A landslip at the Vishnugad hydroelectric project site near Helang in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, injured 12 labourers, with four sustaining serious injuries. Approximately 300 labourers were present at the site when a rockslide occurred. The project, managed by the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Ltd. (THDC), has suspended work until all safety measures are ensured. State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, and health departments were dispatched to the site. The THDC is constructing a barrage to regulate Alaknanda river water for electricity generation, and the barrage site had previously suffered damage from a flood in 2021.
- A landslip injured 12 labourers at the Vishnugad hydroelectric project site in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand.
- Work at the project site has been suspended to ensure the safety of the workers.
- The project is being developed by the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Ltd. (THDC).
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is aiming for a 2027 launch of its LVM3 launch vehicle equipped with a new semi-cryogenic propulsion stage. This upgrade, designed to enhance payload capability and reduce costs, involves replacing the L110 core stage with a semi-cryogenic engine using refined kerosene and liquid oxygen (LOX). The new SE2000 semi-cryogenic engine is designed to supply 200 tonnes of thrust, a significant increase from the 80 tonnes of the liquid-fuelled Vikas engine. The LVM3, formerly GSLV Mk III, is ISRO's most powerful rocket to date, and this advancement will be crucial for future launch vehicles.
- ISRO plans to launch its first LVM3 vehicle with a semi-cryogenic stage by the first quarter of 2027.
- The new semi-cryogenic stage aims to enhance payload capacity and reduce launch costs for the LVM3.
- The SE2000 semi-cryogenic engine will provide 200 tonnes of thrust, a substantial increase over the current Vikas engine.
The Indian Navy received Himgiri (Yard 3022), an advanced guided-missile frigate built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata. This delivery marks a significant milestone in India's pursuit of self-reliance in warship design and construction. Himgiri is the third ship of the Nilgiri Class (Project 17A) and the first of this class built by GRSE. The Project 17A frigates are versatile multi-mission platforms designed to address future maritime challenges. Himgiri is modeled on the erstwhile INS Himgiri, a Leander-class frigate, and was designed by the Warship Design Bureau.
- The Indian Navy has taken delivery of Himgiri (Yard 3022), an advanced guided-missile frigate.
- Himgiri was constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, marking a step towards self-reliance.
- It is the third ship of the Nilgiri Class (Project 17A) and the first of this class built by GRSE.
A World Bank report commended India for lifting 171 million people out of poverty, with extreme poverty falling to 2.3% by 2022-23. However, the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2023-24 reveals that conveyance is the largest non-food expenditure, with bus travel accounting for 20% of total conveyance expenditure. Rural India spends more on bus travel (20.6%) than urban India (16.2%), despite lower incomes. While free bus schemes for women in some states have reduced urban bus expenditure, rural areas show an increase. The article calls for improved transportation infrastructure, electric buses, and better quality/affordability of services, especially in rural areas, to reduce conveyance costs and improve livelihoods.
- A World Bank report indicates a significant reduction in extreme poverty in India, falling to 2.3% by 2022-23.
- Conveyance, particularly bus travel, constitutes the largest non-food expenditure for Indian households.
- Rural households spend a higher proportion of their conveyance budget on buses (20.6%) compared to urban households (16.2%).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Tamil Nadu highlighted the Chola dynasty's legacy, focusing on their enterprise in trade, sovereignty, water management, tax collection, and democratic processes. While commemorating Rajendra Chola I's maritime expedition and the construction of the Brihadisvara temples, the article emphasizes the practical lessons from Chola administration. The resilience of Chola temples offers insights into seismic-resistant building techniques. The Cholas' water resource management in the Cauvery delta is particularly relevant for addressing contemporary flood and scarcity issues. The article also calls for analyzing the functioning of grassroots-level democratic bodies, drawing parallels with the Chola era, to address current administrative flaws.
- The Chola dynasty's legacy extends beyond grand temples to include significant administrative acumen.
- Chola-era water management, particularly in the Cauvery delta, offers valuable lessons for modern resource management.
- The structural stability and seismic resilience of Chola temples provide insights for contemporary building techniques.
Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), India's first public-private partnership (PPP) airport, is undertaking a major expansion focused on green energy, smart technology, and integrated growth. The plan includes a dedicated IT park, a green hydrogen production facility, and airport-wide digital upgrades, aiming to make CIAL future-ready and sustainable. CIAL is collaborating with BPCL to build the world's first airport-based green hydrogen plant, slated for inauguration in August, with a capacity of 1 MW. This initiative, along with other projects like an import cargo terminal and MRO services expansion, aligns with 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' goals, promoting domestic capabilities and attracting foreign business.
- Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is India's first public-private partnership (PPP) airport.
- CIAL is undergoing a major expansion focusing on green energy, smart technology, and integrated growth.
- It is collaborating with BPCL to establish the world's first airport-based green hydrogen plant, with a 1 MW capacity.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has begun relocating its offices from the iconic North Block to the Common Central Secretariat (CCS) building on Janpath, as part of the Central Vista redevelopment project. The North and South Blocks, which house key administrative ministries, will be converted into a museum named 'Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum', expected to display 25,000-30,000 artefacts and become one of the world's largest museums. The shift aims to improve coordination, collaboration, and synergy among government organs, reduce congestion, and save significant rental costs by vacating rented accommodations, estimated at ₹1,000 crore per annum.
- The Union Home Ministry is moving from North Block to the new Common Central Secretariat buildings.
- The North and South Blocks will be transformed into the 'Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum'.
- The Central Vista redevelopment project aims to enhance government coordination and efficiency.
A preliminary report on the Air India Boeing 787 crash in Ahmedabad (June 2025) highlights critical uncertainties and a deep lack of trust in India's aviation system. The author argues for comprehensive reforms to establish a genuine "culture of safety" across all layers, including fair employment, mental health support for air crew, and accountability for airlines and regulators. Systemic breakdowns are evident in aircraft design, maintenance, flight crew duty limitations, airline operations prioritizing profit over safety, and air traffic management. Regulatory loopholes, such as those allowing construction near airports, and the silencing of whistle-blowers further compromise safety, making immediate systemic improvements crucial to prevent future accidents.
- The preliminary report on the Air India Boeing 787 crash in Ahmedabad reveals systemic issues in India's aviation safety.
- A genuine "culture of safety" is urgently needed, encompassing fair employment, mental health support for air crew, and accountability for all stakeholders.
- Regulatory loopholes, such as relaxed construction norms around airports, pose significant threats to aviation safety.
The Indian Navy commissioned INS Nistar, the first indigenously designed and constructed diving support vessel, in Visakhapatnam. Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth was present at the ceremony. The 118-meter ship is one of two diving support vessels being built by Hindustan Shipyard Ltd. It is designed for complex deep-sea saturation diving and rescue operations, a capability possessed by only a few navies globally. INS Nistar is equipped with state-of-the-art diving equipment, including remotely operated vehicles, self-propelled hyperbaric lifeboats, and diving compression chambers, capable of operations up to 300 meters depth. It will also serve as a "Mother Ship" for deep submergence rescue vessels.
- INS Nistar is the Indian Navy's first indigenously designed and constructed diving support vessel.
- It was commissioned in Visakhapatnam in the presence of Union MoS for Defence Sanjay Seth.
- The vessel is built by Hindustan Shipyard Ltd. and is designed for complex deep-sea saturation diving and rescue operations.
China has emerged as a global leader in the green energy sector, installing more wind turbines and solar panels in 2024 than all other nations combined and dominating the renewable supply chain. This dominance stems from decades of strategic state planning and massive investments in innovation, with State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) and banks playing a crucial role. Driven by climate goals, severe air pollution, and energy insecurity, China allocated $940 billion to renewables in 2024. Despite challenges like grid absorption and haphazard subsidies, Beijing responded with ultra-high voltage transmission lines and a focus on efficiency, now aiming for leadership in next-generation technologies like AI smart grids and green hydrogen.
- China leads globally in green energy installations and controls the renewable energy supply chain.
- Its success is attributed to long-term strategic state planning, massive investments, and the pivotal role of SOEs and state banks.
- Key drivers include addressing severe air pollution, achieving climate goals, and enhancing energy security.
Ahmedabad has been declared the cleanest 'million-plus city' in India in the Centre's annual "Swachh Survekshan 2024-25" survey, followed by Bhopal and Lucknow. The 'Swachh Shahar' category was introduced this year to promote new cities in cleanliness rankings. Mira-Bhayandar topped the "3 lakh to 10 lakh population" group. Indore, Surat, Navi Mumbai, and Vijayawada were inducted into the 'Super Swachh League' for sustained excellence. Prayagraj received the 'Best Ganga Town' award, and Secunderabad Cantonment was named the Cleanest Cantonment Board. These awards encourage urban local bodies to improve waste management and sanitation practices.
- Ahmedabad secured the top position as the cleanest 'million-plus city' in the Swachh Survekshan 2024-25.
- New categories like 'Swachh Shahar' and 'Super Swachh League' were introduced to recognize cleanliness efforts across various city sizes.
- Specific awards were given for 'Best Ganga Town' and 'Cleanest Cantonment Board'.
Recent tremors in Delhi (magnitude 4.4) and a series of earthquakes across Asia highlight India's seismic vulnerability, especially as the Indian Plate drifts northward, making the Himalayas prone to a "Great Himalayan Earthquake." Delhi, in Seismic Zone IV, faces high risk due to rapid urbanization and non-compliant older structures. The article emphasizes the urgent need for India to rigorously enforce seismic codes, retrofit old buildings, and adopt resilient infrastructure. It draws lessons from Bangkok's high-strength concrete use and warns against unreinforced masonry seen in Myanmar. Experts estimate annual retrofitting investments of ₹50,000 crore are needed, urging a national dialogue and public education for preparedness to transform vulnerability into strength.
- Recent tremors in Delhi and widespread seismic activity across Asia underscore India's high seismic vulnerability, particularly in the Himalayan region.
- Delhi, located in Seismic Zone IV, faces significant risk due to rapid urbanization and a large number of older buildings not compliant with seismic codes.
- India's seismic risk is exacerbated by the northward drift of the Indian Plate, making the Himalayas overdue for a major earthquake.
Global shipping aims for decarbonisation by 2040-50, presenting a significant opportunity for India. The industry is transitioning from traditional fuels like Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and LNG to green alternatives such as green ammonia and e-methanol. Green hydrogen, produced via renewable energy, is foundational, with green ammonia being preferred for its stability in shipping. India is encouraged to become a marine green fuels production hub, leveraging its solar energy revolution and policy frameworks. Challenges include high upfront capital costs, price discrepancies, and reliance on imports for key technologies. The article suggests innovative financial instruments, PLI schemes, CCUS incentives, and demand-side support for green shipbuilding to achieve this goal.
- Global shipping is committed to decarbonisation by 2040-50, transitioning from traditional fuels to green alternatives like green ammonia and e-methanol.
- Green hydrogen, derived from renewable power, is the key enabler, with green ammonia being a more stable and practical fuel for shipping than hydrogen itself.
- India has a significant opportunity to establish itself as a global hub for marine green fuel production, building on its successful solar energy revolution.
The Gingee Fort in Villupuram district, along with 11 other forts comprising the Maratha Military Landscapes of India, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This decision, made at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris, is expected to boost tourism to these sites, including Gingee Fort, known as the 'Troy of the East'. The Maratha Military Landscapes, spanning from the 17th to 19th centuries CE, represent the strategic military vision and architectural ingenuity of the Maratha Empire. This recognition is a proud moment for Tamil Nadu and the country, highlighting India's 44th property on the UNESCO list.
- Gingee Fort and 11 other Maratha forts have been collectively inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The decision was made during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris.
- The Maratha Military Landscapes showcase the strategic military vision and architectural ingenuity of the Maratha Empire from the 17th to 19th centuries.
Recent catastrophic infrastructure failures across India, including bridge collapses in Vadodara and Pune, a hoarding collapse in Mumbai, and a railway bridge failure in Mizoram, highlight the urgent need for regular audits. These incidents, often attributed to neglect, underfunding, and understaffing of responsible departments, point to India's aging infrastructure struggling under expanding urban populations and industrial growth. The article calls for modifying asset-creating initiatives like the Urban Infrastructure Development Fund and rehabilitative schemes like Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation to prioritize maintenance of aging urban assets, especially in cities with populations over 10 lakh. It also stresses the need for transparent enforcement of audit frameworks and statutory probes into accidents.
- India has experienced multiple catastrophic infrastructure failures, leading to significant loss of life.
- These incidents are symptomatic of aging infrastructure, inadequate maintenance, and departmental neglect.
- There is an urgent need for regular, comprehensive audits of all major infrastructure projects.
The Indian Navy has inducted INS Nistar, its first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel (DSV), from Hindustan Shipyard Ltd. (HSL) in Visakhapatnam. This warship, measuring 118 meters and weighing nearly 10,000 tonnes, is equipped with advanced diving equipment capable of deep-sea saturation diving up to 300 meters. With nearly 75% indigenous content, the induction of INS Nistar marks a significant milestone in the Indian Navy's ongoing efforts towards indigenous construction and self-reliance in defense capabilities.
- The Indian Navy has inducted INS Nistar, its first indigenously designed and built Diving Support Vessel (DSV).
- The ship was constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Ltd. (HSL) in Visakhapatnam.
- INS Nistar is equipped for deep-sea saturation diving up to 300 meters, enhancing the Navy's underwater capabilities.
Delhi's policy to ban refuelling for petrol vehicles older than 15 years and diesel vehicles older than 10 years, effective July 1, 2025, aims to curb air pollution. However, the policy is imprecise as vehicle age is a poor proxy for actual emissions without fitness checks. Implementation faces challenges with ANPR systems, staff training, and drivers bypassing the ban. Analysis shows only 8% of Delhi's vehicle fleet (7.5 lakh vehicles) is covered, potentially reducing PM2.5 emissions by only 8%. The article suggests learning from cities like Beijing and Tokyo, advocating for scrappage incentives, retrofits, annual conditional renewals, public engagement, and regional enforcement to achieve cleaner air.
- Delhi's policy banning refuelling for older vehicles is a simple approach to air pollution but lacks precision as age is an imperfect proxy for emissions.
- Implementation challenges include inaccurate ANPR systems, untrained staff, and drivers circumventing the ban.
- The policy is projected to cover only 8% of Delhi's vehicle fleet and reduce PM2.5 emissions by approximately 8% if fully enforced.
Andhra Pradesh's ₹81,900 crore Polavaram Banakacherla Link Project, aiming to transfer Godavari water to Rayalaseema, is in limbo due to multiple challenges. Telangana alleges it violates the A.P. State Reorganisation Act, 2014. An expert committee denied clearance, citing the need to examine the Godavari Water Disputes Tribunal award and consult the CWC. The project is energy-intensive, requiring 3,377 MW, and has a significant environmental footprint, including a 19.5-km tunnel through the Nallamala forest. Its hybrid annuity funding model places clearance responsibility on contractors, and the assumption of surplus Godavari floodwaters remains unverified, raising legal and financial uncertainties.
- The Polavaram Banakacherla Link Project, costing ₹81,900 crore, aims to transfer Godavari river water to the drought-prone Rayalaseema region in Andhra Pradesh.
- Telangana opposes the project, arguing it violates the A.P. State Reorganisation Act, 2014, and an expert committee denied initial clearance.
- The project is highly energy-intensive, requiring 3,377 MW of power, and poses significant environmental concerns, including cutting through the Nallamala forest.
The Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) study for the ₹72,000-crore Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project (GNIP) downplays the risk of future mega-earthquakes and tsunamis, stating the probability is "low." This contradicts some scientists who point to uncertainties in earthquake prediction and insufficient site-specific studies in the highly geo-dynamic Andaman-Sumatra fault line region. While the EIA cites a 2019 IIT-Kanpur study on return periods for mega-earthquakes (420-750 years), it omits the study's caveat about uncertainty due to a 2,000-year gap in sediment history. Experts like C.P. Rajendran emphasize the non-linear nature of earthquake recurrence and the presence of unknown parallel rupture lines, urging site-specific analysis for vulnerable infrastructure projects like the proposed transshipment port and international airport.
- The EIA for the Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project (GNIP) assesses the probability of mega-earthquakes and tsunamis as "low," despite the region's high seismic activity.
- Scientists express concern over the EIA's downplaying of risks, citing uncertainties in earthquake prediction and insufficient site-specific studies.
- The EIA selectively uses findings from an IIT-Kanpur study, omitting caveats about the unpredictability of future earthquakes.
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) a five-year license to operate two indigenously developed 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat. This decision follows rigorous multi-tiered safety reviews of the reactor design and commissioning results, a process that spanned almost 15 years. KAPS-3 received full power operation permission in August 2023, and KAPS-4 in August 2024. The issuance of this license is a significant boost for NPCIL's efforts to build 10 more 700 MWe PHWRs in fleet mode across the country, reinforcing India's self-reliance in nuclear technology.
- AERB has licensed NPCIL to operate two indigenously developed 700 MWe PHWRs at Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat.
- The licensing process involved rigorous multi-tiered safety reviews of the reactor design and commissioning, taking nearly 15 years.
- KAPS-3 and KAPS-4 received permission for full power operation in August 2023 and August 2024, respectively.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that the Axiom-4 (Ax-04) mission to the International Space Station (ISS), involving Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, will provide valuable inputs for India's upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. This mission offers hands-on experience in international crew integration, medical and psychological preparation, real-time health telemetry, experiment execution, and crew-ground coordination. These insights will directly influence Gaganyaan's mission planning, safety validation, and astronaut readiness. ISRO is also preparing for abort missions and targets the first uncrewed test flight for Q4 2025, with the first crewed flight expected by Q1 2027. Shukla will carry Indian handicrafts to the ISS as a tribute to India's cultural heritage.
- The Axiom-4 mission to the ISS will provide critical experience and data for India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.
- The mission offers hands-on learning in crew integration, medical preparation, and real-time coordination.
- Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will carry Indian handicrafts to the ISS, symbolizing India's cultural heritage.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched RailOne, a new all-in-one app developed by CRIS (Centre for Railway Information Systems), a PSU under the Railways. The app aims to improve the passenger interface by integrating various services like live train tracking, grievance redressal, e-catering, porter booking, and last-mile taxi services. It offers a 3% discount on unreserved and platform tickets and supports single sign-on with mPIN or biometrics. While reserved tickets will still be offered on IRCTC, RailOne is designed to streamline daily train travel, save device space by consolidating multiple apps, and enhance the overall digital experience for passengers.
- The Indian Railways has launched the RailOne app to provide an integrated platform for various passenger services.
- Developed by CRIS, the app aims to simplify ticket booking, live train tracking, and access to other travel-related amenities.
- It offers a 3% discount on unreserved and platform tickets, encouraging digital adoption for daily commuters.
The Indian Navy has inducted INS Udaygiri, the second stealth frigate of Project 17A, delivered in a record 37 months. This induction showcases India's growing military manufacturing capabilities and enhances its naval power. Project 17A frigates are successors to the Shivalik-class (Project 17) frigates and are being built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDSL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers. INS Udaygiri, a modern avatar of its predecessor, is equipped with enhanced stealth features and an advanced weapon and sensor suite, representing a significant leap in the Indian Navy's in-house design capabilities for blue-water operations.
- INS Udaygiri, the second Project 17A stealth frigate, has been delivered to the Indian Navy in record time.
- This induction signifies a major advancement in India's indigenous military manufacturing and naval design capabilities.
- Project 17A frigates are designed for blue-water operations, capable of handling conventional and non-conventional threats.
Following insights from 'Operation Sindoor' regarding the need for enhanced precision surveillance, the Union government has fast-tracked the launch of 52 dedicated surveillance satellites. These satellites aim to provide round-the-clock monitoring of coastlines and land borders, with a particular focus on the Pakistan and China borders and the Indian Ocean Region. Under the SBS-III programme, ISRO will manufacture and launch the first 21 satellites, while private companies will handle the remaining 31. The new satellites will integrate artificial intelligence (AI) for smarter decision-making and improved performance, with the first set expected to be launched by 2026, enhancing India's self-reliance in surveillance.
- India is accelerating the launch of 52 dedicated surveillance satellites to bolster precision monitoring of its borders and coastlines.
- This initiative stems from the lessons learned during 'Operation Sindoor', which highlighted critical surveillance needs.
- The SBS-III programme involves ISRO launching 21 satellites and private companies launching the remaining 31.