UPSC Current Affairs 13 March 2026 - UPSC Current Affairs

Table of Contents

National Geospatial Policy 2022

Why in News

Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh highlighted the significance of the National Geospatial Policy 2022 at GeodCon-26, the first national conference on geodesy held at the Indian National Science Academy in New Delhi.
The policy was described as a major reform that liberalised the geospatial sector and expanded access to geospatial data.

National Geospatial Policy 2022

Introduced to liberalise and modernise India’s geospatial sector.
Democratises access to geospatial data for government, private sector, academia and startups.
Encourages innovation and wider participation in mapping, spatial analytics and geospatial services.
Supports India’s goal of scientific and technological self-reliance under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Aims to strengthen governance, infrastructure planning, disaster management, national security and economic growth through geospatial technologies.

Importance of the Geospatial Sector

Plays a crucial role in governance, urban planning and infrastructure development.
Supports disaster resilience and climate monitoring.
Enhances national security through accurate mapping and positioning.
Contributes to economic growth through location-based services and geospatial innovation.

Geodesy as the Scientific Foundation

Geodesy is the science that measures and understands Earth’s geometric shape, orientation in space and gravity field.
Provides the scientific backbone of the geospatial ecosystem.
Enables accurate positioning, satellite navigation and mapping systems.
Supports infrastructure planning, disaster response and environmental monitoring.
Establishes geodetic reference frames, gravity models and positioning systems essential for modern mapping.

India’s Technological Capabilities

Indigenous satellite navigation system NavIC reflects India’s growing role in the global geospatial ecosystem.
Space and Earth observation missions depend on strong geodetic infrastructure.
Precision of satellite navigation and mapping systems relies on accurate geodetic reference frameworks.

Institutional and Research Initiatives

Department of Science and Technology and Survey of India are strengthening national geospatial infrastructure.
Establishment of the National Centre for Geodesy at IIT Kanpur along with six regional centres.
Focus on research areas such as:
- GNSS-based reference frame development
- Crustal deformation monitoring
- Space geodesy techniques
- GeoAI-based geospatial applications

Importance of Collaboration

Growth of the geospatial ecosystem requires cooperation between government institutions, academia, industry and young researchers.
Platforms such as GeodCon-26 facilitate knowledge sharing, research collaboration and policy discussions.

Significance for India

Strengthens India’s strategic capability in geospatial science and technology.
Supports national development, scientific research and strategic sectors.
Enhances India’s capacity in satellite navigation, mapping and earth observation.

Key Takeaways for UPSC

National Geospatial Policy 2022 aims to liberalise the geospatial sector and expand data accessibility.
Geodesy forms the scientific foundation of mapping, navigation and geospatial technologies.
Indigenous systems like NavIC depend on strong geodetic infrastructure.
Institutional initiatives such as the National Centre for Geodesy aim to strengthen research and capacity building in geospatial science.

Kaziranga National Park Plans Rhino Translocation

Why in News

Authorities in Kaziranga National Park are planning to translocate more one-horned rhinoceroses to other protected areas under the Indian Rhino Vision 2.0 programme.
The move aims to reduce risks associated with keeping a large proportion of the global rhino population concentrated in a single location.

Background of Rhino Translocation in Assam

Kaziranga National Park holds more than two-thirds of the world’s population of the Indian Rhinoceros.
The park currently has more than 2,600 rhinos according to the latest census.
To reduce concentration risk and rebuild rhino populations elsewhere, rhinos have been translocated to other protected areas in Assam.

Restoration of Rhinos in Manas National Park

During the insurgency period in the 1990s, all rhinos in Manas National Park were wiped out due to poaching.
Rhinos were later moved from Kaziranga and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary to Manas under a conservation programme.
Between 2008 and 2021, around 22 rhinos were translocated to Manas.
The park now supports more than 50 rhinos, most of which have been born there.

Indian Rhino Vision Programme

The Indian Rhino Vision 2020 was launched in 2005 by the Assam government in partnership with conservation organisations.
The objective was to increase the rhino population in Assam to about 3,000 by 2020 and establish populations across several protected areas.
The next phase, Indian Rhino Vision 2.0, aims to increase India’s rhino population to 4,500–5,000 by 2030.
Under this phase, 10 rhinos will be moved to Manas and around 20 rhinos to Laokhowa–Burachapori landscapes.

Natural Expansion of Rhino Habitat

Rhinos are also expanding naturally into new areas.
In 2023, two rhinos were recorded in Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary and Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary after nearly four decades.
Habitat restoration, removal of encroachments, and expansion of Orang National Park have improved connectivity and enabled wildlife movement.

Importance of Translocation in Conservation

Translocation helps reduce the risk of species loss due to natural disasters, disease outbreaks, or poaching in a single location.
Establishing multiple populations improves long-term species survival and genetic diversity.
It also helps restore species in habitats where they were historically present.

Comparison with Other Wildlife Relocation Efforts

Wildlife relocation in India has often faced political and logistical challenges.
For example, the relocation of Asiatic Lion from Gir National Park to Kuno National Park has been delayed despite a Supreme Court directive.
Earlier attempts to introduce lions in Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary in 1957 did not lead to a surviving population.

Genetic Health of Kaziranga Rhinos

Genetic studies indicate that rhinos in Kaziranga and Manas have relatively strong genetic diversity.
Research has shown that rhino populations in Jaldapara National Park and Gorumara National Park face higher risks of genetic erosion.
Because of their strong genetic base, Kaziranga rhinos can help strengthen populations in other parks.

Conditions Required for Rhino Translocation

Translocation requires strong anti-poaching infrastructure and monitoring systems in the destination park.
Adequate habitat conditions such as grasslands, water sources, and sufficient territory are essential.
Authorities also require armed patrol teams, surveillance systems, and proper management planning before moving rhinos.

Tree Plantation Drive to Mark Olympic Day

Why in News

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has urged all State and Union Territory Olympic Associations to plant 2,036 trees each as part of Olympic Day celebrations.
The initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability through sports participation and community engagement.

About the Initiative

The IOA has called upon affiliated state and UT Olympic Associations to organise tree plantation drives across the country.
Athletes, sports organisations, educational institutions and youth groups are encouraged to participate in the activity.
Plantation events may be organised at sports complexes, schools, parks and other public spaces.

Objective of the Campaign

To integrate environmental sustainability with sports and community participation.
To encourage ecological awareness among athletes, youth and local communities.
To highlight the Olympic Movement’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Link with Global Olympic Initiatives

The campaign aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s Olympic Forest initiative.
The Olympic Forest initiative promotes biodiversity conservation and sustainability through large-scale tree planting across the world.
The symbolic plantation of 2,036 trees reflects the Olympic Movement’s vision of building a greener future.

Role of State and UT Associations

State and UT Olympic Associations have been asked to collaborate with:
- Local sports bodies
- Schools and educational institutions
- Government agencies
- Community organisations
Associations have also been requested to document the plantation drives and submit reports and photographs to the IOA.

Significance

Strengthens the link between sports and environmental sustainability.
Encourages public participation in ecological conservation.
Promotes the broader Olympic vision of building a healthier and better world through sport.

Key Points for UPSC

Olympic Day is celebrated annually on 23 June to commemorate the founding of the modern Olympic Movement.
The Olympic Forest initiative is a global programme led by the International Olympic Committee to support environmental sustainability.
Tree plantation drives are increasingly used as tools to promote climate awareness and community participation in environmental protection.

Freedom of Speech in Parliament and Its Limits

Why in News

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stated that Members of Parliament enjoy freedom of speech in the House, but it is subject to the Constitution and the rules governing parliamentary proceedings.
His remarks came during a discussion in the Lok Sabha following a debate on a resolution seeking his removal from office.

Constitutional Provision

Freedom of speech in Parliament is guaranteed under Article 105.
It provides Members of Parliament the right to speak freely within Parliament without fear of legal action in courts for statements made in the House.
However, this freedom is subject to the Constitution and the rules and standing orders regulating the procedure of the House.

Parliamentary Rules and Limitations

Members must follow the rules framed by Parliament while speaking in the House.
No Member has the privilege to speak outside the framework of parliamentary rules.
The Speaker regulates discussions and decides who may speak during proceedings.

Clarification on Microphone Control

The Speaker clarified that the Chair does not control the microphones in the House.
The microphone system automatically activates only for the Member who has been officially permitted to speak.

Importance of Parliamentary Decorum

The Speaker stressed that disruptions reduce the dignity of Parliament.
Activities that undermine parliamentary decorum include:
- Slogan-shouting
- Displaying placards
- Tearing papers
- Entering the Well of the House

Role of Debate in Democracy

Democratic debate allows Members from different parties to present views and concerns.
During the recent discussion, the House witnessed more than 12 hours of debate involving Members from multiple parties.

Representation and Responsibility

Parliament represents the aspirations of around 1.4 billion citizens of India.
Members of Parliament carry the responsibility of raising public issues and representing their constituents.

Participation of Women MPs

The Speaker emphasised that efforts are made to ensure that women Members receive opportunities to speak in the House.
First-time women MPs are also encouraged to participate in parliamentary debates.

Significance

Highlights the balance between parliamentary privileges and procedural discipline.
Reinforces the importance of maintaining decorum and respecting institutional traditions.
Emphasises that strong democratic institutions depend on responsible conduct by elected representatives.

Key Points for UPSC

Article 105 of the Constitution grants freedom of speech and parliamentary privileges to Members of Parliament.
Parliamentary freedom of speech is not absolute and is subject to rules of procedure.
Maintaining order and decorum in Parliament is essential for effective legislative functioning.
The Speaker plays a key role in regulating debates and ensuring adherence to parliamentary rules.

National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS)

Why in News

The Ministry of Education organised a national workshop in New Delhi to review the implementation of the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme.
The workshop was organised by the Department of School Education and Literacy on March 10 to strengthen implementation of the scheme across states and Union Territories.

About the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS)

Central sector scheme aimed at supporting meritorious students from economically weaker sections.
Introduced to reduce dropout rates after Class VIII and encourage continuation of education at the secondary level.
One lakh fresh scholarships are awarded every year to students entering Class IX.
Scholarship continues up to Class XII in government, government-aided and local body schools.
Each selected student receives ₹12,000 per year.

Eligibility Criteria

Students must have secured at least 55 percent marks in the Class VII examination.
A relaxation of 5 percent marks is provided for students belonging to SC and ST categories.
Annual parental income should not exceed ₹3.5 lakh from all sources.
Selection is done through a state-level scholarship examination.

Key Discussions in the Workshop

Review of the progress of the scholarship scheme across states and Union Territories.
Discussion on improving quota utilisation and ensuring continuity of scholarships from Class IX to XII.
Emphasis on effective implementation at the grassroots level in line with the National Education Policy 2020.

Role of Digital Platforms

The Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) has evolved into a real-time digital platform for monitoring school education data.
Scholarship applications are processed through the National Scholarship Portal.
Use of the Public Financial Management System ensures direct benefit transfer and transparency.

Technical and Administrative Measures

Use of PAO-DBT module through the Public Financial Management System for efficient fund transfer.
Aadhaar seeding of beneficiary bank accounts by the National Payments Corporation of India to ensure accurate payments.
Interactive discussions with state nodal officers to identify implementation challenges.

Best Practices and State Participation

States such as Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh shared best practices in implementing the scheme.
Officials from states, Union Territories and districts participated in discussions to improve scheme delivery.

Significance

Helps reduce school dropout rates among economically weaker students.
Encourages continuation of education at the secondary level.
Strengthens the goal of equitable access to quality education.

Yoga Mahotsav-2026

Why in News

Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga will organise Yoga Mahotsav-2026 at Vigyan Bhawan on March 13.
The event will mark the beginning of the 100-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga 2026.

About Yoga Mahotsav-2026

The programme will launch a nationwide campaign to promote yoga across the country.
As part of the initiative, 100 organisations will conduct yoga promotion activities in 100 cities.
The initiative aims to increase public participation in yoga activities in the run-up to International Day of Yoga.

Organising Ministry and Participants

The event is organised by the Ministry of Ayush through the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga.
Key dignitaries expected to attend include:
- Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush
- Rajesh Kotecha
- H. R. Nagendra
- Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Ayush
Yoga gurus, experts from Ayush and modern medicine, and yoga practitioners will also participate.

International Day of Yoga

The United Nations declared 21 June as the International Day of Yoga in 2014.
The proposal was introduced by Narendra Modi during the UN General Assembly.
The day is observed worldwide to promote physical, mental and spiritual well-being through yoga.

Preparations for International Day of Yoga 2026

The 100-day countdown campaign aims to expand outreach and public awareness.
The government plans to organise yoga events at 100 iconic locations across India for the 12th International Day of Yoga.
Preparations for nationwide participation have already begun.

Significance

Promotes India’s traditional knowledge system and global yoga movement.
Encourages public health, wellness and holistic lifestyle practices.
Strengthens India’s cultural diplomacy and global recognition of yoga.

Key Points for UPSC

International Day of Yoga is observed annually on 21 June.
Declared by the United Nations in 2014 following India’s proposal.
Ministry of Ayush coordinates national-level celebrations in India.
Yoga Mahotsav marks the beginning of preparations for the annual celebration.

Superluminous Supernova Mystery

Why in News

Astronomers have identified the mechanism behind an extremely bright stellar explosion known as a superluminous supernova.
The findings were reported in the journal Nature based on observations made after a supernova discovered in December 2024.

What is a Supernova

A Supernova is a powerful explosion that occurs at the end of the life cycle of a massive star.
It happens when a star exhausts its nuclear fuel and can no longer counteract the force of gravity.
The core collapses under extreme pressure, causing a massive explosion that ejects stellar material into space.
Typical supernovas can be about a billion times brighter than the Sun.

What are Superluminous Supernovas

Superluminous Supernova are rare cosmic explosions that are 10 to 100 times brighter than normal supernovas.
They represent only a small fraction of all supernova events.
Their extreme brightness has long been a mystery in astrophysics.

Discovery and Observation

The superluminous supernova studied in the research occurred in a galaxy about one billion light-years from Earth.
Observations were conducted using the Las Cumbres Observatory and the ATLAS survey telescope located in Chile.
A light-year is the distance travelled by light in one year, approximately 9.5 trillion kilometres.

Role of Magnetars

Scientists found that the extraordinary brightness was caused by the formation of a Magnetar at the center of the explosion.
A magnetar is a type of Neutron Star formed after a star’s core collapses.
It rotates extremely fast, sometimes hundreds of times per second.
Its powerful magnetic field accelerates charged particles and transfers energy into the expanding cloud of gas and dust from the explosion.
This process significantly increases the luminosity of the supernova.

Lense-Thirring Precession

Scientists also identified a phenomenon called Lense-Thirring Precession affecting the brightness variations.
This occurs when the spinning magnetar twists the surrounding space-time.
The gravitational force pulls stellar material into a disk around the magnetar.
Due to the twisting of space-time, the disk wobbles, causing fluctuations in the brightness of the supernova over time.

Importance of the Discovery

Supports the hypothesis proposed in 2010 that magnetars power superluminous supernovas.
Helps scientists better understand the final stages of massive stars.
Provides insights into extreme physical conditions such as intense magnetic fields and relativistic effects in space.

AAHAR 2026: Promoting Food Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Why in News

The 40th edition of AAHAR 2026 is being held from March 10 to 14 in New Delhi.
The exhibition serves as a major platform for producers, exporters, hospitality businesses and technology providers to connect and explore opportunities in the food and hospitality sector.

About AAHAR

AAHAR is one of Asia’s leading trade exhibitions for the food and hospitality industry.
The event features around 1,800 exhibitors from India and other countries.
It showcases a wide range of products such as processed foods, beverages, dairy products, bakery items and agricultural produce.
The exhibition is being held at Bharat Mandapam.
It provides a platform for business-to-business engagement among producers, exporters, buyers and hospitality enterprises.

Government Initiatives Supporting Food Entrepreneurs

The exhibition includes stalls under the One District One Product initiative, which promotes region-specific products.
Entrepreneurs have also benefited from the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme that supports small food processing units through financial assistance and capacity building.

Entrepreneurial Success from Sikkim

Entrepreneur Sangidoma Bhutia from Gangtok is showcasing traditional Sikkimese food products through her brand Taste of Sikkim.
She began her business about 16 years ago with small-scale production using personal savings.
Her enterprise expanded after receiving a ₹10 lakh loan and ₹3.5 lakh subsidy under the PMFME scheme.
The products include fermented chilli pickles, spice blends and condiments made using Dalle Khursani sourced from local farmers.
Apart from manufacturing, the entrepreneur trains rural women in food processing, creating livelihood opportunities.

Traceability and Innovation in the Tea Sector

The tea brand Iron Kettle from Bengaluru is presenting innovations in tea production and traceability.
The company offers three main categories of tea: CTC tea from Assam, flavoured and green teas, and specialised Sanjeevani green tea.
The brand uses QR-code-based traceability that allows consumers to track the origin of tea, including farm location and cultivation practices.
Tea processing facilities are located in Assam and the Nilgiri Hills.

Expansion of Spice Enterprises

Subash Agro Industry Pvt Ltd is showcasing its range of spices and food products.
Established in 1992 in Kanpur, the company produces turmeric, coriander, chilli powder and blended spices.
The enterprise has expanded to offer more than 100 products including papad, pickles, hing, agarbatti and soy nuggets.
Its distribution network spans states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Uttarakhand.

Value-Added Fruit Processing

Ganpati Frozen World focuses on frozen fruit products and ingredients.
Based in Nagpur, the company processes seasonal fruits into frozen pulps, fruit shots, kulfi premixes and frozen berries.
Products such as Alphonso mango pulp, custard apple pulp and jamun pulp are preserved at around −18°C to maintain quality.
The company mainly supplies ingredients to food manufacturers and the HoReCa sector.

Dehydrated Food Processing Startups

Aarambh Food Export from Bhavnagar is presenting dehydrated food products.
The company produces fruit powders, vegetable flakes and herbs such as mint and curry leaves.
Dehydration technology helps increase shelf life, reduce post-harvest losses and create value-added agricultural products.

Significance for India’s Food Processing Sector

Events like AAHAR promote innovation in food processing and encourage entrepreneurship across India.
They strengthen links between farmers, processors, exporters and buyers across the food value chain.
Such platforms help expand market access for regional products while supporting growth in the food processing ecosystem.

Magnetic Semiconductors

Why in News

Scientists have discovered how heat flows in certain magnetic semiconductors, solving a long-standing puzzle in condensed matter physics.
The findings were published in the journal Science Advances.

About the Study

The research was led by scientists from the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research.
The study provides experimental evidence explaining unusual thermal behaviour observed in magnetic semiconductors.
The work involved international collaboration with Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram, Linköping University and global research facilities.

Magnetic Semiconductors and Heat Flow

In conventional semiconductors, thermal conductivity usually decreases as temperature rises.
This happens because lattice vibrations called Phonons scatter more strongly at higher temperatures.
However, some magnetic semiconductors show the opposite behaviour, where thermal conductivity increases after a certain temperature threshold.

Chromium Nitride as a Case Study

The study focused on Chromium Nitride.
Chromium nitride is widely used in protective coatings and electronic applications.
Scientists had long struggled to explain why heat transport in this material increases after crossing a magnetic transition temperature.

Role of Magnetic Transition

The unusual behaviour occurs near the Néel Temperature.
At this temperature, the material changes from a magnetically ordered state to a disordered state.
Around this transition point, interactions between phonons and magnetic spin fluctuations become very strong.

Interaction Between Phonons and Magnetic Spins

The researchers discovered that heat transport is controlled by interactions between lattice vibrations and magnetic spin fluctuations.
Near the magnetic transition, acoustic phonons experience strong damping.
As temperature increases further and magnetic order weakens, phonon lifetimes increase unexpectedly.
This increase in phonon lifetime leads to higher thermal conductivity.

Experimental Techniques

Scientists used temperature-dependent inelastic X-ray scattering to measure phonon lifetimes in chromium nitride thin films.
The experiments observed how lattice vibrations interact with magnetic excitations across the magnetic phase transition.
The results were supported by advanced spin-dynamics simulations and first-principles calculations.

Significance of the Discovery

Understanding the interaction between magnetic spins and lattice vibrations can help design materials with controlled heat transport.
Efficient thermal management is important for technologies such as spintronic devices, magnetic memory systems and quantum electronics.
The discovery could contribute to the development of faster, more energy-efficient electronic systems.

International Collaboration

The research involved experiments at international facilities including SPring-8 and DESY.
The study highlights the growing role of Indian scientists in advanced materials and semiconductor research.

Role of Women in Agricultural Policy and Leadership

Why in News

Droupadi Murmu called for increased participation of women in policymaking and leadership in the agriculture sector.
She made the remarks while addressing the Global Conference on the Role of Women in Agri-Food Systems (GCWAS-2026) held in New Delhi.

Role of Women in Agriculture

The President highlighted that women contribute significantly across the agricultural value chain.
Women are actively involved in activities such as sowing, harvesting, processing and marketing of agricultural products.
Their participation also extends to fisheries, beekeeping, animal husbandry and forest-based livelihoods.
Greater representation of women in decision-making and policy formulation can promote gender-inclusive agricultural growth.

Women’s Participation in Agricultural Education

Women are increasingly enrolling in agricultural education programmes.
In many institutions, women constitute more than 50% of students in state agricultural universities.
In some universities, their participation exceeds 60%.
The President emphasised that young women should be encouraged to assume leadership roles in the agriculture and agri-food sectors.

International Year of the Woman Farmer

The United Nations has declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
The initiative aims to promote gender equality and strengthen women’s leadership in agri-food value chains globally.
The move highlights the importance of recognising the contributions of women farmers to food security and sustainable agriculture.

Challenges Faced by Women Farmers

Women farmers often face multiple challenges in the agricultural sector.
These include limited land ownership, restricted access to modern technology and financial resources, and inadequate institutional support.
Addressing these issues is essential to ensure equitable participation and empowerment of women in agriculture.

Government and Institutional Support

The President noted that several initiatives have been introduced to empower women in agriculture.
Self-Help Groups and Farmer Producer Organisations have played an important role in strengthening women’s participation.
Such platforms enable women farmers to access credit, technology and markets more effectively.

Global Conference on Women in Agri-Food Systems

The conference aims to discuss strategies for promoting gender inclusion in agriculture.
It is jointly organised by the Trust for Advancement of Agricultural Sciences, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research and Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority.
The three-day event focuses on strengthening policy frameworks and promoting gender mainstreaming in agri-food systems.

Significance

Increasing women’s participation in agricultural leadership can contribute to inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Empowering women farmers is considered essential for improving productivity, food security and rural livelihoods.

Dandi Satyagraha

Why in News

Narendra Modi and C. P. Radhakrishnan paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi and freedom fighters on the anniversary of the historic Dandi Satyagraha.

About the Dandi Satyagraha

The Dandi Satyagraha, also known as the Salt March, was a major act of non-violent protest against British colonial rule in India.
It was led by Mahatma Gandhi as part of the broader Civil Disobedience Movement.
The movement aimed to challenge the British monopoly and tax on salt.

The March

The march began on March 12, 1930 from Sabarmati Ashram.
Gandhi and his followers walked about 240 miles (around 390 km) to the coastal village of Dandi.
The march lasted for 24 days and concluded on April 6, 1930.
At Dandi, Gandhi symbolically broke the British salt law by producing salt from seawater.

Objectives of the Movement

To protest against the oppressive salt tax imposed by the British government.
To challenge colonial authority through non-violent civil disobedience.
To mobilise people across India in the struggle for independence.

Significance

The Dandi Satyagraha became a turning point in India’s freedom movement.
It inspired large-scale participation of ordinary citizens in the struggle against colonial rule.
The movement strengthened the principles of truth (Satya) and non-violence (Ahimsa) in India’s independence movement.
It triggered the nationwide Civil Disobedience Movement against British policies.

India’s Installed Solar Capacity Reaches Nearly 136 Gigawatts

Why in News

Pralhad Joshi announced that India’s installed solar power capacity has reached nearly 136 gigawatts (GW).
The announcement was made during the Foundation Day celebrations of the International Solar Alliance in New Delhi.

Growth of Solar Energy in India

Solar power now accounts for almost half of India’s total renewable energy capacity.
The rapid expansion of solar energy reflects sustained government policies, technological advancements and investment in clean energy infrastructure.
India has emerged as one of the leading countries in solar energy deployment.

International Solar Alliance (ISA)

The International Solar Alliance is a global initiative aimed at promoting solar energy adoption worldwide.
It was launched by India and France during the COP21 Paris Climate Conference.
The alliance currently includes more than 120 member countries working together to accelerate solar energy deployment.
The initiative focuses particularly on developing and emerging economies with abundant solar resources.

Government Initiatives Promoting Solar Energy

The government has launched several programmes to promote solar energy adoption across sectors.

PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana

Encourages households to install rooftop solar systems.
Aims to reduce electricity bills while promoting clean energy generation.

PM-KUSUM Scheme

Promotes solar-powered irrigation pumps for farmers.
Helps reduce dependence on conventional energy sources in agriculture.

Global Solar Energy Expansion

The minister noted that the global pace of solar energy adoption is accelerating.
It took nearly 25 years for the world to install the first 1,000 GW of solar capacity.
The next 1,000 GW is expected to be installed much faster, reflecting rapid technological progress and declining costs.

Role of the Global South

The centre of the global energy transition is increasingly shifting toward the Global South.
Countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America have growing energy demands and strong solar potential.
Platforms like the International Solar Alliance help coordinate governments, financial institutions, development partners and private sector stakeholders.

Significance

The expansion of solar energy supports India’s clean energy transition and climate commitments.
Solar power contributes to energy security, reduced carbon emissions and sustainable development.
International cooperation through initiatives like ISA strengthens global efforts to address climate change.

PM-RAHAT Scheme

Why in News

Nitin Gadkari informed the Rajya Sabha about the implementation of the Prime Minister–Road Accident Victims’ Hospitalisation and Assured Treatment Scheme.
The scheme provides cashless medical treatment of up to ₹1.5 lakh for victims of road accidents.

About PM-RAHAT Scheme

The Prime Minister–Road Accident Victims’ Hospitalisation and Assured Treatment Scheme was launched on February 13, 2026.
It aims to ensure timely and uninterrupted medical treatment for victims of road accidents involving motor vehicles.
Victims are eligible for cashless treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh for a maximum of seven days from the date of the accident.
The scheme applies irrespective of the type of road where the accident occurs.

Legal Basis

The scheme has been notified under Section 162 of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988.
Detailed operational guidelines and standard operating procedures have been issued for implementation.

Emergency Treatment Provisions

Victims can receive stabilisation treatment at designated hospitals.
In non-life-threatening cases, treatment may be provided for up to 24 hours.
In life-threatening cases, treatment may be extended up to 48 hours, subject to police response.

Digital Integration for Implementation

The scheme uses a digital platform linking accident reporting and hospital treatment.
It integrates the Electronic Detailed Accident Report system used by police with the Transaction Management System 2.0 used by hospitals.
This creates a digital record covering accident reporting, hospital admission, treatment, claim processing and final payment.

Funding Mechanism

Payments to hospitals are made through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund.
The fund receives contributions from insurance companies for insured vehicles.
Government budgetary support is provided for uninsured or hit-and-run cases.

Role of Hospitals

Hospitals empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana that meet the guidelines are considered designated hospitals.
As of March 2026, more than 36,000 hospitals are empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat programme.
Hospitals must begin treatment under predefined health benefit packages developed by the National Health Authority.

Emergency Response Integration

The scheme is linked with the Emergency Response Support System 112.
Victims or Good Samaritans can use the system to locate the nearest designated hospital or request an ambulance.

Monitoring and Grievance Redressal

Implementation will be monitored by District Road Safety Committees.
Unresolved grievances may be escalated to the District Collector and the State Road Safety Council.
At the national level, an inter-ministerial steering committee will oversee the scheme.

Significance

The scheme aims to ensure medical assistance during the “golden hour”, the critical period immediately after a road accident.
It seeks to reduce fatalities by providing quick access to emergency healthcare without financial barriers.

India Now Has World’s Third-Largest Metro Network

Why in News

Tokhan Sahu stated that India now has the third-largest metro network in the world.
The announcement was made during an event organised by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation in New Delhi.

India’s Metro Network Expansion

India currently has more than 1,143 kilometres of operational metro rail network.
Around 936 kilometres of metro lines are under construction across the country.
Metro rail systems are operational or being developed in about 29 cities.
Nearly 11.5 million passengers use metro services daily.

Growth Since 2014

Metro services were available in only five Indian cities in 2014.
Since then, the network has expanded rapidly with several new metro projects launched across the country.
The expansion reflects increasing investment in urban infrastructure and public transport.

Role of Delhi Metro

The Delhi Metro is considered a pioneer in India’s metro development.
It began operations on December 24, 2002, significantly transforming urban transportation in the national capital.
The project was initiated during the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Felicitation of a Metro Enthusiast

The minister felicitated Anil Marwah, a long-time metro enthusiast.
Marwah has maintained a personal tradition of riding the first train on the opening day of every newly inaugurated Delhi Metro corridor since 2002.
The event was attended by Vikas Kumar.

Importance of Metro Systems

Metro rail systems provide fast, reliable and efficient urban public transport.
They help reduce traffic congestion and dependence on road transport.
Metro networks also contribute to lowering urban pollution and improving environmental sustainability.

Impact on Urban Mobility

The expansion of metro rail is seen as a major transformation in India’s urban transport sector.
Metro systems provide safe and convenient travel, especially for students, office workers and women commuters.
Improved connectivity helps enhance access to employment, education and economic opportunities.

Significance

The rapid expansion of metro rail systems represents a major shift toward sustainable urban mobility in India.
Greater use of metro and other public transport systems can help create cleaner, less congested and more efficient cities.

Measures to Reduce Elephant–Train Collisions in India

Why in News

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has identified 77 railway stretches across 14 states as priority areas to reduce elephant deaths caused by train collisions.
The decision followed a national workshop on “Policy Implementation for Minimizing Elephant Mortalities on Railway Tracks” organised with the Wildlife Institute of India.

Background

India hosts more than 60 percent of the global population of the Asian elephant.
Expansion of railway infrastructure and habitat fragmentation have increased incidents of elephant deaths on railway tracks.
High-risk states include Assam, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.

Identification of Sensitive Railway Stretches

A joint assessment was conducted by the ministry’s Project Elephant, WII, Indian Railways and state forest departments.
110 sensitive railway stretches were identified across elephant habitats.
17 additional stretches were located in two tiger-range states.
Field surveys covered 127 railway stretches spanning about 3,452.4 km.
Out of these, 77 stretches covering around 1,965.2 km were prioritised for mitigation measures.

Proposed Mitigation Structures

Authorities proposed construction of about 705 wildlife-friendly structures to allow safe animal movement.
These include ramps and level crossings, bridge extensions or modifications, fencing or trenching structures, exit ramps, underpasses and overpasses.
Such structures aim to ensure safe passage of elephants across railway lines.

Wildlife-Friendly Railway Projects

Wildlife-sensitive infrastructure is being integrated into several railway projects.
These include the Gevra Road–Pendra Road railway line passing through the Achanakmar-Amarkantak Elephant Corridor.
The Wadsa–Gadchiroli railway line intersects the Kanha–Navegaon–Tadoba–Indravati Tiger Corridor.
Other projects include the Darekasa–Salekasa track tripling and the Nagbhid–Itwari gauge conversion project.

Special Mitigation Measures

A 3.5 km stretch of the Azara–Kamakhya railway line in Assam passes through the Rani–Garbhanga–Deepor Beel Elephant Corridor.
This section is proposed to be elevated to allow safe elephant movement.

Technology-Based Solutions

A Distributed Acoustic System (DAS)-based intrusion detection system has been installed in sections of the North East Frontier Railway in Assam.
The system currently covers about 64.03 km of elephant corridors and 141 km of railway block sections.
It detects vibrations on railway tracks to identify animal movement and alert authorities.
Another pilot project in Madukkarai, Tamil Nadu uses AI-based early warning systems with thermal and motion-sensing cameras mounted on towers.
The system detects elephants within 100 metres of railway tracks and alerts officials to slow down trains.

Key Causes of Elephant–Train Collisions

Habitat fragmentation due to infrastructure development.
Land-use changes near forest areas.
High train speeds and night operations.
Seasonal migration patterns of elephants.

Way Forward

Experts emphasised stronger coordination between railway authorities, forest departments and scientific institutions.
Standardised protocols for monitoring wildlife movement and risk assessment were recommended.
Expansion of early warning systems and dedicated wildlife crossings was suggested.
Greater use of technologies such as AI-based detection systems and remote sensing tools is being explored to reduce elephant-train collisions.

Lake Untersee in Antarctica

Why in News

Scientists are studying Lake Untersee because its extreme environment may provide insights into how life could exist on other planets.
Research supported by NASA suggests that the lake’s unique chemistry and microbial formations could help scientists understand potential life beneath ice-covered worlds.

About Lake Untersee

Lake Untersee is located in East Antarctica and is covered by a thick permanent ice layer.
It is one of the most unusual freshwater lakes on Earth because of its highly alkaline water and extreme environmental conditions.
The lake has a pH level of around 10.4 and contains exceptionally high concentrations of dissolved oxygen.

Unique Oxygen-Rich Environment

The lake contains some of the highest levels of dissolved oxygen ever recorded in a freshwater ecosystem.
This occurs because gases such as oxygen and nitrogen become trapped beneath the permanent ice cover.
Over thousands of years, the surface ice slowly sublimates (changes directly from solid to gas) while new ice forms below.
This process pushes trapped gases into the water, resulting in oxygen levels about 150 percent higher than typical lakes.

Stromatolites and Microbial Life

The lake contains unusual conical microbial structures known as Stromatolites.
These formations are created by cyanobacteria and resemble some of the oldest fossils on Earth.
In Lake Untersee, these structures can grow up to about half a metre tall, which is much larger than similar formations found in other Antarctic lakes.
The absence of waves and animals, along with stable conditions under the ice, allows these microbial communities to grow undisturbed.

The 2019 Water-Level Rise Event

In 2019, scientists observed a rapid two-metre rise in the lake’s water level.
Researchers linked this event to a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood.
The flood occurred when an ice dam near Lake Obersee breached, releasing about 17.5 million cubic metres of water into Lake Untersee.

Importance for Astrobiology

The extreme environment of Lake Untersee is considered a useful analogue for icy extraterrestrial environments.
Scientists believe similar conditions may exist beneath the ice on planets and moons such as Mars and Europa.
Studying microbial life in such extreme conditions helps researchers understand how life might survive on other worlds.

Scientific Significance

The microbial pinnacles in the lake are considered highly valuable for scientific research.
They provide clues about early life on Earth and possible biological processes on icy planetary bodies.
Understanding these systems may help scientists identify biosignatures when searching for extraterrestrial life.