Current Affairs - National

Tata Steel has commissioned India’s largest blast furnace at its Kalinganagar facility in Odisha, representing a significant advancement in the steel industry. With an investment of Rs 27,000 crore, this expansion increases the plant’s capacity from 3 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 8 MTPA. The new facility incorporates advanced and eco-friendly technologies designed to enhance production efficiency while meeting the demands of various sectors such as automotive, infrastructure, and defence. Key features include energy recovery systems and a focus on environmental protection, solidifying Tata Steel's commitment to sustainable practices in manufacturing.

The Maharashtra government has approved the renaming of Pune Airport to "Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj Airport" to honour the revered saint's contributions to Bhagwat Dharma. Sant Tukaram was born in Lohgaon, near the airport, and this decision aligns with the sentiments of local villagers and the Warkari community. The renaming reflects a tribute to Sant Tukaram’s legacy and cultural significance, enhancing the airport's connection to the region's spiritual heritage.

VisioNxt is India’s first fashion forecasting initiative, developed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) with support from the Ministry of Textiles. It uniquely combines Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emotional Intelligence (EI) to generate trend insights that reflect India's rich cultural diversity. Launched in 2018, VisioNxt aims to enhance global competitiveness by providing tailored insights for fashion consumers and professionals. Operating through hubs in Chennai and Delhi, it also supports Indian weavers and designers, reducing dependence on foreign trend agencies and fostering a stronger connection to local culture and design.

The Union Cabinet approved the Chandrayaan-4 mission, which aims to develop and demonstrate technologies necessary for safely landing on the Moon and returning to Earth. A key aspect of this mission is to establish foundational technologies for an Indian moon landing, planned for the year 2040. This initiative is part of a broader vision for India's space program, which includes the establishment of an Indian Space Station by 2035 and enhancing capabilities in lunar exploration and sample collection.

The partnership between PMBI and Coal India aims to establish Jan Aushadhi Kendras, providing high-quality generic medicines at affordable prices to Coal India's workforce and surrounding communities. This initiative seeks to reduce out-of-pocket expenditure on healthcare, making quality medicines accessible and affordable for those in need. By offering affordable medicines, Jan Aushadhi Kendras promote healthcare equity and supports the well-being of coal workers, residents, and their families.