State PCS - Assam (APSC)

• 31 Mar 2026

India’s First Port of Refuge Mechanism Launched by Adani Ports

Why in News?

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) has operationalised India’s first Port of Refuge (PoR) mechanism to strengthen maritime safety.

Key Points

• India’s First Port of Refuge: APSEZ has launched the country’s first Port of Refuge (PoR), establishing a systematic framework to manage maritime emergencies and assist vessels in distress.
  • The International Maritime Organization defines a Port of Refuge (PoR) as a designated location where ships facing difficulties can seek shelter to stabilize their situation, safeguard human life, and minimize environmental damage.
• Two-Port Model: The PoR framework will initially operate through Dighi Port on the west coast and Gopalpur Port on the east coast, providing strategic coverage across India’s coastline. 
• Global Collaboration: The initiative is supported through a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SMIT Salvage and the Marine Emergency Response Centre (MERC) to provide international expertise in maritime rescue and emergency response.
• Emergency Response Services: The mechanism will enable coordinated services such as salvage operations, firefighting, wreck removal, pollution containment, and cargo stabilisation during maritime incidents.
• APSEZ: Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited is India’s largest private port operator and part of the Adani Group, operating multiple ports and logistics infrastructure across the country.

Read More:  International Maritime Organization, Special Economic Zone

Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti Takes Charge as Chairperson of NCBC

Why in News?

Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti has assumed charge as the Chairperson of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC).

Key Points

• Background: Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti is a former Member of Parliament and has previously served as Union Minister of State in the Ministries of Rural Development and Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
  • She has been actively involved in social and community development initiatives, especially aimed at empowering and uplifting weaker and marginalized sections of society.
• New Member: Kiran Umesh Mahalle assumed charge as Member of NCBC.
  • She previously served as Mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Amravati and has extensive experience in social and organisational work.
• NCBC: The National Commission for Backward Classes is a constitutional body responsible for safeguarding the interests and welfare of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in India.
  • The National Commission for Backward Classes functions under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment of the Government of India.
  • Constitutional Status: Granted via the 102nd Amendment Act, 2018 (Article 338B).

Read More: National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)

World Food Prize 2026

Why in News?

Huub Lelieveld of the Netherlands has been named the 2026 World Food Prize Laureate for his pioneering work in global food safety science that has helped prevent millions of cases of foodborne illness and reduced food loss and waste worldwide.

Key Points

• Winner: Huub Lelieveld has been awarded the 2026 World Food Prize, recognising his lifelong contributions to food safety and global standards.
  • Lelieveld led a volunteer movement spanning over 113 countries to develop science‑based international food safety standards, regulations, and practices that ensure safer food supply chains globally.
  • He was awarded an honorary doctorate by the National University of Food Science and Technology, Kyiv, and was also conferred the title of Officer of the Order of Orange-Nassau by the Dutch Royal House for his exceptional contributions to international public health.
• Organization: He founded the Global Harmonization Initiative (GHI) in 2004 to align food safety regulations, streamline trade, and minimize unnecessary barriers that delay delivery of safe food, especially to vulnerable populations.
  • His work pioneered modern hygienic production methods and technologies that reduce reliance on excessive preservatives and improve food quality while extending shelf life.
• World Food Prize:
  • The award was established in 1986 by Nobel Laureate Norman Borlaug.
  • Winners receive USD 500,000 annually for innovations in agriculture, nutrition, food technology, and hunger alleviation.
  • The first awardee was M.S. Swaminathan in 1987, widely regarded as the father of India’s Green Revolution.
  • The 2025 World Food Prize was awarded to Mariangela Hungria.

Oscillation Trial of India’s First Hydrogen Train Successfully Completed

Why in News?

India’s first hydrogen-powered trainset has successfully completed its oscillation trial, marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to introduce clean and green rail transport. 

Key Points

• Trial: The oscillation trial of India’s first hydrogen trainset has been successfully completed as part of the safety and performance evaluation process. 
  • The trial was conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), the technical arm of Indian Railways responsible for testing and certification.
  • The trainset is currently the world’s longest hydrogen train (10 coaches) and among the most powerful with a 2400 kW power output.
• Train Development: The hydrogen-powered trainset was developed by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai. 
• Route: The train is expected to operate between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana.
  • A dedicated hydrogen production plant has been set up at Jind to supply fuel for the train.
• Green Technology: Hydrogen-powered trains produce zero carbon dioxide emissions, emitting only water vapour, making them an environmentally friendly transportation option.
• Global Significance: India will join an elite group of countries such as Germany, Sweden, Japan, and China that operate hydrogen-powered trains.

Read More: Zero carbon dioxide emissions

Stuti Pradhan to Represent India at World Youth Parliament

Why in News?

Stuti Pradhan from Sikkim has been selected to represent India at the prestigious World Youth Parliament 2026.

Key Points

• Representation: Stuti Pradhan, a young leader from Sikkim, has been chosen to represent India at the World Youth Parliament
• World Youth Parliament: 
  • The World Youth Parliament is an international platform that brings together young leaders from different countries to deliberate on major global challenges and suggest innovative policy solutions. 
  • It encourages cross-cultural dialogue and helps prepare participants for future roles in governance and diplomacy.
• Previous Achievements:
  • Stuti Pradhan emerged as the state-level winner of the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2025.
  • She was invited as a special guest to Lok Bhawan during the celebrations of Republic Day 2026 in recognition of her achievements.

Read More: Viksit Bharat