Current Affairs - National

Indian Railways has expanded accessibility measures for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) by allowing the use of the UDID (Unique Disability ID) Card as valid identification for travel in designated unreserved Divyangjan coaches. Issued by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, the UDID card serves as a standardised national identity for individuals with disabilities and enables them to avail concessional fares and reserved facilities. This initiative simplifies travel procedures and ensures inclusivity. It also helps in maintaining proper verification while preventing unauthorised entry into these specially designated compartments under the Railway Act, 1989.

Bangalore Water Supply & Sewage Board became the first water utility board in India to receive the ISO 50001:2018 certification for energy management systems. This certification recognises adherence to international standards in efficient energy use and sustainability. The board implemented advanced systems across its pumping stations and administrative units to optimise energy consumption. This achievement highlights the importance of integrating technology and environmental responsibility in urban water management, setting a benchmark for other utilities across India to adopt energy-efficient and climate-resilient practices.

The AICTE-VAANI scheme is designed to promote the use of Indian languages in technical education, ensuring that students can learn complex subjects in their native or regional languages. By supporting academic events and research publications in 22 scheduled languages, the initiative reduces language barriers in higher education. It aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, which emphasises mother-tongue-based learning. This approach enhances comprehension, encourages wider participation, and helps students from diverse linguistic backgrounds transition smoothly into technical and professional education systems.

The Doda region is part of Jammu & Kashmir, a Union Territory in northern India characterized by mountainous terrain and high seismic vulnerability, falling under Seismic Zones 4 and 5. Due to its eco-fragile nature, the government is strengthening disaster preparedness by installing a Doppler weather radar for real-time weather monitoring and a seismological observatory for earthquake tracking. These initiatives enhance early warning systems, improve forecasting in remote areas, and contribute to minimising risks associated with natural disasters in the region.

Kalpakkam is the location of India’s first indigenously developed 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR), which recently attained criticality. Developed by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI), the reactor marks a major milestone in India’s nuclear power programme. It represents the second stage of the three-stage nuclear strategy, aimed at utilising plutonium and eventually thorium for sustainable energy production. The reactor is designed to produce more fuel than it consumes and includes advanced safety features, showcasing India’s progress in nuclear technology and self-reliance.