Technology & Innovation
India’s Hydrogen-Powered Train
India’s first hydrogen-powered train coach was tested at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai. The project costs βΉ80 crore (βΉ70 crore for infrastructure), with pilot runs on the JindβSonipat route as part of the Hydrogen for Heritage programme.
Employment & Welfare
MP’s Internship Assistance Scheme
Madhya Pradesh government provides financial assistance for unemployed youth doing internships: βΉ6,000/month for women and βΉ5,000/month for men. This gender-differentiated policy aims to promote women’s empowerment while boosting overall employment.
Diplomacy & Environment
Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Initiative
PM Modi gifted a Sonoma Dove Tree sapling to King Charles III at Sandringham Estate during his UK visit. This gesture reinforced India’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ environmental initiative and promoted green diplomacy.
International Relations
India-Maldives Strategic Partnership
During PM Modi’s July 2025 visit, India reduced the Maldives’ debt repayment burden by 40%. This demonstrates India’s commitment to its Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR doctrines amid regional competition, particularly from China.
Culture & Heritage
India-Maldives Maritime Heritage
Commemorative stamps marking 60 years of India-Maldives ties featured traditional vessels: the Indian Uru and Maldivian Vadhu Dhoni. These wooden boats symbolize the shared maritime heritage in the Indian Ocean region.
Science & Space
Dr. V. Narayanan’s Cryogenics Achievement
ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan received the GP Birla Memorial Award 2025 for his pioneering work in cryogenic technology. Cryogenics is critical for launching heavier satellites and advancing India’s space capabilities.
Education
Historic Leadership at IGNOU
Prof Uma Kanjilal became the first female Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU since its inception in 1985. This appointment marks a significant milestone for inclusive leadership in Indian higher education and open distance learning systems.
Defence
Bold Kurukshetra 2025
The Indo-Singapore military exercise held in Jodhpur focused on urban combat and counter-terrorism. The exercise enhanced interoperability using advanced weapons and simulations, aligning with India’s Act East Policy.
Sports
Joe Root’s Old Trafford Milestone
England’s Joe Root became the first batter to score over 1,000 Test runs at Old Trafford. He also moved to 2nd position in all-time Test run-scorers, behind Sachin Tendulkar with 15,921 runs.
History & Defence
Kargil War Strategic Objectives
The 1999 Kargil War was orchestrated by Gen. Pervez Musharraf to capture Siachen Glacier and internationalize the Kashmir dispute. The infiltration aimed to occupy strategic peaks and force India to negotiate on Kashmir through global intervention.