Current Affairs - National

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated a new fleet of ‘U-Special’ buses in New Delhi, reviving a service once popular among Delhi University students. These electric, air-conditioned buses are equipped with CCTV cameras and panic buttons, ensuring both comfort and safety. The initiative reflects a dual commitment—supporting student welfare by easing their daily commute while also advancing sustainable public transport in the capital. Beyond buses, the CM also addressed student concerns over recent Delhi Metro fare hikes and promised to explore concession passes. This integrated approach demonstrates efforts to create a safer, more affordable, and environmentally conscious transit system.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has partnered with the Department of School Education to link the Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) status of Aadhaar-linked school children with the UDISE+ system. UDISE+ (Unified District Information System for Education Plus) is a critical database managed by the Department of School Education & Literacy under the Ministry of Education. By integrating MBU status, the collaboration ensures better monitoring of children’s biometric updates and helps maintain more accurate educational records. This initiative strengthens the linkage between Aadhaar and educational data, ultimately improving governance, efficiency, and accountability in the school system.

The Union Cabinet has approved the restructuring of the PM SVANidhi Scheme and extended its lending operations till 31 March 2030. This extension provides a longer financial window for street vendors and small businesses to access affordable credit. With a total outlay of ₹7,332 crore, the scheme also introduces features like UPI-linked RuPay Credit Cards for eligible beneficiaries and digital cashback incentives to promote digital transactions. Additionally, coverage is widened beyond statutory towns to include census towns and peri-urban areas, thereby ensuring greater inclusivity and long term support for grassroots entrepreneurship.

The National Designated Authority (NDA) for carbon markets has been constituted with 21 members as a statutory body under the Environment Ministry. It is chaired by the Environment Secretary and includes representatives from key ministries like External Affairs, Steel, Renewable Energy, Power, and NITI Aayog. The creation of this 21-member body is a mandatory step under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which was further finalised at COP29 in Baku (2024). The NDA will serve as the nodal regulator, overseeing India’s participation and compliance in global carbon markets.

‘Project Aarohan, launched by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), is designed to support the educational aspirations of toll plaza employees children. The program, unveiled in New Delhi by Chairman Shri Santosh Kumar Yadav, provides scholarships, mentorship, and skill-building opportunities for students from marginalised and economically weaker sections. With an initial fund of ₹1 crore for 2025–26, the initiative covers 500 students from Class 11 to graduation and offers higher scholarships to 50 exceptional students pursuing post-graduation. Beyond financial assistance, the project also emphasises mentorship, career guidance, and skill development, ensuring holistic growth and preparing beneficiaries for future success.