Current Affairs - National

The Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) introduced by the Indian government ensures a pension equivalent to 50% of basic pay plus dearness relief tied to the inflation index. This scheme combines features of both the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and the new pension scheme, addressing demands for a secure retirement plan. The decision was made to satisfy central government employees, ensuring financial security post-retirement while also offering additional benefits such as a lump sum amount on retirement.

The Karnataka State Police Department debunked a viral rumour about a non-existent free travel scheme for women. They urged the public to rely on the actual emergency helpline, 112, for assistance, particularly in situations where urgent help is needed. The clarification was made to prevent the spread of misinformation and to ensure that people use the correct resources in emergencies.

Eastern Railways is expanding the One Station One Product (OSOP) initiative, allowing local artisans to set up stalls at Howrah and other stations to sell their handmade products. This move aims to support West Bengal's artisans and entrepreneurs by providing them with a platform to market and sell their creations. Artisans can register for a 15-day or 30-day period, with the fee covering registration costs plus free electricity for a specific number of units, facilitating their business operations at the station. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote local crafts and support local businesses.

Gujarat-based semicon company Suchi Semicon is poised to inaugurate India's first OSAT (Outsourced Assembly and Testing) plant in Surat. This significant development aims to bolster the country’s semiconductor sector. Expected to generate around 1,200 jobs in advanced semiconductor manufacturing, the facility underscores efforts to fill gaps in India's supply chain for semiconductor components, which have become increasingly crucial for electronic devices. With significant state support, including incentives and the potential for ISM (Investment Substitution Model) subsidies, Suchi Semicon's strategic focus on recruiting talent and technological innovation, particularly in legacy products and power devices, signals a pivotal move toward self-reliance in semiconductor production.

Solu, who was formerly known as Solairaj in Sattur, Tamil Nadu, has made history by becoming the first transwoman to open an aesthetic clinic in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. This clinic, named Ralax after her mother, provides affordable aesthetic services, including laser treatments and hair removal, with a 50% discount for transgender clients and people with disabilities. Solu's journey from a challenging background to a successful entrepreneur symbolizes her fight against societal norms and the marginalization of transgender identities in India. Her clinic not only offers medical treatments but also serves as a safe space for the transgender community to access aesthetic care without discrimination and financial burden.