2026 current affairs Archives | Page 14 of 18

National Women’s Day: 13th February

Why in News?

National Women’s Day in India is observed annually on 13 February. The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, a key figure in India’s freedom struggle and women’s empowerment.

Sarojini Naidu:

Sarojini Naidu is a vital figure representing the intersection of the Indian national movement, women’s empowerment, and literary excellence. Known as the “Nightingale of India” (Bharat Kokila).

Key Institutional Milestones

Indian National Congress (INC): She was the first Indian woman to be elected President of the INC at the 1925 Kanpur Session. (Note: Annie Besant was the first woman President overall in 1917).
First Woman Governor: In 1947, she was appointed the Governor of United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh), becoming the first woman to hold such a post in independent India.
Women’s Indian Association (WIA): She co-founded the WIA in 1917 alongside Annie Besant to advocate for women’s suffrage and education

Role in the Freedom Struggle

Non-Cooperation & Civil Disobedience: A staunch follower of Mahatma Gandhi, she participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920) and the Salt Satyagraha (1930).
Dharasana Satyagraha: After Gandhi’s arrest during the Salt March, she took command of the raid on the Dharasana Salt Works on May 21, 1930, leading 2,500 volunteers.

Literary & Cultural Contributions

Her poetry is noted for its vivid imagery and themes of patriotism and Indian life. Key works include

The Golden Threshold (1905)
The Bird of Time (1912)

https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/national-womens-day-wishes-2025-celebrating-sarojini-naidus-birth-anniversary-and-her-legacy-9223105.html

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Tetanus and Diphtheria Vaccine Launched in India – Key Facts for Exams

Why in News?

The Union Health Minister launched a Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td) vaccine programme. The initiative aims to strengthen protection against life-threatening infectious diseases in India.

Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine is a dual-protection shot that immunizes older children and adults against tetanus and diphtheria.

About Tetanus:

Tetanus is a serious, sometimes fatal, disease caused by Clostridium tetani bacteria, which produce a toxin causing severe, painful muscle spasms and “lockjaw”

Source: Soil, dust, animal manure.
Transmission: Enters body through cuts, wounds, or injuries

About Diphtheria:

Diphtheria is a serious, highly contagious bacterial infection caused by toxin-producing strains of Corynebacterium diphtheriae. While it typically affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, it can also impact the skin.

Cause: Bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae.

Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets.

Symptoms:

Sore throat, fever
Thick grey membrane (pseudomembrane) in throat

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2230793&reg=3&lang=1

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Telangana Opposes Almatti Dam Height Increase on Krishna River – Key Facts for TGPSC exams

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Telangana Current Affairs / Team PSC Chronicles

Why in News?

Telangana government has decided to oppose Karnataka’s proposal to increase the height of the Almatti Dam on the Krishna River, citing concerns over reduced downstream water availability.

Key Highlights:

Almatti Dam is located across the Krishna River in Karnataka.
It is officially called Lal Bahadur Shastri Dam.
Present Storage Capacity: 123.08 TMC at 519 metres height.
Proposed Increase: Height to be raised to 524.256 metres.
Expected Storage After Expansion: Around 300 TMC.
Telangana fears that increased storage will reduce water flow to downstream states like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Background:

The Krishna River is one of the major inter-state rivers in India, flowing through Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
Water sharing is governed by Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal (KWDT) awards.

Post-Bifurcation Water Sharing (2014):

Total allocation to undivided Andhra Pradesh: 811 TMC
- Andhra Pradesh: 512 TMC
- Telangana: 299 TMC
Any upstream project like Almatti impacts downstream states, leading to interstate disputes.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/telangana-to-move-sc-challenging-karnataka-government-s-plan-on-almatti-dam-height-101762372079396.html

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Asian Waterbird Census 2026 at Kolleru Wildlife Sanctuary – Notes for APPSC exams

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Andhra Pradesh Current Affairs / Team PSC Chronicles

The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) was recently conducted at Kolleru Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh. This annual census helps monitor waterbird populations and assess the health of wetland ecosystems.

Asian Waterbird Census:

The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) is part of the global International Waterbird Census (IWC).
The IWC was launched in 1967 by Wetlands International.
Conducted every year during January (2nd & 3rd weeks).
Census period coincides with the mid-winter non-breeding season of migratory birds.

About Kolleru Lake:

Kolleru Lake is Asia’s largest shallow freshwater lake and one of the largest freshwater lakes in India. Located in Andhra Pradesh between the deltas of the Krishna and Godavari rivers, it is a vital ecological site designated as both a Wildlife Sanctuary (1999) and a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance (2002)

Water Sources: The lake is fed by seasonal streams like the Budameru and Tammileru and drains into the Bay of Bengal through the Upputeru outlet.
Biodiversity Hub: Known as a “Bird Heaven,” it serves as a critical stop on the Central Asian Flyway

Biodiversity Importance

Recognized as a major wetland ecosystem and bird habitat.
Key species:
- Spot-billed (Grey) Pelican
- Painted Stork
- Open-billed Stork
- Ibis
- Siberian Crane

Protected Areas

Atapaka Bird Sanctuary is located within the Kolleru region.
Serves as a safe breeding and feeding ground for migratory birds.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/asian-waterbird-census-in-ap-on-jan-5-and-6/article33489082.ece

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Kerala Renaming to ‘Keralam’ Approved – Article 3 & State Name Change Procedure Explained for Exams

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Polity Current Affairs / Team PSC Chronicles

Why in News?

Union Cabinet has approved a proposal to rename Kerala as “Keralam”, initiating the constitutional process under Article 3 of the Indian Constitution.

Constitutional Basis:

Article 3 – Alteration of State Name

Parliament has the power to:

Form new states
Alter boundaries
Increase or decrease area
Change the name of a state

Article 4 – Supplemental Provisions

Any law under Article 3:
- Amends the First Schedule (list of states)
- Amends the Fourth Schedule (Rajya Sabha seats)
Such changes:
- Are not considered Constitutional Amendments
- Passed by simple majority

Step-by-Step Procedure to Change State Name:

Presidential Recommendation:
- Bill can be introduced in Parliament only with prior approval of the President.
Reference to State Legislature:
- President refers the Bill to the concerned State Legislature for its opinion.
Non-Binding Opinion:
- State’s views are not binding on Parliament.
Parliamentary Approval:
- Bill passed by simple majority in both Houses.
Presidential Assent:
- After approval, the President signs the Bill → Name change becomes official.

https://ddnews.gov.in/en/union-cabinet-approves-proposal-to-rename-kerala-as-keralam/

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Rajya Sabha Elections 2026 – 37 Seats Notified | Composition, Tenure & Articles Explained

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Polity Current Affairs / Team PSC Chronicles

Why in News?

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued notification for elections to 37 Rajya Sabha seats, with polling scheduled in March 2026, as the terms of these members are expiring in April.

Rajya Sabha – Key Features:

Maximum Strength: 245 members

233 elected from States & UTs
12 nominated by the President

Nature of House:

Permanent body (cannot be dissolved)
Ensures continuity in Parliament

Tenure:

Each member serves 6 years
1/3rd members retire every 2 years (biennial elections)
Based on Article 83(1)

Composition & Representation:

Allocation of seats is based on population.
Governed by the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution.

Nominated Members (Article 80(3)):

12 members nominated by the President of India.
Chosen from fields like:
- Literature
- Science
- Art
- Social Service
They may join a political party within 6 months of taking their seat

https://ddnews.gov.in/en/eci-announces-march-16-polling-for-37-rajya-sabha-seats-across-10-states/

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SC/ST Sub-Classification Verdict 2024 – Supreme Court Seeks Centre Report | Article 341 Explained

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Polity Current Affairs / Team PSC Chronicles

Why in News?

The Supreme Court has asked the Union Government to submit a report on actions taken following its landmark 2024 Constitution Bench verdict allowing sub-classification within SC/ST categories for reservation.

SC/ST sub-classification:

SC/ST sub-classification is the process of dividing the Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST) categories into smaller sub-groups to ensure that reservation benefits reach the most disadvantaged communities within them

This concept, often called “quota within a quota,” was validated by a landmark 6:1 majority ruling of a seven-judge Supreme Court bench in August 2024 in the case of State of Punjab v. Davinder Singh

What is the Supreme Court Verdict (2024)?

A 7-judge Constitution Bench upheld the validity of sub-classification within SC/ST categories. It ruled that:

SC/ST groups are not homogeneous.
States can provide preferential treatment to the most backward sub-castes.

The judgment overturned the 2004 E.V. Chinnaiah case, which had disallowed such sub-classification.

Constitutional Provisions Involved:

Article 341 – Scheduled Castes

Empowers the President to notify SCs for each State/UT.
Done in consultation with the Governor.
Parliament alone can modify the list (include/exclude groups).

Key Clarification by Supreme Court:

Article 341 defines who is included in SC list.
It does not prevent internal classification for reservation benefits.
Sub-classification does not violate Article 14 (Right to Equality)

https://indianexpress.com/article/legal-news/sc-seeks-centres-report-on-action-taken-on-its-sc-st-sub-classification-verdict-10525491/

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Substantive Motion in Lok Sabha – Meaning, Types & Constitutional Significance for Exams

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Polity Current Affairs / Team PSC Chronicles

Why in News?

A substantive motion was recently proposed in the Lok Sabha against the Leader of Opposition, seeking cancellation of membership.

Substantive Motion:

A substantive motion is an independent proposal placed before the House.
It seeks a definite and binding decision of the House.
It is complete in itself and not dependent on any other motion.
Admission of a substantive motion depends entirely on the Speaker’s discretion.
Once adopted, it reflects the formal opinion or will of the House.

It differs from:
- Subsidiary motions (depend on another motion)
- Procedural motions (relate to House functioning)

Examples of Substantive Motions in Lok Sabha:

Election of Speaker and Deputy Speaker
Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address
No-confidence motion / Confidence motion
Adjournment motion on urgent public issues
Resolution for removal of Speaker/Deputy Speaker
Motion declaring a seat vacant
Motions for general public interest discussions

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/what-is-a-substantive-motion-why-bjp-wants-rahul-gandhi-disqualified-from-lok-sabha/article70627499.ece

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16th Finance Commission Retains 41% Devolution, Introduces GDP Criterion – Key Highlights for Exams

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Polity Current Affairs / Team PSC Chronicles

Why in News?

The 16th Finance Commission (16th FC), chaired by Arvind Panagariya, tabled its report for the award period 2026–2031. The central highlight is the retention of 41% vertical devolution of central taxes to states while introducing a landmark 10% weightage for GDP contribution in the horizontal distribution formula

Key Highlights:

Vertical Devolution:

vertical devolution refers to the distribution of the net proceeds of central taxes between the Union (Central) government and all the State governments collectively

Retained at 41% of the divisible tax pool (same as 15th Finance Commission).
Applicable for the award period 2026–31.

Horizontal Devolution Changes:

Horizontal devolution refers to the allocation of central tax revenues among individual states in a federation

Introduction of 10% weightage for GDP contribution.
Aims to reward economically productive and efficient states.

What is Finance commission?

The Finance Commission is a constitutional body under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution. It is constituted every 5 years to recommend:

Distribution of tax revenues between Centre and States (vertical devolution)
Distribution among States (horizontal devolution)

Exam Tip:

Article 280 – Finance Commission.
Difference between vertical & horizontal devolution

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/finance/16th-finance-commission-keeps-states-tax-share-at-41/articleshow/127847218.cms?from=mdr

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Karnataka Hate Speech Bill 2025 Reserved for President – Articles 200 & 201 Explained for Exams

Leave a Comment / Daily Current Affairs, Polity Current Affairs / Team PSC Chronicles

Why in News?

The Karnataka Governor has reserved the Karnataka Hate Speech and Hate Crimes (Prevention) Bill, 2025 for the President’s assent, citing constitutional and legal concerns. This brings focus on the Governor’s discretionary powers under the Indian Constitution.

Constitutional Provisions related to governor assent:

In the Indian Constitution, the primary provisions regarding a Governor’s assent to bills passed by the State Legislature are found in Articles 200 and 201. These articles outline the Governor’s choices and the subsequent role of the President

Article 200:

When a Bill is presented, the Governor has four main options:

Grant Assent: The bill becomes law.
Withhold Assent: The bill does not become law; however, recent rulings state this cannot be used indefinitely (the “pocket veto”).
Return the Bill: Non-money bills can be returned for reconsideration “as soon as possible”. If re-passed by the legislature, the Governor must give assent.
Reserve for President: Mandatory if the bill threatens the High Court’s position, or discretionary if it violates the Constitution, DPSP, or national interest.

Article 201:

When a Bill is reserved, the President may assent, withhold assent, or return it for reconsideration (non-money bills). Unlike the Governor, if the state legislature re-passes a bill returned by the President, the President is not obliged to grant assent

Grounds for Reservation of Bills:

he Governor may reserve a bill. If the bill

Endangers the High Court’s powers
Is against constitutional provisions
Falls under matters requiring prior presidential sanction

https://www.ndtv.com/karnataka-news/karnataka-governor-thaawar-chand-gehlot-reserves-hate-speech-and-hate-crimes-prevention-bill-2025-for-presidential-assent-10925375

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