Daily Current Affairs - 1st & 2nd April 2026
- Kaushal
- 2 days ago
- 22 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Comprehensive UPSC Current Affairs Summary | Global Chokepoints, New Income Tax Act 2025 Implementation, Internet Shutdowns Report 2025, Jan Vishwas Bill 2026, RUPP Election Symbol Rules, Telangana Gig Workers Welfare Law, Indigenous Naval Warships & RPSA Programme, Artemis-II Lunar Mission, ISRO Scientific Social Responsibility Initiatives, India Semiconductor Mission & OSAT Facility, Quantum Entanglement Breakthrough, Ammonium Nitrate Project, GLOFs in Kashmir Valley, Rice Whale Conservation Concerns, RoSCTL Scheme Extension, PMAY-G 10 Years and more.
Table of Content
INTERNATIONAL
REPORTS & INDICES
POLITY
Amaravati as Sole Capital of Andhra Pradesh
SOCIAL ISSUES
SECURITY / DEFENCE
SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENT
SCHEMES
MISCELLANY
Significance and Vulnerability of Global Chokepoints
Amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia, reports indicate that over two-thirds of global seaborne energy trade depends on a few critical chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca, highlighting their central role in global trade and security.
What are Chokepoints?
Chokepoints are narrow, strategically important maritime passages (limited-width sea routes) that are crucial for global trade and transportation of goods, making them potential bottlenecks.
Significance of Chokepoints
They function as trade and energy arteries, facilitating the movement of oil, gas, fertilizers, and other commodities, and any disruption can significantly affect global supply chains.
Economically, disruptions at chokepoints lead to higher freight costs, longer transit times, and increased insurance premiums, thereby fueling global inflation and affecting import-dependent economies.
Geopolitically, these routes act as flashpoints, as their strategic importance makes them vulnerable to military blockades, regional conflicts, and piracy, influencing global diplomacy and naval strategies.
Climate change risks are also emerging, as environmental factors create new bottlenecks, such as drought conditions affecting the Panama Canal, disrupting global logistics.
Beyond physical routes, chokepoints now extend to industrial and digital systems, such as rare mineral processing chains concentrated in China, and the Red Sea subsea cable corridor (through which over 90% of Europe–Asia digital data flows), making them critical for global connectivity and technology infrastructure.
Potential Solutions for India
India can mitigate risks by diversifying energy sources and supply chains, scaling up renewable energy, and exploring alternative trade routes such as the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) (a proposed connectivity corridor linking India with Europe via the Middle East).
Additionally, strengthening military capabilities is essential to ensure the freedom and security of Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) (major maritime trade routes), aligned with India’s MAHASAGAR vision (strategic maritime initiative focusing on security and growth in the Indian Ocean region).
Internet Shutdowns in 2025 Report
The Internet Shutdowns in 2025 report, released by the Access Now for the KeepItOn Coalition, highlights the growing global trend of internet restrictions, with the coalition working to end internet shutdowns worldwide.
Key Highlights of the Report
Globally, 2025 witnessed a record 313 internet shutdowns across 52 countries, continuing the rising trend observed since 2023, indicating increasing restrictions on digital access.
India recorded 65 shutdowns, which, although the lowest since 2017, still represents the highest number in any democracy and the second highest globally.
The report also highlights an “India Exception”, noting that while shutdown orders are legally published, they are still considered incompatible with democratic principles due to their impact on rights.
Concerns Related to Internet Shutdowns
Internet shutdowns raise serious concerns of human rights abuses, as even the International Criminal Court has linked them to crimes against humanity, since they can help perpetrators evade accountability by restricting information flow.
They negatively affect governance and welfare delivery, for example disrupting Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT) (government payments directly credited to beneficiaries).
There are also significant economic impacts, with India losing approximately $323 million due to internet shutdowns in 2024, reflecting losses in business and productivity.
Shutdowns impact fundamental rights, as access to the internet has been recognised under Article 21 (Right to life and personal liberty) in the case of Faheema Shirin v. State of Kerala (2019), linking it to education and privacy.
Similarly, freedom of trade and commerce via the internet is protected under Article 19, as affirmed in Anuradha Bhasin v Union of India, reinforcing digital rights as constitutional freedoms.
Moreover, frequent shutdowns contribute to a democratic deficit, as they hinder press freedom, access to information, and civil society mobilisation, weakening democratic processes.
Legal Provisions for Internet Shutdowns in India
Internet shutdowns in India are governed by the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024, which provide the legal framework for such actions.
Orders can be issued by the Union Home Secretary or State Home Secretary (senior administrative authorities responsible for internal security).
In emergency situations, orders may be issued by an officer of the rank of Joint Secretary or above, but must be confirmed by the competent authority within 24 hours.
The rules mandate publication of shutdown orders, including detailed justification, geographical scope, and affected services, ensuring a degree of transparency.
Additionally, the duration of suspension cannot exceed 15 days, placing a statutory limit on shutdown periods.
Furthermore, Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita empowers magistrates to issue orders to maintain public order, which may indirectly relate to such restrictions.
Strengthening SEZs for Global Competitiveness
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has introduced a one-time relief measure allowing eligible manufacturing units in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to sell goods in the Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) (Indian domestic market) at concessional customs duty rates, to support industry.
This relief will be applicable from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, helping SEZ manufacturers cope with global trade disruptions and maintain competitiveness.
SEZ Challenges
About Special Economic Zones (SEZs)
SEZs are specifically delineated duty-free enclaves (geographically defined areas with special economic regulations) treated as foreign territory for trade operations and customs purposes, to promote exports.
As of February 2026, India has 368 notified SEZs, reflecting their wide adoption across sectors.
These zones are governed by the Special Economic Zones Act, 2005 and the SEZ Rules, 2006, which provide a simplified and business-friendly regulatory framework.
Significance of SEZs
SEZs have significantly contributed to export growth, generating ₹11.70 lakh crore by December 2025, strengthening India’s external trade.
They serve as major investment hubs, attracting ₹7.86 lakh crore in combined domestic and foreign investments as of December 2025.
SEZs have also played a crucial role in job creation, generating over 31.73 lakh employment opportunities, contributing to economic development.
They support infrastructure development, including key hubs like Mundra Port, Kandla Port, Sri City, and GIFT City, enhancing logistics and industrial capacity.
Additionally, SEZs promote technology and innovation, accelerating high-value manufacturing, research, and adoption of advanced technologies, particularly in sectors like electronics and semiconductors.
Overall, SEZs enhance global competitiveness, positioning India as a stable and reliable destination for international trade and investment.
New Income Tax Act, 2025
The New Income Tax Act, 2025 has come into effect from April 1, 2026, replacing the six-decade-old Income Tax Act, 1961, with the objective of enhancing predictability, transparency, reducing compliance burden, and simplifying tax filing processes.
Key Provisions of the Act
The Act introduces a simpler language and streamlined framework, reducing complexity by condensing provisions from 819 to 536 Sections and 390 to 190 Forms, making it more user-friendly.
It also separates provisions of Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) and Alternate Minimum Tax (AMT) into distinct sub-sections:
MAT (tax imposed on companies with high book profits but low taxable income due to exemptions) ensures that “zero tax companies” (companies paying no tax despite profits) are brought into the tax net.
AMT (similar concept applied to non-corporate taxpayers) extends such provisions beyond companies.
The Act introduces a unified “Tax Year” concept, merging the earlier Financial Year (FY) (income-earning period) and Assessment Year (AY) (tax evaluation period), thereby simplifying compliance and understanding.
Importantly, there is stability in core tax elements, as tax rates and regimes for individuals and corporations remain unchanged, along with no changes in offences, penalties, and most definitions, ensuring continuity.
The Act continues to promote faceless assessment and information collection (digital, anonymised tax administration), improving efficiency and reducing discretion.
The definition of undisclosed income (income not reported to tax authorities) has been expanded to include virtual digital assets (VDAs) (cryptocurrencies and other digital assets), along with earlier categories like money, bullion, and jewellery, strengthening oversight in the digital economy.
Additionally, tax authorities are now empowered to access “virtual digital space” (digital environments where financial data is stored) during search and seizure operations (legal inspection for undisclosed assets).
This virtual digital space includes email servers, social media accounts, online investment and trading platforms, and websites storing asset ownership details, significantly expanding the scope of tax investigations.
Aspect | Old Act: Income Tax Act, 1961 | New Act: Income Tax Act, 2025 |
Structure | Complex, lengthy (819 Sections, 390 Forms) | Simplified (536 Sections, 190 Forms) |
Language | Technical, difficult to interpret | Simplified, user-friendly language |
Tax Year Concept | Separate FY (Financial Year) and AY (Assessment Year) | Unified “Tax Year” concept |
MAT & AMT | Combined provisions | Clearly separated provisions |
Tax Rates | Existing tax regimes | No change (continuity ensured) |
Compliance System | Partly digital | Faceless, fully digital processes strengthened |
Undisclosed Income | Limited to physical assets (cash, jewellery, etc.) | Expanded to include Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs) |
Search Powers | Physical assets focus | Includes Virtual Digital Space (emails, social media, trading accounts) |
Penalties & Offences | Existing framework | No major change |
General Anti-Avoidance Rules (GAAR)
India has amended the Income Tax Rules, 2026 under the Income Tax Act, 2025, clarifying that investments made before April 1, 2017 are excluded from GAAR, thereby removing ambiguity related to grandfathering (a provision allowing old investments to continue under earlier tax rules despite new changes).
About GAAR
GAAR (General Anti-Avoidance Rules), effective from April 2017, were introduced through the Finance Act, 2012 to tackle aggressive tax avoidance practices (legal arrangements designed primarily to reduce tax liability).
The framework was recommended by the Parthasarathi Shome Committee, which examined tax avoidance and investor concerns.
GAAR empowers tax authorities to deny tax benefits if an arrangement is found to be impermissible, based on certain conditions.
Conditions for Invoking GAAR
GAAR can be triggered if a transaction lacks commercial substance (has no genuine economic purpose other than tax avoidance).
It may also apply when there is an abuse or misuse of tax laws, where legal provisions are exploited beyond their intended purpose.
Another condition includes non-arm’s length transactions between related parties (deals not reflecting fair market value).
Additionally, GAAR applies if an arrangement creates artificial rights or obligations that would not normally exist in genuine business transactions.
However, GAAR provisions apply only when the annual tax benefit exceeds ₹3 crore, ensuring that smaller transactions are not unnecessarily scrutinised.
RBI’s Two-factor Authentication
Based on RBI’s rules, from 1 April, all digital transactions must be verified using at least Two-factor Authentication with at least one factor being dynamic.
About RBI’s Two-factor Authentication(2FA)
Aim: To plug gaps in PIN- and OTP-based systems, reducing vulnerabilities and strengthening safeguards in digital payments.
Current OTP-only approach is vulnerable to phishing and SIM-swap attacks.
It applies across payment modes, including cards, UPI and wallets.
Independent authentication factors include personal identification number (PIN), a one-time password (OTP), biometric or device-based authentication.
Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026
The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026 has been passed by the Lok Sabha, with the objective of promoting trust-based governance (reducing criminal penalties to improve ease of doing business and citizen compliance).
Key Provisions of the Bill
The Bill focuses on decriminalisation (removal of criminal penalties such as imprisonment), replacing imprisonment with civil penalties (monetary fines) for over 1,000 minor offences, thereby reducing the burden on the criminal justice system.
For example, offences such as making a national highway impassable will now attract a penalty of up to ₹1 crore instead of imprisonment, reflecting a shift toward financial deterrence.
It introduces an adjudication mechanism (quasi-judicial process) to resolve penalties outside traditional courts, ensuring faster and more efficient dispute resolution.
The Bill also adopts a graduated response approach, where warnings or advisories are issued for first or second-time violations before imposing fines, encouraging voluntary compliance.
Additionally, it provides for dynamic monetary penalties, with a 10% increase every three years, ensuring that fines remain effective as a deterrent over time.
The legislation also removes several outdated colonial-era laws and offences, modernising the legal framework and aligning it with current governance needs.
Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs)
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has relaxed the criteria for Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs) under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) (Amendment) Order, 2026, allowing greater flexibility in retaining election symbols.
Under the revised rules, such parties now need to secure only 1% vote share in either of the last two elections (Lok Sabha or State Assembly) to retain their common election symbol, instead of achieving this threshold in both elections as required earlier.
About RUPPs
RUPPs (Registered Unrecognised Political Parties) include newly registered political parties or those that have failed to secure the required vote share in elections to be recognised as state or national parties.
They also include parties that have never contested elections despite being registered, and hence remain unrecognised in electoral terms.
Such parties do not enjoy the full benefits available to recognised political parties, such as free broadcast time on public media and the exclusive right to a reserved election symbol (a permanent symbol allotted to recognised parties).
Amaravati as Sole Capital of Andhra Pradesh
The Lok Sabha has cleared a Bill to make Amaravati the sole capital of Andhra Pradesh, amid political developments including a walkout by the YSR Congress Party, highlighting ongoing debates over state capital arrangements.
Cultural and Historical Relevance of Amaravati
Amaravati holds deep historical significance as it served as the capital of the Satavahana dynasty during the 3rd century BCE, making it an important centre of early Indian civilisation.
It is also a major Buddhist pilgrimage site, believed to be associated with Gautama Buddha, where he is said to have taught the concept of Kalachakra (a philosophical and cosmological doctrine in Vajrayana Buddhism).
The Amaravati Stupa, built in the 2nd century BCE, is one of the oldest and most well-preserved Buddhist monuments, known for its intricate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Buddha’s life.
The region also houses the Amareshwara Temple, an ancient 5th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, reflecting its importance in Hindu religious traditions.
Additionally, Amaravati’s cultural heritage is enriched by traditional crafts, including Kondapalli toys (handcrafted wooden toys known for vibrant designs) and Kalamkari textiles (hand-painted or block-printed fabrics with mythological and floral motifs), showcasing local artistry.
Telangana Gig Workers Bill, 2026
The Telangana Legislative Assembly has passed the Telangana Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration, Social Security and Welfare) Bill, 2026, aiming to regulate gig and platform work and enhance worker welfare, in line with similar laws enacted by states like Karnataka, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Bihar.
The Bill provides for the constitution of a special welfare board (institution to manage worker benefits), imposes a government levy on aggregators (platform companies like ride-hailing or delivery services), ensures unique identification for gig workers, and introduces penalties for non-compliance, thereby formalising the sector.
About Gig Workers
As defined under the Code on Social Security, 2020, a gig worker is a person who performs work or participates in a work arrangement outside the traditional employer–employee relationship, earning income through short-term or task-based engagements.
The gig workforce in India has expanded significantly, increasing from 77 lakh workers in FY21 to 120 lakh workers in FY25, accounting for over 2% of the total workforce, indicating rapid growth of platform-based employment.
Challenges Faced by Gig Workers
Gig workers face multiple challenges, including income and job volatility (unstable earnings), difficulty in accessing credit and financial inclusion, algorithmic biases (platform-driven work allocation issues), lack of social security, and safety concerns, making their work conditions uncertain.
Provisions under Code on Social Security, 2020
The Code on Social Security, 2020 provides formal recognition to gig and platform workers, bringing them under the ambit of labour welfare policies.
It mandates that aggregators contribute 1–2% of their annual turnover (subject to a cap of 5% of payments made to workers) to a Social Security Fund, which finances welfare schemes such as insurance and support benefits.
Additionally, each worker is assigned a unique Aadhaar-linked ID through the e-Shram portal (a national database for unorganised workers), ensuring portability of social security benefits across platforms.
Key Naval Warships
The Indian Navy has inducted several key naval warships, marking a significant milestone in indigenous defence manufacturing (domestic design and production of defence equipment).
Key Naval Warships Received
The warship Malwan (second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft—ASW SWC, designed for operations in shallow coastal waters) has been indigenously designed and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited, enhancing India’s coastal defence capabilities.
Named after the historic town Malwan, it reflects India’s maritime heritage associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, known for his naval strength.
The vessel is equipped for underwater surveillance (monitoring underwater activity) and operations such as anti-submarine warfare and mine warfare (detecting and neutralising underwater threats).
Additionally, three frontline naval platforms have been built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE), strengthening indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.
Among them is the Indigenous Stealth Frigate Dunagiri, the fifth ship of the Nilgiri Class (Project 17A) (advanced stealth warship programme), capable of striking designated targets using missiles, thereby enhancing offensive capabilities.
Another vessel, Sanshodhak, the fourth Survey Vessel (Large), is designed to conduct hydrographic surveys (mapping of underwater terrain) in both coastal and deep-water regions, aiding navigation and maritime planning.
The third vessel, Agray, is the fourth of eight ASW SWCs, specifically designed to detect and destroy enemy submarines, strengthening anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft (RPSA) Programme
Indian Air Force (IAF) is preparing to induct unmanned stealth fighters under the Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft (RPSA) programme.
About RPSA Programme
RPSA aims to develop Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), known as Ghatak UCAVs.
UCAVs usually carries aircraft ordinances such as missiles and/or bombs and is used for drone strikes and other military operations.
Ghatak is a stealth-capable UCAV, based on a flying-wing configuration.
Once operational, Ghatak could undertake deep-strike missions, penetrating heavily defended airspace to hit high-value targets without placing pilots at risk.
Artemis-II Mission and Lunar Exploration
The Artemis II marks a historic 10-day crewed mission into outer space, becoming the first human mission to the vicinity of the Moon in over 50 years since the Apollo Program, signaling a renewed era of lunar exploration.
About Artemis Mission
The NASA-led ARTEMIS programme is a flagship human space exploration initiative aimed at returning humans to the Moon and establishing a sustainable presence.
In 2020, the Artemis Accords (a set of international agreements ensuring peaceful and transparent space cooperation) were introduced, with over 60 countries, including India (joined in 2023) participating.
Series of Artemis Missions
Artemis I (2022) was an uncrewed mission that successfully tested the Space Launch System (SLS) (NASA’s heavy-lift rocket) and the Orion spacecraft (crew vehicle) in a lunar orbit.
Artemis II (2026) is the first crewed mission, designed to conduct a lunar flyby (orbiting the Moon without landing) to validate human spaceflight systems.
In future phases, Artemis III (2027) is planned as a demonstration mission in low Earth orbit (region close to Earth used for testing space systems) to test commercial landers (private spacecraft designed for Moon landing).
This will be followed by Artemis IV (2028), which aims for the first Artemis lunar landing, and Artemis V (2028), which will focus on scientific research and the beginning of Moon base construction, including a second lunar landing.
Why Renewed Global Interest in Moon Exploration?
One key reason is scientific and technological advancement, as studying the Moon helps understand the origin and evolution of Earth and the solar system.
There are also economic opportunities, including development of the space economy and utilisation of resources such as water ice (for life support and fuel) and Helium-3 (a potential clean energy source).
The Moon serves as a gateway to deep space exploration, enabling testing of long-duration missions necessary for future missions to Mars and beyond.
Additionally, lunar exploration has strategic importance, enhancing national prestige and space dominance in an increasingly competitive global space race.
Major Global Initiatives for Moon Exploration
India, through its Chandrayaan programme, has discovered water molecules on the Moon and achieved a soft landing near the Moon’s south pole, becoming the first country to do so in that region.
China has advanced its programme with missions like Chang'e 6, a robotic sample-return mission collecting lunar material.
Japan has contributed through the SLIM mission, which achieved the first high-precision, pinpoint lunar landing, demonstrating advanced landing technology.
ISRO’s Space-Based Applications for Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR)
The Indian Space Research Organisation has developed multiple space-based applications (use of satellite and space technology for societal benefits) to serve diverse sections of society, thereby contributing to Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR).
SSR (Scientific Social Responsibility), analogous to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) (corporate obligation toward society), refers to the moral and ethical responsibility of the scientific community to educate society and apply knowledge for public welfare, beyond research alone.
ISRO’s Contributions to SSR
For tribal communities, ISRO has established 75 “Space Labs” in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) (schools for tribal students) across 19 states, promoting STEM education (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) with a focus on space science.
For farmers and fishermen, ISRO provides Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories (satellite-based guidance to identify fish-rich areas in oceans) and crop insurance support through satellite monitoring to assist in crop assessment and claim calculation.
For students, initiatives like YUVIKA (Young Scientist Programme) (a two-week residential training programme for Class 9 students) and tele-education services such as PM e-VIDYA enhance scientific learning and accessibility.
For common citizens, ISRO offers geospatial support (satellite-based mapping and data analysis) for planning and monitoring government schemes, along with services like telemedicine (remote healthcare delivery) and early disaster warning systems.
For women empowerment and inclusion, ISRO introduced ‘Vyommitra’ (a female humanoid robot designed for space missions) as part of the Gaganyaan mission test flight, symbolising technological advancement and gender representation.
Under open data access, ISRO provides free access to scientific data from missions like AstroSat and Chandrayaan-2 through the Indian Space Science Data Center (ISSDC) (repository of space mission data), benefiting researchers and students globally.
In terms of training and outreach, programmes like UNNATI (Unispace Nanosatellite Assembly & Training by ISRO) and initiatives by the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS) help build technical skills and capacity among students and professionals.
AERB approves Excavation for Nuclear Project in Rajasthan
Approval of excavation for the construction of the Mahi Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Nuclear Power Project (MBRAPP) units one and two was given by The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).
About Mahi Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Nuclear Power Project (MBRAPP)
Location: Banswara, Rajasthan near the Mahi Dam on River Mahi.
Capacity: 4 x 700 MWe PHWR (4 nuclear power units of Indigenous PHWRs (Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors)).
PHWRs use natural uranium as fuel and heavy water (deuterium oxide) as coolant and moderator.
Development: By Anushakti Vidhyut Nigam (ASHVINI), a joint venture between Nuclear Power Corporation India Limited (NPCIL) and National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC).
The project is part of India’s “fleet mode” initiative.
Under this Initiative, ten identical 700 MW reactors are being built across India under uniform design and procurement plans.
Steps taken to boost nuclear energy production in India
Nuclear Energy Mission: Announced in Union Budget 2025–26 focused on research and development (R&D) of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) aiming to develop at least five indigenously designed and operational SMRs by 2033.
Nuclear Energy Target: 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047.
SHANTI Act, 2025: Consolidating and modernising India’s nuclear legal framework.
Nuclear Power Capacity in India
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Semiconductor Industry in India & OSAT Facility
The Prime Minister inaugurated Kaynes Semicon’s OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) facility in Sanand, developed under the India Semiconductor Mission, which will handle testing and packaging of semiconductor chips before market launch (final stage ensuring chips are functional and market-ready).
Semiconductor Industry in India: Status
India’s semiconductor industry (sector dealing with chip manufacturing and electronics components) was valued at around $38 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $100–110 billion by 2030, reflecting rapid expansion.
Key Initiatives for Semiconductor Industry
The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0 focuses on developing semiconductor equipment and materials domestically and promoting full-stack indigenous semiconductor intellectual property (IP) (locally designed chip technologies).
The Semicon India Programme provides fiscal support of up to 50% of project cost for establishing semiconductor fabs (fabrication units), display fabs, and ATMP/OSAT facilities (units for assembly, testing, marking, and packaging).
Additional support is provided through Semiconductor & Display Fabs Schemes, which offer incentives for setting up wafer fabrication and display manufacturing units in India.
The Design Linked Incentive Scheme (DLI) encourages startups and MSMEs to promote indigenous chip design and innovation.
Applications of Semiconductors
In computing and electronics, semiconductors power processors and memory chips used in computers and smartphones.
Transistors and microchips (basic building blocks of electronic circuits) act as switches, enabling complex circuits to function within compact devices.
In the automotive industry, semiconductors are essential for engine control systems, safety features, and infotainment systems.
In energy generation, they are used in solar cells and power inverters to convert sunlight into usable electricity.
In lighting, LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) utilise semiconductor technology for energy-efficient illumination.
In telecommunications, semiconductors underpin devices like mobile phones, routers, and communication networks.
In sensors, they enable detection of heat, light, and motion, supporting applications across industries.
Challenges in Semiconductor Sector
India faces import dependency, particularly on China for critical minerals, producing only 1% of global rare earths despite having 6% of reserves, highlighting supply vulnerabilities.
There is a skill gap, as India has around 20% of the world’s semiconductor design engineers, but lacks sufficient workforce skilled in fabrication (chip manufacturing process).
Semiconductor manufacturing involves high investment and long gestation periods (time required before returns are realised), making it capital-intensive and risky.
India also faces intense global competition from established ecosystems in Taiwan, South Korea, and China, which have advanced manufacturing capabilities.
E20 (Ethanol Blended Petrol)
Directive from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas force (1st April 2026), requiring to dispense E20 fuel with a minimum 95 RON octane rating in country.
RON (Research Octane Number) serves as an indicator of fuel stability and indicates the level of pressure generated during fuel combustion within a vehicle's engine.
About E20 Fuel
It is an 80:20 mix of petrol and ethanol.
The National Policy on Biofuels, 2018(amended in 2022): Advanced the target of 20% blending of ethanol in petrol to Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2025-26 from 2030.
Benefits: Improves fuel performance, Strengthens energy security etc.
Concerns: Reduced fuel efficiency in some vehicles, corrosion or damage to older vehicles, etc.
Quantum Entanglement
Scientists from Australia and the United States have demonstrated that helium atoms can be entangled through their motion, extending the concept of quantum entanglement (previously observed mainly in lighter particles like electrons) to more complex atomic systems.
About Quantum Entanglement
In quantum theory (branch of physics dealing with atoms and subatomic particles and their interactions), quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where particles originating from the same system remain connected even when separated by large distances.
This means that entangled particles share a single quantum state (combined physical description of both particles), so that a change in one particle is instantaneously reflected in the other, regardless of the distance between them.
Importantly, in entanglement, particles do not physically travel or disappear; instead, what is transmitted is quantum information (information encoded in the state of a particle).
Thus, when a measurement determines the state of one particle, it instantaneously defines the state of the other, a process often associated with quantum teleportation (transfer of quantum information without moving matter itself) across space.
Ammonium Nitrate
Recently, Bharat Coal Gasification and Chemicals ltd. and Mahanadi Coalfields ltd. signed an agreement for coal to Ammonium Nitrate Project.
About Ammonium Nitrate
Appearance: white, crystalline, water-soluble solid.
Not found in nature: made by reacting ammonia with nitric acid.
Explosive: it is deemed explosive under explosive act due to its use in IEDs (if more than 45%)
It is an actually an Oxidizer that supplies oxygen to accelerate combustion.
Fire by it is difficult to put out as it provides its own oxygen.
Hazardous Chemicals Rules, 1989: list it as hazardous chemicals
Import: Requires prior permission for specific grades
Regulated by: Petroleum & Explosives Safety Organization under DPIIT
Hygroscopic Nature: absorbs moisture from the air, turning into "hard rock.
Thermal Decomposition: Under High Heat it can explode releasing Nitrogen Dioxide (orange plume)
Applications : fertilizers, cold packs because its dissolution in water is endothermic, medical and industrial uses, etc.
Jojari-Luni-Bandi River System
Supreme Court appointed high level committee highlighted that industrial pollution has turned the Jojari-Luni-Bandi River system into a toxic mix of sludge, untreated effluents and municipal waste.
About Jojari-Luni-Bandi River System
Luni River originates from western slopes of the Aravalli ranges near Ajmer.
Traversing a course of 511 km in Rajasthan, it finally flows into Rann of Kachchh.
Its Tributaries include Jojari, Bandi, Mithri, Lilari, Sukri, Jawai etc.
Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)
Five lakes in the Kashmir Valley have been categorized as having "very high susceptibility" to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in a study.
These lakes are Bramsar, Chirsart, Nundkol, Gangabal and Bhagsar.
About Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs):
GLOF is a sudden, catastrophic release of meltwater from a glacial lake due to unstable natural dam (consisting of loose rock and sediment or glacial ice) failure.
Types of Glacial Lakes:
Moraine-Dammed Lakes: Form behind ridges of loose rock and debris left by retreating glaciers.
Ice-Dammed Lakes: Form when an advancing or thickening glacier blocks meltwater from draining down a valley.
Rice Whale
US expansion of oil and gas drilling could push the Rice Whale to extinction.
About Rice Whale
Rice whales are members of the baleen whale family Balaenopteridae.
Population: With likely fewer than 100 individuals remaining, Rice's whales are one of the rarest whales in the world.
Area: Recognised as a distinct species in 2021, Rice’s whale is usually found in a narrow area in the northeastern part of the Gulf of Mexico.
IUCN Status: Endangered.
Lifespan: Rice's whales are likely able to reproduce every 2 to 3 years, reach sexual maturity at age nine, and mate year-round.
Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) Scheme
Government notifies extension of RoSCTL Scheme up to 30th September 2026.
About the scheme
Launched: In 2019 by the Ministry of Textiles.
Aim: to zero-rate textile exports by rebating all embedded State and Central taxes and levies, not covered under any other scheme.
Mechanism: Rebates are issued as Duty Credit Scrips which can be sold or used to pay custom duty.
Benefits: Flexibility, enhanced export competitiveness, cost reduction etc.
Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G)
The Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin has completed 10 years since its launch in 2016, having been restructured from the Indira Awaas Yojana (1996) to improve rural housing outcomes.
Key Features of PMAY-G
The scheme aims to achieve “Housing for All” in rural areas, by providing financial assistance to eligible rural households (including houseless families and those living in zero, one, or two-room kutcha houses—temporary or non-durable structures) to construct pucca houses (permanent structures) with basic amenities.
Initially, the government set a target of 2.95 crore houses for FY 2016–17 to FY 2023–24, and has approved its continuation for another five years (FY 2024–25 to FY 2028–29) with an additional target of 2 crore houses.
Under financial assistance, each house must have a minimum unit size of 25 sq. m., with assistance of ₹1.20 lakh in plain areas and ₹1.30 lakh in hilly states, ensuring adequate living space.
The funding pattern follows a cost-sharing mechanism, where the Centre and States share costs in a 60:40 ratio in plain areas and 90:10 in North Eastern and Himalayan states, promoting cooperative federalism.
Beneficiary selection is based on housing deprivation parameters in the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC), 2011, which are verified by Gram Sabhas (village assemblies) to ensure transparency and inclusion.
The scheme uses an end-to-end e-Governance model, with platforms like AwaasSoft (management information system) and Awaas App (mobile monitoring tool) for implementation and real-time monitoring.
Monitoring is further strengthened through community participation (Social Audits), oversight by Members of Parliament under DISHA Committees (District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committees), and supervision by central/state officials and National Level Monitors.
Reforms in the Scheme
A key reform is the use of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) (direct transfer of funds to beneficiary bank accounts), ensuring transparency and reducing leakages.
The scheme incorporates geo-tagging of houses (capturing location-based, time-stamped photos), enabling real-time tracking of construction progress at every stage.
Each sanctioned house is linked to village-level functionaries (local officials), who regularly follow up with beneficiaries, ensuring timely completion.
Block and district-level inspections are conducted, where block officers inspect about 10% of houses and district officers inspect around 2% at each stage, maintaining quality control.
Additionally, mandatory social audits are conducted by each Gram Panchayat at least once a year, ensuring accountability and community oversight.
Samrat Samprati
The PM inaugurated the Samrat Samprati Museum in Koba, Gandhinagar, Gujarat on Mahavir Jayanti.
About Samrat Samprati
A Mauryan emperor and the grandson of Emperor Ashok, born to father Kunal and mother Kanchanmala.
Known as Indrapalit, Sangat and Vigatashok; his life is described in Jain scripture like ‘Sampratikatha’, ‘Parishistaparva’, and ‘Prabhavakcharita’.
Pivotal role in spreading Jainism (also referred to as ‘Jain Ashoka’) and the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) across the subcontinent.
He is known to have built and repaired many Jain temples.
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