Current Affairs - National

The SASCI scheme, with a sanctioned outlay of ₹3,295.76 crore, is primarily aimed at boosting tourism development in India, particularly by promoting lesser-known but iconic destinations. The initiative focuses on creating comprehensive and responsible tourism experiences through 100% central funding support. Projects are selected using a challenge-based model to ensure quality, transparency, and long-term sustainability. These projects cover heritage restoration, eco-tourism, spiritual site development, and modern tourist amenities. By enhancing connectivity, infrastructure, and visitor facilities, the scheme significantly increases the attractiveness of such destinations, generating employment opportunities and uplifting local economies while fostering sustainable growth.

India signed the Terms of Reference with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) to begin negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement. The EAEU comprises Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, and Russia. This agreement lays the groundwork for boosting bilateral trade, supporting MSMEs, and diversifying India’s market access in Eurasia. With bilateral trade already reaching USD 69 billion in 2024, the FTA is expected to further accelerate growth across sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT services, textiles, machinery, and agriculture. Strengthening these ties not only enhances India’s trade prospects but also deepens its strategic and economic footprint in the Eurasian region.

A total of 34 Indian students were flagged off to take part in the Sakura Science Programme 2025 held in Japan. This initiative, launched in 2014 by Japan and joined by India in 2016, is organised by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). The programme encourages international youth exchange in science and technology, fostering collaboration and mutual learning among young participants. Apart from India, countries such as Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia, and other Asian nations are also part of this initiative, making it a significant platform for global scientific cooperation and cultural exchange.

The National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) has launched a new Medical Application Portal specifically designed for laboratories applying under ISO 15189:2022. This standard is globally recognised for defining quality and competence requirements in medical laboratories, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and safety in diagnostic testing. The digital portal simplifies application processes, offers real-time status tracking, and introduces multi-user access for better accountability. By streamlining accreditation procedures, it aims to enhance India’s healthcare infrastructure, reduce human errors, and speed up approvals. Accreditation under ISO 15189:2022 strengthens trust in diagnostic services, making it critical for patient safety and effective healthcare delivery.

Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) collaborated with IIT Guwahati to work on developing biodegradable alternatives to single-use plastics. This partnership is focused on addressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution by creating sustainable and eco-friendly solutions for railway operations as well as passenger services. As part of the first phase of the project, eco-friendly green bed-roll bags were introduced on NFR trains, marking a significant step toward reducing non-biodegradable waste. This initiative not only strengthens India’s fight against plastic pollution but also demonstrates the role of academic–industry partnerships in driving impactful environmental innovation.