Constitutional Law
Right to Passport under Article 21
The Supreme Court affirmed that the right to a passport flows from Article 21 (personal liberty), not just as a travel document but as an essential aspect of liberty. The Court emphasized due process and proportionality in any restrictions imposed by authorities.
Strategic Resources
India’s Rare Earth Paradox
India holds 6-7% of global rare earth reserves but produces less than 1% globally. The gap exists due to monazite-linked radioactive constraints, limited refining infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles, making this a critical strategic and economic challenge.
Mining & Environment
Monazite and Radioactive Challenges
Indian rare earth deposits often contain monazite, a mineral with radioactive elements. This creates stringent regulatory requirements for extraction and processing, significantly slowing the development of India’s rare earth value chain.
Environment
Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ)
Parvati-Arga Bird Sanctuary received ESZ status to create a protective buffer zone. ESZs regulate harmful activities, promote biodiversity conservation, and balance ecological protection with sustainable livelihoods and responsible ecotourism.
International
Israel Prize for Peace – Historic First
The announcement of the Israel Prize for Peace to Donald Trump marks two firsts: the first non-Israeli recipient and the first-ever Peace category under this prestigious award, recognizing Middle East peace diplomacy efforts.
Business & Economy
India as 4th Largest Economy
India surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, driven by robust domestic consumption, structural reforms, and strong growth momentum. This milestone reflects India’s rising global economic significance.
Monetary Policy
Open Market Operations (OMO)
When RBI conducts an OMO purchase auction, it buys government securities from banks, thereby injecting durable liquidity into the system. This supports credit flow and helps stabilize interest rates in the economy.
Banking & Finance
NPA Reduction Drivers
RBI data shows that recoveries and upgrades contributed approximately 43% to GNPA reduction. This improvement reflects better credit management, stronger provisioning practices, and improved underwriting standards rather than loan waivers.
Defence
Defence Acquisition Council Approvals
The DAC cleared proposals to modernize all three services with advanced strike capabilities, surveillance systems, secure communications, and training infrastructure, significantly enhancing operational readiness and strategic deterrence.
Science & Health
ITVISMA Gene Therapy for SMA
ITVISMA is a breakthrough single-dose gene therapy targeting the SMN1 gene for spinal muscular atrophy. It’s now available for patients aged 2 years and above, including adults, though high treatment costs remain a barrier to access.