Current Affairs - National

The AYUSH Expo was organised in New Delhi as a major component of the 2nd WHO Global Conference on Traditional Medicine. Hosted at Bharat Mandapam between December 17 and 19, 2024, the event was jointly organised by the Ministry of AYUSH and the World Health Organization. The expo highlighted India’s rich heritage of traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homeopathy. It also featured specialised pavilions and zones such as medicinal plants, spices, metallotherapeutics, wellness practices, and the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library, reinforcing India’s leadership in traditional healthcare knowledge.

The Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) Mohali, operating under the Department of Science and Technology, has developed an advanced nanoparticle-based therapy aimed at treating Alzheimer’s disease through a multi-target approach. Unlike conventional treatments that focus on a single aspect of the disease, this innovative therapy integrates EGCG, dopamine, and tryptophan within engineered nanoparticles. The formulation simultaneously addresses multiple pathological features of Alzheimer’s, including amyloid plaque accumulation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal degeneration. This comprehensive strategy enhances therapeutic effectiveness and represents a significant advancement in neurodegenerative disease research.

Miyana Railway Station in Guna district of Madhya Pradesh was honoured with the National Energy Conservation Award 2025, presented by President Droupadi Murmu. The station was recognised under the Best Transport Category for its significant efforts in reducing electricity consumption. By adopting energy-efficient technologies such as LED lighting, BLDC fans, and smart lighting systems, the station achieved savings of 9,687 electricity units. This achievement reflects the broader commitment of Indian Railways towards sustainable practices, cost efficiency, and environmentally responsible operations, as highlighted by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency through this national-level recognition.

Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty was elected as the first woman President of the Press Club of India, marking a historic milestone in the country’s media landscape. A senior journalist with extensive experience in political and investigative reporting, her election represents a breakthrough in gender representation within media leadership. Her panel secured a clean sweep in the 2025 elections with an overwhelming mandate, reflecting strong support from the journalistic community. Her leadership is expected to strengthen press freedom, promote ethical journalism, and address key concerns such as journalists’ rights, professional safety, and media independence in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

The Union Cabinet has approved a significant reform of India’s flagship rural employment programme by renaming MGNREGS as Poojya Bapu Grameen Rozgar Yojana. Along with the renaming, the scheme has been strengthened by increasing the guaranteed wage employment from 100 days to 125 days per household each year. This move aims to enhance rural livelihood security and provide greater employment opportunities in rural areas. Despite the changes, the scheme continues to be implemented and overseen by the Ministry of Rural Development, ensuring continuity in administration and objectives.