Current Affairs - National

The World Bank report "Towards Resilient and Prosperous Cities in India" projects that by 2030, Indian cities will contribute to 70% of all new job creation. This emphasises the growing economic role of urban centres in India’s development. However, this urban expansion brings increased vulnerability to climate-related risks such as flooding, extreme heat, and air pollution. With urban populations rising and infrastructure under stress, the need for climate-resilient planning, smart infrastructure investment, and local governance autonomy becomes urgent. The 2030 milestone highlights both an opportunity and a challenge—economic growth must be coupled with sustainable, inclusive, and climate-adaptive urban development.

India achieved a significant energy milestone by reaching 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025, five years earlier than its original target year of 2030. This achievement reflects a major leap in India’s transition toward renewable fuels and underscores its commitment to sustainability, energy security, and climate goals. The Ethanol Blending Programme, initiated in 2003, has rapidly advanced from 1.5% blending in 2014 to 20% in 2025. This progress not only reduces dependence on imported crude oil but also generates substantial savings in foreign exchange, lowers CO₂ emissions, and supports millions of farmers through increased income from ethanol-producing crops.

The 4th edition of World Food India 2025 is scheduled to take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from 25th September. Organised by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, this four-day event carries the theme “Processing for Prosperity” and aims to gather stakeholders, industry leaders, and innovators under one roof. The goal is to promote advancements in food processing and share best practices that can drive the sector forward. Hosting the event in the capital city underscores its national importance and provides a central platform for international and domestic participants.

The New Delhi government has significantly increased the cash reward for Olympic and Paralympic medal winners to ₹7 crore under the Mukhyamantri Khel Protsahan Yojana. This is a major step up from the previous ₹3 crore reward and is aimed at motivating athletes to perform at the highest level. Additionally, the policy includes provisions for Grade A government jobs for gold and silver medalists, ensuring long-term security and recognition for sporting excellence. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, reflecting the government's commitment to promoting sports and rewarding achievement.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar submitted his resignation on the first day of the Monsoon Session, citing health reasons. As per constitutional protocol under Article 67(a) of the Indian Constitution, the resignation was addressed to the President of India, who currently is Droupadi Murmu. The resignation took immediate effect, and Dhankhar also stepped down from his role as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. During his departure, he reflected on the honour of serving as Vice President and praised India’s economic progress and its increasing stature on the global stage.