 government and
Tamor Pingla Tiger
aided colleges coming under the Higher
Resereve
Education Department of the state.
57 Ratapani Tiger Madhya 2024
▪ The announcement came in the wake of self-
Resereve Pradesh
immolation of a girl student of FM College in
58 Madhav Madhya 2025 Balasore over alleged harassment by a faculty
Pradesh member recently.
Features:
▪ Confidential complaints, SOS feature, mental
health access, and Tele-MANAS for emotional
support.

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▪ Six-day self-defense, mental health, and legal
rights training.
▪ Senior women professionals appointed as
‘Shakti Apas’ to mentor students and visit
campuses quarterly.
▪ 24/7 CCTV surveillance, annual campus safety
audits, and self-defense camps.
▪ Biannual campaigns to raise awareness on
gender issues, bullying, and harassment.
▪ Institutions must submit safety reports • It involves the replacement of wooden idols of
detailing the measures taken and incidents Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and
reported. Sudarshana with new ones.
• Conducted every 12 or 19 years, based on the
lunar calendar (when two Asadha
Odisha Launches ANKUR: A Strategic
months occur in a year).
Urban Transformation Initiative • Astrological Basis: Timing depends on the
extra Adhimasa (leap month) in the Hindu
calendar.
• Sacred Wood (Daru):
• Four specific Neem trees are selected
based on divine signs.
• Idol Carving: Done secretly
by Biswakarma artisans.
• Brahma Transfer: The divine essence (Brahma
Padartha) is transferred from old to new idols
▪ The Odisha government launched ANKUR, a
in a midnight ritual.
strategic initiative designed to catalyse urban
• Burial of Old Idols: Deities are buried in Koili
growth across the state.
Baikuntha (temple premises).
▪ "ANKUR – Atal Network for Knowledge,
Urbanisation and Reforms — represents a
collective promise to build cities that are Odisha CM asks officials to include
efficient, smart and above all, citizen-centric. widowed women under 'Mukhya Mantri
▪ The state’s Housing and Urban Development Kanya Vivah Yojana'
(H&UD) Department signed MoUs with six ▪ Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has
leading organisations engaged in the urban asked officials to include widowed women
development ecosystem under the 'Mukhya Mantri Kanya Vivah Yojana'
▪ This is a movement toward a Viksit Odisha (MMKVY).
Nabakalebara Ritual ▪ The scheme aims to financially support the
NEWS:The recent poor, helpless and economically weak
inauguration of the Digha families for the marriage of their daughters.
Jagannath Temple in West ▪ The State Government has made a provision of
Bengal has sparked ₹12 crore in the 2025-26 State Budget.
controversy over its
designation as “Jagannath
Dham” and allegations of World famous annual Rath Yatra of Lord
using leftover sacred wood
from Puri’s Nabakalebara ritual for idol-making.
Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra & Devi
What is Nabakalebara? Subhadra begins in Puri
• Nabakalebara (meaning “new body”) is a ▪ The Rath Yatra takes place on the second day
sacred ritual associated with Lord Jagannath’s of the Odia month of Ashadha Shukla Tithi
idols in Puri, Odisha. (bright fortnight) every year
▪ Jagannath Rath Yatra is an annual Hindu
festival that celebrates the journey of Lord

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Jagannath, his elder brother Lord Balabhadra, ▪ Jagannath Puri Temple is one of the most
and his younger sister Goddess Subhadra from impressive monuments of the Indian State
their home temple in Puri, Odisha to their Odisha.
aunt’s temple in Gundicha, about three ▪ This temple is known as the “White
kilometres away. Pagoda” and is a part of Char
▪ Goddess Ardhasini, also known as Mausima, is Dham pilgrimages (Badrinath, Dwaraka, Puri,
believed to be the aunt of the deities. Rameswaram).
▪ The deities board three huge decorated ▪ It is a splendid example of Kalinga
chariots following the ceremonial procession architecture, which is characterised
called the Pahandi ritual, before marching for by curvilinear towers, intricate carvings and
around 3 km to the Gundicha Temple. ornate sculptures.
▪ Millions of devotees pull the chariots on the ▪ The main temple consists of four
Bada Danda (Grand Road) of Puri town. structures: the vimana (sanctum), the
▪ The festival dates back to at least the 12th jagamohana (assembly hall), the nata-
century CE, when the Jagannath temple was mandira (festival hall) and the bhoga-
built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga mandapa (offering hall).
Deva. However, some sources suggest that the ▪ Jagannath Puri temple is called ‘Yamanika
festival was already in practice since ancient Tirtha’ where, according to the Hindu beliefs,
times. the power of ‘Yama’, the god of death has
▪ The festival is also known as Festival of been nullified in Puri due to the presence of
Chariots, as the deities are carried on three Lord Jagannath.
massive wooden chariots that are pulled by
devotees with ropes. Rituals associated with the festival
Features of the Chariots: ▪ CHHERA PANHARA: Before the chariots are
▪ The rupakar servitors are skilled craftsmen pulled on Rath Yatra, the scion of the erstwhile
responsible for carving intricate figures of Puri royal family, the self-styled first servitor of
birds, animals, flowers, and guardian deities on the Lords, performs a special ritual called
the chariots. “Chhera Panhara”.
The three chariots – ▪ As part of this, he sweeps the floor of the
1. Taladhwaja Rath for Lord Balabhadra, chariots with a golden broom, symbolising that
2. the Darpadalan Rath for Goddess Subhadra, all devotees are equal before the Lord,
and irrespective of their social status
3. the Nandighosa Rath for Lord Jagannath – are ▪ Puri king Gajapati Dibyasingha Deb, who
distinct from each other, ascended the throne in 1970 at the age of only
17, has been performing the Chhera Panhara
ritual since 1971.
▪ BAHUDA YATRA: The return festival or Bahuda
Yatra is organised on Ashadha Shukla Dasami
(10th day).
▪ On their way back to the 12th-century shrine,
the deities are offered a special cake called
‘Poda Pitha’, made of rice, coconut, lentils and
jaggery at the Mausimaa Temple (their aunt’s
temple).
▪ SUNA BESHA: A day after the Bahuda Yatra,
the deities are adorned with gold ornaments,
including crowns, and hands and legs made of
gold on the chariots in front of the Lion’s Gate,
which is called Suna Besha (golden attire).
▪ NILADRI BIJE: The home-coming of the deities,
Jagannath Puri Temple also called “Niladri Bije”, is celebrated on the
12th day of the Ashadha month, which also

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marks the end of the Rath Yatra festival. The ▪ Origin: The river originates from the Sihawa
sibling deities are taken to the sanctum range of hills in the Dhamtari district of
sanctorum again in pahandi (ceremonial Chhattisgarh.
ritual). ▪ It then flows in the eastward direction, cutting
▪ RASAGOLA DIVAS: Devotees offer Rasagola (a a ravine in the Eastern Ghat.
sweet dish made of cheese) to Goddess Laxmi ▪ Enters the plains of Odisha near Cuttack and
on behalf of Lord Jagannath to appease her, as forms a delta.
she gets angry for not being taken on the Raths ▪ Joins the Bay of Bengal at False Point through
to the Gundicha Temple. several channels near the major seaport town
▪ For the past few years, people in Odisha have of Paradip,
also celebrated the day of Niladri Bije as the ▪ The Mahanadi basin extends over the states of
Rasagola Divas. Chhattisgarh and Odisha and comparatively
smaller portions of Jharkhand, Maharashtra,
Odisha and Chhattisgarh expressed and Madhya Pradesh, draining an area of
1,41,589 [Link]., which is nearly 4.3% of the
willingness to resolve Mahanadi water
total geographical area of the country.
dispute amicably ▪ It passes through several major cities and
▪ Mahanadi River originates in Chhattisgarh and towns, including Raipur, Sambalpur, and
flows into Odisha, finally draining into the Bay Cuttack.
of Bengal. ▪ It is considered to be one of the most active
▪ About 53% of its catchment lies in silt-depositing streams in India.
Chhattisgarh and nearly 47% in Odisha. ▪ Tributaries: Its main tributaries are Seonath,
▪ The dispute arose when Odisha accused Jonk, Hasdeo, Mand, Ib, Ong, and Tel.
Chhattisgarh of constructing barrages and ▪ Hirakud Dam: The Hirakud Dam, the world’s
dams in the upstream areas without longest earthen dam (26 km), is constructed
consultation, which reduced water flow into across the Mahanadi River, about 15 km from
Odisha — especially during lean (non- Sambalpur in Odisha.
monsoon) months - Impact on Hirakud Dam ▪ The dam is used for irrigation, flood control,
(Odisha) and power generation.
▪ Odisha moved the Supreme Court in 2016, ▪ Chilika Lake: a wetland of international
alleging violation of interstate water-sharing importance under the Ramsar Convention,
norms. gets 61% of its inland flow from the Mahanadi
▪ The SC referred the matter to a Mahanadi River system, mainly from its distributaries –
Water Disputes Tribunal in 2018 under the Daya and Bhargabi
Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956.
PM Modi extends his wishes to the nation
Constitutional Provisions related to interstate water
dispute on the occasion of Nuakhai
▪ Article 262 empowers Parliament to
adjudicate such disputes.
▪ Inter State River Water Disputes
Act, 1956 empowers the Central Government
to constitute water dispute tribunals.
▪ River Boards Act, 1956 provides for the
establishment of River Boards to advise on
interstate river development.
Mahanadi River ▪ Observed on panchami tithi (the fifth day) of
▪ It is one of the major east-flowing peninsular the lunar fortnight of the month
rivers located in the states of Chhattisgarh and of Bhadrapada (August–September), the day
Odisha. after the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
▪ It ranks second to the Godavari River among ▪ Nuakhai Juhar is an agricultural festival, also
the peninsular rivers in respect of water called Nuakhai Parab or Nuakahi Bhetghat.
potential.
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▪ It is celebrated to welcome the new crop of Konark Sun Temple
the season. ▪ ASI banned tourists from
▪ Nuakhai is a combination of two words that entering the Nata Mandap.
signifies eating of new rice as ‘nua’ means new ▪ Located on Odisha coast,
and ‘khai’ means eat. Puri district.
▪ This is the festival of Western Odisha, ▪ Also called Surya
southern Chhattisgarh and adjoining areas Devalaya; dedicated to
of Simdega (Jharkhand). Sun God Surya.
▪ Its coastal counterpart is Nabanna, observed in ▪ Built in 1250 CE by Narasimha I (Eastern Ganga
Coastal Odisha. dynasty, 1238–1264).
▪ Festive Activities: Farmers offer the first ▪ UNESCO World Heritage Site (1984).
produce from their lands to Goddess Architectural Features
Samaleswari, the famous ‘Mother Goddess’ of ▪ Odisha/Kalinga style architecture.
Sambalpur district of Odisha. ▪ Height: 227 ft (one of India’s tallest temples).
▪ Designed as a 100-ft solar chariot with 24
Baliyatra’ festival & Boita Bandana : stone wheels and 6 horses.
Cuttack, Odisha ▪ East facing – first sunrise rays touch main
entrance.
▪ Wheels act as sundials (accurate to minutes).
▪ Materials used: Laterite (floor/walls/stairs),
Khondalite (structure), Chlorite (door
frames/lintel).
▪ Iron strips used for structural support.
▪ When: Kartika Purnima (marks sailors’ ▪ Called “Black Pagoda” by Europeans (used for
departure for Indonesia) sea navigation).
▪ Meaning: Bali Jatra = Voyage to Bali ▪ Believed to have magnetic powers attracting
▪ Purpose: Celebrates 2,000-yr maritime trade ships (folklore).
links between Kalinga (Odisha) and Bali, Java, ▪ Site of worship during Chandrabhaga Festival
Sumatra, Borneo, Myanmar, Sri Lanka (February).
▪ Highlights: Fairs, dance, food, cultural shows
▪ Boita Bandana: Women float paper/banana- Waheeda Rehman Opens 10th Film
leaf boats with lamps on Mahanadi
▪ Essence: Honors Kalinga’s ancient seafaring & Preservation and Restoration Workshop
maritime prosperity. President of India India
conveyed greetings for the festival. ▪ Odisha has hosted the 10th edition of the Film
Preservation and Restoration Workshop India.
Odisha to Launch “Gyana Yagnya Mandap” ▪ Robin Baker received
the Outstanding
Digital Library at Puri Achievement Award.
▪ Initiative by: Shree
▪ Surya Deo and Sanjoy
Jagannath Temple
Patnaik were honoured
Administration
for contributions to
(SJTA), Odisha
Odia film heritage.
▪ Purpose: To digitally
▪ A Certificate of
preserve and provide
Appreciation was also
access to rare and
presented to
historic Jagannath
Rashmiranjan Mohapatra for creatively
Temple records.
interpreting classic Odia films through
▪ Location: Site of the old Raghunandan Library,
traditional Pattachitra art.
Puri.
▪ Objective: Safeguard temple heritage through
digital archiving and knowledge sharing.

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Odisha to Host Global Energy Leaders’ Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik Sets World
Summit 2025 in Puri Record With Giant Santa Claus Made From
Apples In Odisha

▪ Renowned sand artist and Padma Shri awardee

Sudarsan Pattnaik created a world record with
a unique sand art installation at Niladri Beach
in Puri, Odisha.
▪ The Odisha government will convene the ▪ Titled "World's Biggest Apple and Sand
Global Energy Leaders’ Summit (GELS) 2025 in Installation of Santa Claus,"
Puri from December 5 to 7. ▪ The magnificent sculpture was crafted using
▪ The summit is themed “Powering India: 1.5 tons of apples and sand.
Sufficiency, Balance, Innovation,” ▪ It measured 60 feet in length, 45 feet in width,
▪ Participants include Union and State energy and 22 feet in height.
ministers, policymakers, and industry leaders.

World-Famous Dhanu Yatra Begins at

Bargarh in Odisha

▪ The world-famous Dhanu Yatra, an 11-day epic

open-air theatre festival depicting the
Krishna-Kansa myth, will begin at Bargarh in
Odisha
▪ Recognised as the world’s largest open-air
theatre, the Yatra features mythological scenes
enacted across streets, with the town
becoming a stage for Lord Krishna’s arrival
and Kansa’s rule, culminating in Kansa’s
defeat.
▪ The ‘Dhanu Yatra’ which marks the victory of
good over evil, came into existence in Bargarh
in 1947-48 as part of the celebration of the
country’s Independence and is held annually.

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Jharkhand
1. Gutka Ban Jharkhand Govt Prohibits Gutkha, Pan Masala for a
2. Sarhul Festival Year
3. Karma Puja ▪ The Jharkhand government has announced a complete ban
4. Manki Munda System on the production, distribution, sale, and storage of gutkha
5. Parasnath Hills and paan masala containing nicotine and tobacco within
6. Birhor Tribe the state.
▪ aims to protect the health and interests of the state's young
generation.

Sarhul Festival
•The tribal communities of Jharkhand
and Chhotanagpur region are celebrating
Sarhul
• Celebrated
on Chaitra Shukla
Tritiya, the third
moon day falling
in the month of
Chaitra.
• Sarhul literally means ‘worship of the Sal ▪ The festival typically falls on the 11th day
tree’ and marks the onset of spring and (Ekadashi) of the bright fortnight in the Hindu
the Adivasi New Year. month of Bhadrapada (August–September)
• It symbolizes the cosmic union of the Sun and ▪ The festival is popular especially among the
Earth, essential for the cycle of life and Munda, Ho, Oraon, Baiga, Kharia, and Santhal
agriculture. peoples.
• Celebrated by Adivasi groups such as the: ▪ It is mainly celebrated in Jharkhand, West
Oraon, Munda, Santal, Khadia, and Ho. Bengal, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh,
• The festival is observed Assam, and Odisha
across Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Bihar,
and also by tribal Cabinet approves doubling of Bhagalpur –
diaspora in Assam, Andaman, Nepal, Banglades
h, and Bhutan.
Dumka – Rampurhat single railway line
Features of the Festival: section (177 Km)
• Three-day celebration held at Sarna ▪ The project covering five Districts in three
Sthals (sacred groves). states i.e. Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal
• Sal flowers are offered to the village will increase the existing network of Indian
deity, Sarna Maa. Railways by about 177 Kms.
• Traditional dances like Jadur, Gena, and Por ▪ The projects are planned on PM-Gati Shakti
Jadur are performed. National Master Plan.
• A community feast and consumption
of Handia (rice beer) mark the final day. Manki-Munda System
• Ploughing and agricultural activities begin only
after the rituals conclude.

Prime Minister extends wishes to

everyone on Karma Puja
▪ Karma Puja, one of the most popular festivals
of Jharkhand is related to the harvest and a
tribute to the Karam tree.
▪ This tree symbolises fertility, prosperity and
everything that is auspicious.
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▪ NEWS: In West Singhbhum district (Kolhan
region), Jharkhand, Ho tribals protested
against the Deputy Commissioner (DC).
▪ The protest was triggered after the removal of
some Mundas (village heads) by the
administration.
▪ Adivasis alleged this was an interference in
their traditional Manki–Munda self- ▪ It holds sacred value for both the Santal
governance system, which has existed for Adivasi and Jain communities
centuries. ▪ Parasnath Hill is revered by Jains as the place
▪ Adivasis see this as a violation of tribal where 20 of the 24 tirthankaras attained
autonomy and customs protected under Fifth nirvana. The hill features over 40 Jain temples.
Schedule and PESA Act, 1996. ▪ The Santals, on the other hand, view Marang
▪ Manki-Munda System mainly followed by the Buru as a deity (and hold it as a vital part of
Ho tribe of Jharkhand (Kolhan region of West their cultural identity.
Singhbhum, Chaibasa, Saraikela-Kharsawan ▪ Visited by thousands of Santals annually during
districts). the Luguburu Festival
▪ Structure: Additional Facts:
▪ Munda → village head. ▪ In Jainism, Tirthankaras are spiritual teachers
▪ Manki → head of a cluster of villages who have attained keval jnana (pure
(10–15 villages). knowledge).
▪ a decentralised governance system rooted in ▪ Rishabhanatha (Adinath) - First Tirthankara
social and political responsibilities. ▪ Parshvanatha - 23rd Tirthankara
▪ Fifth Schedule of the Constitution → protects ▪ Mahavira (Vardhamana) - Founder of modern
tribal rights in Scheduled Areas. Jainism
▪ PESA Act, 1996 → Panchayats (Extension to
the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996
Jharkhand Has Proposed Its First-Ever
▪ empowers Gram Sabhas in Scheduled
Areas to manage community affairs in Tiger Safari
line with customs and traditions. ▪ The Jharkhand government plans to establish
the state’s first tiger safari in the fringe area of
the Barwadih Western Forest Range in
India’s First Mining Tourism Project in
Latehar district, which falls under the Palamau
Jharkhand Tiger Reserve (PTR).
▪ Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren said
his government has launched the country’s
maiden mining tourism initiative and inked a
pact with Coal India arm CCL.
▪ Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation
(JTDC) signed a memorandum of
understanding (MoU) with Central Coalfields
Limited (CCL) for the mining tourism initiative.
▪ Jharkhand is endowed with rich mineral
resources and is home to about 40% of the
country’s total minerals.

Marang Buru/Parasnath Hills

NEWS: The Jharkhand High Court recently enforced a
ban on the sale and consumption of meat and alcohol Tiger Safari is Governed by:
on this hill, denoting a long-standing inter-community • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
conflict. • NTCA Guidelines (2012, 2016)
▪ The Marang Buru, known as Parasnath Hill, is • CZA (Central Zoo Authority)
religious site in Jharkhand. • In 2016, the NTCA issued guidelines for
establishing tiger safaris in the buffer and
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fringe areas of tiger reserves for rescued, ▪ The Jharkhand Cabinet decided to rename the
conflict-prone, or orphaned tigers Atal Mohalla Clinic as ‘Mother Teresa
• In March 2024, the Supreme Court directed Advance Health Clinics’
that tiger safaris should be established outside ▪ Atal Mohalla Clinic - The scheme aims at
the core and buffer areas of tiger reserves. It strengthening health infrastructure in urban
said that such initiatives should not disturb slums and provides free primary healthcare
natural habitats or compromise conservation services — including consultations, medicines,
goals. and diagnostic tests.
• Palamu Tiger Reserve is the only tiger reserve
in Jharkhand, notified in 1974. Birhor Tribe
• Location: Latehar and Garhwa districts, on ▪ NEWS: Around 550 residents, mostly belonging
the Chhotanagpur Plateau, Jharkhand. to the Birhor tribe, of Fulwariya hamlet in
• Rivers: Drained by North Koel, Burha, and Koderma district would soon receive
Auranga rivers (Burha is perennial). electricity supply, ending nearly eight decades
of darkness.
Cabinet approves ₹5,940 crore revised ▪ The Birhor are a forest-dependent semi-
Jharia Master Plan for rehabilitation: nomadic tribal community concentrated in
Jharkhand.
Ashwini Vaishnaw
▪ Some of them are also found in Chhattisgarh,
▪ The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister
Odisha, and West Bengal.
Narendra Modi passed a resolution “to
commemorate and honour the sacrifices of
countless victims of the Emergency.
▪ approved the ₹5,940-crore revised Jharia
Master Plan (JMP) to deal with fire and
rehabilitation of affected families.
▪ The total financial outlay for the
implementation of the revised plan is
₹5,940.47 crore.
▪ The Jharia Master Plan for dealing with fire, ▪ The Birhor community is one of eight
subsidence and rehabilitation in Jharkhand’s Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)
Dhanbad district was approved by the Centre identified in Jharkhand.
in August 2009, ▪ They belong to the Proto-Australoid stock.
▪ with an implementation period of 10 years and ▪ Religion: The Birhor follow a mixture of
a pre-implementation period of two years with animism and Hinduism.
an estimated investment of ₹7,112.11 crore. ▪ They claim they have descended from the Sun
▪ The plan expired in 2021. and believe that the Kharwars, who also trace
Pune metro line 2 their descent from the Sun, are their brothers.
▪ The Cabinet also approved the extension of ▪ The temporary Birhor settlements are known
Pune metro line 2 of ₹3,626 crore, comprising as tandas or bands.
two elevated corridors that span 12.75 km. ▪ These consist of at least half a dozen huts of
conical shape, erected with leaves and
Mother Teresa replaces Atal in Jharkhand branches.
scheme name, BJP calls it ‘conversion
agenda’ Jharkhand 25th Statehood Day -
November 15
▪ 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of the
formation of Jharkhand—established in
November 2000
▪ Article 3 of the Indian Constitution empowers
Parliament to form new states and alter
existing states by a simple majority and

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without the need for the concurrence of the Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare)
state concerned. Bill, 2025, providing legal backing to welfare
▪ The state of Jharkhand was created on 15 measures for platform-based delivery and
November 2000 by bifurcating the southern service workers.
part of Bihar. ▪ Institutional Setup: Provides for a Gig Workers’
▪ Jharkhand, located in the north eastern part Welfare Board with headquarters at Ranchi;
of India, is also called 'Jungle of Forest' or the State Labour Minister will be the ex officio
'Bushland'. Chairperson.
State Symbol ▪ Board will Oversees registration of gig workers
▪ State Animal Elephant and aggregators and frames social security
▪ State Bird Koel schemes.
▪ State Tree Sal ▪ It mandates minimum remuneration based on
▪ State Flower Plash time and distance, safer working conditions,
▪ Capital Ranchi and weekly compensation for registered
workers.
▪ Chief Minister Shri Hemant Soren
▪ Violations may attract fines up to ₹10 lakh, and
▪ GOVERNOR Santosh Kumar Gangwar
legal action against company officials for
offences under the Act.
Adani’s Godda Plant Approved for Indian
Grid Connection President Droupadi Murmu attends
centenary celebrations of Ol Chiki script in
Jamshedpur

▪ Developer: Adani Power Ltd

▪ Capacity: 1,600 MW
▪ Type: Ultra Supercritical
▪ Location: Godda, Jharkhand
▪ Approved: To link with national grid via Line in
Line out of Kahalgaon A–Maithon B 400 kV
line.
▪ Built for: Power export to Bangladesh under
long-term agreement.

Jharkhand Approves Landmark Law For

Gig Workers
▪ President Droupadi Murmu addressed the
closing ceremony of 22nd Parsi M aha and
centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script in
Jamshedpur.
▪ In 1925, Pandit Raghunath Murmu developed
the Ol Chiki script.
▪ President Murmu said she recently had the
opportunity to release the Constitution of India
translated into Santhali using the Ol Chiki script
▪ Santhali is one of India’s most ancient living
▪ Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar
tribal languages, primarily spoken by the
has given assent to the Jharkhand Platform-

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Santhal community and recognised in About Ho Tribe
the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. ▪ The Ho, or Kolha, people are an Austroasiatic
Origin: Munda ethnic group of India.
▪ Belongs to the Munda branch of ▪ They call themselves the Ho, Hodoko, and
the Austroasiatic language family, distinct from Horo, which mean ‘human’ in their own
Indo-European languages. language.
▪ Traditionally transmitted through oral ▪ Distribution: They are mostly concentrated in
literature, songs, folklore and rituals. the Kolhan region of Jharkhand and Odisha.
▪ Acquired its own script, Ol Chiki, in 1925, ▪ Ho also inhabit adjacent areas in the
developed by Pandit Raghunath Murmu, giving neighboring states of Odisha, West Bengal, and
the language a written identity. Bihar. They also live in Bangladesh and Nepal.
Current status: ▪ Language: Ho people speak the Ho language,
▪ Included in the Eighth Schedule through an Austroasiatic language closely related to
the 92nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003. Mundari.
▪ Spoken by about 7 million people in India, ▪ Occupation: The majority of the Ho tribe is
mainly across Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal involved in agriculture, either as landowners or
and Bihar, and also in Nepal and Bangladesh. labourers, while others are engaged in mining.
▪ The men and women of this community wear
Ho Tribe very minimal dress. The women prefer to wear
▪ The Ho Samaj Yuva Mahasabha (AHSYM) tribal jewelleries.
recently called upon tribal people not to ▪ Women have higher status among the Ho than
celebrate picnics but to observe ‘Black Day’ on they do in most tribes.
January 1 and 2. ▪ The majority of the Ho have their own nature-
based religion (Sarnaism) that doesn’t fit in
with Hinduism.

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Bihar
1. Bihar Diwas March 22- Bihar Diwas
2. Kosi Mechi Intra State Link ▪ The day commemorates the establishment of Bihar as an
Project independent province in 1912 after it was separated from
the Bengal Presidency.
3. Purnia Airport
▪ It is bounded by Nepal to the north and by West Bengal to
4. Financial Assistance to
the northeast and Uttar Pradesh to the west.
unemployed graduates
▪ In November 2000 the new state of Jharkhand was created
5. Science City in Patna from Bihar’s southern
6. Pitru Paksha Mela provinces and now forms
7. Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojar the state’s southern and
yojana southeastern borders.
8. E-Voting System ▪ Capital : Patna
9. 35% reservation for womens ▪ State Flower: Genda/
10. Mukhya Mantri Pratigya Marigold
Scheme ▪ State Tree: Peepal
▪ State Bird: House Sparrow
▪ State Animal: Bullock

Kosi Mechi Intra-State Link Project

▪ Chief Minister: Nitish Kumar

▪ Governor: Shri Arif Mohammed Khan
▪ Rivers: Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, Panar, Pun-Pun,
▪ The Cabinet has approved the inclusion of
Saura, Bagmati, Ghagra, Son, Mahananda, Sapt
Bihar's Kosi Mechi Intra-State Link Project
Koshi, Bhutahi Balan
under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai
▪ Dance and Music forms : Jat-Jatin dance of the
Yojana-Accelerated Irrigation Benefits
Mithila region, Bidesia (popular folk theatre),
Programme (PMKSY-AIBP) to enhance
Jhijhian dance, Kajari dance, Sohar-khilouna
irrigation and flood management in the
dance
region.
▪ State Arts: Madhubani painting
▪ The project envisages diversion of a part of
▪ Two Ramsar wetlands - Nagi and Nakti bird
surplus Kosi water for extending irrigation to
sanctuaries
Mahananda basin in Bihar by way of
▪ World Heritage site: Mahabodhi temple
remodelling existing Eastern Kosi Main Canal.
complex at Bodh Gaya, Nalanda Mahavihara
▪ Estimated to cost Rs. 6,282.32 crore, the
(Nalanda University) at Nalanda
project includes Rs 3,652.56 crore as central
▪ Tribes: Santhal, Oraon, Munda, Ho, Kharwar,
assistance to Bihar and is scheduled for
Kharia, and Bhumij
completion by March 2029.
▪ Bihar Vidhan Sabha : 243
• Kosi is a transboundary river flowing through
▪ Bihar Legislative Council : 75 (63 Elected + 12
China, Nepal, and India.
Nominated)

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• It is a tributary of the Ganges, joining it near ▪ Unmesha is Asia’s largest literature festival.
Kursela in Katihar district, Bihar. The third edition will be held in Patna from 25
▪ The Mechi River is a trans-boundary river, to 28 September 2025.
flowing through Nepal and India, and is a ▪ It is organised by Sahitya Akademi in
tributary of the Mahananda River. collaboration with the Ministry of Culture,
▪ The Mechi River originates in the inner valley Government of India, and the Government of
of the Himalaya in the Mahabharat range of Bihar.
hills in Nepal near Sindhuliagarhi. ▪ Venue: Samrat Ashok Convention Centre,
▪ The Kosi-Mechi river linking project aims to Patna
divert surplus water from the Kosi River to the
Mechi River, which is part of the Mahananda Cabinet approves Construction of 4-lane
basin, to improve irrigation and flood control.
Sahebganj-Areraj-Bettiah section of the
NH-139W in Bihar

▪ The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister

Narendra Modi, approved the construction of a
four-lane highway along the Sahebganj-
Areraj-Bettiah section of National Highway
139W in Bihar.
▪ The project will connect seven PM Gati Shakti
economic Nodes, six Social Nodes, eight
Logistic Nodes, nine Major Tourism and
Unmesha International Literature Festival Religious Centers

is beginning in Patna
Cabinet approves doubling of
Bakhtiyarpur – Rajgir – Tilaiya single
railway line section
▪ The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi, approved the doubling of the
104 km Bakhtiyarpur–Rajgir–Tilaiya railway
line in Bihar at an estimated cost of ₹2,192
crore.

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power and strengthen Bihar's energy security,
a senior official.
OTHERS :
▪ The PM also laid the foundation stone for
Phase 1 of the Kosi-Mechi Intra-State River
Link Project worth over Rs 2,680 crore.
(Diversion of surplus water from Kosi to
Mechi.)

PM Vishwakarma & National SC-ST Hub

Mega Conclave Begins at Bodhgaya

▪ This project aims to enhance rail connectivity

and capacity in the region, benefiting both
passenger and freight services.
▪ Project section also provides rail connectivity
to prominent destinations such as Rajgir
(Shanti Stupa), Nalanda, Pawapuri etc.
attracting pilgrims and tourists from across the
country.

PM Modi Inaugurates Purnia Airport & ▪ The PM Vishwakarma & National SC-ST Hub
Launches ₹36,000 Cr Bihar Projects Mega Conclave commenced, September 17,
2025, at the Bodhgaya Convention Centre in
Bihar.
▪ Organized by the Ministry of Micro, Small &
Medium Enterprises (MSME), the event marks
the second anniversary of the PM
Vishwakarma Scheme.
▪ The PM Vishwakarma Scheme is a flagship
initiative launched by PM Modi on September
▪ PURNIA : The PM inaugurated - a newly 17, 2023, to empower traditional artisans and
developed terminal building at Purnea craftspeople across India.
airport, which will enhance passenger handling ▪ Total Outlay: Rs 13,000 crore for 5 years 2023-
capacity in the region. 24 to 2027-28.
▪ Flagged off the first flight on the Purnea- ▪ Type of Scheme: Central Sector Scheme
Kolkata route. ▪ Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Micro, Small &
▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched Medium Enterprises (MSME)
the National Makhana Board in Purnea, ▪ Eligibility: Traditional artisans and craftsmen
Bihar. (above 18 years of age)
▪ Bhagalpur : Laid the foundation stone for a ▪ Marketing Support:
3x800 MW thermal power facility worth Rs ▪ The scheme provides services for
25,000 crore at Pirpainti, Bhagalpur. quality certification, branding, e-
▪ This is the state's largest private sector commerce linkage, and participation in
investment. The project will provide dedicated trade fairs.

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▪ Skill Upgradation: ▪ Spread over 21 acres, the Science City features
▪ Beneficiaries undergo basic training (5- five science-based galleries, 269 fascinating
7 days) and can enrol for advanced science exhibition models, an auditorium, and
training (15 days or more). They also a 4D theater as its main attractions.
receive a daily stipend of Rs 500 ▪ The Science City has been constructed by
during training. Bihar’s Department of Science, Technology,
▪ Toolkit Incentive: A grant of Rs 15,000 is and Technical Education
provided to help artisans acquire modern
equipment. PM to Launch Bihar Rajya Jeevika Nidhi
▪ Credit Support:
Saakh Sahkari Sangh Limited
▪ Collateral-free enterprise development
▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch
loans of Rs 1 lakh (first tranche) and Rs
Bihar Rajya Jeevika Nidhi Saakh Sahkari Sangh
2 lakh (second tranche) are available at
Limited on 2nd September at 12:30 PM via
a concessional interest rate of 5%,
video conferencing.
with the government providing an 8%
▪ On the occasion, Prime Minister will also
interest subvention.
transfer Rs. 105 crore into the institution’s
bank account.
Bihar Govt to provide monthly financial ▪ The objective of establishing the Jeevika Nidhi
assistance of Rs 1,000 to unemployed is to provide easy access to funds at affordable
graduates interest rates to community members
▪ The Bihar Government will provide financial associated with Jeevika.
assistance of ₹1,000 per month to ▪ All registered cluster-level federations of
unemployed youths, who have graduate Jeevika will become the members of the
degrees, for a period of two years under Society.
'Mukhyamantri Nishchay Swayam Sahayta ▪ For the operation of this institution, the
Bhatta Yojana Government of Bihar as well as the Central
▪ Earlier, this scheme was applicable for government will contribute funds.
unemployed youths who had passed their ▪ Entrepreneurship has flourished among
intermediate exams only. women associated with Jeevika’s self-help
Eligibility Criteria: groups over the years, leading to the
▪ Must be graduates (earlier applicable only for establishment of numerous small enterprises
intermediate pass youths). and producer companies in rural areas.
▪ Age between 20-25 years. ▪ However, women entrepreneurs have often
▪ Not pursuing studies anywhere. been compelled to depend on microfinance
▪ Actively seeking employment. institutions charging high interest rates of
▪ Should not have self-employment. 18%–24%.
▪ Should not have obtained a government or
private job. Pitru Paksha Mela begins in Bihar’s Gaya Ji
in Bihar
CM Nitish Kumar
Inaugurates Dr. A.P.J.
Abdul Kalam Science
City in Patna
▪ The Dr. A.P.J. Abdul
Kalam Science City
in Patna is designed
to inspire and
educate visitors
about science and ▪ This year, the Pitru Paksha Mela will be held
technology. from 6th to 21st September.

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▪ People from across the globe arrive in Gaya to
perform tarpan rituals for the peace of the
souls of their departed ancestors.
▪ Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddha , is an
important time period according to the Hindu
calendar dedicated to paying tribute to one's
ancestors.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Launches

Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana
▪ The scheme is aimed
at providing
employment
opportunities for
women.
▪ The online portal for
the applications from
women under the
‘Chief Minister
Women Employment
Scheme’ has been
launched
What is the scheme?
▪ Under this scheme, one woman from every
family in the state will be given financial
assistance to start a business of her choice.
▪ These women will be provided with Rs 10,000
as the first installment of financial support via
Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to start her
chosen employment activity.
▪ After regular assessment, these women will be
given Rs an additional Rs 2 lakh support for
their business idea.
▪ The Rural Development Department will be
the nodal agency for this scheme and Bihar Royal Bhutan Buddhist
Rural Livelihood Promotion Society, Jeevika
will execute it.
Temple Inaugurated in
Rajgir, Bihar
Cabinet approves construction Mokama- ▪ The temple was
inaugurated by the
Munger section of the Buxar-Bhagalpur Prime Minister of
High-Speed Corridor in Bihar Bhutan, Tshering
▪ 4-lane greenfield project Tobgay, the Union
▪ total project length of 82.400 km and Total Minister for Minority
Capital Cost of Rs. 4447.38 crore. Affairs, Kiren Rijiju and representatives of both
▪ Connects Mokama – Barahiya – Lakhisarai – countries.
Jamalpur – Munger – Bhagalpur. ▪ Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay is on
▪ Expected to cut travel time between Mokama an official visit to India from September 3 to 6.
and Munger to approximately 1.5 hours. ▪ Rajgir, nestled in Bihar’s Nalanda district,
▪ The Munger–Jamalpur–Bhagalpur belt is holds immense spiritual and historical
positioned as an emerging industrial & logistics importance in Buddhism. It was here that Lord
hub. Buddha spent several years meditating,
delivering sermons, and building a monastic
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community. Rajgir is also closely associated his 16-day-long ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra’ from
with the First Buddhist Council, which was Sasaram in poll-bound Bihar.
held shortly after the Buddha’s ▪ The Yatra will cover 1,300 kilometres
Mahaparinirvana.
Bihar CM announces doubling of
Bihar Cabinet approves plan to open honorariums for cooks, physical education
seven medical colleges across seven instructors in schools
districts ▪ Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar, declared
▪ The Cabinet decided to open one medical a significant hike in the honorarium for
college and hospital in seven districts of several categories of support staff in
Kishanganj, Katihar, Rohtas, Sheohar, government schools:
Lakhisarai, Arwal and Sheikhpura ▪ Cooks employed under the Mid-Day Meal
▪ There are, currently, 12 State-run government Scheme (MDMS) saw their monthly payment
medical colleges and hospitals apart from 20 increase from Rs 1,650 to Rs 3,300,
under construction medical colleges in the ▪ Night watchmen deployed in secondary and
State. higher secondary schools have seen a monthly
▪ In another decision, the Cabinet also honorarium increase from Rs 5,000 to Rs
sanctioned ₹20,000 crore to roll out Mukhya 10,000.
Mantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana: ▪ Similarly, physical education and health
▪ under which one woman of every instructors’ monthly honorarium increased
family will be given ₹10,000 to start a from Rs 8,000 to Rs 16,000
business of her own choice
▪ Following the evaluation of the Union Minister Amit Shah & Bihar CM
performance of women’s
Nitish Kumar to lay foundation stone of
entrepreneurial ventures after six
months, an additional ₹2 lakh will be temple dedicated to Goddess Sita at
given as grant to the women Punaura Dham, Bihar
entrepreneurs ▪ Union Home Minister
▪ A separate unit of “Prohibition and State Amit Shah laid the
Narcotics Control Bureau” has been set up for foundation stone for
which 88 posts have been created to deal with the redevelopment of
the issue of narcotics and prohibition. Maa Janaki Mandir at
▪ The Cabinet also increased the basic salary by Punaura Dham in
30% per month as “risk allowance” for the Bihar’s Sitamarhi
police officials and personnel who are either district, believed to be
working or working on deputation in Anti- the birthplace of Goddess Sita.
Terrorist Squad (ATS). ▪ The Bihar Cabinet had on July 1, 2025
▪ The amount will not exceed ₹25,000 per sanctioned ₹882.87 crore for the integrated
month on which dearness allowance will not development of the temple complex.
be payable ▪ The temple will be spread over in 67 acres of
land.
Rahul Gandhi launched ‘Vote Adhikar
Yatra’ in Bihar on August 17 Bihar becomes 1st state to have less than
1,200 voters per polling station

▪ Senior Congress leader and Leader of

Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi began

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▪ Bihar has become the first state in the country Bihar government renames Gaya city as
where every polling station will now cater to
'Gaya Jee'
fewer than 1,200 voters.
▪ The decision was taken at a meeting of the
▪ To achieve this, 12,817 new polling stations
state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Nitish
have been added across the state.
Kumar
▪ Earlier, there was a ceiling of 1,500 electors
▪ Gaya holds immense religious significance in
per station, which has been revised to 1,200,
both Hinduism and Buddhism.
under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR of
▪ For Hindus, it's a sacred site for performing
the electoral rolls.
Pind Daan, a ritual believed to offer liberation
▪ With this addition, the total number of polling
to departed ancestors. The Vishnupad Temple
stations in Bihar has now gone up to 90,712,
in Gaya is a major pilgrimage site, and Gaya is
from the earlier 77,895.
also mentioned in the Ramayana, where
Rama performed Pind Daan for his father -
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar King Dasharatha.
announced that every household in the ▪ Buddhists consider Gaya (specifically Bodh
state will receive 125 units of electricity Gaya) the place where Buddha attained
enlightenment.
free of cost every month, starting from
August 1. Bihar State Election Commission decides
to roll out an e-voting system using an
Android-based mobile.
▪ In a paradigm shift to
the voting process,
the Bihar State
Election Commission
has decided to roll
out an e-voting
system using an
PM Modi inaugurates new terminal of Android-based
Patna Airport, lays foundation stone for mobile.
▪ Bihar will be the
new civil enclave at Bihta airport
country’s first state to adopt this revolutionary
change in the voting process.
▪ The entire e-voting process will be executed
through two mobile apps, namely “e-Voting
SECBHR”, one developed by the Centre for
Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC)
and another by the Bihar State Election
Commission.
▪ The new passenger terminal was inaugurated ▪ Migrant labourers, migrant voters, divyang
at the Jay Prakash Narayan International voters, pregnant female voters, elderly and
Airport in Patna senior citizens, and seriously ill electorates will
▪ PM Modi was accompanied by Bihar Chief be able to cast their votes using the e-voting
Minister Nitish Kumar and Union Minister of process.
Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu. ▪ It will help to increase voter turnout and make
▪ The Bihta airport will serve the town which elections more inclusive.
is rapidly emerging as an educational hub near ▪ The e-voting system will have features like a
Patna, housing IIT Patna and the proposed NIT blockchain platform, liveness detection, face
Patna campus. match, live face scan, and face comparison,
making the voting tamper-proof.
▪ Like EVMs feature of VVPAT, an audit trail has
also been put in place in the e-voting process.
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▪ e-voting process, only the European country Bihar cabinet announces domicile policy
Estonia has rolled out this.
for 35% reservation in govt jobs for
Bihar cabinet approves ₹4,026 crore women
marriage hall scheme in all gram
panchayats
▪ The Bihar cabinet approved the construction
of marriage halls under the Mukhya Mantri
Kanya Vivah Mandap Yojana across all 8,053
gram panchayats of the State, with an
estimated outlay of ₹4,026 crore.
▪ The marriage hall will be constructed by gram
panchayats at a cost of ₹50 lakh each.
▪ It will be executed in a phased manner over a ▪ The Bihar Cabinet made domicile mandatory
period of five years beginning this financial for accessing the 35% reservation for women
year in State government jobs.
▪ In another key decision, the cabinet approved ▪ Previously, women from outside Bihar could
the Rural Development Department’s proposal also benefit from the reservation policy, which
to operationalise Jeevika Didi Ki Rasoi units at was introduced by the State government in
block-level offices, as well as at sub-divisional 2016.
and district headquarters. ▪ Women from other States applying for Bihar
▪ The Health Department’s proposal to government jobs will be treated as general
launch Didi Ki Rasoi at government medical category candidates
colleges and hospitals was also approved. “Bihar Youth Commission”
▪ The meals will be made available at a ▪ The Cabinet also approved the constitution of
subsidised rate of ₹20 per plate, Development the “Bihar Youth Commission” to make the
Commissioner Pratyaya Amrit said. youth of the State self-reliant, skilled, and
▪ The scheme will be rolled out in a phased employment-oriented.
manner starting July 1, at an estimated cost of ▪ The commission will have a chairman, two
₹5 crore. vice-presidents, and seven members.
▪ The State also announced an increase in social ▪ The maximum age of the chairman and
security pensions under schemes for old age, members will be 45.
disability, and widow beneficiaries.
▪ As per the decision, the monthly pension Bihar Launches Mukhya Mantri Pratigya
amount will be raised from ₹400 to ₹1,100, Scheme & other schemes
benefitting around 1.11 crore people.

Bihar to Host Its First Nuclear Power Plant

Under India’s New SMR Mission
▪ Bihar will be among the first six states in India
will get its first atomic plant under the
country’s new Nuclear Energy Mission.
▪ Union Power Minister Manohar Lal
Khattar announced a Small Modular Reactor
(SMR)-based nuclear power plant in the state
following the Centre’s approval.
▪ SMRs are a newer generation of nuclear
technology designed to be more flexible and
cost-effective than traditional large-scale ▪ The Bihar government launched the 'Mukhya
reactors Mantri Pratigya' scheme to provide financial
support to youths for carrying out internship

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programmes after clearing their class 12 will be given ₹7,500 and pupils will be
board examination. given ₹3,000.
▪ aims to address youth unemployment and ▪ The cabinet also approved "Retired Chief
enhance industry readiness among students Justices and Judges Domestic Help Rule and
▪ Under the scheme, youths aged between 18 Other Benefits Rules, 2025" to provide
and 28, having either trained under skill domestic help and telephone reimbursement
development programme or those who have to retired chief justices and former judges of
passed Class 12, Industrial Training Institutes the high court and former Supreme Court
diploma, graduate and post-graduate will get judges.
financial support for availing internship ▪ The high court shall provide a consolidated
training amount of ₹55,000 per month to a retired
▪ The financial support will be given for a period Judge or spouse to engage domestic
ranging from three months to 12 months And help/driver and ₹60,000 per month to a
will be sent directly to their bank accounts retired chief justice or spouse or retired judge
▪ Those who have cleared the higher secondary who has been elevated as a judge to the
exam will get ₹4,000 per month for Supreme Court or their spouse,
internship. ▪ Besides, chief justice, judges or their spouses
▪ ITI diploma pass candidates will get ₹5,000 per or retired judges elevated to Supreme Court
month while graduate and postgraduate judges or their spouses will be paid ₹15,000
youths will get an internship of ₹6,000 per per month for cell phone, landline expenses,
month internet service, secretarial and security
▪ Apart from this, youths who will go for services etc.
internship programmes out of their home ▪ The cabinet also gave its approval to the
district will get an additional ₹2,000 per labour resources department's proposal to
month as livelihood support while those doing amend the Bihar Factory Rules 1950 that
internships out of the state will get allowed women, except pregnant and
additional ₹5,000 per month – livelihood lactating mothers, to work in factories which
support for maximum 3 months. are considered hazardous
Mukhya Mantri Kalakar Pension Yojana
▪ In another decision, the cabinet approved a Bihar CM Announces Formation of State
proposal of the Art, Culture and Youth
Sanitation Workers Commission
Department to give a pension of ₹3000 per
month to the artists under "Mukhya Mantri
Kalakar Pension Yojana“.
▪ Pension will be given to those artists who have
given at least 10 years to traditional classical
visual and performing arts in order to help
preserve the state's rich cultural heritage.
▪ Eligibility for pension - artist's age should be at
least 50 years while their annual income
should not exceed ₹1.20 lakh,“
Mukhya Mantri Guru-Shishya Parampara Yojana
▪ The cabinet also approved "Mukhya Mantri
Guru-Shishya Parampara Yojana" in order to
preserve, promote and develop the state's rich
cultural heritage including its rare and
endangered arts
▪ Under this scheme, talented youths will be
given a two-year training by gurus to preserve ▪ The Nitish Kumar government approved the
the rare and endangered arts besides constitution of the Bihar State Safai
publicising them Karmachari Commission for the all-round
▪ Under the scheme, gurus will be given ₹15,000 socio-economic upliftment of sanitation
per month as an incentive, while musicians workers in the state.

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▪ An aim to ensure the protection, welfare, ▪ A statue of Lord Buddha crafted by artists from
rehabilitation, social upliftment, grievance Odisha will serve as a distinctive symbol of this
redressal, and monitoring of various welfare site.
schemes for the rights and interests of
sanitation workers in the state. Bihar CM Nitish Kumar announces
▪ The Bihar State Safai Karmachari Commission
monthly pension of Rs 15,000 for
will consist of a chairperson, a vice-
chairperson, and five members, including a Journalists
woman or a transgender person ▪ The Bihar government
had started the
pension scheme in
CM Nitish Kumar to inaugurate Buddha
2019. Any accredited
Samyak Darshan Museum & Memorial journalist with a
Stupa in Vaishali minimum of 20 years
▪ In Bihar, the of experience at the
newly constructed district or state level is
“Buddha Samyak eligible for pension.
Darshan Museum ▪ Under the Bihar Journalist Samman Pension
and Memorial Scheme, all eligible journalists will now get a
Stupa” at pension amount of 15,000 rupees per month
Vaishaligarh in instead of the earlier 6,000 rupees.
Vaishali district ▪ In case of death of a journalist receiving a
will be inaugurated. pension under this scheme, their dependent
▪ An architectural marvel and potential tourist spouse will be given a lifelong monthly
hotspot, the structure has been built on 72 pension of 10,000 rupees which was
acres of land at a cost of over 550 crore previously earmarked 3,000 rupees.
rupees.
▪ Buddhist monks from 15 countries, including Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Announces
China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, Tibet,
Increase In Honorarium For ASHA &
Myanmar, Malaysia, Bhutan, Vietnam,
Cambodia, Mongolia, Laos, Bangladesh, and Mamta Workers
Indonesia, will be present on the occasion. ▪ In Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has
▪ For the first time in modern Indian history, a announced an increase in the honorarium and
stupa in the Vaishali district of Bihar has been incentives for ASHA (Accredited Social Health
constructed entirely using stone without the Activist) and Mamta workers who are
use of cement, bricks, or concrete. working for health services, immunization
▪ The total height is nearly double that of the and the safety of newborns and mothers.
world-famous Sanchi Stupa. ▪ These two groups are considered important
▪ The 42,000 sandstone blocks have been joined players in improving health services in rural
using the tongue-and-groove technique areas.
without any adhesive material. ▪ ASHA workers will now receive an incentive
▪ It has been built using advanced earthquake- amount of 3,000 rupees instead of 1,000
resistant techniques to ensure its preservation rupees.
for thousands of years. ▪ Similarly, Mamta workers, who work to raise
▪ The grand entrance gate, modelled after the awareness about safe childbirth and maternal
Sanchi Torana, reflects the splendour and and child health, will now receive an incentive
intricate details of Buddhist architecture. of 600 rupees per delivery instead of 300
▪ The complex also houses a meditation centre, rupees.
library, visitor centre, museum block,
amphitheatre, cafeteria, a 500-kilowatt solar
power plant, parking, and other amenities.

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Bihar Cabinet Cuts BPSC Preliminary Exam Nitish Kumar sworn in as Bihar CM, 26
Fee to ₹100, Waives Fee for Main Exams Ministers take oath, including one Muslim
▪ The Bihar Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister and three women
Nitish Kumar, has approved a major reduction
in examination fees for job aspirants across the
state.
▪ Preliminary (PT) exam fee will be slashed to
₹100.
▪ The fee for main examinations has been
completely waived.
▪ This change applies to multiple recruiting
bodies, including BPSC, BSSC, BTSC, BPSSC,
and the Central Constable Selection Board, ▪ Nitish Kumar (JD(U)) sworn in as Chief Minister
among others of Bihar for the 10th time on 20 November
2025 at Gandhi Maidan, Patna.
Bihar Cabinet to celebrate birth ▪ Oath administered by Governor Arif
anniversary of late Upendra Nath Verma Mohammed Khan.
▪ Nitish Kumar (71), an MLC, did not contest the
as “state function” Assembly elections.
▪ The Cabinet has decided to celebrate the birth ▪ Has been CM since 2005, except a brief 9-
anniversary of late Upendra Nath Verma, month break (2014–15).
educationist, social reformer, social worker, as ▪ Among the 10 longest-serving CMs with 19
“state function” every year on August 23 at a years in power.
place where his statue has been installed in ▪ Cabinet Formation: 26 Ministers took oath
Gayaji town. ▪ Deputy Chief Ministers : Vinay Kumar Sinha –
▪ Also, the State Teacher Award prize money 2nd term, Samrat Choudhary – Deputy CM
doubled from Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000 from FY ▪ Only 3 women and 1 Muslim in the cabinet.
2025–26 ▪ The NDA stormed back to power in Bihar,
winning 202 seats in the 243-member
PM Modi inaugurates Aunta-Simaria assembly, with the BJP bagging 89, JD(U) 85,
Bridge in Bihar Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) 19, Hindustani
▪ Prime Minister Awam Morcha 5 and RLM 4.
Narendra Modi
inaugurated the Bihar cabinet approves creation of three
8.15 km Aunta– new departments
Simaria bridge New Departments Created (3) with Aim to Support
project on NH-31, govt target of 1 crore jobs in 5 years.
featuring a 1.86 ▪ Youth, Employment & Skill Development Dept.
km six-lane ▪ Higher Education Dept.
bridge over the ▪ Civil Aviation Dept.
river Ganga, built at a cost of over ₹1,870 Renamed Departments (3)
crore. ▪ Animal & Fisheries Resource Dept. → Dairy,
▪ Constructed alongside the nearly seven- Fisheries & Animal Resources Dept.
decade-old Rajendra Setu, the bridge provides ▪ Labour Resources Dept. → Labour Resources &
direct connectivity between Mokama in Patna Overseas Workers Welfare Dept.
district and Begusarai, reducing travel distance ▪ Art, Culture & Youth Dept. → Art & Culture
for heavy vehicles by up to 100 km. Dept.
▪ The Aunta-Simaria Bridge is 1.86 km long and Other Decisions:
has six lanes DA Hike
▪ It is part of an 8.15 km stretch on National ▪ 5% DA increase for staff under 6th Pay
Highway 31 Commission.

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▪ 8% DA increase for staff under 5th Pay through quality education; accessible
Commission. healthcare for a secure life; a strong
foundation for modern expansion; and ease of
living with dignity for all.
▪ Saat Nishchay-1 (2015-20) and Saat Nishchay-
2 (2020-25) were based on the concept of
"development with justice" and the third
edition is the continuation of the same.

RPCAU honoured for nation-building

initiatives
▪ Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural
University (RPCAU), Pusa, has received
national recognition for its sustained
contribution to promoting patriotism and
MoU With NSE nation-building through co-curricular activities.
▪ Cabinet approved MoU with National Stock ▪ RPCAU is located in Pusa, Bihar.
Exchange (NSE). ▪ RPCAU was conferred the award for “best
▪ Purpose: Youth empowerment + Student contribution in nationality, patriotism, and
Skilling Programme. nation-building through co-curricular
activities”.
Nitish Kumar allocates portfolios of new ▪ The recognition was jointly instituted by
departments among Bihar ministers Veterans India in collaboration with the All
▪ The Bihar Cabinet India Council for Technical Education, the
on December 9 National Board of Accreditation, and the
approved Association of Indian Universities.
proposals to
create three new Bihar to Establish India’s First Power
departments — Museum in Patna
Youth,
Employment and
Skill Development
Department,
Higher Education
Department and the Civil Aviation
Department — and changed the names of
three other departments.
▪ Youth, Employment and Skill Development
Department - Sanjay Singh ‘
▪ Higher Education Department. - State
Education Minister Sunil Kumar
▪ Civil Aviation Department - Nitish Kumar

Bihar Cabinet approves 'Saat Nischay'-3 ▪ India’s first energy museum has been
programme for 2025-30 approved and will be developed by BSPHCL at
▪ 'Saat Nishchay-3' programme to bring Bihar Patna’s defunct thermal power plant.
into the category of the most developed ▪ The Bihar State Power Holding Company
States. Limited (BSPHCL) will develop it on a 3-acre
▪ Saat Nishchay-3 includes: double employment, site at the defunct Karbigahiya thermal power
double income; prosperous industries, plant, Patna.
empowered Bihar; prosperity of the State ▪ The museum will be India’s first and only the
through progress in agriculture; a bright future fourth such energy museum in the world.

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West Bengal
• Fort William as Vijay Durg Fort William, Army’s Eastern HQ, Renamed ‘Vijay
• Nadi Bandhan Scheme Durg’
• Gangasagar Mela
• Boi Mela
• Digha Jagannath Temple
• Hilsa Fish
• Shramshree Scheme

▪ To eliminate colonial practices and mindsets within the armed forces, Fort William in Kolkata, the
headquarters of the Eastern Army Command, has been renamed Vijay Durg.
▪ The new name, Vijay Durg, is derived from the oldest fort along the Sindhudurg coast in Maharashtra and
served as a naval base for the Marathas under Chhatrapati Shivaji.
▪ Fort William, named after King William III of England, was constructed by the British in 1781.

New ‘Nadi Bandhan’ Scheme Announced ▪ The State government employees - dearness
allowance (DA) - a 4% hike in the allowance.
▪ The major highlights of the budget included
₹1,500 crore allocation for the improvement
of rural roads across the state under
Pathasree scheme, ₹200 crore for Nodi
Bandhan scheme to arrest river erosion based
on hydrological models.
▪ Ghatal Masterplan has not been approved by
Government of India, the budget allocated Rs
500 crore for a mega project to dredge
riverbeds and strengthen embankments of at
least 10 major rivers in the state.
▪ The budget sanctioned ₹500 crore for the
▪ West Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima construction of a 4.75 km-long bridge over
Bhattacharya on tabled a ₹3.89-lakh crore the Ganga River to connect Sagar Island where
budget for financial year 2025-26. Gangasagar Mela is held every year.

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▪ allocation is ₹50,000 crore for Lakshmir ▪ India’s first-ever book fair was held in 1918 at
Bhandar scheme – under which cash College Street in Calcutta,. This historic event
incentives given to women was organized by the National Council of
▪ There are about 2.21 crore beneficiaries in the Education (NCE) as part of its mission to
Lashmir Bhandar for which the, the list of promote the Swadeshi Movemen
beneficiaries in ▪ Organised by the National Council of Education
▪ For Kanyashree Prakalpa (scholarship for (NCE),
school going girls) ₹15,000 crore has been
allocated. West Bengal CM to inaugurate Digha’s
▪ Under the Sabuj Sathi scheme (distribution of
Jagannath Temple on April 30
bicycles to school going students) allocation of
₹4,600 crore has been made

Gangasagar Mela

▪ Mamta Banerjee to inaugurate the Jagannath

Dham Temple in Digha, a prominent coastal
town.
▪ The Jagannath Dham, built as a replica of the
▪ Gangasagar is the confluence of the Hooghly Jagannath temple in Puri in neighbouring
River and the Bay of Bengal in West Bengal’s Odisha, is located in the seaside resort town
South 24 Parganas district. adjacent to New Digha railway station.
▪ the fair is held every year on Makar Sankranti. ▪ Bengali Hindus have a deep connection with
People gather to take a sacred dip in the the deity Jagannath, going back to the 12th
confluence of River Ganga and the Bay of century CE, when saint and social reformer
Bengal and visit the Kapilmuni's Chaitanya Mahaprabhu visited the Puri
ashram located on the Gangasagar. temple.
▪ Popularly regarded as the second largest
Pilgrimage gathering, after Kumbha
▪ Chief Minister announced to construct a 5-km-
long Gangasagar Setu across the Muriganga
river to connect the mainland to Sagar Island

Kolkata’s ‘boi mela’: India’s oldest book

fair inspired by the Frankfurt tradition ▪ Poila Baisakh is an important festival
celebrated by Bengali communities
across West Bengal, Tripura, Jharkhand, and
Assam.
▪ Shubho Noboborsho, also known as Pohela
Boishakh, marks the Bengali New Year.
▪ It is also celebrated in Bangladesh.
▪ Pohela Boishakh is “the first day of Boishakh”,
which is the first month in the Bengali
calendar
▪ The West Bengal Legislative
Assembly recently made a significant decision
by declaring 'Poila Baisakh,' the first day of the
Bengali calendar, as 'Bangla Dibas' or West
▪ The boi mela, or book fair, holds a uniquely Bengal Foundation Day.
special place in the hearts of Bengalis.
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Hilsa Fish (Tenualosa Ilisha) Infrastructure Development Corporation

(HIDCO) spearheading its development.
▪ The project, estimated at ₹261.98 crore, is set
to rise on a 12.6-acre plot in New Town,
Kolkata, near Eco Park.
▪ The "Durgangan" initiative aims to create a
world-class cultural and religious complex,
modeled after the renowned Jagannath Dham
in Odisha.
▪ It is designed to serve as a hub for Durga Puja
▪ Bangladesh recently announced it has decided celebrations and other cultural events,
to export hilsa fish to India ahead of the Durga reflecting Bengal's rich heritage.
Puja festive season as a mark of “enduring
Bangladesh-India friendship”. Ras Purnima Celebrated Across West
▪ It is also called Ilish and holds an exceptional
Bengal with Processions, Melas, and
position in the culinary customs and social
practices of Bengal. Devotional Fervour
▪ It is a fish that is highly prized because of its ▪ Ras Purnima (also
delicate flavour, distinct taste, and silky known via the tradition
texture. of Shakta Rash) is held
▪ Bangladesh produces around 70% of the on the full-moon day of
world’s ilish the Kartika month in
▪ Ilish is also the national fish of Bangladesh. the Hindu calendar
▪ IUCN Red List - ‘Least Concern’ (Kartik Purnima).
▪ It is celebrated with
processions, fairs (melas), devotional worship
West Bengal
of the divine (both Vaishnavite and Shakti
Launches traditions), and communal gatherings.
‘Shramshree’ Scheme ▪ In Cooch Behar the annual Rash Mela has been
for Returning Migrant held for more than 200 years in conjunction
with this festival.
Workers
▪ Mamata Banerjee
has launched a new
Kolkata International Film Festival 2025
rehabilitation initiative, the "Shramshree" ▪ The 31st Kolkata International Film Festival
scheme (KIFF), themed “Where
▪ Aimed at Bengali migrant workers returning to Cinema Connects The
the state after alleged harassment and World,” will be held
discrimination in other states for speaking from 6 to 13 November
Bengali. 2025,
▪ Under the Shramshree scheme, each returning ▪ The festival will open
worker will receive ₹5,000 per month for a with a special
year or until they secure new employment in screening of the Bengali classic “Saptapadi”
Bengal. (1961)
▪ This year’s Focus Country is Poland.
▪ A major highlight is the Centenary Tribute to
Rs 261.98 crore budget, site identified – legendary filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak,
Mamata governments ‘Durgangan’ project celebrating his contributions to world cinema.
on fast track
▪ West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Kolkata Set to Host 8th Edition of
Banerjee's ambitious "Durgangan" project is International Chair Poetry Festival
progressing rapidly, with the Housing
▪ Chair Poetry Evenings – Kolkata’s International
Poetry Festival.

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Yearbook 2025 Edition [Link]
▪ Organised by Chair tagged from Sikkim but grown here too), to get
Literary Trust. the tag.
▪ Poets from 13 ▪ Mandarin Orange is commonly known as
countries, 16 “suntala” and has delightful aroma and flavour.
languages. ▪ It is cultivated at elevations ranging from 600
▪ Signature event: to 1500 meters above sea level,
“Poetry on the Cruise” on the Hooghly River. ▪ Mandarins grow successfully in all frost free
▪ Global platform for poetry, performances, tropical and sub-tropical regions upto 1,500 m.
book launches, cross-cultural exchange. above mean sea level.

West Bengal to launch healthcare

outreach initiative ‘Sebaashray 2’ from
Dec 1
• The initiative is led by Abhishek Banerjee, TMC
MP (Diamond Harbour) and national general
secretary of the Trinamool Congress.
• Sebaashray 2 (MEGA HEALTH CAMP )begins
on 1 December 2025. ▪ Soil: It requires medium or light loamy soils.
• It will run for two months, concluding on 30
January 2026
• It builds on the first phase of “Sebaashray,”
West Bengal Government renames State’s
which was launched earlier and reportedly job guarantee scheme as ‘Mahatma-
benefited over 12.3 lakh people. Shree’ to honour Mahatma Gandhi
• Free medical consultations (general + ▪ The West Bengal Government had issued a
specialist) will be made available. Free notification renaming its ‘Karmashree’ scheme
essential medicines will be distributed. Critical to ‘Mahatma-Shree’ in response to the Union
diagnostic tests will be facilitated at the camps. Government’s move to replace the
MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Recently, the Darjeeling Mandarin orange Employee Act) with Viksit Bharat-Guarantee
For Rozgar And Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-
received the Geographical Indication
G RAM G) Bill.
status Darjeeling Mandarin Orange Mahatma-Shree scheme
▪ The Karmashree was rolled out by the state in
2024 to provide employment to rural
unskilled workers in West Bengal registered
under the Mahatma Gandhi NREGS through
job cards.
▪ Under the amended scheme, each job card
holder household will be provided one
▪ The Mandarin Orange (Citrus reticulata
hundred days of wage employment in a
Blanco) is a major cash crop of the Darjeeling
financial year (previously 75 days) “through
Hills.
various works implemented by different
▪ It is the third product from the region, after
departments of the state government,”
Darjeeling Tea and Dalley Khursani chilli (GI

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Sikkim
1. 1st organic Fish Cluster Centre launches country’s first organic fish cluster in
2. Dalle Chilly Sikkim
3. Quota for Agniveers ▪ The Union Minister, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of
4. 50th statehood day Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan
5. Nari Adalat Singh alias Lalan Singh inaugurated and laid the foundation
6. Tendong lho Rum Faat Festival for 50 key projects worth Rs. 50 crores under Pradhan
Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in Guwahati,
Assam.
▪ The projects, announced during the North Eastern Region State Meet-2025, covers all North Eastern Region
(NER) states, except Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.
▪ Launched the Organic Fisheries Cluster in Soreng District of Sikkim, being First of Its Kind in India, for
development of organic fisheries and aquaculture in Sikkim
▪ National Bank for Agriculture & Rural Development (NABARD) is a key stakeholder in developing the
fisheries and aquaculture organic cluster in Sikkim.
▪ NABARD is a development bank focussing primarily on the rural sector of the country. It is the apex
banking institution to provide finance for Agriculture and rural development.
▪ Its headquarter is located in Mumbai
▪ It is responsible for the development of the small industries, cottage industries, and any other such village or
rural projects.
▪ It is a statutory body established in 1982 under Parliamentary act-National Bank for Agriculture and Rural
Development Act, 1981.

Soreng District in Sikkim becomes India’s ▪ The Rs 50 person fees will be paid by tourists
visiting the state and will be valid for a stay
1st organic fisheries cluster
upto 30 days.
▪ Children below five years old and visiting
government officials on official duties are
exempted from the fees.

About Sikkim
▪ Union Animal Husbandry and Fisheries
Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh launched the
country’s first organic
fisheries cluster in
Sikkim.
▪ The project aims to
sell antibiotic,
chemical, and
pesticide free organic
fish in eco-conscious
markets across the
globe.

Sikkim Government
imposes a tourist fee
of Rs 50 per person
▪ Sikkim is the least populous and second-
▪ The fee has been
smallest among the Indian states
made applicable from
▪ Sikkim is a state in northeast India, bordered
15th of March 2025.
by Bhutan, Tibet and Nepal
▪ The Prem Singh
Tamang government in Sikkim

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▪ The People of Sikkim consist of three ethnic ▪ also announced that the state government
groups, that is, Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali. would allot shops to retired army personnel if
▪ Sikkim has six districts namely Gangtok, they want to engage in business activities.
Mangan, Namchi, Gyalshing, Pakyong and
Soreng
▪ The Kingdom of Sikkim was founded by the
Namgyal dynasty in the 17th century, with
Phuntsog Namgyal, a Tibetan lama and
military leader, establishing it in 1642.
▪ It later became a protectorate of the British
Empire.
▪ After the Independence of India, Sikkim
became the protectorate of India.
▪ In 1975 Sikkim joined as the 22nd state
of India.
▪ Capital: Gangtok
▪ Around 35% of the state area is covered by
UNESCO's world heritage site the
Khangchendzonga National Park.

Sikkim marks 50th Statehood Day

APEDA Facilitates Export of GI-Tagged

Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon
Islands
▪ Agricultural and
Processed Food
Products Export
Development
Authority (APEDA),
under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry,
has successfully exported the first
consignment of GI-Tagged Dalle Chilly from
• Sikkim commemorates its statehood day
Sikkim to the Solomon Islands.
annually on May 16 to acknowledge its
▪ Dalle Chilly, also known as Fire Ball Chilly or
integration with India and its emergence as
Dalle Khursani, is renowned for its intense
the 22nd state in the country in 1975.
pungency, bright red color, and high
• The state of Sikkim was formed by the 36th
nutritional value.
Amendment of the Constitution of India in
▪ Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with
1975.
potassium, its Scoville Heat Units (SHU) range
▪ In the 17th century, the Namgyal
from 100,000 to 350,000
dynasty formed the Kingdom of Sikkim.
The Namgyal dynasty ruled Sikkim until 1975.
Sikkim announces 20% reservation for ▪ Sikkim became a protectorate of India in
Agniveer jawans in state police 1950 following the Indo-Sikkimese
recruitment Treaty, with India assuming responsibility for
▪ The government would provide 10-year age the external relations, defense and strategic
relaxation while recruiting former army communications of Sikkim.
personnel in various categories in the state
police force.

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▪ Sikkim is located in the northeastern part of through India and Bangladesh, serving as a
the country, in the eastern Himalayas and crucial water resource for both nations.
is one of the smallest states in India. • Origin: The river originates at an elevation of
▪ It derives its name from the Limbu (a approximately 5,280 meters in North Sikkim,
tribe) words su him, meaning ‘new house’. India from the Tso Lhamo Lake, which is fed
▪ Capital: Gangtok. by glaciers such as the Pauhunri Glacier,
▪ Borders: Tibet Autonomous Region of Khangse Glacier.
China to the north and northeast, Bhutan to ▪ Course: The Teesta flows southward through
the southeast, Indian state of West Bengal to the Sikkim Himalayas, passing towns
the south and Nepal to the west. like Rangpo, and then through West
Bengal before entering Bangladesh, where it
joins the Brahmaputra River (known as
the Jamuna River in Bangladesh).
▪ Length and basin area: The river spans
approximately 414 kilometers, with a drainage
basin covering around 12,540 square
kilometers. Notably, 83% of the basin lies in
India, while 17% is in Bangladesh.

PM Modi unveils key projects in Sikkim,

marks 50 years of statehood

▪ The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

addressed the ‘Sikkim@50’ programme in
Gangtok via videoconferencing.
▪ The theme of the event was ‘Where Progress
Meets Purpose, and Nature Nurtures
• Mount Kanchenjunga, India’s highest peak Growth’.
(undisputed) and the world’s third highest ▪ A new 500-bed district hospital in Namchi.
mountain lies in Sikkim (Indo-Nepal border). ▪ The PM also inaugurated the Passenger
• Kanchenjunga National Park (established Ropeway at Sangachoeling, Pelling in
in 1977) Gyalshing District, which is expected to boost
• KNP was designated a World Heritage connectivity and tourism in the region.
Site in 2016 under the ‘mixed’ category (sites ▪ Prime Minister also released the
containing elements of both natural and Commemorative coin, souvenir coin and
cultural significance). stamp of 50 years of Statehood.
• Sikkim is drained by the Teesta river and its ▪ The central government is constructing India’s
tributaries such as the Rangit, Lhonak, Talung first organic fishery cluster in Sikkim to create
and Lachung. new opportunities for the youth.
• Teesta river water conflict is one of the most • Sikkim commemorates its statehood day
contentious issues between India and annually on May 16
Bangladesh. • The state of Sikkim was formed by the 36th
• Teesta river is a tributary of Brahmaputra Amendment of the Constitution of India in
river. 1975 - as the 22nd state in the country
Teesta River ▪ In the 17th century, the Namgyal
• Geographical significance: The Teesta River is dynasty formed the Kingdom of Sikkim.
a major transboundary river flowing The Namgyal dynasty ruled Sikkim until 1975.

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▪ Sikkim became a protectorate of India in
1950 following the Indo-Sikkimese
Treaty, with India assuming responsibility for
the external relations, defense and strategic
communications of Sikkim.

• Sikkim, in 2001, banned expeditions to

"Mount Khangchendzongna" under the Places
of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991.
• Lies in the eastern Himalayas, straddling
the India–Nepal border, 74 km north-
northwest of Darjeeling.
• Located between Sikkim (India) and Taplejung
District (Nepal).
• Stands at an elevation of 8,586 metres (28,169
ft), making it the third-highest mountain in
the world
• Surrounded by four major glaciers: Zemu
Glacier (northeast), Talung Glacier (southeast),
Yalung Glacier (southwest), and Kanchenjunga
Glacier (northwest).
• Receives heavy summer snowfall due to
monsoons, with lighter winter snow.
• First climbed in 1955 by Joe Brown and
Sikkim CM launches ‘Nari Adalat’ on George Band (British expedition).
occasion of 1st Amma Samman Diwas
▪ August 10 has been declared as Aama Yakten village in Pakyong district, Sikkim
Samman Diwas - a yearly tribute to mothers
across the state.
became India’s first digital nomad village
▪ Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on 15 July 2025
launched ‘Nari Adalat’ on the occasion of the ▪ Yakten, a village in
first Amma Samman Diwas at Rongpo. Sikkim’s Pakyong
▪ ‘Nari Adalat’ is a community-based forum run district, was officially
by women to provide accessible and informal inaugurated as
justice, without having to depend entirely on India’s first digital
the formal court system, especially in rural and nomad village under
semi-urban areas of Sikkim. Project ‘Nomad
Sikkim’
Mount Kanchenjunga ▪ This marks a step
• Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang has urged the towards creating a sustainable, community-
Centre to request a ban on scaling Mount driven destination for digital nomads from
Kanchenjunga from Nepal, citing its deep across the country and the world.
spiritual significance to Sikkim’s indigenous ▪ The project ‘Nomad Sikkim’ aims to transform
communities. strategic locations in the Himalayan State into
• "the Khangchendzonga", meaning "Five year-round hubs for digital professionals
Treasures of the High Snows", is considered a across India and abroad, while ensuring
guardian deity and the abode of gods by the sustainable income opportunities for
Bhutia and Lepcha communities of Sikkim homestay owners.

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Sikkim: Tendong Lho Rum Faat, the have completed at least five years of
continuous service to avail of leave from 365
traditional nature-worshipping festival of
days up to a maximum of 1,080 days while
the primitive Lepcha tribe receiving 50% of their basic pay during their
▪ Sikkim recently absence.
celebrated Tendong ▪ The scheme preserves their seniority, ensuring
Lho Rum Faat, the continuity in service, and the government
traditional nature- retains the right to recall the employee with
worshipping festival one month’s notice.
of Lepcha Tribe ▪ Recognising the value of extended leave for
▪ They are an temporary staff, the policy was expanded to
indigenous people include them as well.
of eastern Nepal, western Bhutan, Sikkim ▪ Temporary employees become eligible after
state, and the Darjeeling district of West six months of continuous service, with the
Bengal. same structural provisions in place.
▪ They are classified as a Scheduled Tribe in the ▪ Further enhancing the scheme’s effectiveness,
state of Sikkim. in April this year, the government delegated
▪ The Lepchas call themselves ‘Rongs’ or approval authority.
‘Rongkups’. ▪ Heads of Departments can now grant
▪ They occupy the southern and eastern slopes Sabbatical Leave to Group C and D employees
of Mt. Kanchenjunga (world’s third highest including temporary staff, while Group A and
mountain). B employees must seek approval from the
▪ They are a vanishing tribe with a dwindling Secretary of the Personnel Department.
population. Lepcha has an estimated
population of around 42,909 individuals at the
Sikkim to Open Dok-La & Cho-La for
time of the Indian Census 2011.
▪ Livelihood: Traditionally hunters and Domestic Battlefield Tourism from Next
gatherers, the Lepchā now also engage in Month
farming and cattle breeding. ▪ Starting October 1, 2025,
▪ Religion and Beliefs: Originally, Lepchas were the Sikkim government
nature worshipers and had belief in witch- will open Doka-La and
craftship and spirits. But in due course they Cho-La battlefield sites
embarrassed Buddhism. for Indian tourists.
▪ The community would traditionally have ▪ This is being done under
worshiped Mt. Kanchenjunga, which they the Bharat Ranbhoomi
regard as their guardian deity. Darshan initiative to
promote battlefield tourism.
Sikkim becomes 1st state to launch ▪ Only Indian citizens with valid voter ID cards
are allowed.
Sabbatical Leave scheme for govt staff
▪ A permit is needed, which must be obtained
▪ Sikkim as the first
through the Sikkim Tourism & Civil Aviation
state in the
Department via registered tour operators or
country to
agencies.
introduce a formal
▪ Tourists will be required to pay a permit fee of
Sabbatical Leave
Rs 1,120 per person
scheme, the
▪ Daily cap: 25 tourist vehicles and 25 bikers per
government has
day will be allowed
empowered its
▪ Vehicle rules: Only vehicles with engine
workforce,
capacity of ≥ 1400 cc will be permitted, due to
especially the youth, with a rare opportunity
difficult terrain.
for personal and professional growth.
▪ Introduced in August 2023, the policy allows
regular state government employees who

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Sikkim to Host 13th International Tourism ▪ Create livelihood opportunities for local
communities through regulated tourism
Mart (ITM) from 13–16 November
activities.
▪ Promote awareness of military valor, sacrifices,
and patriotism among visitors.
Geographical and Historical Significance
▪ Dok-La is located 68 km east of Gangtok, at an
altitude of 13,780 feet, on a plateau at the tri-
junction of Bhutan, China, and India.
▪ Doklam gained attention in June 2017 due to a
standoff involving Chinese road construction in
the territory claimed by Bhutan.
▪ India intervened to defend its strategic
▪ Organised by: Ministry of Tourism,
interests and protect Bhutan, leading to a
Government of India
cessation of construction activities after two
▪ Edition: 13th
months.
▪ Venue: Gangtok, Sikkim
▪ Cho-La, perched at 17,780 feet, is accessible
▪ Inauguration: By Union Minister of Tourism &
from Tamzey and is located near the Old Silk
Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
Route.
▪ Objective: Showcase tourism potential of
India’s North Eastern Region (Ashta-Lakshmi)
to domestic & international buyers, media, and
stakeholders.

Sikkim Opens Cho La and Dok La for

Border Tourism

▪ Sikkim Chief Minister inaugurated significant

tourist spots, Cho-La and Dok-La, on the India-
China border as part of the Bharat
Rannbhoomi Darshan initiative aimed at
promoting battlefield tourism.
The initiative is part of the Vibrant Village
Programme, which aims to:
▪ Strengthen border area tourism.

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Assam
1. Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary Assam govt launches initiative to evaluate
2. Dibrugarh as second capital performance of government schools’
3. Ali ai Ligang Festival students
4. Advantage Assam 2.0 ▪ The Assam government launched the first phase
5. Kaziranga National Park of its flagship education evaluation programme,
6. ASSAM-SAT Gunotsav 2025
7. Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita ▪ the exercise is aimed at evaluating the
Abhiyan performance of nearly 14.11 lakh students of the
8. Majuli Island state.
9. Vrindavani Vastra ▪ The theme of ‘Gunotsav 2025’ is “Ensuring
Quality Education”.
10. AFSPA Act
▪ It will be conducted in three phases, with the first
11. Moran Community
phase covering 11 districts from January 6 to 9,
12. Mukhya Mantri Jiban Anuprena scheme the second phase in 14 districts from January 17
13. Ankita – AI News Anchor to 22, and the third phase in 10 districts from
14. Ambubachi Mela February 5 to 8.

Controversial Drilling Approved in Dibrugarh as Assam’s second capital

Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary

▪ On Republic Day this year, Assam Chief

Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced
▪ The Centre's wildlife panel has approved a that Eastern Assam’s Dibrugarh will be
proposal to carry out oil and gas exploration developed as “the second capital” of Assam.
in the eco-sensitive zone of the Hollongapar ▪ He also announced an urbanisation push in
Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam's Jorhat Dibrugarh, including the construction of an
district. expressway to shorten travel time between
▪ The Standing Committee of the National Board the town and Guwahati.
for Wildlife (NBWL), chaired by Union ▪ The construction work for a permanent
Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, Assembly building in Dibrugarh will start on
approved the proposal by Vedanta Group's January 25, 2026
Cairn Oil and Gas
▪ exploration at the site would only be for
identifying hydrocarbon reserves. Any
extraction, if reserves were discovered, would
be carried out from outside the ESZ.
▪ The Hoolock gibbon, India’s only ape species,
is found in the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary
▪ It also contains Northeastern India’s only
nocturnal primate–the Bengal slow loris.
▪ River: The Bhogdoi River creates a
waterlogged region dominated by semi-
hydrophytic plants along the border of the ▪ a session of the Assembly in Dibrugarh every
sanctuary. year from 2027

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▪ Five of the six communities seeking Scheduled Bathouism Recognized as an Official
Tribe status, including the Adivasis and Ahoms,
Religion in Assam’s BTR
dominate the eastern part of the State
Why Dibrugarh?
▪ One of the popular regional distinctions drawn
in Assam is between Upper Assam ‘Ujoni’ (the
eastern part of the state in the upper reaches
of the Brahmaputra) and Lower Assam
‘Namoni’ (further downstream of the
Brahmaputra, which extends towards the
state’s border with Bangladesh).
▪ Upper Assam and is identified as the heartland
of “indigenous Assamese” culture and ▪ Recently, the government of the Bodoland
identity. It was both the seat of the Ahom Territorial Region (BTR) in Assam has included
kingdom and the tea industry - home to ‘Bathouism’ as an official option in the
different ethnic Assamese groups religion column of various application forms.
▪ The state’s power centre Guwahati, is located ▪ It is the traditional faith of the Bodos, the
in Lower Assam, the region from where largest plains tribe of Assam.
Himanta Biswa Sarma hails. ▪ The word 'Bathou' is derived from the Bodo
language, where 'Ba' means 'five' and 'thou'
Mising Tribe Celebrates Ali Ai Ligang means 'deep philosophical thought'.
▪ The faith system is based on five
Festival elements: Bar (Air), San (Sun), Ha (Earth), Or
(Fire), and Okhrang (Sky).

Beliefs of Bathousim
• The community worships
Bwrai Bathou as the
supreme god. In the Bodo
language, the word
▪ Assam’s largest tribal community, the Mising ‘Bwrai‘ refers to the
tribe, celebrated the Ali Ai Ligang festival ‘eldest’ man concerning
recently. power or knowledge.
▪ Ali means edible root, Aye means seed, and • The Bathou faith is centred on the Sijou
Ligang means sowing festival. plant (Euphorbia splendens).
▪ This festival, deeply rooted in agricultural • This plant is the living symbol of
traditions, marks the beginning of the sowing Bathoubwrai, the supreme God of the Bodos.
season, • Bodos plant the sijou tree on an elevated altar
▪ Religion: The Mising people practice the cult encircled with a bamboo fencing
of ‘Do-nyi – Polo’ which literally translates
into worshiping the Sun and the Moon. PM Modi inaugurated Advantage Assam
▪ One of the highlights of the festival is the 2.0 Investment, Infrastructure Summit in
traditional Gumrag dance, performed by men
and women in rhythmic harmony, symbolizing Guwahati
joy and prosperity for the coming agricultural
season.
▪ The Mising people are an indigenous tribe
from Northeast India. They are part of the
Tani people, who speak Tibeto-Burmese
languages.
▪ They live in parts of Assam and Arunachal
Pradesh in India and Tibet in China. ▪ On February 25, 2025
▪ Assam Governor Laxman Prasad Acharya

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▪ Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma What is the Jhumur dance?
▪ Assam, known for its tea gardens and Women are the main dancers and singers, while men
petroleum resources, is now expanding into play traditional instruments such as madal, dhol,
sectors such as agriculture, food processing, or dhak (drums), cymbals, flutes, and shehnai.
handicrafts, tourism, and information
technology. Kaziranga National Park
▪ Ambassadors of 61 countries were present on
the occasion along with representatives of
high-level business delegations from partner
countries such as Bhutan, Thailand, Singapore,
South Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia and Japan.

Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates Historic

Jhumoir Ensemble in Assam
NEWS: Recently, the external Affairs minister of India
and Heads of missions of 61 countries took elephant
and jeep safari rides in the Kaziranga National Park.

About Kaziranga National Park

• It is situated in Assam.
• known for Great Indian one horned
Rhinoceros.
• In 1985, the park was declared a World
Heritage Site by UNESCO.

▪ The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

participated in the Jhumoir Binandini 2025, a
Mega Jhumoir programme in Guwahati,
Assam
▪ It is a spectacular cultural extravaganza with
8,000 performers participating in the Jhumoir
dance, a folk dance of Assam Tea Tribe and
Adivasi Communities of Assam
▪ The Jhumoir performance, the biggest ever,
was staged at the Sarusajai Stadium. Some
8,600 dancers were performed to mark the
200th anniversary of Assam’s tea industry.
▪ The PM set the tone for the dance ensemble Inland water transport terminal
by playing on the “Dhomsa”, a traditional
drum played by the tea garden community.

What is the tea garden community?

▪ The term “tea tribe” loosely refers to a multi-
cultural, multi-ethnic community of tea
garden workers and their descendants.
▪ These people came from Central India —
mostly from present-day Jharkhand, Odisha,
Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal — and settled
in Assam in the 19th century to work in the ▪ Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and
tea gardens that the British were setting up. Waterways inaugurated an Inland Waterways

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Terminal (IWT) on Brahmaputra in Assam’s ▪ The new national park with an area of 316 sq.
Jogighopa. km is located along the India-Bhutan border in
▪ The terminal is set to transform the Kokrajhar and Chirang districts.
connectivity in the region and bolster our ▪ Sikhna Jwhwlao National Park is located
trilateral trade with Bhutan and Bangladesh. between two existing national parks, Manas
▪ The foundation stone for the terminal was laid National Park to the east and Raimona
in February, 2021. National Park to the west.
▪ It has been set up at a cost of Rs 82 crore. ▪ It's home to many endangered species,
▪ By 2027, this terminal is expected to handle including the golden langur, and is a corridor
cargo of 1.1 million tonnes per annum. between Manas and Raimona National Parks.

Assam’s Nagaon Hosts 2nd Simolu Festival Union Home Minister and Minister of
Amid Blooming Bombax Ceiba Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah inaugurated
the Lachit Barphukan Police Academy in
Dergaon, Assam.

Assam govt notifies Chirang-Ripu Elephant Static points about Lachit Borphukan:
Reserve as 8th national park - Sikhna ▪ 24th November is celebrated as the ‘Lachit
Jwhwlao National Park Diwas’ to mark his birth anniversary
▪ He was a legendary army commander of the
Ahom kingdom. He defeated the Mughal
forces, led by Raja Ramsingh-I, in the 1671
‘Battle of Saraighat’
▪ Lachit Barphukan gold medal, instituted in
1999, is given to the best cadet from the
National Defence Academy.
▪ PM Modi unveiled a 125-foot bronze statue of
Ahom general Lachit Borphukan at his burial
site in eastern Assam’s Jorhat district on
March 9, 2024. Veteran sculptor Ram Vanji
Sutar, a Padma Bhushan awardee, built the
statue

Assam Names Electronics City After Ratan

Tata

▪ The Assam Cabinet notified the Chirang-Ripu

Elephant Reserve as the 8th National Park of
the state.
▪ The forest will now be known as Sikhna
Jwhwlao National Park.
▪ In recognition of the contribution of Tata
Group and its Chairman Emeritus, Late Ratan

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Naval Tata, the Assam Cabinet meeting has ▪ The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
approved the naming of the entire area (CCEA), chaired by PM Modi, approved the
covered by the Assam Semiconductor & construction of a 166.80 km long Greenfield
Electronics Logistics Park (ASELP), Jagiroad Access-Controlled Highway corridor between
Tata OSAT Center, and the proposed township Mawlyngkhung in Meghalaya and Panchgram
with social infrastructure as Ratan Tata in Assam.
Electronics City (RTEC), Jagiroad. ▪ The project carries a total capital outlay of Rs
▪ Tata was honoured with the country's second- 22,864 crore.
highest civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan, ▪ This strategic four-lane corridor will serve as a
in 2008. high-speed link on National Highway 06 (NH-
06), covering 144.80 km in Meghalaya and 22
Assam Government to Launch Its Own km in Assam.
Satellite ‘ASSAMSAT’
▪ The Assam state Assam’s ‘Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita
government Abhiyan’
announced plans to
launch its own
satellite, ASSAMSAT
soon, aiming to
strengthen data
access for key socio-
economic initiatives and enhance border
surveillance.
▪ can help providing dedicated services for
agriculture, disaster management,
infrastructure development, and security
border management and police operations.
▪ The satellite will be set up in collaboration
with IN-SPACe (Indian National Space
Promotion and Authorization Center) which
promotes private investment and innovation in
the space sector and Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO). ▪ Launch Date: April 1, 2025
▪ Assam will be the first state in the country to ▪ The ‘Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita
have its satellite. Abhiyan’ or Chief Minister Women
Entrepreneurship Campaign, billed as the
Cabinet approves development of “biggest” initiative of its kind - initiative
Greenfield High-Speed Corridor from targets 30 lakh women
▪ Launched in Behali, Biswanath district, and
Mawlyngkhung to Panchgram
will be rolled out across the state in phases.
▪ Objective: To promote women
entrepreneurship through a structured, three-
stage financial assistance plan.

Stage 1 (Year 1):

₹10,000 provided as seed capital to boost self-
employment opportunities.
Stage 2 (Year 2):
▪ ₹25,000 provided upon meaningful utilisation
of the seed capital - of this, ₹12,500 is given as
Government support, and ₹12,500 as a loan at
nominal interest.

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Stage 3 (Year 3): for Majuli Island and Sivasagar to achieve UNESCO
▪ ₹50,000 provided to each beneficiary after recognition.
fulfilling the conditions of the second year. About Majuli Island:
• Location: Majuli is located in the Brahmaputra
River in Assam, about 40 km from Jorhat city.
• Formation: Formed by the dynamic shifting
of Brahmaputra’s river channels over
centuries, Majuli emerged as the world’s
largest river island.
Key Features:
• Area: Once spread across 880 sq km, currently
reduced due to severe erosion.
• Biodiversity: Known for lush landscapes, paddy
fields, wetlands, and monsoon submergence
enriching the soil.
• Culture: Home to vibrant Assamese traditions,
Satras (Vaishnavite monasteries), and tribes
like the Mising, Deori, and Assamese.
• Status: Declared a district in 2016, it is being
proposed under the mixed category (cultural
and natural) for UNESCO recognition.
About Sivasagar:
Eligibility: • Location:
• She must be an active member of the SHGs • Sivasagar is a historical city and district
promoted under ASRLM. headquarters in Upper Assam, known
• She must have a valid and operational/active for its Ahom-era monuments.
Aadhaar seeded Savings Bank Account. • History:
• She should NOT be a defaulter of the SHG of • Formerly known as Rangpur, it was the
which she is a member, Federations, Banks, capital of the Ahom Kingdom from
Financial Institutions etc. 1699–1788.
• She should have a Business Plan for her • It witnessed key events like the Battle
activity/enterprise of Dhai Ali and later British annexation
• She must be involved in minimum one income post-1826.
generating activity on her own.
• She should not have more than three children, Vrindavani Vastra
in case of General/ OBC category and four ▪ Assam is likely to
children in case of ST/SC/Tea Tribes/ Moran & get the revered
Matak Category. 16th-century
• If the SHG member has girl child(ren) of school “Vrindavani
going age, then the girl child(ren) should be Vastra” from the British Museum in London for
admitted in a school. exhibition in 2027
▪ The Vrindavani Vastra is a silk textile woven in
Majuli Island and Sivasagar Assam.
▪ The childhood stories of Lord Krishna in
Vrindavan, his divine pastimes, and various
events are woven with thread on this cloth.
▪ It was created under the guidance of Srimanta
Sankardeva, at the request of Koch king Nara
Narayan, who ruled over parts of modern-day
Assam and West Bengal.
Context: Following Charaideo Maidams’ UNESCO
World Heritage status in 2024, Assam is now pushing

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AFSPA Extended in Three Assam Districts ▪ Aims to provide Bhutan its first railway
connectivity and deepen bilateral ties.
Until March 2026
Organisation involved:
▪ The Assam government has extended the
▪ Implemented by the Northeast Frontier
Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA),
Railway (NFR) under the Railways Act, 1989.
1958, in three districts for another six months,
▪ Supported by the Government of India in
effective from 1st October.
alignment with the Act East Policy.
▪ Assam government issued a notification today,
Features:
stating that the AFSPA has been extended in
▪ Project cost: Approx. ₹3,500 crore.
areas covering Tinsukia, Charaideo and
▪ Stations: Six new stations – Balajan,
Sivasagar districts.
Garubhasa, Runikhata, Shantipur,
▪ It is a law enacted by the Parliament in 1958
Dadgiri, Gelephu.
which gives the armed forces special powers
▪ 1 Road Over Bridge and 39 Road Under
and immunity to maintain public order in
Bridges.
“disturbed areas”.
When is it applied?
It can be applied only after an area has been declared Moran Community
“disturbed” under section 3 of the Act ▪ The Moran community in Assam has ramped
It is meant to help the armed forces tackle insurgency, up the pressure in their demand for Scheduled
terrorism, or serious law & order breakdown when Tribe status.
civil administration is unable to maintain control. ▪ Location: Mainly in Tinsukia district, Assam,
Powers under AFSPA and parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
▪ The 1958 law allows the Army and Central ▪ History: Had an independent kingdom at
Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in “disturbed Bengmara (present-day Tinsukia) before
areas” to take actions such as: Ahoms’ arrival.
▪ Killing anyone acting in contravention ▪ Language: Originally had their own dialect
of law. from the Bodo group (Tibeto-Burman family);
▪ Arresting and searching any premises later adopted Assamese.
without a warrant. Religion:
▪ Providing protection from prosecution ▪ Vaishnavism (Moamoria Sect) introduced by
and legal suits without the Central Sri Aniruddha Deva, disciple of Sri Sankara
government’s sanction. Deva.
▪ Earlier followed Shakta faith, worshipping
Kechaikhati Than (mother goddess shrine).
Kokrajhar – Gelephu Special Railway
▪ Festivals: Celebrate Gasar Talar Bihu (dance
Project (SRP) under a tree) and Kheri.

▪ The proposed 69-km Kokrajhar–Gelephu rail

line, India’s first-ever railway link to Bhutan, Lankhong Puja
has been declared a Special Railway Project ▪ The Tiwa tribe of Assam recently celebrated
(SRP) by the Indian Railways. their traditional Lankhong Puja, a socio-
▪ A cross-border railway project connecting religious festival where prayers are offered for
Kokrajhar in Assam (India) with Gelephu in a good harvest in the upcoming Rabi season.
Bhutan.

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the DC is authorized to issue an expulsion
order, leading to immediate deportation
▪ Biometric Data Collection: Before deportation,
biometric and demographic details of the
individual will be recorded on the Foreigners
Identification Portal.

▪ A traditional socio-religious festival of

the Tiwa community.
▪ Celebrated by: The Tiwa (Lalung) tribe of
Assam.
▪ To invoke blessings for a prosperous Rabi crop
season and ensure good agricultural yield.
▪ Features:
▪ Community members offer prayers
and make ritual offerings to deities.
▪ Music, dance, and other cultural
performances accompany the rituals.
▪ Reinforces agricultural traditions,
community bonding, and cultural
continuity.
About Tiwa Tribe:
▪ An important tribal group of Assam, formerly
known as Lalung, belonging to the Mongoloid
Assam’s Bodoland becomes first tribal
ethnic group.
▪ Linguistically part of the Tibeto-Burman council to digitise land records
family, with close ties to Bodo-Naga tribes. ▪ The Bodoland Territorial
Habitat: Region (BTR), governed by the
▪ Reside mainly in Nagaon, Morigaon, Dhemaji, Bodoland Territorial Council
Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Titabor (Assam), as well as (BTC), has become the first
parts of Meghalaya and Tripura. Sixth Schedule tribal council in
Northeast India to fully digitize
all its land records and introduce a modern e-
Assam Cabinet approves SOP under
Office system for seamless land governance.
Immigrants Expulsion Act This is a first among all Northeast
▪ The Assam Cabinet approved the framing of a Autonomous Councils
standard operating procedure (SOP) under the ▪ The Sixth Schedule contains special provisions
Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950, for the administration of tribal areas,
▪ The SOP would guide the District empowering autonomous councils to manage
Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of land, forest, and local governance within their
Police to expedite the identification and jurisdictions.
deportation of illegal immigrants
▪ 10-Day Verification Period: District
PM Narendra Modi Lays Foundation Stone
Commissioners (DCs) will issue a 10-day notice
to suspected illegal immigrants to prove their for Key Projects in Assam
Indian citizenship ▪ Prime Minister Modi participated in the 100th
▪ Immediate Deportation: If the individual fails birth Anniversary celebrations of Bharat Ratna
to provide satisfactory proof within 10 days, and legendary singer-musician Dr. Bhupen
Hazarika at Guwahati.

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▪ He also laid the foundation stone of the providing financial support to reduce school
Kurua–Narengi bridge over the River dropout rates and promote higher education.
Brahmaputra, which will cut travel time ▪ Girls from all families, irrespective of their
between Guwahati and Darrang to a few economic condition are eligible for this
minutes. scheme.

PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First

Bamboo-Based Bio-Ethanol Plant in
Assam’s Golaghat

▪ As a part of the scheme, monthly financial

assistance for girl students from HS to PG level
in government and government aided
educational institutions will be given.
▪ A student in HS First year will be entitled to
Rs. 10 thousand that is Rs. 1 thousand every
month for 10 months.
▪ A student at graduate level will be entitled to
Rs. 12,500 that is Rs. 1250 for every month
and PG level student will be entitled to 25,000
that is Rs. 2500 for every month for 10 months
in a year.

▪ India’s first bamboo-based ethanol plant Majuli Island

inaugurated at Numaligarh Refinery,
Golaghat, Assam, and laid the foundation
stone of a polypropylene plant.
▪ A bioethanol plant that converts bamboo
biomass into 2G ethanol, a renewable
alternative to fossil fuels.
▪ Part of India’s National Bio-Energy Mission and
Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) to achieve
20% ethanol blending by 2025.
▪ Developed by Assam Bio-Ethanol Private
Limited (ABEL) in collaboration with
Numaligarh Refinery Ltd (NRL) under the
Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. ▪ In a village of Majuli Island local residents have
discovered a remarkable way to combat
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma launches riverbank erosion by planting Kanchan trees
along the Brahmaputra River
‘mukhya mantrir nijut Moina 2.0’ in ▪ It is the world’s largest river island located in
Guwahati- to boost girls’ higher education Assam.
▪ Nijut Moina, a flagship initiative of the Assam ▪ The island is formed by the Brahmaputra River
government, aims to empower girl students by in the south and the Kherkutia Xuti, a branch

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of the Brahmaputra, joined by the Subansiri ▪ Also, under the Prerona Aasoni scheme, all
River in the north. Class 10 students appearing for the 2026 HSLC
▪ Rice cultivation is the primary livelihood for exams will receive a monthly allowance of 300
the residents of Majuli, with several unique rupees through direct benefit transfer.
varieties of rice, such as Komal Saul and Bao
Dhan, grown in the region. Assam Cabinet approves SGST
▪ Most of the islanders belong to three tribes-
reimbursement scheme to boost
Mishing, Deori, and Sonowal Kachari, with the
non-tribal Assamese comprising the rest. indigeneous bell metal industry
▪ The island has also been the hub of Assamese
neo-Vaishnavite culture, initiated around the
16th century by the great Assamese saint-
reformer Srimanta Sankerdeva and his disciple
Madhavdeva.
▪ Apart from Satras or Vaishnavite monasteries,
Majuli is famous for mask-making and has a
tradition of pottery making.

Assam Govt Launches Milk Subsidy

Scheme To Boost Dairy Sector; Farmers To
Get Subsidy Of Rs 5 Per Litre
▪ To usher in a White
Revolution in the
State, Assam Chief
Minister Himanta
Biswa Sarma ▪ The Assam Cabinet approved the Assam
launched a new Goods and Services Tax (Reimbursement for
scheme at Srimanta Indigenous Bell Metal Industries) Scheme,
Sankardeva 2025.
Kalakshetra, ▪ Under this scheme, the State Goods and
Guwahati. Services Tax (SGST) paid by indigeneous bell
▪ Under this scheme, approximately 20,000 metal manufacturers in the state will be fully
dairy farmers associated with 601 dairy reimbursed, providing a significant financial
cooperative societies across the State would relief to this traditional industry.
receive assistance of Rs. 5 per litre of milk, for ▪ The bell metal workers of Sarthebari will pay
up to 30 litres per day. the GST, and their SGST amount will be
▪ This assistance applies to farmers supplying reimbursed to them.
milk to organised dairy processing projects.
▪ A provision of Rs. 10 crore has been made for In Assam, scheme to issue arms licences
the scheme in the financial year 2025-26.
to ‘indigenous people’ – wherever in
minority
Assam Cabinet approves Gaja Mitra
Scheme to tackle human-elephant conflict
▪ Assam Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister
Himanta Biswa Sarma approved to launch the
Gaja Mitra Scheme in eight high-risk districts.
▪ As part of the initiative, community-based
rapid response teams, each with eight local
members, will be deployed in 80 conflict-
prone villages.

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▪ The Assam Cabinet announced that it has Nothopegia Leaves
approved a scheme to issue arms licences to ▪ Scientists from the Birbal Sahni Institute of
“indigenous people” in parts of the state Palaeosciences unearthed 24-million-year-old
where their population is in the minority. fossilized Nothopegia leaves in Assam’s
▪ Bengali-origin Muslims account for the Makum Coalfield.
majority in these areas. ▪ This is the oldest known fossil record of the
genus, revealing ancient climate patterns and
Mukhya Mantrir Jiban Anuprerana biodiversity shifts.
Scheme What is Nothopegia?
▪ A genus of flowering plants belonging to the
Anacardiaceae family (same as mango).
▪ It includes several tropical tree species known
for their ecological and medicinal importance.

Present Habitat: Currently found only in the Western

Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot in peninsular India.
Fossil Discovery: Fossil leaves of Nothopegia were
discovered in Assam’s Makum Coalfield, dating back
▪ The Mukhya Mantrir Jiban Anuprerana Scheme
to the late Oligocene epoch (24–23 million years ago).
was launched by Assam Chief Minister
Key Features:
Himanta Biswa Sarma in 2025.
Broad, reticulate-veined leaves.
▪ This initiative aims to provide financial support
Adapted to warm, humid tropical climates.
to research scholars in Assam, particularly
Fossils resemble modern Western Ghats species,
focusing on those with disabilities.
indicating a past distribution in Northeast India.
▪ The scheme is notable for being the first of its
kind in the state, designed to boost research
and development. Assam and Meghalaya Joint Hydropower
▪ The scheme offers a one-time financial grant of Project Initiative
Rs 25,000 for full-time research scholars.
▪ Divyang researchers are eligible for a higher
amount of Rs 40,000. This financial support is
crucial for scholars to pursue their research
without financial burdens.
▪ The scheme is open to permanent residents of
Assam enrolled in public institutions, including
state and central universities.
▪ Alongside the launch of the Mukhya Mantrir
Jiban Anuprerana Scheme, the Chief Minister
introduced the Swagata Satirtha Portal.
▪ The governments of Assam and Meghalaya
▪ This platform simplifies the mutual transfer
process for government employees. It aims to have recently announced a collaborative
make the transfer system more transparent initiative to establish a 55-megawatt
and efficient hydropower and irrigation project after
consultation with local people.

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▪ This development is part of a broader effort to ▪ India: Breaks through the Himalayas to enter
address urban flooding in Guwahati and Arunachal Pradesh as Dihang, merging with
resolve a longstanding boundary dispute Lohit and Dibang to become Brahmaputra.
between the two states. ▪ Bangladesh: Merges with the Ganga (Padma)
▪ The announcement came during a meeting as Jamuna to form the Sunderbans delta.
between Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Major Tributaries:
Sarma and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. ▪ Left Bank: Dibang, Lohit, Burhi Dihing,
Sangma. Dhansiri.
▪ Right Bank: Subansiri, Manas, Teesta, Kameng.
Dams on Brahmaputra:
▪ Existing Dam: Zam Hydropower
Station (China, operational since 2015).
▪ Dibang Dam in Arunachal Pradesh (under
construction)

Assam Introduces
‘Ankita’: AI News
Anchor in Regional
Language
Hydropower and Irrigation Project Details ▪ Assam has
▪ The proposed project will harness the Kulsi stepped into a
River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. new era of
▪ It aims to generate electricity for both states digital
while providing irrigation benefits to Assam. governance with
▪ The Kulsi River is also for its ecological role, the launch of ‘Ankita’, an Artificial
serving as a nesting site for the Gangetic river Intelligence-powered news anchor introduced
dolphin. by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
▪ The river flows through West Khasi Hills ▪ Ankita marks a first-of-its-kind initiative in the
(Meghalaya) into Kamrup district (Assam). state, drawing attention to the growing role of
AI in Indian public communication

Assam’s Nagshankar becomes model

temple for turtle conservation
▪ Nagshankar, in
northeastern Assam’s
Biswanath district, has
been designated a
model temple for turtle
conservation.
Brahmaputra River System: ▪ Turtles have traditionally been conserved in
Origin: several temple ponds of Assam as they are
▪ Source: Chemayungdung Glacier, near Mount believed to be a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Kailash, Tibet. ▪ ‘Kaso Mitras’ or community turtle guardians
Different Names: were acknowledged for their contributions to
▪ Tibet: Yarlung Tsangpo. the conservation of the reptiles
▪ India: Dihang in Arunachal Pradesh; ▪ Turtles are called vultures of the aquatic
Brahmaputra in Assam. ecosystem, as they help in keeping the water
▪ Bangladesh: Jamuna. clean by scavenging on dead and decomposed
Course: matter.
▪ Tibet: Gentle slope through the Tsangpo
valley, receiving tributaries like Raga Tsangpo.

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Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya temple: institutions to address the region’s complex

challenges through a unified and coordinated
Significance of major Assam religious
approach.
festival ▪ The inaugural session witnessed participation
from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, District
Administration, Police, Intelligence Agencies,
NDRF, SDRF, Medical Officials, BRO & GREF,
Railways, educational institutions and security
officials from OIL India, IOCL and Coal India .

▪ Thousands of devotees have arrived in Assam Parthenium Free Pobitora

for the Kamakhya Temple’s annual Ambubachi ▪ As a part of a three-day campaign of
Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in Parthenium Free Pobitora, about 5.2 hectares
Northast India. of the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam‘s
▪ The festival is held during the monsoon, Morigaon district
generally in June at the Kamakhya Temple ▪ Parthenium hysterophorus L., commonly
in Guwahati, a shrine to the Goddess known as carrot weed, white top, or congress
Kamakhya and one of the most important grass in India,
centres of Tantrik Shaktism. ▪ is an herbaceous, erect, and annual plant
▪ The period of Ambubachi is believed to be the belonging to the family Asteracae
period of the goddess’s annual menstruation, (compositae).
and the shrine is closed for this. ▪ It is a poisonous, pernicious, problematic,
▪ At the end of the period, the shrine’s doors are allergic, and aggressive weed posing a serious
opened ceremonially and devotees flock for threat to human beings and livestock.
darshan of the deity. ▪ In India, this weed has been considered as one
▪ This year, the shrine will remain closed from of the greatest sources of dermatitis, asthma,
June 22 to 25, and will re-open on June 26. nasal-dermal and nasal-bronchial types of
▪ The festival is associated with fertility, with the diseases.
onset of monsoon, and the common historical ▪ It is most popularly known as gajar ghas due to
association across cultures of the Earth as a its appearance like a carrot plant.
fertile woman. ▪ The origin of parthenium is considered to be
▪ The name ‘Ambubachi’ itself translates to from Mexico, America, Trinidad, and
water flowing. Argentina.
▪ After the noticeable occurrence of parthenium
Exercise Samanvay Shakti 2025 in Pune (Maharashtra) in 1955, it has spread
like a wildfire throughout India.
▪ At present parthenium has invaded about 35
million hectares of land in India.
▪ A single plant can produce about 5000 – 25000
seeds. The seeds are very small in size and light
in weight.

Assam approves Maintenance, Repair and

▪ Inaugurated at Laipuli, in Tinsukia district of Overhaul (MRO) Policy 2025 & Talked
Assam.
Other Reforms
▪ 10 days exercise is initiated by Indian Army
MRO Policy 2025
collaboration with state officials of Assam &
▪ Assam MRO Policy approved
Manipur to foster efficient cooperation,
▪ Goal: NE India’s top aviation MRO hub by 2030
cohesion and mutual understanding.
▪ Strengthens education framework
▪ It is a military-civil Integration exercise aimed
High-Powered Investment Committee
at fostering synergy between security forces,
▪ CM-led committee
government departments and civil

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▪ For ₹10,000 cr+ projects (Capital Point) to Rangirkhari Point, Silchar
▪ Fast clearances, incentives, support (Phase-I)”.
Private Education Fees Amendment ▪ Cost: ₹564.50 crore
▪ Fee Regulation Amendment Bill, 2025 ▪ ₹100 crore earmarked for land
▪ Covers all private institutions incl. minorities acquisition.
▪ Aim: Equity + affordability + student/parent ▪ Length: 3.5 km
protection ▪ Objective: Ease traffic congestion, improve
Provincialized Non-Teaching Staff Amendment connectivity, and boost urban infrastructure in
▪ Amendment Bill, 2025 approved Silchar.
▪ 6% annual salary hike
▪ Relief, career growth, morale boost Kaziranga elephant calf named Mayabini
▪ Solves long-pending revision demand
in honour of Zubeen Garg
Judicial Commission Report
▪ Paying tribute to late
▪ Mehta Commission report approved for tabling
singer Zubeen Garg, the
▪ Related to 1983 Assam Election violence
authorities of Assam’s
▪ To be presented in next Assembly session
Kaziranga National Park
and Tiger Reserve have
Assam cabinet approves introduction of named a newly born
Unified Pension Scheme elephant calf Mayabini,
after one of Zubeen’s
most popular songs.
Kaziranga National Park
▪ KNP is located between the Brahmaputra
River and the Karbi (Mikir) Hills in Assam,
India.
▪ Status: National Park, Tiger Reserve,
Important Bird Area (IBA), and UNESCO World
Heritage Site (1985).
▪ Famous For: Largest population of Indian one-
horned rhinoceros (2,613 as per 2022 census).
▪ Biodiversity: Home to tigers, elephants,
swamp deer, wild buffalo (Big Four).
▪ Important area for migratory birds as it is
located at the junction of the Australasia and
Indo-Asian flyway.
1. Unified Pension Scheme (UPS):
▪ The Assam Cabinet approved the introduction Bathou Religion: Granted a separate code
of the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) as an
option under the National Pension System
in the upcoming Census.
(NPS). ▪ Followers: Practised by
▪ Applies to state government employees the Bodo community,
currently under NPS. the largest plains tribe of
▪ NPS Launched: 1 January 2004 (for Assam.
government employees), later extended to all ▪ Meaning: “Bathou” —
citizens in 2009. from Bodo words Ba
▪ Employees will have a one-year window to (five) and Thou (deep
choose between continuing with NPS or thought).
switching to UPS. ▪ Core Belief: Based on
2. Elevated Corridor Project in Silchar: five elements —
▪ Cabinet approved the project “Construction of Bar (Air), San (Sun), Ha (Earth), Or (Fire),
Elevated Corridor on NH-306 from Trunk Road Okhrang (Sky).

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▪ Deity: Bwrai Bathou — the supreme god, ▪ Social Structure: Clan-based, hereditary
symbolizing wisdom and power. chieftaincy, and patriarchal society
▪ Sacred Symbol: Sijou plant (Euphorbia ▪ Family Norms: Male succession and property
splendens) — central to worship rituals. rights dominate
▪ Population: Around 1,500 (Census 2011)
Codex Committee on Spices and Culinary
Herbs The Rowmari-Donduwa Wetland Complex:
▪ Event: 8th Session of CCSCH held in Guwahati, Assam
Assam. ▪ Experts seeking
▪ Established: July 2013 by the Codex Ramsar site status
Alimentarius Commission (CAC) at its 36th for this as it
session (Rome). Recorded higher bird
▪ Host Country: India diversity than
▪ Secretariat: Spices Board, Kochi existing NE Ramsar
Mandate of CCSCH sites
▪ Formulate global standards for spices and ▪ Location :
culinary herbs (dried, dehydrated, whole, ▪ Inside
ground, or crushed forms). Laokhowa WLS (70.13 sq km) →
▪ Consult other global organizations to avoid Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, Nagaon
duplication in standards. district
About Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) ▪ Between Kaziranga & Orang National
▪ Established: 1963 by FAO and WHO. Parks
▪ Objective: ▪ With Burhachapori WLS forms
▪ Protect consumer health. Kaziranga–Orang landscape corridor
▪ Ensure fair practices in international ▪ Key Features : Area: ~2.5–3 sq km ;
food trade. Interconnected floodplain–marsh
▪ Headquarters: Rome, Italy ▪ Census 2025: 47,000+ birds ; Ramsar Criteria:
▪ Members: 189 (188 countries + EU). Meets 8/9 criteria
▪ India’s Membership: Since 1964. ▪ Role: Major habitat, breeding & feeding
▪ Meetings: Held annually, alternating between ground for migratory/threatened birds
Geneva and Rome.
▪ Funding: Supported by FAO and WHO budgets. ‘Sahajeevan’ Project Of Guwahati

Operation Sadbhavana

▪ Initiative: Skill-based women empowerment

program by Khonsa Battalion, Assam Rifles
under Operation Sadbhavana.
▪ Objective: Promote self-reliance and inclusive
growth among women of the Ollo Tribe
About the Ollo Tribe: ▪ The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC)
▪ Location: Indigenous tribe of Laju Circle, Tirap launched ‘Sahajeevan’ to manage stray dogs
district (Arunachal Pradesh) and adjoining humanely.
parts of Myanmar ▪ Focus: vaccination, humane control,
▪ Also Known As: Oloh or Lazu Naga coexistence.
▪ Culture: Shared language, religion, and ▪ In line with Supreme Court orders: remove
traditions across both countries dogs from schools/hospitals but ensure safe
relocation.

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Kanaklata Barua: The Freedom Fighter equipping Assam's youth with foreign
language proficiency and workplace readiness
Honored by Assam’s First Tech University
skills to enhance their employability in global
• Assam’s first
sectors.
Technology and
▪ Initial batch of 180 students will undergo
Vocational Education
language training
and Training (TVET)
▪ it seeks to connect the youth from the state to
University foundation
Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) visa
stone laid at Gohpur by
programme, which was introduced to address
Union Finance Minister
labour shortage there, in sectors such as
Nirmala Sitharaman.
construction, nursing care and food services.
• Dedicated to freedom
▪ Under the CM-FLIGHT programme, the
fighter Kanaklata Barua (martyr, Quit India
government will provide financial assistance
Movement, age 17).
of Rs 1 lakh per candidate, provided to
• Project cost: ₹415 crore.
training and implementation partners to cover
• Focus areas: AI, drones, quantum computing,
the cost of instruction, orientation, and
advanced skill training.
documentation.
• Honour: An ICGS ship and a state university
▪ After placement, an additional Rs 50,000 will
are already named after her.
be given per candidate for relocation costs.
▪ After government support under the CM-
Assam Cabinet approves Bill to ban FLIGHT initiative, the effective fee for
polygamy, victims to get compensation candidates would be approximately Rs 30,000

December 2 : Assam Statehood

Day/Sukaphaa Diwas

▪ Assam Cabinet approved a Bill to ban

polygamy in the state.
▪ Punishment: Up to 7 years imprisonment for
2nd/3rd marriage.
▪ Offence: Cognizable & non-bailable.
▪ Provision: Special govt. fund for
compensation/support to affected women.
▪ Exemptions:
▪ Scheduled Tribes
▪ On December 2, 1228, Chaulung Sukaphaa
▪ Sixth Schedule areas
arrived in modern-day Namrup and laid the
▪ Minority Muslims living in Sixth
foundation of Ahom Dynasty, establishing the
Schedule areas before 2005
capital at Charaideo, where he made friends
with the indigenous Barahi and Marans tribes.
Assam CM Launches “CM Flight” for ▪ The Assam day is also known as “Sukapha
Global Careers Diwas” in honour of the founder of the Ahom
▪ CM-FLIGHT - Chief kingdom.
Minister’s Foreign ▪ Sukaphaa was a 13th-century ruler who
Languages founded the Ahom kingdom that ruled Assam
Initiative for for six centuries.
Global Human
Talent December 10th - Swahid Diwas in Assam
▪ CM-FLIGHT is a ▪ Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will
strategic initiative inaugurate the Swahid Smarak at Paschim
aimed at Boragaon, Guwahati, on the occasion of

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Swahid Diwas, to honour 855 martyrs of the compulsory subjects for students of classes 6,
Assam Movement. 7, and 8, in line with the recommendations of
the Justice (Retd.) Biplab Kumar Sharma
committee.
▪ This curriculum will be mandatory, and
students will have to pass a 50-mark exam in
each subject.

Charaichung Festival hosted in Assam

▪ Swahid Diwas, or Martyrs’ Day, in Assam

is observed annually on December 10th.
▪ It
is dedicated to commemorating the martyrs of
the Assam Movement (also known as the Anti-
Foreigners Agitation) which took place from
1979 to 1985.
▪ December 10th, was chosen because
it marks the martyrdom of Khargeswar
Talukdar in 1979 in Bhabanipur, Barpeta
district.
▪ Recently, ‘Charaichung Festival’ was hosted in
Assam Launches ‘Sainik Tujhe Salaam’ to Assam’s Majuli island to revive Asia’s first
protected royal bird sanctuary.
Honour Veterans
About Charaichung Royal Bird Sanctuary
▪ Assam launched “Sainik Tujhe Salaam” to
▪ It is Asia’s first protected bird sanctuary.
honour military veterans, especially those
▪ It was established in 1633 AD by Ahom king
above 90 years, along with Veer Naris (war
Swargadeu Pratap Singha.
widows) and Veer Mothers.
▪ Location: It is located at Majuli – the world’s
Under the scheme, district administrations and zila
largest river island.
sainik welfare offices will make annual home-visits to
▪ Ecological Significance: Nearly 150 varieties of
veterans and their families to
indigenous and migratory birds are found here,
▪ acknowledge their service,
making their protection and conservation
▪ offer respect, and
extremely essential.
▪ address any welfare or support needs.
Key Facts about Charaichung Festival
▪ It is the second edition of the festival held in
Assam Makes History and Geography Majuli, Assam.
Compulsory for Classes 6–8 ▪ This festival, organised with the support of
Majuli Sahitya and local residents .
▪ It aims to urge the government to further
promote Charaichung as a tourism destination.

Majuli Island
▪ It is the world’s largest river island located in
Assam.
▪ The island is formed by the Brahmaputra River
and its tributaries the Kherkutia Xuti and
Subansiri
▪ The Assam cabinet has approved the inclusion ▪ Rice cultivation is the primary livelihood for the
of the state’s history and geography as residents of Majuli, with several unique

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varieties of rice, such as Komal Saul and Bao ▪ The Assam Valley Fertiliser and Chemical
Dhan, grown in the region. Company Ltd (AVFCCL) will have an annual
▪ Most of the islanders belong to three tribes- urea production capacity of 12.7 lakh metric
Mishing, Deori, and Sonowal Kachari tonnes, and the project is scheduled for
commissioning in 2030.
Prime Minister inaugurated the state-of-
the-art New Terminal Building at Shah inaugurates ₹227 crore redeveloped
Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International birthplace of Srimanta San kardeva
Airport

▪ Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated

the ₹227-crore redeveloped Batadrava Than,
the birthplace of Vaishnavite saint Srimanta
Sankardeva, in Assam's Nagaon district.
▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the
▪ Later, Shah inaugurated a new building of the
new terminal building of the Lokapriya
Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati Police Commissioner’s office and an
Guwahati, Assam Integrated City Surveillance System aimed at
▪ He also unveiled an 80-foot statue of Assam’s strengthening urban security.
first Chief Minister, Gopinath Bardoloi, outside ▪ He also opened the Jyoti Bishnu Cultural
the new terminal of the airport named after Complex, a 5,000-seat auditorium in Guwahati.
him. About Srimanta Sankardeva
▪ New Terminal Building is designed to handle ▪ Born in Aali-pukhuri
up to 1.3 crore passengers annually. situated in Nagaon
▪ The New Terminal Building draws inspiration district of Assam.
from the theme Bamboo Orchids ▪ He was a 16th
century saint-scholar,
polymath, social-
PM lays foundation stone of ₹10,601-crore
religious reformer.
fertiliser plant in Assam's Dibrugarh Key contributions
▪ Propagated a form of Vaisnavism, called Ek-
Sarana-Hari-Naam Dharma (considered Lord
Krishna to be one, eternal and absolute)
▪ His religious system was strictly monotheistic.
▪ Also founded unique Vaishnavite
monasteries called Sattras.
He is known for creating:
▪ New forms of music (Borgeet)
▪ Theatrical performance (Ankia Naat, Bhaona),
▪ Dance (Sattriya)
▪ Literary language (Brajavali)
▪ Literary works: Bhakti Pradipa, Bhakti
▪ Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the Ratnakara, Kirtanna Ghosh etc.
foundation stone of a ₹10,601-crore
brownfield ammonia-urea plant at Namrup in
Dibrugarh district of Assam.

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Arunachal Pradesh
1. Religious Conversion Act Arunachal Pradesh’s Religious Conversion Act
2. Pangsau Pass International Festival Revival
3. Dulari Kanya Scheme
4. Oju Hydroelectric Project
5. Apatani Tribe
6. Kalai Hydroelectric Project

▪ The Arunachal Pradesh government is taking steps to implement the Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion
Act, 1978, by framing rules for its enforcement, nearly 46 years after its enactment.
▪ Since it was enacted in 1978, successive governments have not framed the rules for its implementation,
because of which it has laid dormant for nearly five decades
▪ The move aims to address concerns related to forceful conversions in the state.
▪ The Christian population in Arunachal Pradesh increased from 0.79% in 1971 to 30.26% in 2011, making
Christianity the largest religion in the state.

The Arunachal Pradesh Freedom of Religion Act, reported to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of
1978 was introduced to prohibit forceful religious the respective district.
conversions. State-Level Anti-Conversion Laws
▪ The Act was introduced (in 1978) during a • Odisha (1967): It became the first state to pass
period of rapid social and cultural changes in a law restricting religious conversions,
Arunachal Pradesh, aiming to safeguard the prohibiting conversions through force or
traditional religious practices of indigenous fraudulent means.
communities from external influence or • Madhya Pradesh (1968): Introduced
coercion the Madhya Pradesh Dharma Swatantraya
Key Highlights : Adhiniyam, mandating that any conversion
• Definition of Indigenous Faiths: The Act activities be reported to the District
explicitly recognizes indigenous faiths Magistrate, with penalties for non-compliance.
as religions, beliefs, customs, and observances • Other States: Several other states,
practiced by the native communities of including Gujarat (2003), Chhattisgarh (2000
Arunachal Pradesh. These include: and 2006), Rajasthan (2006 and 2008),
• Buddhism: As practiced among the Himachal Pradesh (2006 and 2019), Tamil
tribal groups such Nadu (2002-2004), Jharkhand (2017),
as Monpas, Membas, Sherdukpens, Uttarakhand (2018), Uttar Pradesh (2021), and
Khambas, Khamptis, and Singphos. Haryana (2022), have enacted similar laws
• Nature Worship: Particularly the prohibiting various forms of religious
worship of Donyi-Polo (means “Sun conversions.
and Moon” ) practiced by several Constitutional Provisions Related to Religious Belief
communities in the state. • Article 25: ensures the freedom of conscience
• Donyi-Polo is an indigenous religion of and the right to profess, practice, and
the Tani and other Sino-Tibetan propagate religion, subject to public order,
peoples of Arunachal Pradesh and morality, and health.
Assam in Northeast India. • It permits the state to regulate secular
• Vaishnavism: As practiced by activities related to religious practice
the Noctes and Akas. • Article 26: grants every religious
• Punishment for Violation: The Act prescribes denomination the right to manage its
a punishment of up to 2 years of religious affairs, subject to considerations of
imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs. public order, morality, and health.
10,000 for individuals found guilty of forcibly • Articles 27-30: Safeguard the freedom to
converting others or attempting to do so. contribute financially to religious practices,
• Mandatory Reporting: The Act mandates manage religious affairs, and establish and
that any act of religious conversion be

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administer educational institutions for Nationalist China to support their fight
religious purposes. against Japanese forces.
• Pangsau Pass, nicknamed “Hell Pass”,
Arunachal Pradesh Deputy CM Chowna was the first major obstacle on the
route due to steep gradients and
Mein Inaugurates Parshuram Kund Mela
muddy terrain.
2025 • The Stilwell Road connected Ledo
(Assam) to Pangsau Pass, covering a
distance of 61 km (38 mi).
• Pangsau Pass Winter Festival:
• Held annually since 2007 in Nampong,
Arunachal Pradesh, during the 3rd
week of January.
▪ a prominent spiritual event on Makar • Promotes cultural exchange
Sankranti. often referred to as the "Kumbh of between Northeast India and
the Northeast” - banks of the Lohit River. Myanmar.
▪ development work being carried out under the • Features folk dances (Bihu, Bamboo
Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, dance, Tangsa Rongrand War dance),
Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) arts, crafts, ethnic foods, and
scheme. traditional sports, showcasing the
culture of the Tangsa Naga tribe and
Pangsau Pass Festival 2025 other local communities.

20 February - Arunachal Pradesh

Foundation Day

The Pangsau Pass International Festival (PPIF) 2025,

held in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Location and Altitude:
• Pangsau Pass (Pan Saung Pass) is
located on the India-Myanmar border
at an altitude of 3,727 feet (1,136
meters).
• It lies on the crest of the Patkai
Hills and is part of the famous Ledo
Road (Stilwell Road).
• It is named after the Myanmar ▪ Arunachal Pradesh attained full statehood
village Pangsau, located 2 km east of (formed out of Assam) on 20th February 1987
the pass. ▪ becoming the 24th state of the Indian Union
• The pass serves as one of the easiest routes through the 55th constitutional
into Myanmar from the Assam plains. amendment in alignment with the national
• India’s easternmost point, Chaukan Pass, lies policy of granting tribal regions distinct state
northeast of Pangsau Pass in Arunachal identities.
Pradesh’s Changlang district. ▪ It was granted statehood by the State of
• 13th Century: Used by the Ahoms, a Shan Arunachal Pradesh Act, 1986.
tribe, to enter Assam. ▪ Historical Background: During the British
• World War II: Colonial Rule, until 1972, the state was named
• The Stilwell Road (Ledo Road) was as the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA).
constructed to connect British India to

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▪ On 20th January, 1972, it became a Union backed advisory support, policy
Territory and was named Arunachal Pradesh. recommendations, and strategic direction to
▪ In the west, Arunachal Pradesh is bordered by accelerate socio-economic development.
Bhutan and in the north falls the Tibetan
region of China. Vice President Dhankhar attend Nyokum
▪ In the Southeastern region falls Nagaland and
Yullo celebration in Arunachal
Myanmar and to the southwestern region
falls Assam.
▪ capital of Arunachal Pradesh is Itanagar.
▪ State Animal: Mithun (also known as Gayal)
▪ State Bird: Hornbill
▪ It is also home to the Dihang Dibang Biosphere
Reserve.
Protected Areas:
▪ Namdapha National Park
▪ Mouling National Park
▪ Sessa Orchid Sanctuary ▪ first ever joint mega Nyokum Yullo
▪ Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary Celebration in Boasimla, Kamle District of
▪ Pakke Tiger Reserve Arunachal Pradesh
▪ Tribals of Arunachal: The significant tribal ▪ on February 26, 2025.
groups include Monpas, Nyishis, Apatanis, ▪ It is an agrarian festival of the Nyishi tribe of
Noctes and Sherdukpens. Arunachal Pradesh.
▪ The Vice -President also felicitated Kabak
Arunachal Pradesh’s Dulari Kanya Scheme Yano on the occasion
▪ Kabak Yano is the 5th woman from Arunachal
Pradesh and first woman from the Nyishi tribe
to conquer the world's highest peak, Mount
Everest.
About Nyokum Yullow
▪ The word Nyokum is derived from Nyok
meaning land (earth) and Kum meaning
collectiveness or togetherness.
▪ The state cabinet has revamped the Dulari ▪ The festival is linked with cultivation.
Kanya Scheme, increasing financial support for ▪ During the festival goddess of prosperity,
girls born in institutional deliveries. Nyokum is worshiped for bountiful harvest
▪ The fixed deposit amount has been raised and to protect the crops from drought,floods
from ₹20,000 to ₹30,000, which will mature or from pestilence .
when the beneficiary turns 18. ▪ No idol is worshipped and cattle like cows,
▪ Additionally, to support girls’ education, a mithuns, and goats are sacrificed to the god
direct benefit transfer (DBT) of ₹20,000 will be and goddess.
provided when they enroll in Class XI.
▪ The scheme aims to encourage female Oju hydroelectric project proposed on the
education and improve the well-being of girls
across the state . Subansiri river in Arunachal Pradesh
▪ In a major decision, the State Cabinet ▪ An expert panel of the
approved "The Arunachal Pradesh Arun Union Environment
Parivar Patra Authority Bill, 2025", this Bill Ministry has
seeks to establish a family- centric citizen recommended
database for the State. environmental
▪ The State Cabinet approved the establishment clearance for the 2,220
of the Institute for Transforming Arunachal MW Oju hydroelectric
(ITA). The institute will serve as the state's project proposed on
premier policy think tank, providing research- the Subansiri river in
Taksing near the China border.
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▪ It will be developed by Oju Subansiri Hydro ▪ Time-frame: 2022-23 to 2025-26.
Power Corporation Pvt Ltd. ▪ Total outlay: ₹6,600 crore for that four-year
▪ It is a Trans-Himalayan river originating from period.
the western part of Mount Porom (5059 m) in
the Tibetan Himalaya. (Kangig glacier range in The Apatanis Tribe
Tibet) ▪ The Apatani women
▪ It is also called the Gold River, the Subansiri of Ziro Valley,
River is famous for its gold dust. Arunachal Pradesh,
▪ It enters into the plains of Assam through a represent the last
gorge near Gerukamukh. generation to wear
▪ It is the right-bank tributary of the the tribe’s traditional
Brahmaputra. It joins the Brahmaputra River in facial tattoos and
the Lakhimpur district of Assam. wooden nose plugs,
▪ Tributaries: Major tributaries of the river are a practice banned in the 1970s but still proudly
Laro, Nye, Yume, Tsari, Kamla, Jiyadhol, carried by elderly women.
Ranganadi and Dikrong. ▪ The Apatani (Tanw, Apa Tani, or Apa) are an
indigenous tribal group of Arunachal Pradesh.
PM Modi launches ₹5,100 Crore ▪ Known for their distinct cultural identity,
infrastructure projects in Arunachal ecological knowledge, and traditional
practices.
Pradesh
Habitat:
▪ Primarily inhabit the Ziro Valley, located in
the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal
Pradesh.
▪ Valley is bowl-shaped, scenic, and lies in
the eastern Himalayan ranges.
History:
▪ It was introduced as a tribal protection
strategy during times when raids and
abductions by neighbouring tribes were
common.
▪ PM Modi virtually laid the foundation stones ▪ Over time, it evolved into a marker of identity
for two major hydropower projects in the Shi and cultural pride, signifying a woman’s
Yomi district, and a convention centre in belonging to the Apatani community.
Tawang. Major Hydropower Projects: Age of Tattooing: Typically done when girls were
▪ Tato-I Hydropower Project (186 MW), jointly around 10 years old.
by Arunachal Pradesh government & North ▪ Conducted by elder women of the tribe.
Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited Design (Tippei):
(NEEPCO). ▪ A vertical line from the forehead down to the
▪ Heo Hydropower Project (240 MW) also with tip of the nose.
State + NEEPCO. ▪ Five lines tattooed on the chin.
▪ These projects, to be developed on the Yarjep Nose Plugs (Yaping Hullo): Large wooden plugs
river inserted into both sides of the nose after cleaning the
Convention Centre wood to prevent infection.
▪ A state-of-the-art convention centre in Community View: Women with tattoos and plugs were
Tawang, under the PM-DevINE scheme. considered honourable, proud custodians of tradition,
▪ It will have capacity for 1,500+ delegates, to and protectors of family dignity.
host conferences, cultural events, exhibitions.
▪ PM-DevINE scheme - Prime Minister’s
Development Initiative for North East Region
▪ It is a Central Sector Scheme (i.e. fully funded
by the Centre) implemented by the Ministry of
Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER)

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First-Time Host Arunachal Pradesh to ▪ Support: Ministry of Earth Sciences and Govt.
of Arunachal Pradesh
Welcome North-East Aviation Summit
International Partners
• Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI), Oslo
• Geotropy (Iceland)
• Guwahati Boring Service (GBS)

Geothermal Energy
▪ Geothermal energy is heat energy from the
earth—geo (earth) + thermal (heat).
▪ Geothermal technology extracts this
energy/heat for direct heating and cooling, or
converts it into electricity.
▪ This internal heat/thermal energy is generated
from radioactive decay and continual heat loss
▪ The ‘North-East Region Ministers’ Conference
from earth's formation.
on Civil Aviation – cum – 3rd North-East
Aviation Summit’ to be held in Itanagar on 4th
Sept.
▪ The event is being jointly organised by the
Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Federation of
Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry
(FICCI), with support from the government of
Arunachal Pradesh.
▪ This is the first time Arunachal Pradesh is
hosting the summit, following previous
editions hosted by Assam and Meghalaya.
ISRO Inaugurates Space Laboratory in
Kalai-II Hydroelectric Project
Remote Arunachal Pradesh District

NEWS: The Arunachal Pradesh State Pollution Control

Board (APSPCB) recently conducted a public hearing
for environmental clearance for the proposed 1,200
MW Kalai-II hydroelectric project
▪ It is a 1,200 MW hydropower project planned
on the Lohit River (a tributary of the
Brahmaputra River) in the Anjaw District of ▪ Inaugurated by Arunachal Pradesh Education
Arunachal Pradesh. Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona at remote
▪ The project is being developed and currently Mechuka in Shi-Yomi district.
owned by THDC India Limited (formerly Tehri ▪ The facility has been named Pasang Wangchuk
Hydro Development Corporation Limited). Sona Isro Space Laboratory
▪ The lab at Mechuka Government Higher
India’s First Geothermal Production Well Secondary School, established in collaboration
Drilled in Arunachal Pradesh between the Indian Space Research
▪ It is drilled by the Centre for Earth Sciences and Organisation (Isro) and Muskaan Foundation.
Himalayan Studies (CESHS) at Dirang in ▪ Aims to provide students with hands-on
Arunachal Pradesh. experience in space science and technology,
fostering curiosity, innovation, and scientific
thinking among the youth
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Mountaineer from Arunachal Kabak Yano Historic Launch of First Commercial Coal
scales Mount Kilimanjaro successfully Mine in Arunachal Pradesh at Namchik-
▪ Fifth woman to do so Namphuk
from Arunachal Pradesh ▪ Location: Situated in Changlang district,
▪ Towering at 5,895 meters southeastern Arunachal Pradesh, within
above sea level, Mount the Upper Assam coal belt region.
Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is About Commercial Coal Mining in India
the tallest peak on the African continent. ▪ Commercial coal mining allows private players
▪ It is also the highest free-standing mountain in to mine coal for open market sale, ending the
the world monopoly of Coal India Ltd. (CIL).
Origin:
Protest erupts in Arunachal's Daporijo ▪ Concept introduced under the Coal Mines
over Subansiri Upper Hydroelectric Project (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 and
operationalised in 2020 under
the AatmaNirbhar Bharat reforms.
▪ Aimed at increasing competition, efficiency,
and self-reliance in the coal sector.

Naying Hydroelectric Project

▪ An environmental
public hearing for the
1000MW Naying
hydroelectric project
▪ Capacity: 1,800 MW (run-of-the-river project)
is scheduled for
▪ Developer: KSK Upper Subansiri Hydro Energy
November 12.
▪ Project Cost: $2.34 billion
▪ Naying Hydroelectric
▪ Expected Operation: 2031
ProjectIt is a proposed
About Subansiri River
1,000 MW
▪ Origin: Mount Porom (5059 m), Tibet (Kangig
hydropower project planned on the Siyom
Glacier Range)
(Yomgo) river/basin in Arunachal Pradesh.
▪ Also Known As: Gold River (due to gold dust)
▪ It will be implemented by the North Eastern
▪ Flows Through: Tibet → Arunachal Pradesh →
Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO).
Assam
▪ The project includes the construction of a
▪ Joins: Brahmaputra River (right-bank tributary)
concrete dam, an underground powerhouse,
at Lakhimpur, Assam
and tunnels, with work expected to begin
▪ Tributaries: Laro, Nye, Yume, Tsari, Kamla,
around 2028 and commissioning planned for
Jiyadhol, Ranganadi, Dikrong
2032.
▪ Once operational, it is expected to generate
4,966.77 GWh of electricity annually.
Siyom River
▪ It is a right-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra
River.
▪ It flows in the Arunachal Pradesh state.
▪ The Mouling National Park is located on the
east bank of the river.
▪ The Siyom has a length of about 170 km.

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Nagaland
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launches ▪ Lives in evergreen & moist deciduous forests.
▪ Thrives in canopy of tall trees in Western
5-year vision document on Banana
Ghats, NE states, Himalayas.
Cultivation in Wokha Under ODOP ▪ State bird of Arunachal Pradesh and Kerala.
initiative ▪ India has nine hornbill species; NE has highest
▪ In Nagaland, Union diversity.
Minister Dr. Jitendra ▪ IUCN status: Vulnerable.
Singh launched a
five-year Vision SHORT NEWS SEGMENT
Document titled ▪ First Nagaland Cooperative Conclave 2025
“Income Generation Inaugurated in Kohima to Boost State’s
from Banana Cooperative Movement with the theme
Cultivation in Wokha “Cooperatives – A Catalyst for Economic
District” under the One District One Product Transformation.”
(ODOP) initiative.
▪ The project aims to boost farmer incomes and Tikhir Tribe.
promote banana farming as a sustainable
▪ The Tikhir Tribal Council (TTC) sought inclusion
livelihood.
of Tikhir candidates from Noklak district in the
Nagaland Police constable recruitment.
UK Named Country Partner for Hornbill ▪ Region: Indigenous Naga tribe from Noklak
Festival 2025 district, Nagaland; some also live in Myanmar.
▪ The Government ▪ Status: Recognized as a Scheduled Tribe in
of Nagaland has India.
announced the ▪ Language: Naga Yimchungru, belonging to the
United Kingdom Tibeto-Burman language family.
as the country ▪ Lifestyle: Primarily agricultural, dependent on
partner for the cultivation for livelihood.
upcoming ▪ History: Traditionally headhunting tribe; social
Hornbill Festival 2025, to be held from 1 to 10 prestige was tied to warrior success.
December at Kisama, Kohima. ▪ Religion: Mostly Christian, though some retain
▪ Air India Express is the Official Travel Partner folk traditions alongside Christian beliefs.
and introduce A Boeing 737-8 which will carry ▪ Major Festival: Tsonglaknyi – celebrated from
Tsüngkotepsü (Ao Naga warrior shawl) livery. 9th to 12th October every year; a festival of
About Hornbill Festival : shield sanctification symbolizing purification
▪ Celebrated in Nagaland which is known as the and courage.
land of festivals.
▪ Hornbill Festival is called the festival of PM Narendra Modi virtually lays
festivals. foundation stone for Integrated Aqua Park
▪ Started in 2000. Showcases heritage of 17 Naga
tribes. in Nagaland
▪ Named after the hornbill bird (symbol of ▪ At Tzudikong, Mokokchung (Nagaland) under
fidelity, beauty, grace). the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
▪ Nagaland has officially named Switzerland (PMMSY).
and Ireland as country partners for the ▪ It will be Nagaland’s first Aqua Park, serving as
Hornbill Festival 2025. United Kingdom a hub for fisheries development.
already a partner. ▪ PMMSY launched: September 10, 2020, for
Great Indian Hornbill 2020–21 to 2024–25; now extended till 2025–
▪ Scientific name: Buceros bicornis. 26.
▪ Also called the Concave-Casqued Hornbill. ▪ Nodal agency: National Fisheries Development
▪ Found in Indian subcontinent and Southeast Board (NFDB).
Asia. ▪ Implemented as an umbrella scheme to boost
fish production, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
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1st Dec - Nagaland celebrating 63rd Nagaland Launches Mission Punarutthan

Statehood Day During Watershed Mahotsav 2025

▪ Nagaland was formally recognised as a

separate state on 1st December, 1963, with
Kohima being declared as its capital.
▪ The State of Nagaland Act, 1962, was enacted
by the Parliament to give Nagaland statehood.
▪ The Government has launched the State-Level
Background :
Watershed Mahotsav 2025 along with Mission
Watershed Punarutthan at Naga Solidarity
Park in Kohima.
▪ The programme focuses on protecting natural
water sources, improving soil health and
helping rural communities manage water
better.

▪ After India became independent in 1947, the

Naga territory initially remained a part of
Assam.
▪ Nagaland achieved statehood in 1963, formed
by separating the Naga Hills and Tuensang
area from Assam, it became the 16th state of
India.
▪ Borders : Arunachal Pradesh to the northeast,
Manipur to the south, and Assam to the west
and northwest and the country of Myanmar
(Burma) to the east.
▪ Statehood Day: 1 December; also the start of
the Hornbill Festival.
▪ held every year from 1 to 10 December, in
Nagaland.
▪ It was started in the year 2000 .

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Manipur
1. Gaan Ngai Festival Gaan Ngai festival commemorates end of harvest
2. President Rule season in Manipur
3. War Memorial Complex
4. SOO Pact
5. Operation Sahyog
6. Shirul lily festival

▪ The Gaan Ngai festival commemorating the end of the harvest season by the Kabui/Rongmei Naga
community celebrated in Manipur

Biren Singh resigns as Manipur Chief President’s rule imposed in Manipur

Minister ahead of no-confidence motion
▪ A day before he was set to face a no-confidence
motion in the Manipur Assembly, Chief Minister N.
Biren Singh submitted his resignation to Governor
Ajay Kumar Bhalla
▪ The motion was expected to be moved
by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators.

What is a No-Confidence Motion? ▪ Four days after N Biren Singh resigned as

• In a parliamentary Chief Minister, President’s rule has been
democracy, a imposed in Manipur, which is facing ethnic
government can be violence since May 2023.
in power only if it ▪ Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
commands a ▪ President’s Rule, also known as State
majority in the Emergency or Constitutional Emergency, is a
directly elected provision under Article 356 of the Indian
House. Constitution that allows the central
• Article 75(3) of the government to assume direct control over a
Constitution embodies this rule by specifying state’s governance. Also, the functions of the
that the Council of Ministers are collectively state legislature are transferred to Parliament.
responsible to the Lok Sabha. The only exception to this is the functioning of
• For testing this collective responsibility, High Courts, which remains unchanged.
the rules of Lok Sabha provide a particular ▪ Articles 355 to 357 in Part XVIII, along
mechanism – a motion of no-confidence. with Article 365 in Part XIX of the Indian
• The procedure is specified under Rule 198 of Constitution, pertain to the President’s Rule.
the Lok Sabha. The Constitution does not ▪ Article 355: Obligation of the Union to
mention either a Confidence or a No safeguard states from external aggression and
Confidence Motion. internal disturbances.
▪ Article 356: It allows the President to take over
Who can move a No-Confidence Motion? the functions of the state government when
• Any Lok Sabha MP, who can garner the the constitutional machinery fails.
support of 50 colleagues, can, at any point of ▪ Article 357: Empowers the President to
time, introduce a motion of no-confidence legislate for the state by ordinance, if
against the Council of Ministers. necessary.
• If a no-confidence motion is passed, the ▪ Article 365: Consequences of failing to comply
government must resign. with or implement directions issued by the
Union.

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Manipur observes Khongjom Day at War

Memorial Complex

▪ On 23rd April, Manipur observed Khongjom

Day at the Khongjom War Memorial Complex
in Thoubal District.
▪ The event was graced by Governor Ajay
Manipur Hosts Hathei Chilli Festival to
Kumar Bhalla. Promote GI-Tagged Local Crop
▪ Every year, Khongjom Day is observed on April ▪ 14th Sirarakhong Hathei
23 to commemorate the valour and sacrifice Chilli Festival was
of Manipuri heroes who laid down their lives inaugurated at Sirarakhong
in the historic Anglo-Manipuri War of 1891. village, Ukhrul district,
Manipur,
Anglo- Manipuri War of 1891 ▪ festival began in 2009
▪ It celebrates the
• During the war, the tiny
Sirarakhong Hathei Chilli, a local indigenous
kingdom of Manipur fought
variety which has been awarded a
against the British colonial
Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2021.
expansion, and many people
lost their lives
• Major Paona Brajabashi was Manipur Signs Suspension Pact With Kuki-
the commander who led the Manipuri Army Zo Insurgents
against the British columns coming from ▪ Kuki-Zo insurgent groups that signed a
Myanmar. suspension of operations (SoO) pact with the
• Despite their brave efforts Manipur lost its Manipur government and the Ministry of
sovereignty to the British, and it became a Home Affairs (MHA)
princely state under tighter British control. ▪ the renewed SoO agreement, future talks
• Later, on August 13, 1891, Yubraj Tikendrajit between the SoO group and the government’s
and Thangal General, two martyrs of Manipur, representatives will focus on the demand for
were hanged in front of the public at union territory (UT) with legislature for the
Pheidabung, now known as Bir Tikendrajit Kuki-Zo areas in Manipur.
Park. ▪ The two groups — the Kuki National
• This was a shocking incident for the people of Organisation (KNO) and the United Peoples
Manipur. Every year on August 13, the Front (UPF)
Manipuris observe Patriots' Day as a tribute to ▪ Manipur, plagued by ethnic violence between
those martyrs. the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May
2023, has witnessed a major policy
13 August Manipur observes Patriots' Day development with the Centre announcing a
▪ Manipur observed the Patriots' Day revised Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact
remembering those martyrs who laid down with Kuki-Zo insurgent groups.
their lives during the Anglo-Manipuri War, in ▪ The move comes ahead of Prime Minister
1891. Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to the state,
▪ Floral tributes to last rites memorial sites of marking the government’s most significant
Yubaraj Tikendrajit and Thangal General who step to restore peace and stability.
were hanged to death by the Britisher on ▪ The new pact seeks to tighten oversight of
August, 13, 1891. cadres, relocate militant camps, and ensure

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compliance with the constitutional framework • Conservation Status: Endangered due to
while opening channels for dialogue habitat loss, climate change, and invasive
species.
About The SoO Pact • Cultural Symbolism: Protected by mythic deity
The new SoO pact was signed on September 4, 2025, Philava, spiritual and ecological emblem of the
between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the Tangkhul community.
Government of Manipur, and 24 Kuki-Zo insurgent
groups under the umbrellas of the Kuki National Sangai Festival in Manipur Begun
Organisation (KNO) and the United People’s Front
(UPF).
Features of the Revised Pact:
1. Stricter Monitoring
2. Relocation of Camps
3. Financial Transparency
4. Restrictions on Activities:
5. Respect for Constitution
▪ Sangai Festival in Manipur began amid a
protest by internally displaced persons (IDPs)
Indian Air Force and Assam Rifles Launch and members of NGOs, impacting attendance.
‘Operation Sahyog’ to Aid Landslide-Hit ▪ It is an annual festival of Manipur, started in
Villages in Manipur the year 2010, which is named after the state
▪ Assam Rifles in close coordination with the animal, the Sangai.
Indian Air Force, successfully conducted a joint ▪ The festival promotes the cultural
ration distribution drive for 18 villages in extravaganza of Manipur through music, dance
Henglep Sub-Division in Churachandpur and various native art forms that are part of
District of Manipur. the Manipuri tribes and people.
▪ These villages remained cut off since 17 July ▪ The state’s classical dance form, ‘Ras Leela,’
2025, following multiple landslides along NH- renowned for its distinctiveness, takes
2. centerstage during the festival.
▪ Theme of 2025: Where blossoms breathe
Shirui Lily Festival resumed in Manipur on harmony
Key Facts about Sangai
20th May
▪ It is a subspecies of Eld’s deer endemic to
• Organised
Manipur.
by: Manipur Tourism
▪ It also has immense cultural relevance to
Department
Manipur.
• First Held: 2017
▪ Distribution: It is found only in Keibul Lamjao
• Venue: Ukhrul district, home to the Tangkhul
National Park – the largest single mass of
Naga tribe
phumdi is in the Loktak Lake – in Manipur’s
• Occasion: blooming season of the Shirui Lily in
Bishnupur district.
May
▪ Appearance: It is a medium-sized deer, with
• Objective: Promote eco-tourism and raise
uniquely distinctive antlers, with extremely
awareness about the endangered lily species
long brow tine, which form the main beam.
What is the Shirui Lily?
Conservation status
• Botanical Name: Lilium mackliniae
▪ IUCN: Critically Endangered
• Local Name: Kashong Timrawon
▪ Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule-1.
• Found In: Shirui Hills, Ukhrul District, Manipur
at 2,673 m elevation
• Discovery: Identified in 1946, though locally
known for centuries
• State Flower: Recognised as the official state
flower of Manipur.

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Manipur Celebrates Mera Hou Chongba, ▪ Main Component: Ithai Barrage – creates
artificial reservoir for power generation
Symbol of Hill-Valley Unity
About Loktak Lake: Ramsar
• Observed On: The
Site (1990)
15th lunar day of
▪ Largest freshwater
Mera month in the
lake in Northeast India
Meitei calendar
▪ Known for phumdis
(usually in October).
(floating biomass)
• Led By: Maharaja
▪ Contains Keibul Lamjao National Park – home
Sanajaoba
to Sangai deer
Leishemba, the titular
▪ Fed by rivers: Nambul, Imphal, Iril, Thoubal,
king of Manipur.
Khuga, etc.
• Ritual March: From
the Manipur Royal Palace to the historic Kangla
Fort, joined by tribal village chiefs. Lok Sabha passes Manipur GST(Second
Traditional Ceremonies: Amendment) Bill, 2025
▪ Mera Men Tongba and Yenkhong Tamba ▪ It amends the Manipur
rituals. GST Act, 2017.
▪ Exchange of gifts between hill (tribal) and ▪ Introduced by Union
valley (Meitei) communities. Finance Minister
Represents unity between hill and valley communities. Nirmala Sitharaman to
Only festival in Manipur where all indigenous align Manipur’s GST
communities — both tribal and Meitei — participate rules with the Centre’s
together. new GST slabs.
▪ Implements GST
Manipur Celebrates Ningol Chakouba, Council’s decision to merge existing GST slabs
(5%, 12%, 18%, 28%) into two slabs — 5% &
Festival of Bond Between Married Women 18%.
and Brothers GST Council –
▪ Department of ▪ Created under the 101st Constitutional
Fisheries holds an Amendment Act, 2016.
Annual Fish Fair- ▪ Formed under Article 279A.
cum-Competition a ▪ Constitutional body for GST decisions.
day before Ningol Composition
Chakouba. ▪ Chairperson: Union Finance Minister.
▪ Celebrated on the ▪ Members: MoS Finance/Revenue & Finance
2nd day of Hiyangei Ministers of all States/UTs
month (Meitei calendar).
▪ Ningol = married woman, Chakouba = feast Manipur: President Droupadi Murmu
invite — married women visit maternal homes
leads Nupi Lal Day 2025 observance in
for feast and gifts.
▪ Origin: Began under King Nongda Lairen Imphal
Pakhangba; revived by King Chadrakirti Singh
(1831–1886).
▪ Symbol of family love and cultural unity in
Manipur.

Loktak Hydroelectric Project

▪ Capacity: 105 MW; Location: On Loktak Lake,
Manipur ▪ President Droupadi Murmu on December 12,
▪ Started: 1971 → Operational since 1983; paid floral tributes at the Nupi Lal Memorial
Owned by: NHPC Ltd. Complex in Imphal on the occasion of the
86th Nupi Lal Day.

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▪ Manipur observes Nupi Lal Day 2025 to pay
rich homage to the brave women of the State
who fought for justice against the British
colonialism
▪ President Murmu visited the Shree Govindaji
Temple at Palace Compound.
▪ As part of the function, the President was
gifted the Moirang Phee and a painting of
▪ Transitioned from traditional subsistence
Sagol Kangjei by the Governor of Manipur-
farming to commercial floriculture.
Ajay Kumar Bhalla.
▪ Built a women-led farmer network in Senapati
▪ The Moirang Phee is a famous hand-woven
district.
textile from Manipur known for its distinctive
▪ Enabled inter-State market access, with
border design.
Manipur-grown flowers reaching multiple
▪ Geographical Indication (GI) tag - Manipur
Indian States.
▪ Distinctive 'Moirang Pheejin' border—a zigzag
▪ Recognised nationally through Mann Ki Baat,
pattern representing the mythical Python God
bringing visibility to Northeast
Pakhangba's teeth, woven with silk/cotton
entrepreneurship.
threads

Manipur BJP legislator first Indian to

PM
receive 5th Dan in traditional taekwondo

▪ Former Manipur Minister and Bharatiya Janata

Modi praises ‘Flower Lady of Manipur’ Party MLA, Yumnam Khemchand Singh, has
Chokhone Krichena in Mann Ki Baat become the first Indian to receive the 5th Dan
▪ Prime Minister of India praised Chokhone black belt in the traditional taekwondo art
Krichena, popularly known as the ‘Flower Lady style.
of Manipur’, in Mann Ki Baat for transforming ▪ He received the 5th Dan certificate from
floriculture into a driver of self-reliance and Mayong Suk, the vice president of the Global
inclusive growth. Traditional Taekwondo Federation (GTTF), at
▪ Chokhone Krichena is a woman entrepreneur the organisation’s office in Seoul .
from Senapati district, Manipur, who has ▪ The certificate was issued by six taekwondo
successfully blended traditional agricultural grandmasters led by Jun Jee, the president of
knowledge with modern business practices to the GTTF, the highest body of the Korean
promote floriculture in the hill regions of the martial art form in its traditional style.
State. ▪ The Seoul-headquartered Sangrok World
Achievements: Taekwondo Academy, which functions under
▪ Founded Dianthe Private Limited (2021), a the World Taekwondo Federation .
floriculture enterprise focused on decorative
flower cultivation and marketing.
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Mizoram
1. Foundation Day 20 February- Mizoram Foundation Day
2. 1st Generation Beta Baby ▪ The Mizo Hills area became the Lushai Hills district
3. Chapchar Kut Festival within Assam at the time of independence. Further, in 1954
it was renamed the Mizo Hills District of Assam.
4. Anthurium Flowers
▪ Mizoram was granted the status of a Union Territory in
5. Bairabi Sairang Railway
1972 after signing an accord with the moderates of the Mizo
6. 1st fully literate state
National Front (MNF).
▪ The formalization of Mizoram State took place
on 20th February 1987 after the 53rd Amendment of the
Indian Constitution, 1986.
▪ Mizoram has been designated as a "tribal area" under
the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution (Article 244(2)).
▪ International Border: Myanmar and Bangladesh
▪ State Border: Tripura (northwest), Assam (north) and
Manipur (northeast).
▪ State Animal: Saza (serow)
▪ State Bird: Vavu (Hume Bartailed Pheasant).
▪ Protected Areas:
▪ Dampa Tiger Reserve
▪ Murlen National Park
▪ Phawngpui National Park
▪ Ngengpui Wildlife Sanctuary
▪ Tawi Wildlife Sanctuary

▪ Tribals: It has the highest concentration

(percentage) of tribal population among all
states of India.
▪ The 5 major tribes include: Lushei, Ralte,
Hmar, Paihte and Pawi.
▪ Tribals: It has the highest concentration
(percentage) of tribal population among all
states of India.
▪ The 5 major tribes include: Lushei, Ralte,
Hmar, Paihte and Pawi.

▪ They will grow up in a world with advanced

artificial intelligence (AI)
▪ The term “Generation Beta” was coined by
Australian futurist Mark McCrindle to describe
the demographic cohort
succeeding Generation Alpha (2010-2024).
▪ Generation Z - Born between 1995 and 2009,
they are also known as the iGeneration
India Welcomes Its First Generation Beta
because they grew up with the iPhone
Baby ▪ Millennials- Also known as Generation Y, they
▪ The baby, named Frankie Remruatdika were born between 1980 and 1994. They were
Zadeng, is recognized as India’s first child from the first generation to come of age in the new
the so-called Generation Beta, born in Aizawl, millennium
Mizoram ▪ Generation X - Born between 1965 and 1980,
▪ Generation Beta, a term denoting children they grew up during a time of economic
born between 2025 and 2039 uncertainty and cultural upheaval

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▪ Baby Boomers - Born between 1946 and 1964, • Native region: Americas, from northern
this generation experienced the civil rights Mexico to northern Argentina and parts of the
movement, the Vietnam War, and the moon Caribbean.
landing • In India: Widely cultivated in Mizoram and
other North Eastern states.
Chapchar Kut Festival Celebrated Across • ‘Anthurium Festival’ is an annual cultural and
tourism event celebrated in Mizoram.
Mizoram
• Floriculture is commercially cultivated in
several states with Tamil Nadu (21%),
Karnataka (16%), Madhya Pradesh (14%) and
West Bengal (12%).
• The major importing countries from
India were U.S.A, Netherland, United Arab
Emirates, U.K and Canada.

▪ Chapchar Kut festival, the largest and the most Mizoram Launches Year-Long
popular festival of the Mizo people. ‘Hnatlangpui’ Cleanliness Drive in Aizawl
celebrated on first Friday of March ▪ A year-long “Cleanliness Drive” – Hnatlangpui –
▪ Chapchar Kut is a popular spring festival was set into motion in Aizawl, Mizoram - will
celebrated by the Mizo people of Mizoram. go till March next year.
▪ The Chapchar Kut festival celebrates the ▪ The “Hnatlangpui” is being undertaken jointly
completion of the jhum operations in the under the aegis of Urban Development &
state Poverty Alleviation Department, Aizawl
▪ Jhumming or slash and burn agriculture is a Municipal Corporation (AMC) and Central
cultivation technique used in woodland or Young Mizo Association (CYMA).
forested terrains.
▪ It is one of the 3 festivals that marks the
various stages of the agricultural cycle, the
PM Modi inaugurates and lays foundation
other two being Mim Kut and Pawl Kut. of ₹17,500 crore development projects in
Cheraw Dance Manipur and Mizoram
▪ Cheraw dance is a traditional bamboo dance
form of Mizoram.
▪ the male dancers clap the bamboo staves
rhythmically while the female dancers dance
between the beating staves by stepping in and
out.
▪ It is one of the oldest dance forms in Mizoram.

First-Ever Export of Anthurium Flowers

from Mizoram to Singapore
▪ Prime Minister Narendra M odi inaugurated
and laid the foundation stone for development
projects worth over Rs 9,000 crore in Aizawl,
Mizoram, marking a significant milestone in
the state’s connectivity and infrastructure
development.
▪ The Prime Minister also flagged off three new
express trains: the Sairang-Delhi (Anand Vihar
Terminal) Rajdhani Express, Sairang-Guwahati
Express, and Sairang-Kolkata Express,
ensuring direct connectivity to major cities
▪ the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone
• Scientific Name: Anthurium (family: Araceae). for key projects, including the Rs 500-crore

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Aizawl Bypass Road under the PM-DevINE ▪ Four Sections: Bairabi–Hortoki, Hortoki–
scheme, which will decongest Aizawl city and Kawnpui, Kawnpui–Mualkhang, Mualkhang–
reduce travel time from southern districts by Sairang.
1.5 hours ▪ Passenger trains designed for 100 kmph
▪ Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for speed.
North East Region (PM-DevINE)
Mizoram Assembly passes Bill to prohibit
PM Modi inaugurated the Bairabi–Sairang beggary
Railway Line, giving Mizoram’s
capital Aizawl direct rail connectivity for
the first time.

▪ The Mizoram Assembly passed the 'Mizoram

Prohibition of Beggary Bill, 2025
▪ Its objective is not only to prohibit begging,
but also to assist and rehabilitate beggars by
offering sustainable livelihood options.
▪ A 38 km broad-gauge railway line connecting
Bairabi (railhead on Assam border) to Sairang
(near Aizawl). Aizawl becomes fourth North East capital
▪ This is part of Indian Railways’ North East (after Tripura, Assam and Arunachal
connectivity mission under the “Act East” Pradesh) with rail link
policy.
▪ This line marks the first time Mizoram’s
capital, Aizawl, is directly connected to the
Indian Railways network
▪ Aizawl becomes the fourth northeastern state
capital to be connected by rail, after Guwahati,
Agartala and Itanagar
Origin:
▪ Project sanctioned under the Indian Railways
Vision 2020.
▪ Construction started in phases, with the last
section Hortoki–Sairang commissioned
in June 2025 ▪ Mizoram’s capital Aizawl has now been linked
Objective: to the national railway network via the
▪ Provide direct rail access to Aizawl, reducing Bairabi–Sairang line in the state.
travel time and logistics cost. ▪ Bairabi in Kolasib district, near the border
▪ Improve freight connectivity for essential with Assam, has so far been the only railhead
goods, boosting trade and regional integration. in Mizoram. Sairang is a satellite town of
▪ Fulfil long-standing socio-economic Aizawl, around 20 km from the city.
demand of Mizoram under “Transformation of ▪ Until now the train used to go only up to 1.5
North East (TONE)” programme. km in Mizoram.
Key Features: ▪ The Bairabi–Sairang line is a 51 kilometres (32
▪ Cost: ₹8,000 crore project. mi) long railway line from Bairabi to Sairang
▪ Engineering Marvel: 48 tunnels (12.85 km under the Northeast Frontier Railway zone of
total), 55 major and 87 minor bridges. Indian Railways.
▪ Bridge No. 196: 104 m tall — taller than Qutub
Minar by 42 m.
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Mizoram makes history as India’s first fully Bordering Assam, Manipur, and Tripura
States
literate state under ULLAS
International Myanmar (404 Kms) and
Borders Bangladesh (318 Kms)
Literacy Rate 98.02 %, one of the highest in
India
Major Festivals Chapchar Kut, Mim Kut, and Pawl
Kut
Major Tribes Lushai, Hmar, Chakma, Lai, Mara
Traditional Cheraw (Bamboo Dance)
Dance
▪ In a landmark Economy Agriculture, handicrafts, and
moment for the handloom industries
nation’s educational Highest Point Phawngpui (Blue Mountain)
journey, Mizoram 2,210/2065 M
on Tuesday became Longest River Tlawng (185.15 Kms)
the first fully literate Wildlife Dampa Tiger Reserve and
state under the ULLAS (Understanding Protection Phawngpui National Park
Lifelong Learning for All in Society) initiative, Governor General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh
with a literacy rate of 98.02%. Chief Minister Lalduhoma
▪ Mizoram officially became the 23rd state of
India on February 20, 1987 Mizoram Agriculture board thanks NITI
About ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram: Aayog for declaring state as 'Ginger
• The Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in
Society (ULLAS) is a centrally sponsored Capital of India'
scheme implemented from 2022-2027.
• The scheme aligns with the recommendations
of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• Aim: It aims to empower those adults aged 15
years and above from all backgrounds who
could not get due schooling and mainstream
them with society to be able to contribute
more to the growth story of the country.
The scheme consists of five components
• Foundational Literacy and Numeracy,
• Critical Life Skills,
• Basic Education,
• Vocational Skills, and
• Continuing Education.
▪ Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma chaired a
meeting with the members of the Mizoram
Agricultural Marketing Board (MAMB) where
the Board expressed its gratitude to NITI Aayog
for declaring Mizoram as the Ginger Capital of
India.
▪ This year, 3.38 crore kg of ginger has been
procured, and ₹137.72 crore in support price
has been fully disbursed.
Nickname ‘Land of the Highlanders’ due to ▪ MAMB hosted a Ginger Buyer–Seller Meet on
its hilly terrain December 5–6.
Official Mizo (Lushai) and English
Language

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Tripura
1. Foundation Day 21 January - Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya
2. Kokborok Language Foundation Day
3. Garia and Borsho Boron Utsav
4. Mata Tripura Sundari Temple
5. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada
Yojana (PMMSY)
6. 3rd fully literate state

Manipur Statehood Year 1972

Tripura, Statehood Year 1972
Meghalaya Statehood Year 1972
Constitutional Amendment States were formed under the 27th Constitutional Amendment Act.
Key Legislation North Eastern Areas Reorganisation Act, 1971.
Pre-Statehood Status of Manipur Union Territory (merged with India in 1949).
Pre-Statehood Status of Tripura, Union Territory (merged with India in 1949).
Pre-Statehood Status of In 1947 the rulers of the Garo and Khasi region acceded to the newly
Meghalaya independent country of India. Autonomous State within Assam (granted
autonomy in 1969).

About Meghalaya
❑ State Animal – Clouded Leopard
❑ State Bird of Meghalaya – Common Hill Myna
❑ State Tree of Meghalaya – Gmelina arborea
❑ State Flower of Meghalaya – Lady’s slipper
orchid
❑ Chief minister : Conrad Sangma
❑ Governor : C. H. Vijayashankar

Kokborok Language Protests

NEWS: Members of the Twipra Students’ Federation

(TSF) were detained for protesting at the Tripura
Assembly entrance, demanding the inclusion of the
Roman script for Kokborok ( a Sino-Tibetan language)
in textbooks and official work.
▪ Kokborok, is the mother tongue of the Borok
About Manipur
people (Tripuris) and tribal communities in
❑ Capital Imphal
Tripura, including Debbarma, Reang,
❑ State Bird: Nongyeen
Jamatia, and others.
❑ State Animal: Sangai
▪ "Kok-Borok" combines Kok (language) and
❑ State Game : Manipuri Polo
Borok (man), meaning "the language of man"
❑ State Flower : Shirui Lily
or "the language of the Borok people."
❑ CM: Nongthombam Biren Singh
▪ Script and Writing: Kokborok originally used
❑ Governor: Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla
the Koloma script but now lacks a native script
and is written in Bengali script.
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▪ Historical Roots: Existed since at least the ▪ Just like Durga Puja in Bengalis, Garia Puja is a
1st century AD. Rajratnakar, a chronicle of festival which is very important for Tripuri
Tripuri kings, was initially written in Kokborok community which speaks Kokoborok, Reang
and Koloma script by Durlobendra Chontai. community.
▪ Recognition: Kokborok was recognised as ▪ This is a form of Mahadev. Mahadev Ji comes
the official language of Tripura in 1979 to earth to bles us to live in peace and to have
(spoken by 23.97% of Tripura’s population happiness and prosperity from all sides.
(2011 Census)), second only to Bengali.
▪ Use of Roman Script: Kokborok, favored by April 21st Garia Puja
tribal groups, has been written in Roman script ▪ The Garia Puja is a major
for decades. Two commissions, led by Shyama festival in Tripura.
Charan Tripura and Pabitra Sarkar, supported ▪ The festival is held from the
Roman, while the government preferred last day of the month of
Bengali. Chaitra till the seventh day
▪ Tribal organizations oppose Bengali of the month of Vaishakha
or Devanagari scripts, fearing cultural according to Hindu calendar.
imposition and identity disruption. ▪ This festival is celebrated as a harvest festival
by the ethnic tribes Tripuris and Reangs.
Kokborok Language ▪ In the festival, a bamboo pole is worshipped
NEWS: An indigenous literary body from Tripura has with flowers and garlands by the tribals which
urged the state government to seek constitutional symbolize the Lord Garia.
recognition of Kokborok language by including it in ▪ The ingredients used in the Puja are fowl chick,
the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. cotton thread, rice, eggs, etc. An important
What is Kokborok? part of the Puja is sacrificing a fowl and
• Kokborok is the native language of the Borok offering the blood to the deity. After the
(Tripuri) people, belonging to the Tibeto- sacrifice, the Garia dance is performed.
Burmese linguistic family.
• It holds cultural and historical PM Modi Inaugurates Redeveloped 524-
significance among Tripura’s indigenous
year-old Mata Tripura Sundari Temple in
communities.
• State Found: Predominantly spoken in Tripura, Udaipur
it is also used in parts of Assam, Mizoram. ▪ Prime Minister
History of Language: Narendra Modi
• Officially recognized as a state language inaugurated
of Tripura on January 19, 1979. the
• Declared an official language of the Tripura redeveloped
Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council Mata Tripura
(TTAADC) on April 20, 1999. Sundari Temple
in Udaipur,
‘Garia and Borsho Boron Utsav’ in Gomati
district,
Agartala Inaugurated By Manik Saha Tripura.
▪ This temple, also known as Tripura Sundari
Temple or Matabari, is one of the 51 revered
Shakti Peethas in India.
▪ The temple was originally built in 1501 CE by
Maharaja Dhanya Manikya Bahadur when
Udaipur, then known as Rangamati, was the
capital of the erstwhile Manikya kingdom.
▪ Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha ▪ The Tripura Sundari Temple was redeveloped
inaugurated the 'Garia and Borsho Boron at a cost of Rs 52 crore - with funds from the
Utsav' 2025. PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and
▪ The two- day event held in Agartala. Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme of the

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Ministry of Tourism, and a contribution of Rs 7 ▪ It aims to bring about the Blue
crore from the state government. Revolution through sustainable and
▪ Tripura Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu responsible development of the fisheries
▪ Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha sector in India.
▪ The scheme is being implemented in all States
Rangacherra becomes Tripura’s 1st green and UTs for a period of 5 years from FY 2020-
21 to FY 2024-25.
village with solar power, clean water
▪ In order to facilitate access to institutional
access credit, fishermen are provided with insurance
▪ In Tripura, a village has earned the distinction coverage, financial assistance and a facility
of becoming the first green village in the state of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) as well.
due to the efforts of the state government. ▪ It is implemented as an umbrella scheme with
▪ Tripura has effectively installed a solar plant two separate components namely:
and solar-based water purifier systems in the ▪ Central Sector Scheme: The project
Rangacherra village under Mohanpur cost will be borne by the Central
subdivision, making it the first green village in government.
the state. ▪ Centrally Sponsored Scheme: All the
▪ The Tripura Renewable Energy Development sub-components/activities will be
Agency (TREDA) is the implementing authority implemented by the States/UTs, and
of the green village
the cost will be shared between the
Centre and State.
Union Minister Lays Foundation Stone for
₹42.4 Crore Integrated Aquapark in Tripura becomes 3rd fully literate state
Tripura Under PMMSY ▪ Tripura was declared fully literate under the
ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram
(New India Literacy Programme), a centrally
sponsored scheme implemented from 2022 to
2027.
▪ Tripura has become the third state in the
country—after Mizoram and Goa—
▪ NOTE: Recently the Union Territory (UT) of
Ladakh has been declared 1st UT to achieve Full
▪ The foundation stone for an Integrated Aqua Functional Literacy under the ULLAS-Nav
Park under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Bharat Saksharta Karyakram after having
Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) was laid in achieved over 97% literacy.
Kailashahar, Tripura. ▪ ULLAS - Understanding of Lifelong Learning
▪ by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Minister for All in Society, also known as Nav Bharat
for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy
and Panchayati Raj. Programme) is a centrally sponsored scheme
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana implemented from 2022-2027.
▪ The scheme, aligned with NEP 2020, targets
(PMMSY)
adults (aged 15 years and above) who can’t go
▪ a transformative scheme for the fisheries
to school.
sector and the welfare of fishermen under the
▪ ULLAS aims to empower them with
aegis of the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal
foundational literacy, numeracy, and critical
Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India.
life skills.
▪ It aims to address critical gaps in fish
▪ The scheme has five components -
production and productivity, quality,
Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, Critical
technology, post-harvest infrastructure and
Life Skills, Basic Education, Vocational Skills
management, and strengthen the value chain.
and Continuing Education.
▪ It endeavours to establish a robust fisheries
management framework and improving
fishers’ welfare.
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Meghalaya
1. 1st Scientific Coal mine Meghalaya inaugurates first
scientific coal mine after
nearly a decade long ban
▪ The Meghalaya government has initiated legal coal mining more than a
decade after the National Green Tribunal banned the hazardous rat-hole
method of extracting the fossil fuel in 2014
▪ Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma inaugurated the first ‘scientific’ coal
mining block at Saryngkham-A in the Byndihati area of the East Jaintia Hills
district.

Meghalaya Celebrates Sacred ▪ Its botanical profile is built on local ingredients

such as kaji nemu (Assamese lemon), Khasi
Behdeinkhlam Festival
mandarin, Sohmarit pepper, smoked black
cardamom, and pine-smoked tea, creating a
flavour described by enthusiasts as complex,
aromatic, and regionally distinctive.
▪ The Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin has won 13
international spirits awards, including a
‘Master’ medal at the Global Spirits Masters
▪ The sacred 3 days Behdeinkhlam Festival was 2023, its launch year, and a silver at the World
celebrated in Jowai, Meghalaya Gin Awards
▪ It is a significant cultural festival celebrated by
the Pnar community in Meghalaya. Shad Nongkrem
▪ Meaning: Beh Dien means to drive away the Festival: An Ancient
plague with sticks and prayers and Khlam
means plague or pestilence.
Khasi Tradition
▪ It translates to “driving away the plague” or ▪ 5-day Khasi
“chasing away the demon of cholera”; festival, held
▪ It is a festival that seeks to ward off evil spirits, annually in Smit,
Meghalaya.
diseases, misfortune, and invoke blessings for
a good harvest and communal prosperity. ▪ Performed to honour Ka Blei Synshar —
▪ Timing: It is celebrated annually in July after goddess of fertility & prosperity.
the sowing period ▪ Women dance: Ka Shad Kynthei
▪ Men dance: Ka Shad Mastieh
▪ Tiew Lasubon flower adorns the crowns of
World Gin Day: Cherrapunji Gin becomes Khasi maidens.
first alcohol label from northeast to be
exported Crystal water of Umngot River in
▪ Meghalaya’s rain-fed Meghalaya turns muddy
‘Cherrapunji’ is literally in
high spirits. The
Cherrapunji Eastern Craft
Gin has become the first alcohol label from the
northeastern part of India to be exported.
▪ The Meghalaya-based company announced
this on World Gin Day (June 14).
▪ The spirit, produced in small batches using
traditional copper stills, is distilled from
naturally harvested rainwater sourced from
Sohra and Mawsynram, the two wettest places
on Earth.

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▪ The Umngot River (aka Dawki River) in
Meghalaya
River Flow & Location
▪ Flows through West Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya
▪ Passes Mawlynnong → Dawki →
Shnongpdeng
▪ Reaches India–Bangladesh border
▪ Continues in Bangladesh as Shari Goyain River
▪ Forms natural India–Bangladesh boundary
▪ Concern: Turbidity due to highway
construction (soil dumping, hill-cutting, debris)
linked to NHIDCL Shillong–Dawki road project.

Meghalaya Hosts First Northeast India

Organic Week

▪ The Meghalaya agriculture department, in

collaboration with the Agricultural and
Processed Food Products Export Development
Authority (APEDA), the Union Ministry of
Commerce and Industry, the Department of
Commerce, and the International Federation of
Organic Agricultural Movements (IFOAM-
Organics Asia), inaugurated the first Northeast
India Organic Week in Shillong, Meghalaya.
▪ The programme runs from 28 November to 1
December 2025.
▪ It includes the IFOAM World Organic Youth
Summit (its 4th edition).

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