State PCS - Odisha (OPSC)

• 29 Jan 2026

Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana in Punjab

Why in News? 

The Punjab Government has announced the launch of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, under which all residents of Punjab will be provided cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh per family per year, making it one of the most comprehensive state-level health cover schemes in India. 

Key Points 

• Administered by: Punjab State Health Agency. 
• Objective: To ensure universal access to quality healthcare and reduce out-of-pocket expenditure for citizens. 
• Beneficiaries: All bonafide residents of Punjab are eligible, with no income or socio-economic criteria. 
  • Beneficiaries will be verified using Aadhaar card and voter identity card. 
  • The scheme aims to cover around 65 lakh families, benefiting nearly 3 crore people. 
• Healthcare Services Covered: The scheme covers secondary and tertiary healthcare, including major surgeries, ICU care, diagnostics and medicines. 
  • Treatment will be available in government and private hospitals within and outside Punjab. 
• Financial Model: The operational model involves both insurance and state funding. 
• Significance: Punjab becomes among the few Indian states offering universal cashless medical coverage without income restrictions. 

Read More: Universal access to healthcare,   Aadhaar card 

Operation Sahyadri Checkmate launched by DRI

Why in News? 

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) conducted a major operation under the codename “Operation Sahyadri Checkmate” in the Sahyadri ranges. 

Key Points

• Operation: The DRI launched Operation to disrupt clandestine drug production networks in the remote Sahyadri forest region. 
• Location: Hidden mobile methamphetamine (mephedrone) lab in Sahyadri ranges, disguised as a poultry farm. 
• Seizure: 21.912 kg of mephedrone and 71.5 kg of raw materials capable of producing ~15 kg of drugs. 
  • Market Value: Estimated illicit value of ₹55 crore. 
• Strategy: Combination of intelligence‑led surveillance and late-night interception. 
• National Security: Prevents organised drug trafficking, protects public health, and disrupts criminal networks. 
  • The operation demonstrates the critical role of DRI in safeguarding national security. 

Read More: Sahyadri,  Directorate of Revenue Intelligence 

Wings India 2026

Why in News? 

The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced that Wings India 2026, Asia’s largest civil aviation event, will be held in January 2026 at Begumpet Airport, Hyderabad. 

Key Points 

• Theme: The theme is “Indian Aviation: Paving the Future – From Design to Deployment, Manufacturing to Maintenance, Inclusivity to Innovation and Safety to Sustainability.” 
• Nature of Event: Wings India 2026 is a global civil aviation exhibition and conference covering the entire aviation value chain including airports, airlines, manufacturing, MRO and logistics. 
• India's Aviation Growth: India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing civil aviation markets with a significant increase in passenger traffic, aircraft induction and airport infrastructure. 
  • Wings India 2026 promotes regional air connectivity, which is the core objective of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme. 
• Focus: The event highlights India’s push towards aircraft manufacturing, Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) and aerospace component production. 
  • The sessions also focus on airports and infrastructure, aircraft leasing, air cargo, drones, advanced air mobility, training, and women in aviation. 
• Sustainability Initiatives: Emphasis is placed on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), green airports and adoption of digital and eco-friendly aviation technologies. 

Read More:  UDAN scheme, Sustainable Aviation Fuel 

Telangana Police Introduces Doorstep FIR Registration

Why in News? 

The Telangana Police has launched a first-of-its-kind citizen-centric initiative allowing victims to register First Information Reports (FIRs) at their residence or chosen location. 

Key Points 

• Objective: To reduce procedural delay, protect the dignity and safety of victims, and remove barriers for those unable to visit police stations.  
• Applicable Cases: Initially applicable to specified categories of cognisable offences, including those under laws such as the POCSO Act, SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, and Telangana Prohibition of Ragging Act. 
• Procedure: Police officers will visit the victim’s residence, hospital or place of offence, record the initial statement, secure the crime scene, and later formally register the FIR at the police station.  
  • After registration, a copy of the FIR is provided at the same location via email, WhatsApp, or hard copy if required.  
• Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): SOPs have been issued to ensure uniform implementation. 
• Policy Alignment: Aligns with victim-centric policing, criminal justice reforms, and Article 21’s guarantee of access to justice. 

Read More: POCSO Act, SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, Article 21 

Ashok Chakra 2026 Awarded to Shubhanshu Shukla

Why in News? 

President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Ashok Chakra to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force (IAF) during the 77th Republic Day 2026. 

Key Points 

• Ashok Chakra: India’s highest peacetime gallantry award for acts of conspicuous bravery, self-sacrifice or valor. 
  • Award Criteria: The Ashok Chakra is conferred for most conspicuous bravery or self-sacrifice in peacetime, equivalent in prestige to the Param Vir Chakra, which is awarded in wartime. 
• Awardee: Shubhanshu Shukla recognized for leadership, courage and exemplary conduct during the Axiom‑4 space mission. 
  • He became the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station. 
  •  His recognition highlights India’s growing capabilities in human space missions and places space service on par with traditional acts of gallantry. 
• National Importance: Reinforces India’s focus on aerospace achievements, defense valor and scientific contribution, inspiring youth and recognizing pioneering efforts. 

Read More:  77th Republic Day 2026, Axiom‑4 space mission, International Space Station