State PCS - Uttar Pradesh (UP PCS)

• 17 Mar 2026

SATHEE Portal Launched by MoE with IIT Kanpur

Why in News? 

In a major stride toward democratizing quality education, the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with IIT Kanpur, has fully operationalised the SATHEE (Self-Assessment, Test and Help for Entrance Exams) platform.  

Key Points: 

• Universal Access: SATHEE is a completely free digital learning platform designed to bridge the gap for students who cannot afford expensive private coaching. 
• Comprehensive Coverage: Initially launched for JEE (Engineering) and NEET (Medical), the platform has expanded to include preparation for CUET, SSC, IBPS, ICAR, CLAT, and RRB exams. 
• Academic Excellence: The educational content is curated by faculty from prestigious institutions, including IITs, IISc, and AIIMS. 
• Multilingual Support: Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, materials are available in English, Hindi, and 12 regional languages to ensure linguistic inclusivity.  
• Technological Innovations: The SATHEE Portal integrates cutting-edge technology to enhance the learning experience:  
  • AI-Based Analytics: The platform uses artificial intelligence to identify a student's weak and strong areas, suggesting targeted video lectures and practice questions. 
  • Interactive Learning: Features include "Solve with Me" sessions, live doubt-clearing (available from 10 AM to 6 PM), and motivational mentorship from IIT and AIIMS alumni. 
  • Crash Courses: The platform regularly launches intensive preparation modules, such as a 40-day online crash course for JEE Main 2026 aspirants. 
• Educational Equity: By providing free, high-quality resources, SATHEE directly supports economically and socially weaker sections, particularly in rural and remote areas. 
• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): It showcases India's capability to build scalable digital assets for social good, contributing to SDG 4 (Quality Education). 

Read More:  National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 

BCCI Naman Awards 2026

Why in News? 

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) organised the Naman Awards 2026 to honour outstanding performers and legendary personalities in Indian cricket for the 2024–25 season, recognising achievements in international and domestic cricket. 

Key Points: 

• Polly Umrigar Award: Shubman Gill received the Award for Best International Cricketer (Men) for the 2024–25 season, while Smriti Mandhana was named Best International Cricketer (Women), marking her record fifth BCCI honour.  
• Colonel C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award: It was conferred on former cricketers Rahul Dravid, Roger Binny, and Mithali Raj for their outstanding contribution to Indian cricket. 
• International Debut Awards: These awards recognise emerging cricketers for their impressive debut performances in international cricket. 
  • Best International Debut (Men): Harshit Rana 
  • Best International Debut (Women): N. Sree Charani 
• Domestic Cricket Awards: These honours recognise exceptional performances in India’s domestic cricket competitions. 
  • Jagmohan Dalmiya Trophy (Best Woman Cricketer – Domestic): Ira Jadhav 
  • Best Woman Cricketer in Senior Domestic One-Day Tournament: Shafali Verma 
• Lala Amarnath Award for Best All-Rounder: The award in domestic cricket was presented to Ayush Mhatre (Limited-Overs tournaments) and Harsh Dubey (Ranji Trophy). 
• Best Cricket Association: The Mumbai Cricket Association received the award for Best Performance in BCCI Domestic Tournaments for the 2024–25 season.  
• Best Umpire: Ulhas Gandhe was recognised as the Best Umpire in Domestic Cricket for his officiating performance in domestic tournaments. 
• Significance: The BCCI Naman Awards celebrate excellence across all levels of Indian cricket—international, domestic, and administrative—while honouring legendary personalities who have made lasting contributions to the sport. 

Read More: Ranji Trophy