Current Affairs - National

The Emerging Science & Technology Innovation Conclave 2025 (ESTIC-2025) is being hosted in New Delhi from November 3 to 5, bringing together over 3,000 participants, including leading scientists, innovators, and policymakers. The event, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focuses on the theme “Viksit Bharat 2047 – Pioneering Sustainable Innovation, Technological Advancement and Empowerment.” During the conclave, the Prime Minister also launched the ₹1 Lakh Crore Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) Scheme to accelerate private-led R&D initiatives and support deep-tech startups, strengthening India’s path toward technological self-reliance and sustainable innovation.

SITAA, which stands for Scheme for Innovation and Technology Association with Aadhaar, is a new initiative launched by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). The programme aims to strengthen Aadhaar’s technological foundation by encouraging innovation and research in areas like artificial intelligence, biometric authentication, and data security. In collaboration with MeitY Startup Hub and NASSCOM, SITAA will nurture startups and researchers to develop homegrown solutions for a secure and inclusive digital identity ecosystem. It also aligns with national missions such as Digital Public Infrastructure and Atmanirbhar Bharat, fostering self-reliance and trust in India’s digital framework.

The “Koyla Shakti – Smart Coal Analytics Dashboard” is being launched by the Ministry of Coal as part of its digital transformation efforts in the energy sector. This real-time analytics platform aims to integrate data from coal producers, ports, and multiple ministries into a unified interface, enabling efficient tracking of the entire coal supply chain. By promoting data transparency, operational efficiency, and better coordination among stakeholders, the dashboard supports India’s goal of modernizing its coal management systems and ensuring smoother energy logistics across the country.

The Government of India is planning to reform the classification system of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) by introducing two new ‘Ratna’ categories in addition to the existing Maharatna, Navratna, and Miniratna statuses. This initiative aims to modernize the evaluation framework, align it with evolving market conditions, and reward efficiency, profitability, and innovation among CPSEs. A 10-member committee headed by Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan has been established to review the proposal and submit recommendations before the Union Budget 2026–27. The move reflects the government’s continued efforts to enhance corporate governance and performance accountability in the public sector.

The passenger vessel Sindhu achieved a historic feat by completing its maiden voyage to Barren Island, home to India’s only active volcano. Located about 140 km from Port Blair, Barren Island has long been a restricted zone, primarily accessible to scientists and researchers through aerial surveys. The successful journey of Sindhu marks a new chapter in Andaman and Nicobar tourism by opening sea-based access to one of India’s most unique geological sites. This development not only enhances eco-tourism prospects but also strengthens the region’s maritime connectivity and exploration initiatives.