State PCS - Assam (APSC)

• 19 Feb 2026

Odisha Government’s Decision to Close FRA Support Cells

Why in News? 

The Odisha government’s directions to shut down Forest Rights Cells (FRCs) at district and sub-district levels have come under scrutiny from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), citing concerns over the effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. 

Key Points: 

• Forest Rights Cells (FRCs): Forest Rights Cells are dedicated administrative units created to support the implementation of the FRA, 2006. 
  • Functions: These specialized cells were instrumental in processing land claims and providing technical support to tribal communities. 
• Dissolution of Sub-divisional Cells: On February 17, 2026, the Odisha government ordered the closure of all 50 sub-divisional FRA Cells functioning under the Central Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DA-JGUA) scheme by the end of March. 
  • This follows the earlier discontinuation of district and tehsil-level cells under the State’s Mo Jungle Jami Yojana. 
• Mandate: The government has directed that all pending forest rights claims at these levels must be cleared before the March deadline. 
• Central Scrutiny: MoTA is inquiring into these decisions, emphasizing that support staff for FRA implementation must be ensured at all levels. 
• Status of FRA: Despite being a top performer in issuing forest rights titles, Odisha faces challenges, ranking sixth in the country for pending claims as of December 2025, with about 20% of cases unresolved.  
  • The data indicates significant pending Individual Forest Rights (IFR) and Community Rights (CR) claims, sparking concerns over the sudden push to clear them. 
• Significance: Potential impact on tribal rights recognition and may slow down recognition of community forest governance 
  • Legal Compliance: Critics raise questions regarding alignment with the Forest Rights Act, 2006, regarding the protection of tribal entitlements.

Read More: Forest Rights Act, 2006 

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.