Current Affairs - National

The Government of India is planning to reform the classification system of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) by introducing two new ‘Ratna’ categories in addition to the existing Maharatna, Navratna, and Miniratna statuses. This initiative aims to modernize the evaluation framework, align it with evolving market conditions, and reward efficiency, profitability, and innovation among CPSEs. A 10-member committee headed by Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan has been established to review the proposal and submit recommendations before the Union Budget 2026–27. The move reflects the government’s continued efforts to enhance corporate governance and performance accountability in the public sector.

The passenger vessel Sindhu achieved a historic feat by completing its maiden voyage to Barren Island, home to India’s only active volcano. Located about 140 km from Port Blair, Barren Island has long been a restricted zone, primarily accessible to scientists and researchers through aerial surveys. The successful journey of Sindhu marks a new chapter in Andaman and Nicobar tourism by opening sea-based access to one of India’s most unique geological sites. This development not only enhances eco-tourism prospects but also strengthens the region’s maritime connectivity and exploration initiatives.

The historic Darbar Move tradition has been revived in Jammu and Kashmir after being suspended for four years. This 150-year-old administrative practice involves the biannual shifting of government offices between Srinagar and Jammu—Srinagar serving as the summer capital and Jammu as the winter capital. Originally initiated in 1872 by Maharaja Gulab Singh to ensure accessible governance during harsh winters, the tradition symbolises unity and coexistence between the two regions. Its revival not only restores a significant cultural and political legacy but is also expected to boost Jammu’s winter economy, benefiting local businesses and strengthening administrative ties.

Coal India Limited (CIL) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras to establish a Centre for Sustainable Energy. This collaboration aims to promote advanced research and development in clean energy technologies, low-carbon innovations, and repurposing of coal mines for sustainable applications. The initiative aligns with India’s broader goal of achieving a balanced and environmentally responsible energy transition. By combining CIL’s industry experience with IIT Madras’s research expertise, the partnership seeks to create scalable solutions that can contribute to reducing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency across sectors.

The Vegetable Oil Products, Production and Availability (Regulation) Order was first introduced in 2011 under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. It was later amended and reintroduced as the VOPPA Order, 2025. The 2011 version served as the foundational regulatory framework governing the production, processing, and distribution of edible oils in India, ensuring quality control, fair trade practices, and consumer protection. The 2025 amendment builds upon this framework by introducing mandatory registration for all participants in the edible oil supply chain.