Current Affairs - National

The launch of the first cherry cargo train from Katra to Mumbai marks a transformative development in Kashmir’s agricultural logistics. With cherries being a highly perishable crop, timely and affordable transportation is crucial. Earlier, only large growers could afford the high costs of air cargo, excluding many small-scale farmers from lucrative markets. This new train service, covering the journey in just over 30 hours in refrigerated vans, provides an economical and efficient solution. Transporting 24 tonnes of cherries in one trip, opens up major market access for growers during the May–June harvest season, promoting agricultural growth and income stability in the region.

Operation Chakra-V is a specific initiative by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) aimed at targeting sophisticated cybercrime syndicates involved in transnational tech support scams, digital arrests, and various financial frauds. This operation led to the arrest of six members of a cybercrime syndicate, highlighting the active efforts by Indian authorities to combat cybercrime through coordinated measures including Operation Chakra-V, along with supporting institutions like the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), CERT-In, and Cyber Swachhta Kendra.

IIT Kharagpur has entered into a strategic collaboration with Singapore’s Institute of Microelectronics (IME) through a formal MoU to advance semiconductor research and innovation. The partnership, announced during SEMICON Southeast Asia 2025, aims to explore key areas such as post-CMOS technologies, AI hardware, quantum devices, and advanced chip packaging. This move is part of a broader initiative to enhance India's position in the global semiconductor landscape. By combining expertise from both institutions, the collaboration is set to play a vital role in talent development, fostering cutting-edge research, and reinforcing international cooperation in high-tech sectors.

The Gujarat Karmayogi Swasthya Suraksha Yojana is a dedicated healthcare scheme launched by the Government of Gujarat to offer cashless medical treatment to eligible groups such as All India Services officers, state government employees, and pensioners. The scheme provides coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family annually through a “G” category PMJAY card. It is implemented by the State Health Agency (SHA), which manages beneficiary data and ensures the proper distribution of benefits. By focusing on public servants and their families, the initiative strengthens healthcare accessibility and reduces financial stress related to medical expenses.

Lokpal, the anti-corruption body, examined and dismissed allegations of impropriety and conflict of interest against former SEBI chief Madhabi Puri Buch. These allegations were linked to claims made in a report by Hindenburg Research. After thorough scrutiny, Lokpal concluded that the accusations were based on mere assumptions without any verifiable evidence. As an independent ombudsman established to tackle corruption at high levels, Lokpal's decision to clear the former SEBI chief reinforces its role in ensuring that only substantiated and credible claims are pursued in anti-corruption investigations.