• 07 Mar 2026

54th Shodh Yatra in Jharkhand

Why in News? 

The 54th Shodh Yatra, organised by SRISTI (Society for Research and Initiatives for Sustainable Technologies and Institutions), concluded in Jharkhand after documenting grassroots innovations, traditional knowledge, and indigenous food practices in rural areas. 

Key Points: 

• Shodh Yatra: It is a grassroots innovation exploration initiative organised by SRISTI, which involves walking through rural and remote regions to identify local innovations, traditional knowledge, and sustainable practices developed by communities. 
  • The yatra was led by Anil Kumar Gupta, the convenor of SRISTI and a pioneer in promoting grassroots innovations. 
  • This was conducted in February 2026, covering a distance of about 125 km from Aurapath in Dumri to Bendor in Chainpur in Jharkhand. 
• Villages Covered: The journey passed through 27 villages, enabling interaction with rural communities and documentation of local practices and innovations. 
  • During the yatra, researchers documented about 53 different species of edible plants, indigenous crops, and traditional food practices used by local communities.  
• Community Recognition: The event also honoured local innovators and centenarians, acknowledging their contributions to preserving traditional knowledge systems. 
• Significance: The Shodh Yatra helps identify grassroots innovations, preserve indigenous knowledge, and promote sustainable development, while connecting rural creativity with researchers, policymakers, and institutions. 

Read More: Sustainable Development 

Karnataka to Ban Social Media for Children Under 16

Why in News? 

The Karnataka government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, announced in the 2026‑27 state budget a ban on social media access for children under the age of 16.  

Key Points: 

• Policy: The ban was proposed during the budget presentation in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly.  
  • It forms part of the state government’s broader strategy to ensure safe and responsible use of digital platforms among children. 
• Target Group: The regulation will apply to all children under 16 years of age, restricting access to social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok (or any similar digital platforms). 
• Objective: The primary aim is to protect children from exposure to harmful content, reduce the risk of cyberbullying, addiction, and mental health issues, and promote healthy digital habits among the younger population. 
• Implementation: The government plans to work with platform providers, telecom companies, and educational institutions to enforce the ban effectively.  
  • Measures may include age verification systems and parental control mechanisms. 
• Potential Challenges: Experts have raised questions regarding the practicality of enforcement, the role of parental guidance, and the need for digital literacy programs to complement the restriction. 
• Significance: This is the first state-level policy in India targeting social media access by minors. The move reflects increasing concern globally about the impact of social media on mental health, concentration, and overall development of children. 

Read More: Social media impact,  Digital literacy programs 

Toxic Gas Leak at Palghar Chemical Unit in Maharashtra

Why in News? 

A major oleum gas leak occurred at a chemical unit in Palghar district, Maharashtra, prompting the evacuation of over 2,600 people. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of the incident. 

Key Points: 

• Incident: On 2 March 2026, a hazardous oleum gas leak — a fuming form of sulphuric acid — was reported at Bhageria Industries Ltd in Boisar MIDC.  
  • The gas formed a dense white cloud over a 5 km radius, affecting residential and industrial areas. 
• Evacuation: Over 2,600 people were evacuated.  
  • Local disaster teams, fire brigade, and NDRF units were deployed to contain the leak. 
• Impact: At least three people reported minor eye irritation.  
  • Authorities advised residents to stay indoors and follow safety protocols. 
• Cause: Preliminary reports indicate that the leak occurred due to faulty storage or mishandling of oleum, a fuming, highly corrosive chemical used in industrial processes. 
• Administrative Action: The NHRC took suo motu cognisance, directing the Maharashtra Chief Secretary to submit a detailed report within two weeks.  
  • Police registered an FIR against the company for negligent handling of hazardous chemicals. 
• Significance: The leak highlights the importance of industrial safety protocols, emergency preparedness, and regulatory oversight to protect public health in chemical industrial zones. 

Read More: NHRC, NDRF 

Nitish Kumar Moves to Rajya Sabha, Ends 20-Year Bihar CM Tenure

Why in News? 

The Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar, filed his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha elections, marking the probable end of his nearly 20‑year long tenure as Bihar Chief Minister.  

Key Points: 

• Rajya Sabha Nomination: Nitish Kumar filed his nomination papers for the March 16, 2026 Rajya Sabha elections, signalling a shift from state executive leadership to national parliamentary politics. 
• End of Long Tenure as CM: The decision effectively ends his 20‑year tenure as the longest‑serving Chief Minister of Bihar, during which he held office for multiple terms since 2005.  
  • Initial Party: Janata Dal. 
  • Co-founded Party: Samata Party (1994) with George Fernandes. 
  • The Samata Party later merged into the Janata Dal (United) in 2003. 
  • Nitish became Chief Minister of Bihar for the first time in 2000. 
  • On 20 November 2025, Nitish Kumar took oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar for a record tenth term. 
• Policy Legacy: During his leadership, Nitish Kumar introduced key reforms, including measures on law and order, prohibition of alcohol, infrastructure development, and social welfare programmes, earning him the title of “Sushasan Babu” for his emphasis on governance and administrative discipline. 
• Support: The nomination was filed in the presence of senior leaders including Union Home Minister Amit Shah. 
  • Nitish Kumar stated that he has always desired to serve in both Houses of Parliament and sees this move as completing his legislative journey, having previously been a MLA, MLC, and Lok Sabha MP.  
• Significance: The development marks a significant shift in Bihar’s political landscape, ending an era of prolonged leadership while positioning Nitish Kumar for a role in the Upper House of Parliament, potentially shaping future national and state political dynamics. 

Read More: Rajya Sabha, Lok Sabha, Nitish Kumar 

Rajasthan Scrap Two-Child Norm for Local Body Elections

Why in News? 

Rajasthan has overturned a nearly 30-year-old rule that barred individuals with more than two children from contesting local body elections, along with removing disqualification based on leprosy. 

Key Points:  

• Legislative Change: The Rajasthan Legislative Assembly passed amendments to the state’s Panchayati Raj and municipal laws removing the two-child eligibility criterion and the leprosy-based disqualification for candidates in local body elections. 
  • The two-child policy was introduced in 1995 to promote population control by disqualifying individuals with more than two children from contesting panchayat and municipal elections. 
• Removal of the Provision: The state government argued that the rule was discriminatory and ineffective in population control, and it prevented many capable citizens from participating in grassroots democracy. 
• Leprosy-Based Disqualification: Earlier, people suffering from leprosy were barred from contesting elections.  
  • The amendment removes this restriction in line with modern medical understanding and anti-discrimination principles related to Leprosy. 
• Alignment with Central Law: The change aligns with the spirit of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 and public health reforms that discourage discrimination against people cured of or living with leprosy. 
• Impact: The reform is expected to expand democratic participation in Panchayati Raj Institutions and urban local bodies, enabling more citizens to contest elections regardless of family size or past disease status. 

Read More: Local body elections, Panchayati Raj, Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 

Karnataka Budget 2026–27

Why in News? 

The Government of Karnataka presented the State Budget for 2026–27 in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly in March 2026. The budget was presented by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who also holds the Finance portfolio. The budget focuses on welfare guarantees, infrastructure development, technology, and agriculture. 

Key Points: 

• Total Budget Outlay: The total expenditure proposed for FY 2026–27 is ₹4,48,004 crore, with a revenue deficit of about ₹22,957 crore, making it a deficit budget. 
• Fiscal Position (₹ Crore): 
  • Budget estimate: 4,48,004 
  • Total Receipts: 4,47,240 
  • Revenue Receipts: 3,15,050 
  • Capital receipts: 190  
  • Total Expenditure: 4,48,004 
  • Revenue Expenditure: 3,38,007 
  • Net Capital Expenditure: 74,682 
  • Gross Capital Expenditure: 84,567 
  • Gender Budget: 94,663 
  • Child Budget:  63,135 
• Infrastructure Development: Around ₹7,000 crore has been allocated for infrastructure development in Bengaluru to improve roads, mobility systems, and urban facilities.  
• Urban Infrastructure: 
  • ₹3,000 crore allocated for white-topping of 450 km roads in urban areas. 
  • ₹2,250 crore for new metro and tunnel road projects in Bengaluru.  
• Airport Development: ₹1,593 crore has been allocated for the development of seven domestic airports in the state, with ₹200 crore earmarked for immediate spending in FY 2026–27. 
• Rural Development:  
  • ‘Pragathi Patha’ Scheme with assistance from ADB for development of 7,110 k.m. of rural roads at a cost of Rs.5,190 crore. Budget of Rs.500 crore.  
  • ₹10,433 crore allocated to support Jal Jeevan Mission projects in the state. 
  • ₹500 crore for the Pragati Path scheme aimed at improving rural road connectivity.  
• Artificial Intelligence and Technology: The government announced the establishment of Artificial Intelligence Centres of Excellence in Bengaluru with an allocation of ₹16 crore, in collaboration with technology institutions and industry bodies. 
  • Implementation of Quantum Road Map at a cost of Rs. 10 crore 
• Water Resource Department:  
  • Execution of Mekedatu Project after obtaining forest clearance from the Central Ministry of Environment. 
  • Amount of Rs.490 crore to Vuduthore halla scheme to irrigate 12000 acres of command area in Hanur taluk of Chamarajanagara. 
• Education Sector: 
  • ₹3,900 crore allocated to upgrade 800 schools under the Karnataka Public School model. 
  • 15,000 teaching posts will be filled in schools and colleges. 
  • Amount of Rs. 640 crore for construction of additional classrooms, toilets and repairs in schools and colleges. 
• Health Sector: 
  • ₹900 crore allocated for strengthening health infrastructure. 
  • 2,500 vacancies in the health department to be filled. 
  • Free insulin will be provided to children up to 18 years suffering from Type-1 diabetes. 
• Women and Child Development Department:  
  • Enhancement of Incentives to Rs.45,000 for income generating activities to former Devadasis, Gender Minorities, Chetana and Dhanashree scheme beneficiaries. 
  • Construction of Anganwadi buildings in Kalyana Karnataka region at Rs.200 crore. 
  • Establishment of additional 20 Creches at district level. 
• Agriculture Initiatives: The budget emphasises modern farming and value addition, including the launch of the Chief Minister Krishi Vistara Yojana with an outlay of ₹100 crore over three years to promote scientific farming and reuse of agricultural waste. 
  • Millet and Agricultural Marketing: A Millet Hub will be established to promote millets and organic produce through better marketing, branding, and processing facilities. 
  • Food Security: ₹6,200 crore allocated for distribution of Indira Food Kits, which will include items such as pulses, sugar, salt, and cooking oil for eligible households. 
• Social and Minority Welfare: 
  • ₹44,632 crore allocated under the SC Sub-Plan and Tribal Sub-Plan for welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. 
  • Upgradation of Maulana Azad Model Schools and Urdu schools into Karnataka Public Schools with allocations of ₹600 crore and ₹400 crore respectively. 
  • Allocation of Rs.1,500 crore to the corporations of SC, ST, BC & Minority Welfare.  
  • Establishment of Scheduled Tribes Commission. 
  • Starting of 4 new working women's hostels of 100 capacity in Bengaluru. 
• Energy and Sustainability: Plans to install solar micro-grids in all Gram Panchayats under the Anantha scheme and expand renewable energy infrastructure. 
  • Rs.10,578 crores allocated for Gruha Jyothi.  
  • 1250 Electric vehicle charging stations will be established under the PM-E-drive scheme at a cost of Rs. 777 crores. 
  • Incubation Centre for startups at a cost of Rs. 20 crore to be set up with IIM (B), the University of New South Wales, Australia & IISc. 
• Commerce & Industries:  
  • Aerospace common facility centre in KIADB Aerospace park at a cost of Rs. 30 crore.  
  • Rs. 600 crore for the Bengaluru-Mumbai industrial corridor project. 
  • Rs. 225 crore allocated for the empowerment of weavers.  
• Information Technology & Bio-Technology:  
  • Under the LEAP program - Super 100 Industry-Academia Adoption Program, K-Combinator accelerator and Plug-andplay ‘Leap Labs will be established in Hubballi, Kalaburagi, Hoskote and Mysuru.  
  • A new IT Park will be established in Mangaluru to promote GCC by KEONICS.  
  • Mysuru city will be developed as the Second IT city of the State. 
  • A drone testing facility will be established in Chikkaballapur district. 
• Forest, Ecology and Environment :  
  • A ₹1,500 crore programme announced to address human-animal conflicts through measures such as elephant-proof trenches. 
  • A Leopard Rehabilitation Centre at Bannerghatta at a cost of Rs.5 crore. 
  • Establishment of Nature Interpretation Centre at Mysuru Zoo and Bannerghatta National Park. 
  • Development of ‘Cultural Leader Basavanna Biodiversity Park’ at Madappanahalli, Bengaluru 
• Law and Order:  
  • Rs 175 Crore for construction of court buildings and residential quarters for judges.  
  • ₹10 crore allocated for establishing an Anti-Narcotics Task Force to combat drug trafficking and abuse. 
• Digital Safety Initiative: The budget proposes a ban on social media access for children below 16 years to address concerns related to online addiction and mental health. 
• Significance: The budget aims to balance large welfare commitments with investments in infrastructure, technology, agriculture, and human development, while addressing urban challenges and promoting long-term economic growth in Karnataka. 

India’s First Riverine Lighthouses to Come Up on Brahmaputra

Why in News? 

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation stones for India’s first riverine lighthouses along the Brahmaputra River on National Waterway‑2 in Assam.  

Key Points: 

• Locations of the Riverine Lighthouses: Four modern river lighthouses will be constructed at strategic points along the Brahmaputra in Assam: 
  • Pandu (Kamrup Metropolitan district) 
  • Bogibeel (Dibrugarh district) 
  • Silghat (Nagaon district) 
• Biswanath Ghat (Biswanath district) 
• NW-2: These sites lie along National Waterway-2, one of India’s most important inland water transport corridors. 
• Objective: To enhance night navigation safety and efficiency for cargo and passenger vessels operating on National Waterway-2. 
• Technology: These lighthouses will be equipped with modern Automatic Identification System (AIS) and advanced lighting to guide vessels through the complex channels of the Brahmaputra. 
• Dual Purpose: Beyond navigation, these structures are designed as tourism hubs, featuring viewing galleries and museum exhibits to showcase the maritime history of the Northeast. 
• Strategic Importance: This move aligns with the Maritime India Vision 2030, which seeks to increase the share of inland water transport in India's modal mix to reduce logistics costs. 
  • Tourism & Heritage: The project integrates the Lighthouse Tourism initiative, aimed at converting functional navigation aids into heritage tourism sites to generate local employment.

Read More:National Waterway-2, Lighthouses 

Aerodrome License Granted to Noida International Airport

Why in News? 

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has officially granted the Aerodrome License to the Noida International Airport (NIA) at Jewar. 

Key Points: 

• Location: Jewar, Gautam Buddha Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh. 
• Developer/Operator: Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (a subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG). 
• Aerodrome License Approval: The license validates that the airport is fully compliant with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) set by the DGCA. 
  • Operational Readiness: This clearance follows the successful completion of calibration flights, validation of Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), and emergency response drills. 
• Infrastructure & Economy: NIA is a centerpiece of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, expected to boost the economy of Western Uttar Pradesh (the "Jewar-Greater Noida" industrial belt) and ease congestion at Delhi’s IGI Airport. 
• Urban Planning: The airport is the anchor for the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) region, driving the growth of the proposed Film City, Medical Device Park, and Apparel Park. 
• Federalism & PPP Model: A prime example of a successful Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between a foreign investor (Zurich Airport) and state/central agencies. 

Read More:Noida International Airport, PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan 

IBM Launches Its First Infrastructure Innovation Centre in India

Why in News? 

Global technology company IBM has launched its first Infrastructure Innovation Centre in India, aimed at accelerating the adoption of enterprise-scale Artificial Intelligence (AI) and hybrid cloud technologies.  

Key Points: 

• First Infrastructure Innovation Centre in India: The new centre has been launched in Bengaluru, a major technology hub in Karnataka. 
• Focus: It will help organizations build, test, and scale AI and hybrid cloud solutions using advanced computing infrastructure. 
• Objective of the Centre: The centre aims to: 
  • Accelerate AI adoption in enterprises. 
  • Support digital transformation of businesses. 
  • Provide infrastructure solutions for data processing, cloud computing, and AI workloads. 
  • Help companies modernize legacy IT systems. 
• Role in Enterprise-Scale AI: The centre will provide enterprises with: 
  • AI-ready infrastructure 
  • Advanced data management platforms 
  • Access to IBM’s AI ecosystem such as IBM watsonx, IBM’s generative AI and data platform. 
  • This will help businesses deploy large AI models and machine-learning systems for different sectors. 
• Significance for India: India is rapidly emerging as a global hub for AI innovation and digital services, and this centre will support the development of AI-driven solutions. 
  • Boost to Digital Economy: The initiative aligns with India’s push for digital transformation and technology-driven growth.