State PCS - Maharashtra (MPSC)

• 14 Mar 2026

New Haj House to Come Soon in Navi Mumbai

Why in News? 

The Haj Committee of India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) for the construction of a new Haj House at Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, to serve as a modern facility supporting Indian Haj pilgrims. 

Key Points 

• Project Agreement: The Haj Committee of India signed an MoU with CPWD for planning, designing and constructing a Transit‑cum‑Training and Facilitation Centre for Haj pilgrims at Kharghar in Navi Mumbai. 
  • The project has received in‑principle approval from the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, and will be funded by the Haj Committee of India at an estimated cost of ₹225 crore. 
• Purpose: The Haj House will provide training, orientation, accommodation and facilitation services to Indian pilgrims preparing for the sacred journey to Mecca, ensuring smooth and efficient travel arrangements. 
• Execution: CPWD will undertake the construction under its established procedures, ensuring timely completion, adherence to quality standards, and compliance with project guidelines. 
  • The Haj House is located close to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, which will significantly enhance logistical convenience and connectivity for pilgrims travelling for Haj. 
• Impact: The Haj House is expected to significantly improve pre‑departure preparation, accommodation and logistical support for Haj pilgrims from across India, and become an important hub for capacity building and pilgrim facilitation. 

Digital Twin Technology at V.O. Chidambaranar Port

Why in News? 

The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has achieved a major technological milestone by becoming the first Indian major port to implement a Digital Twin platform for port management, marking a significant step in modernising port operations.  

Key Points: 

• Inauguration: The Digital Twin platform was inaugurated by Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. 
• Digital Twin Initiative: It is a real-time virtual replica of the port’s physical infrastructure and operations—aimed at improving operational efficiency and visibility. 
  • The system integrates advanced technologies such as IoT sensors, GPS tracking, LiDAR mapping, drone imaging, and CCTV networks to continuously mirror real-time conditions across the port. 
• Benefits: Real-time port monitoring, predictive maintenance, intelligent vessel scheduling, reduced congestion, and energy & emission tracking. 
  • The initiative aims to reduce vessel turnaround time by up to 25%, improve equipment reliability, enhance safety through predictive alerts, and optimize energy usage to lower carbon emissions. 
• National Vision Alignment: The project aligns with the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, reflecting the government’s focus on digitalisation, technology adoption, and global competitiveness of Indian ports. 

Read More: V.O. Chidambaranar Port, Maritime India Vision 2030, GPS