Current Affairs - National

The government has announced a significant change in the taxation framework for sin goods such as tobacco and pan masala by introducing additional levies beyond GST. These include an additional excise duty on tobacco products and a Health and National Security Cess on pan masala. The new tax structure replaces the earlier compensation cess and follows parliamentary approval of relevant legislation. These measures are intended to discourage consumption due to health concerns while also enhancing government revenue. The notified implementation date for these changes is February 1, from which the revised taxation mechanism comes into effect.

The initiative aims to modernise land governance by introducing advanced digital solutions under the Digital India Land Record Modernisation Programme. A key component of this effort is the launch of a GIS-based, single-window platform that integrates land and property information into one accessible system. This platform is designed to enhance transparency, reduce complexities in land records, and provide citizens with easier access to reliable data. Land Stack serves as the technological backbone of this reform, initially piloted in Chandigarh and Tamil Nadu, supporting more efficient administration and improving trust in land and revenue management systems.

The nationwide rollout of Voice over WiFi services marks an important step in improving telecom connectivity, especially in rural and remote regions. This service allows users to make voice calls and send messages over Wi-Fi using their existing mobile numbers, without any additional charges. The IMS-based technology ensures seamless handover between Wi-Fi and mobile networks, maintaining call continuity even in areas with poor cellular coverage. BSNL implemented this initiative as part of its broader network modernisation programme, aiming to enhance service reliability and extend digital communication access across all telecom circles in the country.

The 374 km Nashik–Solapur–Akkalkot greenfield corridor in Maharashtra, approved by the Union Cabinet at a cost of ₹19,142 crore, will be developed under the BOT (Toll) mode. This Build-Operate-Transfer model allows private entities to design, construct, and operate the highway while collecting toll revenue for a specified period. The corridor aims to reduce travel time by 17 hours, improve logistics efficiency, and enhance regional economic growth. Integration with major expressways like Delhi–Mumbai and Samruddhi Mahamarg further strengthens India’s national transport network while ensuring high-speed, uninterrupted traffic flow for both passenger and freight vehicles.

The Indian AI Research Organization is set to be established at GIFT City in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, marking a significant step in strengthening India’s artificial intelligence ecosystem. Gandhinagar was chosen due to GIFT City’s status as a premier global financial and technology hub with world-class digital and physical infrastructure. The location offers proximity to fintech, pharmaceutical companies, startups, and innovation-driven institutions. Establishing IAIRO in Gandhinagar supports collaboration between government, industry, and academia under a public–private partnership model, while aligning with national initiatives like the India AI Mission and Gujarat’s AI Action Plan.