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April 2026 current affairs

Mission MITRA: Preparing Gaganyatris for Space

Why in News?

India has launched Mission MITRA to evaluate astronaut-designates (Gaganyatris) for India’s first human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan. The mission focuses on testing physical, psychological, and teamwork capabilities in extreme high-altitude conditions.

mission mitra 1

What is Mission MITRA?

  • Full Form: Mapping of Interoperable Traits and Response Assessment (MITRA)
  • Conducted by: ISRO
  • Purpose: To assess astronauts’ ability to function effectively under extreme conditions

Key Features

  • Four astronaut-designates involved:
    • Shubhanshu Shukla
    • Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair
    • Ajit Krishnan
    • Angad Pratap
  • Testing Location: High-altitude regions of Ladakh

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INS Aridhaman: India’s 3rd Nuclear Submarine

Why in News?

India has achieved another milestone in its strategic defence capability with the commissioning of INS Aridhaman, its third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN).

ins aridhaman

INS Aridhaman:

  • INS Aridhaman (S4) is India’s third indigenously developed SSBN.
  • It is part of the Arihant-class submarines.
  • Developed under the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project.
  • Represents a major advancement in indigenous defence technology.

What is India’s SSBN Programme?

India’s SSBN Programme is a highly classified, indigenous project aimed at constructing nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) to establish a credible, sea-based second-strike capability.  

  • SSBN stands for ship submersible ballistic nuclear or nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines.

Current Status of India’s SSBN Fleet (as of April 2026):

  • INS Arihant (S2): Commissioned in 2016.
  • INS Arighaat (S3): Commissioned in August 2024.
  • INS Aridhaman (S4): Commissioned in April 2026.
  • S4 (likely INS Arisudan):* Currently undergoing sea trials, expected commissioning in 2027
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indias-new-nuclear-powered-submarine-ins-aridhaman-commissioned/article70819744.ece: INS Aridhaman: India’s 3rd Nuclear Submarine

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INS Taragiri Commissioned: Boost to India’s Naval Power

Why in News?

The INS Taragiri (F41) is the newest stealth guided-missile frigate of the Indian Navy, commissioned at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam

ins taragiri

INS Taragiri – Key Highlights

  • INS Taragiri (F41) is the fourth ship under the Project 17A (Nilgiri-class).
  • It is a stealth guided-missile frigate designed for advanced naval warfare.
  • Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai.
  • Commissioned at the Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam.

What is Project 17A?

Project 17A (P17A) involves the construction of seven advanced Nilgiri-class stealth guided-missile frigates for the Indian Navy, designed for improved stealth, survivability, and combat capability. Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE),

Project 17A Vessels:

  • INS Nilgiri: First of class.
  • INS Himgiri: Built by GRSE.
  • INS Udaygiri: Built by MDL.
  • INS Taragiri: Commissioned April 2026.
  • INS Dunagiri: Delivered to the Indian Navy.
  • INS Vindhyagiri: Launched by GRSE.
  • Mahendragiri: Seventh frigate
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2248799&reg=3&lang=1: INS Taragiri Commissioned: Boost to India’s Naval Power

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Governor Must Follow Cabinet Advice on Remission: Madras HC

Why in News?

In a significant constitutional ruling, the Madras High Court clarified that the Governor cannot act independently in matters of remission and must follow the advice of the Council of Ministers under Article 161.

article 161 pardoning power of governor

Article 161:

Article 161 of the Constitution of India defines the pardoning power of the Governor, enabling them to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment.

Article 161 of the Constitution empowers the Governor to:

  • Grant Pardon – Complete removal of punishment
  • Grant Reprieve – Temporary suspension of punishment
  • Grant Respite – Reduced punishment due to special circumstances
  • Grant Remission – Reduction in the duration of sentence
  • Commute sentences – Change to a lesser form of punishment

Scope of Power

  • Applies only to offences against State laws
  • Similar to the President’s powers under Article 72, but limited to state jurisdiction

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