State PCS - JAMMU & KASHMIR (JKAS)

• 22 Aug 2025

Udhampur Railway Station Renamed After Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan

Why in News? 

In a heartwarming tribute to Captain Tushar Mahajan, the Udhampur Railway Station in Jammu and Kashmir has been officially renamed after the martyr.  

• The decision was announced by Union Minister Jitendra Singh on 21st August 2025, further affirming the government's dedication to recognizing the sacrifices of national heroes. 

 

Key Points 

• Renaming of Udhampur Railway Station: Captain Tushar Mahajan, who was awarded the MCTM (Military Cross for Gallantry), made the ultimate sacrifice during the Udhampur terrorist attack.  
  • This gesture aims to honor his bravery and contribution to the nation. 
• Captain Tushar Mahajan: Captain Tushar Mahajan was born on 20th April 1989, in Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir.  
  • He joined the National Defence Academy in 2006 and was later commissioned into the Parachute Regiment, joining the 9 Para(SF), an elite unit specializing in mountain warfare and counter-terrorism operations. 
  • In 2016, Captain Mahajan led his team in the Pampore Operation to neutralize militants at the Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI).  
  • Despite multiple gunshot wounds, he eliminated terrorists before succumbing to his injuries and was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra for his bravery. 

Process of Renaming Railway Stations in India 

• Initiation: The state government initiates the renaming process, with the Chief Secretary submitting the proposal to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) after obtaining approval from the State Cabinet.  
• Central Government Review: The MHA reviews the proposal, consulting relevant departments like the Ministry of Railways, Intelligence Bureau, Department of Posts, Geographical Survey of India, and Ministry of Earth Sciences. No-objection certificates are obtained, and MHA ensures the name is unique nationwide. 
• Approval and Notification: Upon MHA’s approval, it informs the Ministry of Railways. The state government issues a Gazette notification, and the Lieutenant Governor's office (in case of UTs) grants formal approval. 
• Implementation by Railways: The Zonal Railway implements the name change after the notification, creates a new station code, updates the ticketing system, and changes physical signage at the station. 

India's Performance at IOAA 2025

Why in News? 

India’s national team emerged victorious at the 18th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) 2025, held in Mumbai from 15th to 21st August, winning four gold medals and one silver medal.  

• The event, which saw participation from 288 students across 63 countries, marked another milestone for India’s reputation in global science education. 

Key Points 

• Gold Medalists from India are: 
  • Aarush Mishra from Bengaluru 
  • Banibrata Majee from Delhi 
  • Panini from Patna 
  • Akshat Srivastava from Kolkata 
• Silver Medalists from India are: 
  • Sumant Gupta from Gurugram secured the silver medal, completing India’s impressive medal haul. 
• Competition Highlights: This year’s IOAA gathered 288 students from around the globe, who participated in a series of practical and theoretical evaluations.  
  • Iran stood out as the top performer, with all five of its team members securing gold medals. 
• Closing Ceremony and Awards: The IOAA concluded on 21st August 2025, with a grand closing ceremony.  
  • 145 medals were awarded, including 50 golds, 44 silvers, and 51 bronzes. Anil Kakodkar, Chancellor of Homi Bhabha National Institute, congratulated the winners, praising their pursuit of scientific excellence and India’s increasing investments in astronomy and space research. 
• Global Participation: Countries like Australia and Hong Kong celebrated their first-time successes, with Australia securing a silver medal and Hong Kong also achieving a silver.  
  • Italy won three bronze medals, reflecting the growing global interest in space science education. 
• About IOAA: The IOAA, established in 2007, is a premier global event for high-school students passionate about astronomy and astrophysics. This year, the event was organized by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), a part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR).