Current Affairs - National

The Government of India has taken a step to support ethanol production by allocating 2.8 million tonnes of rice at subsidized rates. This initiative not only helps in utilising the excess stock of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) but also aligns with the country's broader energy goals. Specifically, it contributes to the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme, which aims to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels by increasing ethanol content in fuel. The targeted ethanol blending is set to reach 20% by 2025-26, making this rice allocation a significant move in supporting energy security and sustainable resource management.

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has opened a new office in Srinagar’s Transport Bhawan to strengthen its presence in the region and manage various water transport initiatives across Jammu and Kashmir. This move aligns with IWAI’s plans to develop river navigation infrastructure for National Waterways NW-26 (Chenab), NW-49 (Jhelum), and NW-84 (Ravi). By establishing a regional office in Srinagar, IWAI aims to streamline coordination with the J&K government, enhance project execution, and promote sustainable inland water transport in the Union Territory.

Kozhikode has been recognized for its elder-friendly urban policies, earning a spot in the WHO's Global Network of Age-friendly Cities and Communities. The city focuses on enhancing accessibility, healthcare, public spaces, and digital inclusion for senior citizens. Initiatives such as senior-friendly parks, community health programs, and awareness campaigns for active ageing contribute to Kozhikode's age-friendly status. This recognition highlights the city's commitment to creating a supportive environment for its ageing population.

A total of 32 airports that had been closed due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan have now reopened for civil aircraft operations. These closures were initially enforced on May 15 as a precautionary measure amid escalating geopolitical tensions. With the ceasefire now in effect, the Airports Authority of India has lifted restrictions and resumed operations at these locations. Passengers are still advised to verify flight details directly with their airlines. This reopening marks a positive step toward the normalization of air travel and reducing disruption in regional connectivity following the conflict-related shutdown.

The ‘Nayi Disha’ initiative was launched by the Delhi Police in New Delhi as a community-driven effort to bring school dropouts back into formal education. The program focuses on addressing root causes such as poverty, domestic instability, and lack of academic support. Through door-to-door outreach, emotional counselling, collaboration with NGOs, and facilitation of school admissions, the police are actively transforming their role from law enforcers to social enablers. This holistic approach is already yielding positive outcomes, with children rejoining schools and further expansion of the initiative planned across other districts of the city.