Current affairs

Israel Reopens Rafah Border with Egypt: Humanitarian and Political Implications

Context Israel has partially reopened the Rafah border crossing, Gaza’s only crossing point not directly bordering Israel, allowing limited movement of sick and wounded Palestinians into Egypt. Operational Framework of the Reopening Movement is limited mainly to medical cases (around...

Next Phase for Rural Women Entrepreneurship

Context DAY-NRLM has built a nationwide women-led economic network, mobilising ~10 crore households into SHGs that leverage large-scale formal credit and promote income growth through “Lakhpati Didi” initiatives. Why a New Phase (2026–31)?: The next appraisal cycle aims to transition...

UPSC CSE 2026 New Rules: Complete Guide to Reappearance Policy, Service Allocation, Training Exemption

The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2026 introduces significant rule changes that directly impact candidates already selected in civil services and those planning to reappear after service allocation. These new rules focus on reducing repeated service blocking, improving training utilization,...

Why Are Tribals Protesting in Maharashtra?

Context Thousands of tribal farmers from Palghar and Nashik undertook long marches in January 2026, led by All India Kisan Sabha and CPI(M), to press for long-pending land and livelihood rights in tribal-dominated districts. Core Demands Land Rights under FRA,...

Rise in Southern States’ Share in Fund Devolution Provides Limited Relief to Tamil Nadu

Context Despite a marginal increase in the collective share of southern States under the vertical devolution framework of the Sixteenth Finance Commission (16th FC), Tamil Nadu has witnessed only a negligible improvement in its allocation. Fiscal experts and policymakers have...

Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka

Context: India has undertaken a spiritual outreach and cultural diplomacy through the exposition of the sacred Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha in Sri Lanka. About Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha Devnimori Relics were found at an excavation at the Devnimori...

Gyan Bharatam Mission 2026: Key Highlights, Benefits, and Government Vision

Context During the Budget 2025-26, Gyan Bharatam Mission was announced as a flagship mission of the Ministry of Culture for unearthing, safeguarding and preserving India's vast manuscript heritage. About Gyan Bharatam Mission National initiative to preserve, digitise & disseminate India's...

World Cancer Day 2026: Theme, Date, History and Significance

World Cancer Day is observed every year on February 4 to raise global awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and support for patients and survivors. The initiative is led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and is...

Free Cash Schemes Boom in India: Finance Commission Issues Fiscal Warning

Panel warns unconditional handouts now consume 20% of state subsidies, urges sunset clauses and periodic reviews Mumbai: The 16th Finance Commission has flagged a concerning trend of states increasingly relying on large-scale cash transfer schemes, warning that the practice could...

Finance Commission Report 2026 (FC-16): Complete Analysis, Key Recommendations

The Finance Commission Report 2026, submitted by the Sixteenth Finance Commission (FC-16), is one of the most significant policy documents shaping India’s fiscal federal structure for the period 2026–27 to 2030–31. The report determines how tax revenues are shared between...