State PCS - Maharashtra (MPSC)

• 19 Feb 2026

IIT Bombay and Columbia University to Establish Centre of AI

Why in News? 

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Columbia University, United States, to establish the Columbia–IIT Bombay Centre of AI for Manufacturing. 

Key Points: 

• Joint Centre: The Columbia–IIT Bombay Centre of AI for Manufacturing will function as a collaborative research and translation centre focused on developing robust, scalable, and human‑centric AI systems for real‑world manufacturing challenges. 
  • The centre will work on AI solutions for multiple segments such as semiconductors, robotics, industrial production, pharmaceuticals, food processing, petrochemicals, construction, infrastructure, and transport & logistics. 
• Expertise: The initiative will leverage complementary strengths in AI, optimisation, process engineering, and manufacturing systems from both IIT Bombay and Columbia University to develop end‑to‑end industrial AI infrastructure. 
• Focus: The centre aims to tackle operational challenges such as legacy equipment integration, variable data quality, real‑time decision‑making, and workforce diversity in industrial settings. 
  • Through research outputs, talent development initiatives, and accessible AI tools, the centre will support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startups working in AI and manufacturing. 
• Outcomes: Foundational datasets, AI models, and interfaces developed by the centre are expected to be released as public goods to benefit broader industrial and academic communities. 

Read More: AI, MSMEs, Semiconductors 

Maharashtra Revokes 5% Reservation for Muslims

Why in News?

The Maharashtra government, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, revoked a decade-old 5% reservation for socially and educationally backward sections of the Muslim community.

Key Points: 

• Reservation: Maharashtra had earlier provided 5% reservation to Muslims by identifying certain Muslim communities as educationally and socially backward, not merely on the basis of religion. 
  • The policy was framed in the context of empirical findings indicating socio-economic deprivation among specific groups within the Muslim community. 
  • The reservation was originally introduced in July 2014 via an ordinance by the then Congress-NCP government. 
• Legal Standing: The quota had remained in a "legal limbo" for over a decade.  
  • The 2014 ordinance was never converted into law by the state legislature and had lapsed in December 2014. 
• Reasons Cited for Revocation: The state government has justified the withdrawal on multiple grounds: 
  • Constitutional Concerns: Articles 15(1) and 16(2) of the Constitution prohibit discrimination solely on the grounds of religion. 
    • Reservation policies must be based on social and educational backwardness, not religious identity per se. 
  • Judicial Scrutiny and Precedents: Courts, including the Supreme Court of India, have consistently held that religion cannot be the sole basis for affirmative action. 
• Immediate Impacts: Cessation of the issuance of Special Backward Category-A (SBC-A) caste and validity certificates for Muslims. 

Read More: Reservation 

Henley Passport Index 2026

Why in News? 

India’s passport has climbed in the 2026 Henley Passport Index, a globally recognised ranking of passports based on visa-free travel access. The rise in rank reflects enhanced global mobility for Indian citizens and strengthened diplomatic relations. 

Key Points: 

• Global Ranking: India’s passport has moved to the 75th position in the 2026 Henley Passport Index, rising 10 places from 85th in 2025. 
  • Indian passport holders can now enter 56 countries without a prior visa, including those allowing visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival, or electronic travel authorisation (ETA), facilitating ease of international movement. 
• Methodology: The index, published by Henley & Partners, ranks 199 passports across 227 destinations using data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), based on ease of entry without prior visa approval. 
  • Top-Ranked Passports: Singapore retains the top position with 192 visa-free destinations, followed closely by Japan and South Korea. 
  • Bottom-Ranked Passports: Countries like Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria remain at the bottom of the index, reflecting restricted international mobility due to geopolitical and security challenges. 
• Regional Comparison: India ranks above several South Asian peers such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Nepal, while Maldives ranks substantially higher in the region. 
• Significance: The improved ranking indicates strengthened diplomatic ties, enhanced business and tourism opportunities, and better international recognition of Indian citizens’ travel freedom. 

Read More: Henley Passport Index 2025 

BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025

Why in News? 

Indian women’s cricketer Smriti Mandhana has been named the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year for 2025 at a prestigious award ceremony in New Delhi, in recognition of her outstanding achievements in sport during the year. 

Key Points: 

• Recognition: Smriti Mandhana was honoured as the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year 2025 for her consistently brilliant performances. 
  • Especially in her pivotal role in India’s historic 2025 Women’s World Cup triumph and success in domestic leagues.  
• Sport Honourees: Chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh was named Emerging Player of the Year for her historic win at the FIDE Women’s World Cup. 
  • Preethi Pal received the Para‑Sportswoman of the Year title for her two bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. 
• Lifetime Achievement: Veteran shooter Anjali Bhagwat was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her trailblazing career, including being the first Indian woman shooter to reach an Olympic final. 
• Selection Process: The winners were chosen by a distinguished jury comprising sports figures such as Leander Paes, Deepa Malik, and Anju Bobby George. 
• Promotion of Women’s Sport: The awards ceremony celebrates and spotlights excellence and impact of Indian women athletes, highlighting their contributions in international events and inspiring future generations. 

Read More: 2025 Women’s World Cup, Olympic, FIDE Women’s World Cup.