Current Affairs - National

To prevent cervical cancer is the primary objective of the nationwide HPV vaccination campaign launched by the Government of India. The initiative targets 14-year-old girls and provides a free single dose of the Gardasil 4 vaccine, which protects against high-risk HPV types 16 and 18 responsible for most cervical cancer cases, as well as types 6 and 11. Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in India. By focusing on early immunization, the campaign emphasizes preventive healthcare, aiming to significantly reduce future cancer incidence and mortality rates across the country.

New Delhi is the host city for ‘Him-CONNECT’, which will be organised by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on the sidelines of the World Sustainable Development Summit 2026. The platform aims to connect researchers from the Indian Himalayan Region with startups, investors, and policymakers to scale climate-resilient innovations. More than 24 technologies developed under the National Mission on Himalayan Studies will be showcased, focusing on water security, renewable energy, waste-to-wealth solutions, sustainable building, and nature-based livelihoods, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainable mountain development and climate action.

New Delhi is the city where the ‘Rah-Veer’ scheme will be implemented to encourage citizens to assist seriously injured road accident victims. Under this initiative, individuals who ensure victims receive medical care within the crucial golden hour will be awarded ₹25,000 along with a certificate of appreciation. The scheme also provides legal protection under the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, addressing fears of police questioning or legal hassles. By combining financial incentives and legal safeguards, the government aims to promote timely intervention, compassion, and reduce fatalities caused by road accidents.

Itanagar was the venue for the National SC-ST Hub Mega Awareness Programme organised by the Ministry of MSME. The programme aimed to promote entrepreneurship among SC and ST communities and to spread awareness about various central government schemes available for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. Entrepreneurs were also provided the opportunity to obtain Udyam Registration during the event. Additionally, the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) at Jote, constructed with assistance from the Ministry of MSME, was inaugurated, further strengthening support infrastructure for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs in the region.

Soundala village in the Ahilyanagar district of Maharashtra has officially declared itself caste-free by adopting the principle “Amchi jaat manav,” meaning “my caste is humanity.” The decision was unanimously approved by the gram sabha, reflecting collective agreement among the villagers. This historic move positions Soundala as Maharashtra’s and possibly India’s first caste-free village. The initiative represents a progressive step toward eliminating caste-based discrimination and promoting social equality. By prioritising humanity over caste identity, the village sets an inspiring example for broader societal reform and unity across communities.