Affairs:
- The Indian government started using Aadhaar numbers to pay rural workers, thinking it would make things faster and better. However, a recent study shows that it hasn't really improved things and has even created some new problems for workers. The government still believes it's a good system for increasing transparency and bringing more people into the banking system.
- The government of Madhya Pradesh has banned alcohol sales in 17 religious towns. This is not the first time the state has tried to restrict alcohol. Banning alcohol is complicated because it affects the state's income and also clashes with the traditions of some communities. Experts believe that a more balanced approach is needed to address alcohol-related problems.
- The world is experiencing more and worse long-term droughts because of climate change. These droughts dry up the land, hurt farming, and damage the environment.
A new study shows just how widespread this problem is and warns that it will likely get worse. We need to prepare for these droughts and find ways to deal with their effects. - Climate change is causing more and more disruptions to children's schooling around the world. Heatwaves are the biggest problem, but storms, floods, and droughts are also causing significant issues. Millions of children are having their education interrupted, and urgent action is needed to protect them.
- Tiny bits of plastic, called microplastics, can get into the brains of mice and block blood flow, causing thinking problems. While it's not yet known if this happens in humans in the same way, the research raises serious concerns about the potential dangers of microplastic pollution for brain health.
- The Indian Army has a new system called SANJAY that helps them see what's happening on the battlefield by combining information from different sources. This system uses advanced technology like AI and is made in India. It will help the army make better decisions and respond to threats more quickly.
- India is launching a new and improved navigation satellite as part of its own navigation system, NavIC. This new satellite will be more accurate, longer-lasting, and more compatible with devices like smartphones and fitness trackers. This launch is also special because it's ISRO's 100th mission.
- The Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025 is a yearly report that checks how well Indian states are managing their finances. It's designed to give useful information that can help improve government policies.
- Recent archaeological discoveries have revealed that iron technology in Tamil Nadu dates back to the early 4th millennium (3345)BCE, much earlier than the previously believed timeline of 1500–2000 BCE for the start of the Iron Age in India. This finding highlights the advanced metallurgical skills of ancient Tamil Nadu and significantly reshapes our understanding of early technological and cultural developments in the region.
- China's Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) has achieved a major breakthrough in nuclear fusion by sustaining plasma for 1,000 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 403 seconds set in 2023. This milestone is crucial for advancing fusion energy technology, bringing us closer to continuous and sustainable power generation in the future.
- Punjab has a big drug problem because of its location near drug trafficking routes. The state government is asking for money to build special courts, like Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Court (NDPS Court)to handle the many drug cases waiting to be heard. They also want money for other efforts to stop drug trafficking and help people with addiction.
- The beautiful cloth that covers the Kaaba in Mecca is going to be displayed at an art exhibition in Jeddah. This is a very special event because it's the first time the complete Kiswah will be shown outside of Mecca. The Kiswah is a very important symbol in Islam and is made with incredible skill and artistry.
- Many Indians are living in the US without proper documents and are facing deportation. This issue has been discussed by US and Indian officials. Deportation is a complex and expensive process, and the number of Indians being deported has been increasing. Many Indians migrate illegally to the US looking for better opportunities, often taking dangerous routes. This situation could affect the relationship between India and the US.
- A unique mask dance from a community in Himachal Pradesh called the Hatti will be performed at India's big Republic Day parade. This is a big moment for the Hatti community, as it celebrates their culture and helps them gain wider recognition. The dance is about wildlife and the environment, and it is expected to be a large and impressive performance.
- Scientists studied harmful algae in Lake Victoria and found they are widespread and can adapt to different conditions. They recommend using advanced technology to monitor and manage these blooms to protect the environment and human health. Lake Victoria is a very important lake for the surrounding region, providing food and jobs for millions of people.