Current Affairs - National

Western Railway has teamed up with the popular cartoon character Chhota Bheem to spread messages about railway safety. This collaboration will utilize various media formats such as print, digital platforms, and educational school programs over the span of a year. By targeting younger audiences, the initiative aims to effectively communicate safety practices using a familiar and engaging character. This strategic partnership highlights the use of popular media to influence public behaviour positively, particularly among children, making safety education more accessible and impactful.

Chlorpyrifos, an organophosphate insecticide widely used in India since 1977, became the centre of global debate during the 2025 BRS Conventions in Geneva. While many countries supported its inclusion under Annex A of the Stockholm Convention due to its association with serious health risks such as neurological damage, developmental issues, and cancer, India opposed the ban. The country argued that removing Chlorpyrifos without suitable alternatives would jeopardize food security and agricultural output, particularly for key crops like rice, cotton, and sugarcane. This reflects the ongoing global tension between environmental health priorities and national agricultural needs.

In the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, India ranks 151st, reflecting ongoing challenges related to press freedom. This marks an improvement from its 159th position in 2024 but still indicates a concerning climate for journalists. The index highlights issues such as economic hardship faced by media outlets, leading to closures, as well as growing threats and restrictions on independent reporting. Globally, the report identifies the Middle East and North Africa as the most dangerous regions for journalists, with severe media suppression, especially in conflict zones like Gaza. India's rank underscores the urgent need for stronger protections for press freedom.

The first National Mediation Conference will take place in New Delhi and will be inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu. The event is a significant step toward promoting mediation as an effective alternative dispute resolution mechanism. Organized by the Attorney General’s office and the Ministry of Law, the conference aims to facilitate the exchange of best practices in mediation and highlight its role in reducing the burden on the judiciary. With participation from key legal figures like Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, the event underscores the government’s commitment to legal reforms and faster justice delivery.

In a significant move to enhance last-mile connectivity and reduce urban pollution, 400 electric buses under the Delhi Electric Vehicle Interconnector Service (DEVI) were flagged off in New Delhi. The event was attended by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. The initiative aims to strengthen links between metro stations and bus terminals, providing a cleaner and more efficient public transport option for residents of the National Capital. This aligns with broader efforts to promote electric mobility and environmental sustainability in urban areas.