Current Affairs - National

The International Conference on Dam Safety 2026 was concluded in Bengaluru, attracting global experts, regulators, and practitioners in the field of dam management and water resources. The conference focused on strengthening institutional and technical frameworks under the Dam Safety Act, 2021 and the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP). Key discussions revolved around rehabilitation of ageing dams, sediment management strategies, real-time monitoring systems, risk-based decision-making, coordinated flood operations, and enhancing climate resilience, reflecting India’s commitment to ensuring dam safety and sustainable water infrastructure management.

Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script in New Delhi, marking 100 years since its creation in 1925 by Pandit Raghunath Murmu. The event, organised by the Ministry of Culture, celebrated the script’s role in preserving the Santhali language and strengthening Santal cultural identity. A commemorative coin and postage stamp were also released to honour this milestone. The Ol Chiki script has been instrumental in standardising the written form of Santhali and promoting linguistic pride among the Santal community in India and abroad.

In the Henley Passport Index 2026, India secured the 75th position, marking a significant improvement from its 85th rank in 2025. This 10-place jump represents one of the country’s strongest performances in recent years. The ranking reflects the number of destinations Indian passport holders can access without a prior visa, including visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and e-visa options. Indian citizens now have access to 56 countries, up from 52 the previous year, enhancing global mobility for tourism and business travel while improving India’s standing in international travel freedom.

The Union Cabinet has approved the conversion of North Block and South Block into the ‘Yuge Yugeen Bharat’ National Museum, marking a historic transformation in India’s administrative landscape. These iconic buildings, constructed during British rule, have served as key centres of governance since Independence. With the inauguration of the new Prime Minister’s Office, Seva Teerth, by Narendra Modi, Cabinet meetings will shift from South Block. The proposed museum will showcase India’s civilisational journey, freedom struggle, post-independence development, and modern global aspirations, symbolising the transition from colonial legacy to citizen-centric governance.

Global Research and Development expenditure reached $2.87 trillion in 2024, reflecting a 3% year-on-year increase and nearly tripling since 2000. Asia accounts for 45% of the total global share, highlighting the region’s growing innovation capacity. China leads global R&D spending with $785.9 billion, slightly ahead of the United States at $781.8 billion. India holds the 7th position with an expenditure of $75.7 billion. Although India’s R&D spending has grown more than threefold since 2000, it remains about one-tenth of China’s total outlay, indicating scope for further expansion.