Current Affairs Revision Hub

News Item

The 18th BRICS Summit opened in New Delhi on 12 September 2026 under India’s Chairship, and member countries adopted the New Delhi Declaration on the first day. The declaration called for stronger multilateralism, reform of global governance institutions and deeper cooperation across development, finance, technology and people-to-people ties.

Background

BRICS began as a political cooperation forum of Brazil, Russia, India and China in 2006. South Africa later joined, and the grouping subsequently expanded. As of 2026, BRICS has 11 full members: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the UAE.

India is holding the BRICS Chairship for the fourth time in 2026. The theme of the 18th Summit is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

The New Delhi Declaration reaffirmed support for reform of the United Nations, including the UN Security Council, and sought greater representation of developing countries and the Global South in international decision-making.

Prelims Facts

• The 18th BRICS Summit is being held in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026.
• India holds the BRICS Chairship in 2026.
• India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship theme is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”
• BRICS has 11 full members in 2026.
• The New Delhi Declaration was adopted on the first day of the Summit.
• China and Russia reiterated support for the aspirations of Brazil and India to play a greater role in the UN, including the Security Council.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The New Delhi Declaration reflects India’s effort to position BRICS as a platform for Global South concerns and reform of international institutions. The challenge is to convert a diverse membership into concrete cooperation while preserving consensus among countries with different strategic interests.

GS Mapping

GS2: International Relations

News Item

South Asian countries adopted the Kathmandu Declaration at the first General Assembly of the South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN). The declaration calls for stronger intelligence sharing, financial investigation, anti-money-laundering action, asset recovery and prosecution against organised wildlife crime.

Background

SAWEN is a regional intergovernmental wildlife law-enforcement support body established to combat wildlife crime in South Asia. It was formally launched in January 2011 at Paro, Bhutan, and its Secretariat is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Its eight members are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Wildlife trafficking increasingly overlaps with organised crime, corruption, money laundering and cross-border criminal networks, making enforcement cooperation important for biodiversity as well as internal security.

Prelims Facts

• SAWEN was formally launched in January 2011 in Paro, Bhutan.
• Its Secretariat is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.
• SAWEN has eight South Asian member countries.
• The Kathmandu Declaration was adopted at the first SAWEN General Assembly.
• The declaration promotes financial investigation and anti-money-laundering action against wildlife crime.
• It also supports treatment of serious wildlife crime as transnational organised crime.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• Wildlife crime is no longer only a conservation issue. Treating it as organised transnational crime can improve financial tracking, prosecution and cross-border enforcement while protecting biodiversity and strengthening the rule of law.

GS Mapping

GS3: Environment and Internal Security

News Item

The Government has approved 18.77 lakh houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban 2.0. At the ninth meeting of the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee, around 29,000 additional houses were approved under the Beneficiary-Led Construction and Affordable Housing in Partnership verticals.

Background

PMAY-U 2.0 was approved by the Union Cabinet in August 2024 and came into effect from 1 September 2024. It aims to support one crore additional urban poor and middle-class families over five years for construction, purchase or rental of affordable housing.

The scheme has four verticals:

• Beneficiary-Led Construction (BLC)
• Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP)
• Affordable Rental Housing (ARH)
• Interest Subsidy Scheme (ISS)

Government assistance of ₹2.30 lakh crore is envisaged within an overall investment of ₹10 lakh crore.

Prelims Facts

• PMAY-U 2.0 came into effect on 1 September 2024.
• It targets one crore additional eligible urban beneficiaries over five years.
• It has four verticals: BLC, AHP, ARH and ISS.
• Government assistance of ₹2.30 lakh crore is envisaged.
• Total investment under the scheme is estimated at ₹10 lakh crore.
• The latest approvals under PMAY-U 2.0 have reached 18.77 lakh houses.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• Urban housing policy increasingly has to address not only home ownership but also rental housing, migrant workers and affordability. Effective implementation requires land availability, urban infrastructure, financing and coordination with States and Urban Local Bodies.

GS Mapping

GS2: Welfare Schemes and Urbanisation

News Item

A three-day Table Top Exercise under the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) concluded at the Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam. It focused on coordinated responses to illicit maritime activities and other non-traditional security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region.

Background

The Colombo Security Conclave emerged in 2011 as a regional maritime-security mechanism. Its cooperation agenda has expanded beyond traditional naval security to issues such as terrorism, organised crime, cyber security and trafficking.

The 2026 exercise examined maritime terrorism, narcotics smuggling, human trafficking and Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. It also focused on Maritime Domain Awareness and information sharing.

Prelims Facts

• The CSC Table Top Exercise was held at Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam.
• It ran from 9 to 11 September 2026.
• It addressed maritime terrorism, narcotics smuggling, human trafficking and IUU fishing.
• Maritime Domain Awareness was a key focus.
• MAHASAGAR stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.

GS Mapping

GS3: Maritime Security

News Item

Saudi Arabia temporarily shut its East-West oil pipeline after a drone attack, while Houthi forces in Yemen captured the strategic island of Perim near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The developments increased concern over shipping and energy flows through the Red Sea region.

Background

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea. It lies between Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula and Djibouti/Eritrea on the African side.

It is one of the world’s important maritime chokepoints because ships travelling between the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal generally pass through it.

Saudi Arabia’s East-West pipeline provides an alternative route for moving oil from the eastern part of the country toward the Red Sea, helping reduce dependence on the Strait of Hormuz.

Prelims Facts

• Bab el-Mandeb connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.
• Yemen lies on its northeastern side.
• Djibouti and Eritrea lie on the African side.
• Perim is a strategically located island in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
• The Saudi East-West pipeline provides an alternative export route that can bypass the Strait of Hormuz.

GS Mapping

GS2: International Relations; GS3: Energy Security

News Item

The three-day Global Dryland Congress 2026 concluded in New Delhi with the adoption of the Delhi Declaration on Drylands (3D). The declaration calls for stronger South-South and triangular cooperation, knowledge exchange and innovation for resilient dryland agriculture.

Background

Drylands include arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid regions where water availability is limited relative to climatic demand.

The Global Dryland Congress 2026 was jointly organised by ICAR and ICRISAT from 10–12 September. Drylands account for about 45% of the world’s land surface and are home to more than two billion people.

The Congress also marked 50 years of ICAR–ICRISAT partnership.

Prelims Facts

• Global Dryland Congress 2026 was held in New Delhi from 10–12 September.
• It was jointly organised by ICAR and ICRISAT.
• The Congress concluded with the Delhi Declaration on Drylands.
• Drylands cover about 45% of the world’s land surface.
• More than two billion people live in dryland regions.
• The Congress marked 50 years of ICAR–ICRISAT partnership.

GS Mapping

GS3: Agriculture and Environment

News Item

India set a Guinness World Record for the world’s longest steel slag road at Raigarh in Chhattisgarh. The 1.85-km road uses processed steel slag, an industrial by-product, as road-construction aggregate.

Background

Steel slag is a by-product of steel manufacturing. Instead of disposing it as industrial waste, processed slag can be converted into road-making aggregate.

The technology has been developed and promoted by CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI). It supports circular-economy and “Waste to Wealth” objectives by reducing dependence on natural stone aggregates.

Earlier applications of the technology include steel slag road projects in Gujarat and a National Highway section on NH-66.

Prelims Facts

• The record road is located at Raigarh in Chhattisgarh.
• Its length is 1.85 km.
• Steel slag is a by-product of steel manufacturing.
• CSIR-CRRI has developed and promoted steel slag road technology in India.
• Steel slag can substitute part or all of natural aggregates in suitable road layers after processing.
• The technology is associated with the Waste to Wealth approach.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology; Infrastructure

News Item

India hosted the BRICS Business Forum 2026 in New Delhi on 11 September, setting the stage for the 18th BRICS Summit scheduled for 12–13 September at Bharat Mandapam. India holds the BRICS Chairship in 2026, with the grouping focusing on resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.

Background

BRICS began in 2006 with Brazil, Russia, India and China. It has gradually expanded and now comprises 11 members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia. India is holding the BRICS Chairship for the fourth time in 2026.

The theme of India's 2026 Chairship is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” BRICS has become an important platform for emerging and developing economies to discuss global governance, development, trade, finance and the concerns of the Global South.

Prelims Facts

• The 18th BRICS Summit is being hosted in New Delhi on 12–13 September 2026.
• India is holding the BRICS Chairship for the fourth time in 2026.
• India's 2026 BRICS theme is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”
• BRICS currently has 11 full members.
• The BRICS Business Forum 2026 was held in New Delhi on 11 September.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• BRICS gives India an important platform to strengthen the voice of the Global South, promote reform of international institutions and deepen South-South economic cooperation. Its growing membership also creates opportunities for trade and investment, but requires consensus among countries with diverse strategic interests.

GS Mapping

GS2: International Relations

News Item

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) described India as a key engine of global growth after real GDP grew by 7.8% in Q1 of FY 2026–27. The IMF noted that services and exports supported the stronger-than-expected performance while higher energy prices remain an important risk for an oil-importing economy such as India.

Background

GDP measures the value of final goods and services produced within an economy during a given period. Real GDP removes the effect of price changes, while nominal GDP is measured at current prices.

India's Q1 FY 2026–27 real GDP was estimated at ₹81.36 lakh crore, growing 7.8%. Real GVA grew 8.2%, while nominal GDP grew 10.3%. India's new national accounts series uses 2022–23 as the base year.

Prelims Facts

• India's real GDP grew by 7.8% in Q1 FY 2026–27.
• Real GVA growth in the quarter was 8.2%.
• Nominal GDP growth was 10.3%.
• Real GDP at constant prices was estimated at ₹81.36 lakh crore.
• India's new GDP series uses 2022–23 as the base year.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• Strong growth improves fiscal capacity, employment prospects and investor confidence, but sustained high crude prices can raise inflation, import costs and pressure on the current account. Maintaining growth therefore requires macroeconomic stability along with investment, productivity and export competitiveness.

GS Mapping

GS3: Economy

News Item

India has administered more than 80 lakh HPV vaccine doses under the National HPV Vaccination Campaign. The campaign provides free, voluntary, single-dose vaccination to 14-year-old girls for protection against Human Papillomavirus-linked cervical cancer.

Background

The nationwide campaign was launched on 28 February 2026. India uses Gardasil-4, a quadrivalent HPV vaccine protecting against HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18. Types 16 and 18 are especially important because of their association with cervical cancer.

Vaccination is provided through government health facilities with parental consent.

Prelims Facts

• More than 80 lakh HPV vaccine doses have been administered under the campaign.
• The target group is 14-year-old girls.
• Vaccination is free, voluntary and single-dose under the national campaign.
• The nationwide programme was launched on 28 February 2026.
• Gardasil-4 protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18.
• Uttar Pradesh recorded more than 22 lakh vaccinations, the highest number among States reported by the Health Ministry.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• HPV vaccination can strengthen India's shift from treatment-centred cancer care to prevention. Its success depends on high coverage, public trust, continued screening and timely diagnosis, because vaccination is one component of a broader cervical-cancer prevention strategy.

GS Mapping

GS2: Health

News Item

Operational Guidelines for DILRMP 3.0 have been launched to move land administration from isolated digitisation toward an integrated digital system. The programme will cover all States and Union Territories and focus on GIS-enabled, interoperable land information.

Background

The Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme aims to modernise land records and improve transparency and citizen access. DILRMP 3.0 covers 2026–2031, is a Central Sector Scheme and has an anticipated outlay of ₹565.50 crore.

Prelims Facts

• DILRMP 3.0 covers the period 2026–2031.
• It is a Central Sector Scheme.
• The anticipated financial outlay is ₹565.50 crore.
• It is to be implemented across all States and Union Territories.
• The new phase focuses on a GIS-enabled Land Stack and system interoperability.

GS Mapping

GS2: Governance

News Item

The Government highlighted critical minerals as vital for India's energy security, industrial competitiveness and national security. Their importance is rising because clean energy, electric mobility, semiconductors, defence and advanced technologies depend heavily on secure mineral supply chains.

Background

India launched the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) in 2025 to strengthen domestic exploration, processing, recycling and overseas sourcing. India has identified 30 critical minerals, of which 24 are included in Part D of the First Schedule to the MMDR Act, 1957.

Prelims Facts

• India has identified 30 critical minerals.
• 24 are included in Part D of the First Schedule to the MMDR Act, 1957.
• The Central Government has exclusive authority to auction mining leases and composite licences for these specified 24 minerals.
• NCMM was launched in 2025.
• GSI has been tasked with 1,200 exploration projects during 2024–25 to 2030–31.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology, Energy Security

News Item

India observed National Forest Martyrs Day on 11 September to honour forest guards, officials and community members who lost their lives while protecting forests, wildlife and biodiversity.

Background

The date is linked to the Khejarli sacrifice of 1730 in present-day Rajasthan. More than 360 members of the Bishnoi community, led by Amrita Devi, were killed while resisting the felling of trees.

The episode is one of India's best-known historical examples of community-based environmental conservation.

Prelims Facts

• National Forest Martyrs Day is observed on 11 September.
• It commemorates sacrifices made in the protection of forests and biodiversity.
• The date is associated with the Khejarli incident of 1730.
• Khejarli is in Rajasthan.
• Amrita Devi and the Bishnoi community are associated with the historic tree-protection sacrifice.
• More than 360 people were killed while resisting tree felling.

GS Mapping

GS3: Environment and Biodiversity

News Item

The National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), under the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY), has officially integrated its NIELIT Digital University (NDU) platform with the digital learning resources of Saylor Academy (USA). This collaboration aims to provide Indian learners with free, self-paced, globally relevant courses in AI, programming, and data science.

Background

The push for democratizing digital education is a core component of the Digital India initiative and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. NIELIT acts as the premier capacity-building arm of the government in Information, Electronics & Communications Technology (IECT). The NIELIT Digital University (NDU) is designed to offer accessible, on-demand skilling and upskilling opportunities, particularly reaching learners in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Saylor Academy is a non-profit initiative based in the US that offers free, open-source online education. By aggregating global content on an Indian platform, the government is focusing on creating a future-ready, globally competitive workforce capable of navigating the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Prelims Facts

• Parent Ministry for NIELIT: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
• International Partner: Saylor Academy/University (United States).
• Objective: To democratize access to high-quality, free digital education (AI, Data Science, Cyber Security) via the NDU platform.
• Key Domestic MoU Partners: NIELIT also exchanged MoUs with CII, NASSCOM, Pearson India, and Dassault Systèmes to strengthen industry-academia linkages.

GS Mapping

GS2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources; GS3: Awareness in the fields of IT, Computers.

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, scheduled for October 2026. The conclave aims to break institutional silos and bring together startups, researchers, policymakers, and global scientific leaders, including three Nobel Laureates.

Background

The ESTIC was conceptualized to unite the scattered science and technology ecosystem under a single umbrella, moving away from isolated annual events. It operates under a "whole-of-government" approach, guided by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, and organized primarily by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR). The conclave strongly aligns with the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047, emphasizing deep-tech startups, artificial intelligence, ocean technologies (like the Deep Ocean Mission), and advanced healthcare.

Prelims Facts

• Event: Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026.
• Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
• Nodal Organizing Lab: CSIR-NIIST, Thiruvananthapuram.
• Startup Ecosystem: India currently has over 2.3 lakh startups, making it the third-largest startup ecosystem globally. Over 50-60% of these now originate from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

GS Mapping

GS3: Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology; Indigenization of technology and developing new technology.

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently met with Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the 50th Imam of the Ismaili community, in New Delhi. They discussed expanding India's collaboration with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) across crucial sectors like healthcare, agriculture, rural development, and women's empowerment.

Background

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a prominent global network of private, non-denominational development agencies originally founded by the late Aga Khan IV. It operates in over 30 countries, focusing on improving the quality of life in developing regions, irrespective of faith, origin, or gender. In India, AKDN has a long-standing history of contributing to rural socio-economic progress, education, and heritage conservation. This meeting highlights India's strategic intent to leverage international philanthropic partnerships to accelerate grassroots development.

Prelims Facts

• Personality in News: Prince Rahim Aga Khan V (the 50th Imam of the Ismaili community).
• Organisation involved: Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
• Key sectors discussed: Healthcare, agriculture, rural development, youth empowerment, and women's empowerment.
• Notable AKDN Projects in India: Restoration of Humayun’s Tomb, Qutb Shahi Heritage Park in Hyderabad, and widespread rural support initiatives.

GS Mapping

GS2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests; Important International institutions, agencies and fora.

News Item

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the International Space Summit in Paris, advocating for global cooperation, sustainability, and peaceful space exploration. Highlighting India’s major space achievements like Chandrayaan-3, he reiterated the country's ambitious goals to establish an indigenous space station by 2035 and land an Indian on the Moon by 2040.

Background

The governance of outer space is broadly guided by international treaties like the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, which designates space as the "province of all mankind." With the rapid commercialisation of space and increasing orbital debris, multilateral forums like the International Space Summit are crucial for formulating sustainable space policies. India's space diplomacy, deeply rooted in its Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (One Earth, One Family, One Future) philosophy, emphasizes cost-effective, inclusive, and peaceful exploration. The Indo-French space partnership is one of India's oldest and most trusted, dating back to the 1960s when France assisted in setting up the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS) in Kerala.

Prelims Facts

• Host City: The International Space Summit was held in Paris, France.
• ISRO's Global Reach: ISRO has successfully launched over 430 payloads from 34 countries using its indigenous launch vehicles.
• Historic Milestones: Chandrayaan-3 made India the first country to land near the lunar south pole, and Aditya-L1 is India's first dedicated solar observatory.
• Historic Ties: France has been a trusted space partner since the 1960s (starting with the Thumba launch station in Kerala) and current collaborations heavily focus on Earth observation and advanced technologies.

GS Mapping

GS2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India's interests; GS3: Awareness in the fields of Space.

News Item

The Sikkimese feature film 'Numahangma', directed by Niyara Subba, has been selected for the 2nd Nepal Indigenous Film Festival (NIFF) 2026 to be held in London. The film beautifully portrays the real-life struggles and perseverance of a woman balancing her family responsibilities and her path to success.

Background

The recognition of indigenous cinema on international platforms highlights the rich cultural diversity and grassroots storytelling of Northeast India. The film had previously gained acclaim at the Yakthung Cine Awards International. The term 'Yakthung' is deeply cultural, serving as the traditional endonym for the Limbu community, an indigenous Himalayan tribe. Promoting such regional narratives helps preserve local dialects, folklore, and indigenous socio-cultural struggles in a rapidly modernising world, ensuring that tribal voices reach a global audience.

Prelims Facts

• Film: Numahangma (Directed by Niyara Subba, Produced by H.M. Subba).
• Selected for: 2nd Nepal Indigenous Film Festival (NIFF) 2026 in London, UK.
• Previous Accolades: Won Best Director and Best Film at the 2nd Yakthung Cine Awards International (YCAI) in Nepal.
• Subject: A 90-minute feature based on the real-life journey and struggles of its producer as a woman navigating life's challenges.

GS Mapping

GS1: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.

News Item

The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports has announced the Maharashtra State Edition of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2027. This dynamic platform empowers youth aged 15 to 29 years to share innovative ideas for India's development, with top participants earning the rare opportunity to present their vision directly to the Prime Minister at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

Background

The VBYLD is a modernised, intellectual restructuring of the traditional National Youth Festival, which has historically been held to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. By shifting the focus from purely cultural exchange to merit-based policy innovation and leadership, the initiative strongly aligns with the government's grand vision of Viksit Bharat @2047—transforming India into a fully developed nation by its 100th year of independence.

Prelims Facts

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (via the MY Bharat portal).
• Target Demographic: Youth aged strictly between 15 and 29 years.
• Historical Link: Replaces the format of the National Youth Festival held annually around January 12 (National Youth Day).
• Final Destination: Selected state-level candidates will present at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

GS Mapping

GS2: Government Policies and Interventions for Development in various sectors; Issues arising out of their design and implementation.

News Item

Justice Alpesh Yeshwant Kogje recently took the oath of office as the 30th Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court at a ceremony held in Bhopal. The oath was administered to him by the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Mangubhai Patel.

Background

The appointment of High Court judges is a crucial aspect of the Indian judicial system. While the appointment notification is officially issued by the President of India under Article 217 of the Constitution (after consultation with the Chief Justice of India and the state Governor), the formal oath of office is administered by the Governor of the respective state under Article 219. The Madhya Pradesh High Court was established in 1956 and has its principal seat in Jabalpur.

Prelims Facts

• Appointing Authority: President of India.
• Administers Oath: Governor of the concerned state.
• Relevant Articles: Article 217 (Appointment) and Article 219 (Oath).
• Principal Seat of MP High Court: Jabalpur (with benches in Indore and Gwalior).

GS Mapping

GS2: Structure, organization and functioning of the Judiciary.

News Item

India and Sri Lanka strengthened their defence partnership during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Colombo on 9 September 2026. The two sides exchanged MoUs for upgrading six L70 air-defence guns of the Sri Lankan Air Force and for cooperation between their National Cadet Corps and National Defence Colleges.

Background

India and Sri Lanka are close maritime neighbours in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). They are separated by the Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar and share strong historical, cultural and economic ties.

During the visit, both sides emphasised secure sea lanes, freedom of navigation, respect for international law and regional maritime security. India also highlighted its role as a first responder in assisting neighbouring countries during crises.

Prelims Facts

• India and Sri Lanka are maritime neighbours in the Indian Ocean Region.
• The Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar lie between India and Sri Lanka.
• India agreed to upgrade six L70 guns of the Sri Lankan Air Force.
• The L70 upgradation is being undertaken under a Government of India grant.
• MoUs also covered cooperation between NCCs and National Defence Colleges.
• Three Bailey Bridges constructed by Indian Defence Forces were also virtually inaugurated.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• India–Sri Lanka defence cooperation is important for maritime security in the Indian Ocean, protection of sea lanes and India's Neighbourhood First approach. Stable relations with Sri Lanka also have strategic significance because of the island's location close to major Indian Ocean shipping routes.

GS Mapping

GS2: India and its Neighbourhood

News Item

India hosted the 9th ASEAN–India Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture and Forestry in New Delhi on 9 September 2026. The meeting focused on food security, climate-resilient agriculture, digital technologies, sustainable value chains and deeper research cooperation.

Background

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was established in 1967 through the Bangkok Declaration. Its Secretariat is located in Jakarta, Indonesia.

India and ASEAN have developed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Agriculture and forestry cooperation includes research, technology exchange, capacity building, food security and climate-resilient farming.

The meeting also welcomed the ASEAN Food, Agriculture and Forestry Sectoral Plan 2026–2030 and discussed the ASEAN–India Medium-Term Plan of Action for Cooperation in Agriculture and Forestry 2026–2030.

Prelims Facts

• The 9th ASEAN–India Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture and Forestry was held in New Delhi.
• The meeting was held on 9 September 2026.
• Key cooperation areas included climate-resilient agriculture, low-emission rice and AI-enabled digital agriculture.
• Soil health, agroforestry, food safety and resilient value chains were also discussed.
• The 10th ASEAN–India Agriculture Working Group Meeting was held on 8 September 2026.
• The next ASEAN–India Agriculture and Forestry Ministerial Meeting is planned for 2028.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• Agricultural cooperation with ASEAN can help India develop climate-resilient farming, improve regional food security and strengthen agricultural value chains. It also supports India's wider Act East policy and engagement with Southeast Asia.

GS Mapping

GS2: International Relations; GS3: Agriculture

News Item

India endorsed the international Call to Action for 6G Leadership and Security, joining other governments seeking open, interoperable, secure and resilient next-generation telecom networks. The Department of Telecommunications will coordinate India's follow-up actions.

Background

6G refers to the expected sixth generation of mobile communication technology after 5G. It is expected to support extremely high-speed, low-latency and intelligent networks for advanced digital services.

India's domestic 6G ecosystem includes the Bharat 6G Vision and Bharat 6G Alliance. India has stated an ambition to contribute around 10% of global 6G standards and patents.

The international initiative focuses on network security, supply-chain resilience, interoperability and cooperation in R&D and global standards.

Prelims Facts

• India endorsed the Call to Action for 6G Leadership and Security.
• The initiative promotes open, interoperable, secure and resilient networks.
• The Department of Telecommunications will coordinate India's participation.
• India aims to contribute around 10% of global 6G standards and patents.
• Bharat 6G Vision and Bharat 6G Alliance form part of India's domestic 6G ecosystem.
• Participation does not bind India to surrender its independent position in international standards bodies.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• Participation in global 6G standard-setting is strategically important because telecommunications standards influence technology supply chains, cybersecurity and future digital markets. India can benefit by strengthening domestic R&D, semiconductor capabilities and industry-academia cooperation.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology

News Item

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) launched an Aadhaar Face Authentication SDK and Sandbox at Global Fintech Fest 2026. The tools allow banks, fintech firms and government platforms to integrate and test Aadhaar face authentication more easily within their own applications.

Background

UIDAI is the statutory authority responsible for the Aadhaar ecosystem under the Aadhaar Act, 2016.

UIDAI's Face Authentication system uses AI/ML-based liveness and anti-spoofing features. Its face-authentication solution was introduced in 2021.

Prelims Facts

• UIDAI launched the Aadhaar Face Authentication SDK and Sandbox on 9 September 2026.
• The SDK supports native Android and iOS applications.
• It includes AI/ML-based liveness and anti-spoofing capabilities.
• The Sandbox enables controlled testing before production deployment.
• UIDAI's Face Authentication solution was launched in 2021.
• UIDAI is a statutory authority under the Aadhaar Act, 2016.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology

News Item

India launched the advanced Ocean Research Vessel Sagar Manthan at Kolkata on 9 September 2026. The indigenous research vessel is being built by GRSE for the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Background

Sagar Manthan is being developed under Vertical-4: Deep Ocean Survey and Exploration of India's Deep Ocean Mission.

The approximately ₹840-crore multidisciplinary vessel will support oceanographic surveys, geophysical profiling, atmospheric observations, water-column sampling and deployment of remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicles.

It is expected to gradually replace the older ORV Sagar Kanya.

Prelims Facts

• ORV Sagar Manthan was launched at Kolkata.
• It is being built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers.
• It is being developed for the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research.
• The vessel is under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• It forms part of Vertical-4 of the Deep Ocean Mission.
• The approximate project cost is ₹840 crore.
• Final delivery is scheduled for 2028.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology; Blue Economy

News Item

A government review of the PM SHRI Scheme reported that 13,092 schools had been selected by July 2026, reaching around 90% of the scheme's envisaged target. The schools are intended to demonstrate implementation of the National Education Policy 2020.

Background

Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) was launched on 7 September 2022.

It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education.

The scheme aims to strengthen more than 14,500 existing schools as exemplar institutions and has a total project cost of ₹27,360 crore for 2022–23 to 2026–27.

Prelims Facts

• PM SHRI was launched on 7 September 2022.
• It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
• It seeks to develop more than 14,500 exemplar schools.
• The total project cost is ₹27,360 crore.
• The implementation period is 2022–23 to 2026–27.
• 13,092 schools had been selected by July 2026.
• Selection follows a three-stage Challenge Mode.

GS Mapping

GS2: Education

News Item

The Global Dryland Congress 2026 was announced for New Delhi from 10–12 September under the theme “Transforming Dryland Agriculture with South–South Cooperation.” More than 800 experts from scientific, policy and farming communities were expected to participate.

Background

The Congress is jointly organised by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT).

Drylands cover about 45% of the world's land surface and are home to more than two billion people. Agriculture in these regions is particularly vulnerable to water scarcity, land degradation and climate variability.

The Congress also marks 50 years of ICAR–ICRISAT partnership.

Prelims Facts

• Global Dryland Congress 2026 was scheduled in New Delhi from 10–12 September.
• Its theme is “Transforming Dryland Agriculture with South–South Cooperation.”
• It is jointly organised by ICAR and ICRISAT.
• More than 800 experts were expected to participate.
• Drylands cover about 45% of the world's land surface.
• More than two billion people live in dryland regions.
• The Congress marks 50 years of ICAR–ICRISAT partnership.

GS Mapping

GS3: Agriculture and Environment

News Item

In a major policy shift, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced that the 72nd National Film Awards will be held outside New Delhi for the first time, taking place at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat. President Droupadi Murmu will present the prestigious awards, promoting the vision of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat'.

Background

Instituted in 1954 as 'State Awards for Films', the National Film Awards are India's most prominent cinema honours. Over the past seven decades, they have recognized outstanding creative and technical achievements across various cinematic forms. Moving the ceremony to Ekta Nagar—home to the Statue of Unity—aligns with the objective of integrating regional diversity and decentralizing significant national events.

Prelims Facts

• New Venue: Ekta Nagar, Gujarat (First time outside New Delhi).
• Best Feature Film: Article 370.
• Best Actors: Mammootty (Bramayugam) and Kartik Aaryan (Chandu Champion).
• Best Actress: Yami Gautam (Article 370).
• Best Debut Director: Randeep Hooda (Swatantrya Veer Savarkar).
• Linguistic Milestone: A Santhali language film will be honoured in the Non-Feature section for the first time.
• Best Documentary: Ram-Nami.

GS Mapping

GS1: Indian Culture

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September 8 is celebrated globally as International Literacy Day to highlight the importance of education as a fundamental human right. The 2026 global celebration, hosted in Mexico, focuses on the theme "Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity".

Background

Proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966, this day reminds the international community of the status of adult learning and global literacy. Globally, literacy is essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education. In India, the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, backed by Article 21A of the Constitution, makes education a fundamental right for children aged 6 to 14 years.

Prelims Facts

• Date Observed: September 8 annually.
• 2026 Theme: “Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity”.
• 2026 Host Country: Mexico (co-organized by UNESCO and the Government of Mexico).
• Global Initiative: The event includes discussions on the draft Action Plan for the UNESCO Global Alliance for Literacy Strategy (2026-2029).
• Indian Constitutional Link: Article 21A guarantees free and compulsory education as a fundamental right.

GS Mapping

GS2: Social Justice & Education

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India has officially joined an international coalition of 25 countries, alongside the United States, to collaboratively shape the development of 6G telecommunications networks. This partnership aims to ensure secure, innovative, and competitive next-generation digital infrastructure for the future.

Background

As the world transitions from 5G, global powers are racing to establish standards for 6G, which is expected to revolutionize digital communication with ultra-high speeds and near-zero latency. The strategic alignment on 6G was formalized during the G20 Innovation Ministerial meeting in the US. Domestically, India has already laid the groundwork through the Bharat 6G Vision Document, which targets the successful deployment of 6G network technologies in the country by 2030.

Prelims Facts

• Global Initiative: India joins a 25-nation coalition to develop secure and competitive 6G technologies.
• Key Venue: The announcement followed bilateral discussions at the G20 Innovation Ministerial held in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
• Bilateral Focus: India and the US emphasized boosting cooperation in semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence (AI), data centres, and ISM 2.0 (India Semiconductor Mission).
• Domestic Target: India aims to launch 6G services by 2030 under the Bharat 6G Vision Document.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science & Technology | GS2: International Relations

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In a major boost to skill development, the government has approved ₹735.70 crore under the PM-SETU scheme to transform Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) into modern, industry-ready hubs in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana. Notably, Rajasthan became the first state in India to sign a formal agreement to kickstart this initiative.

Background

The Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) were established in 1950 under the Craftsmen Training Scheme to ensure a steady flow of skilled workers. Today, India is leveraging its demographic dividend by comprehensively upgrading these institutes. The PM-SETU scheme bridges the critical gap between traditional vocational training and modern industry demands (like AI, robotics, and advanced manufacturing) by adopting a collaborative cluster model with active private sector partnership.

Prelims Facts

• Approved Clusters: Bhiwadi (Rajasthan), Medchal (Telangana), and Meerut (Uttar Pradesh).
• Total Investment: The scheme’s total approved investment has now reached ₹2,171 crore across 9 ITI clusters nationwide.
• Implementation Milestone: Rajasthan is the first state to formally sign the Shareholder Agreement (SHA) for the Bhiwadi ITI cluster.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

GS Mapping

GS2: Government Policies & Interventions | GS3: Employment & Skill Development

News Item

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) are set to hold the bilateral air exercise 'Veer Guardian-2026' from September 9 to 22. Hosted at the Jodhpur Air Force Station, this 14-day exercise aims to enhance tactical skills, operational synergy, and deepen the strategic military partnership between the two nations.

Background

Defense cooperation is a key pillar of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Historically, both nations have increased their joint military engagements to promote a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region. The inaugural edition of the 'Veer Guardian' exercise was held in Japan in early 2023. Beyond the air force, India and Japan regularly conduct other significant joint military exercises, including Dharma Guardian (Army), JIMEX (Navy), and the multilateral Malabar Exercise (which also includes the US and Australia).

Prelims Facts

• Exercise Name: Veer Guardian-2026.
• Participating Nations: India and Japan.
• Venue: Jodhpur Air Force Station, Rajasthan.
• Indian Aircraft Fleet: Indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and Dassault Rafale.
• Japanese Aircraft Fleet: Mitsubishi F-2A fighter jets.

GS Mapping

GS2: International Relations | GS3: Defence and Security

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) is organizing Drone-a-thon 2026, a major technological event aimed at showcasing India's domestic capabilities in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS). The event will provide a platform for startups, innovators, and industry experts to demonstrate cutting-edge drone and anti-drone technologies.

Background

Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are increasingly becoming critical in modern warfare and defense logistics. To reduce reliance on foreign imports and promote self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat), the Indian government launched the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) scheme and relaxed the Drone Rules in 2021. The IAF's Drone-a-thon aligns with these national goals by encouraging indigenous innovation to meet future operational security challenges.

Prelims Facts

• Event: IAF Drone-a-thon 2026.
• Organizer: Indian Air Force (IAF).
• Venue: Pokhran Range, Jaisalmer (Rajasthan).
• Core Focus Areas: Surveillance and reconnaissance, autonomous operations, swarm technology, and electronic warfare.
• Objective: To build a technologically advanced and indigenous force in alignment with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology | GS3: Defence and Security

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to legendary musician and cultural icon Dr. Bhupen Hazarika on his 100th birth anniversary. The PM highlighted how his soulful music gracefully bridged the culture of Assam and the Northeast with the rest of India.

Background

Born in 1926 in Sadiya, Assam, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika was a multifaceted genius—a playback singer, lyricist, musician, poet, and filmmaker. His songs, often written in Assamese, translated the folk music of the region into a pan-Indian consciousness. He played a pivotal role in bringing the rich heritage of the Northeast to mainstream Hindi cinema. In recognition of his unparalleled cultural legacy, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 2019.

Prelims Facts

• Epithet: Widely known as 'Sudhakantha'.
• Cultural Bridge: Instrumental in popularizing Northeast India's folk culture and introducing it to mainstream Indian cinema.
• Highest Honour: Conferred with the Bharat Ratna in 2019 alongside Pranab Mukherjee and Nanaji Deshmukh.
• Infrastructure named after him: The 9.15 km long Dhola-Sadiya bridge on the Lohit River (a major tributary of the Brahmaputra) in Assam is officially named the Bhupen Hazarika Setu.

GS Mapping

GS1: Indian Culture

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Vadodara, Gujarat, and laid the foundation stone for several development projects worth over ₹35,000 crore. These projects primarily focus on strengthening India's infrastructure, boosting the manufacturing sector, and significantly improving connectivity across the nation.

Background

India is undergoing a massive infrastructure push to reduce logistics costs, which currently hover around 14% of GDP (significantly higher than developed nations). Initiatives like the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan aim for coordinated planning and execution of infrastructure projects. The completion of the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC), a 2800 km mega-project spanning Eastern and Western India, is a cornerstone of this strategy. It segregates passenger and freight traffic, enabling faster movement of goods and making Indian products more globally competitive. Furthermore, schemes like PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana align with India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement by promoting decentralized renewable energy.

Prelims Facts

• Total Project Cost: Over ₹35,000 crore.
• Location of Event: Vadodara, Gujarat (Maharaja Sayajirao University Grounds).
• Major Milestone: Completion of the 2800 km long Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC).
• Logistics Impact: Travel time for a truck journey of 30 hours has been reduced to 10-12 hours for freight trains.
• Defense Manufacturing Link: Vadodara is the birthplace of India's first indigenously manufactured military transport aircraft, the C-295.

Mains Focus & Analysis

• The integration of physical infrastructure (like the DFC) with human capital development (AI skilling, free coaching initiatives) reflects a comprehensive strategy for 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. The focus on domestic manufacturing ("Chips to Ships") and renewable energy ensures economic resilience, global competitiveness, and sustainable growth while transitioning away from import dependence.

GS Mapping

GS3: Infrastructure | GS3: Economy

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2026 in Mumbai, highlighting India's remarkable fintech journey and the massive success of UPI. He outlined a future roadmap emphasizing the global expansion of UPI and the integration of advanced technologies like Agentic AI and Quantum computing in the financial sector.

Background

India is one of the fastest-growing fintech markets globally, driven by digital initiatives like the JAM trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile). The Global Fintech Fest is an annual flagship event jointly organized by the Payments Council of India (PCI), the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), and the Fintech Convergence Council (FCC). The Prime Minister stressed moving fintech beyond just digital payments into credit, insurance, savings, and pensions, while ensuring robust cybersecurity and ethical data protection.

Prelims Facts

• Event: Global Fintech Fest (GFF) 2026 held in Mumbai.
• Core Focus Areas for Fintech: Global expansion of UPI, broadening the scope to credit, insurance, savings, investment, and pensions.
• Emerging Technologies Highlighted: Agentic AI, Tokenization, and Quantum computing.
• Consumer Protection: Emphasized the creation of a robust Fintech Consumer Protection Index and ensuring ethical data privacy.

GS Mapping

GS3: Indian Economy & Mobilization of Resources | GS3: Science & Technology

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President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious President's Cup of the Durand Cup Tournament 2026 to the winning team, East Bengal FC, at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This marks a historic victory for the club in Asia's oldest football tournament.

Background

The Durand Cup is the oldest existing football club tournament in Asia and the third oldest in the world. It was initiated in 1888 at Shimla by Sir Mortimer Durand, the then Foreign Secretary of British India. Unlike most modern sporting events, the tournament is uniquely hosted by the Durand Football Tournament Society (DFTS) in collaboration with the Indian Armed Forces, highlighting the historical connection between the military and the sport in India.

Prelims Facts

• The Durand Cup is the oldest football tournament in Asia and third-oldest globally.
• It was first organized in 1888 by Sir Mortimer Durand in Shimla.
• The tournament is historically managed and conducted by the Indian Armed Forces.
• The winning team receives three unique trophies: the President's Cup, the Durand Cup, and the Shimla Trophy.
• East Bengal FC won the tournament in 2026, receiving the cup from the President of India.

GS Mapping

Prelims: Sports and Current Affairs

News Item

NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava emphasized that clean air is a fundamental human need, not a luxury, during the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies event in New Delhi. The occasion also witnessed the presentation of the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan Awards to states and cities for improving air quality under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).

Background

The right to a clean environment, including clean air, is recognized as a fundamental right under Article 21 (Right to Life) of the Indian Constitution. To tackle rising pollution, the Indian government launched the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in 2019 as a national-level strategy to reduce particulate matter concentration. Air pollution is a transboundary issue with multiple sources, making collaborative action essential for sustainable development and public health.

Prelims Facts

• The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies is celebrated annually on September 7.
• The Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan ranking evaluates cities under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
• The NCAP targets a 40% reduction in PM concentrations in non-attainment cities by 2025-26.
• The right to clean air is an implicit fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
• Justice Prakash Shrivastava currently serves as the Chairperson of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

GS Mapping

GS3: Environment

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The Ministry of Women and Child Development launched the 9th Rashtriya Poshan Maah (National Nutrition Month) in Varanasi. Themed "Hamari Anganwadi Hamari Jimmedari", this year's campaign aims to improve nutrition, health, and early childhood care by encouraging community ownership of Anganwadi centres.

Background

POSHAN Abhiyaan (Prime Minister's Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition) was launched in 2018 from Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, to make India malnutrition-free. It targets stunting, undernutrition, anaemia, and low birth weight. The campaign is now part of Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, an integrated nutrition support programme. Furthermore, under Article 47 of the Indian Constitution (Directive Principles of State Policy), it is the primary duty of the State to raise the level of nutrition, standard of living, and public health.

Prelims Facts

• The 9th Rashtriya Poshan Maah (2026) was officially launched in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
• The theme for the 2026 campaign is “Hamari Anganwadi Hamari Jimmedari”.
• The revised Supplementary Nutrition Programme (SNP) guidelines now explicitly mandate Hot Cooked Meals and Menu Boards at Anganwadi Centres.
• Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 amalgamates POSHAN Abhiyaan and the supplementary nutrition programmes to optimize resource utilization.
• Article 47 of the Indian Constitution categorizes the raising of the level of nutrition as a Directive Principle of State Policy.

GS Mapping

GS2: Social Justice and Vulnerable Sections

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In a major breakthrough for future quantum computing, researchers from the Raman Research Institute (RRI) and international partners have discovered a way to protect delicate quantum entanglement. By applying a precisely timed 'flip' process, they successfully delayed and even prevented the sudden loss of entanglement, proving that *when* to act is just as important as *what* action to take.

Background

Quantum Entanglement, famously dubbed "spooky action at a distance" by Albert Einstein, is a phenomenon where particles become interconnected, such that the state of one instantly influences the other, regardless of distance. It is the foundational resource for quantum computers and secure communication. However, interaction with the surrounding environment causes this link to decay or abruptly vanish—a phenomenon known as "Entanglement Sudden Death". Protecting this state without altering the hardware is a massive leap for India's National Quantum Mission (NQM), which funded part of this study.

Prelims Facts

• Quantum Entanglement allows particles to share states instantaneously across massive distances.
• Entanglement Sudden Death refers to the abrupt loss of quantum linkage due to environmental noise, even before natural decay finishes.
• A new study by the Raman Research Institute (RRI), an autonomous body under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), proved that a precisely timed 'flip' operation can rescue entangled particles from this sudden death.
• Polarization (the direction of light wave oscillation) was used as the two-level system in this experiment to mimic excited and ground states of a particle.
• The research is partially funded by the National Quantum Mission (NQM).

GS Mapping

GS3: Science and Technology