Current Affairs - National

Indian Railways has set a clear long-term target to double the originating train capacity in 48 major cities by the year 2030. This timeline aligns with broader efforts to modernise rail infrastructure and address rapidly growing passenger demand in urban and peri-urban areas. The plan includes expanding terminals, constructing new platforms, developing additional stabling and maintenance facilities, and upgrading signalling systems. By setting 2030 as the milestone, the initiative aims to future-proof the rail network, reduce congestion at busy stations, improve punctuality, and enhance overall passenger comfort while supporting sustainable economic growth.

Two new airlines received No Objection Certificates from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, marking an important step toward expanding competition in India’s domestic aviation sector. These approvals allow Al Hind Air and FlyExpress to proceed toward commercial operations, expected to begin in 2026. Another airline, Shankh Air from Uttar Pradesh, which already has an NOC, is expected to begin operations in 2026. Granting NOCs signifies that the airlines have met key regulatory requirements related to ownership, financial strength, and security. At a time when the market is dominated by a few major players, the entry of new carriers is expected to improve competition, enhance connectivity on underserved routes, and contribute to a more resilient and balanced aviation ecosystem.

Mumbai achieved the 5th position in the World’s Best Food Cities list released under the TasteAtlas World Food Awards 2025–26. This recognition highlights Mumbai’s rich and diverse culinary landscape, which blends street food traditions with regional and global cuisines. Although Italian cities dominated the top ranks, Mumbai’s placement reflects its growing international reputation as a major food destination. The presence of six Indian cities in the top 100 further underscores India’s expanding influence in global food tourism. These rankings also indicate how gastronomy is playing an increasingly important role in shaping travel choices worldwide.

The Rashtra Prerna Sthal was inaugurated in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, as a national memorial dedicated to the ideals and legacy of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The inauguration took place on December 26, 2025, marking Vajpayee’s 101st birth anniversary. Developed over 65 acres in the Vasant Kunj area of the city, the memorial serves as a space to inspire future generations by highlighting Indian nationalism, governance, and selfless leadership. It features towering bronze statues of Vajpayee, Syama Prasad Mookerjee, and Deendayal Upadhyaya, along with a lotus-shaped museum using modern digital exhibits to present India’s democratic and political journey.

The Constitution of India was released in the Santhali language to enhance constitutional awareness and inclusion among Santhali-speaking tribal communities. The release was carried out by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan and holds special significance as it uses the Ol Chiki script, the traditional writing system of Santhali, whose centenary was marked in 2025. This initiative enables millions of citizens to access and understand the Constitution in their mother tongue, strengthening democratic participation. Santhali is one of India’s most ancient tribal languages and has been included in the Eighth Schedule since 2003, reflecting its cultural and constitutional importance.