Current Affairs - National

The National Highway Quality Monitoring Portal is being developed to digitise the quality monitoring process. It will upload test reports generated by the Mobile Quality Control Vans and feature real-time GPS tracking of these vans. This system ensures transparency in inspections, prevents misuse, and allows officials to remotely monitor van movements and quality checks. The goal is to make the entire quality assurance system more accountable and data-driven for maintaining National Highway standards.

The new 3mm crab species, Galathea balasubramaniani, was discovered in Lakshadweep, specifically in the Agatti reefs. The discovery was made by researchers from the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Kochi. This tiny reef-dwelling squat lobster was named after T. Balasubramanian and plays an important ecological role in recycling organic matter within coral reef ecosystems. Its identification was confirmed through detailed DNA and morphological analysis. The finding underscores the rich yet under-explored marine biodiversity of Lakshadweep and highlights the importance of continued scientific research and conservation efforts in fragile reef habitats.

Mumbai has been selected to host The Earthshot Prize 2026, a prestigious global environmental award founded by Prince William. The announcement was made during the city’s first Mumbai Climate Week, highlighting India’s expanding leadership in climate action and sustainable innovation. The Earthshot Prize recognizes five global innovators annually, awarding each £1 million to scale transformative solutions addressing climate change, biodiversity, air pollution, ocean restoration, and waste reduction. Hosting the event underscores Mumbai’s growing role as a hub for climate dialogue and green investment, while reinforcing India’s commitment to achieving long-term environmental and sustainability goals.

The International Conference on Dam Safety 2026 was concluded in Bengaluru, attracting global experts, regulators, and practitioners in the field of dam management and water resources. The conference focused on strengthening institutional and technical frameworks under the Dam Safety Act, 2021 and the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP). Key discussions revolved around rehabilitation of ageing dams, sediment management strategies, real-time monitoring systems, risk-based decision-making, coordinated flood operations, and enhancing climate resilience, reflecting India’s commitment to ensuring dam safety and sustainable water infrastructure management.

Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script in New Delhi, marking 100 years since its creation in 1925 by Pandit Raghunath Murmu. The event, organised by the Ministry of Culture, celebrated the script’s role in preserving the Santhali language and strengthening Santal cultural identity. A commemorative coin and postage stamp were also released to honour this milestone. The Ol Chiki script has been instrumental in standardising the written form of Santhali and promoting linguistic pride among the Santal community in India and abroad.