Current Affairs - National

IIT Madras collaborated with Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) to carry out India’s first intra-city drone delivery trials in Bengaluru. The project was implemented under the FedEx SMART Centre in partnership with the start-up Amber Wings. The drone successfully covered a distance of around 39–42 km in just 21 minutes, significantly reducing delivery time compared to road transport. The trials included advanced safety features such as autonomous flight termination and anti-collision systems. This initiative demonstrates the growing potential of drone-based logistics in urban environments and highlights India’s progress in adopting cutting-edge transportation technologies.

The Union Cabinet approved the extension of PMGSY-III to ensure the continued development of rural road infrastructure across India. The revised timeline allows for the completion of roads and bridges in plain areas, as well as roads in hilly regions, by March 2028. This extension supports the scheme’s goal of improving rural connectivity, facilitating access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities. With an increased financial outlay of ₹83,977 crore, the initiative emphasises reducing transportation costs and boosting economic activities in rural areas, while also addressing pending works sanctioned before March 2025.

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.