UPSC Current Affairs
US-Iran Strait Tensions, Indus Waters Treaty Revision, and Cyber Security Concerns
10 stories · about 4 min read · quiz and Mains question at the end
US-Iran Escalation and Security in the Strait of Hormuz
Following US airstrikes on Greater Tunb Island, a strategic point in the Strait of Hormuz, maritime tensions have surged significantly. In response to the escalating naval blockade and hostilities, the Government of India has issued an advisory to domestic shipping firms, cautioning them against deploying Indian sailors on vessels traversing this highly volatile maritime passage.
Cyber Security Concerns Over Kudankulam Nuclear Plant Leak
Confidential files and operational data related to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant were reportedly leaked on a dark web portal known as 'World Leaks'. While security officials assess the depth of the breach, the incident has highlighted persistent security vulnerabilities in India's critical information infrastructure protection protocols.
Inclusion of Screwpine Art Song in Kerala Curriculum
In a bid to preserve the dying traditional craft of screwpine weaving, the Kerala state education department has integrated 'Thazhappattu' (a folk song dedicated to the craft) into the school curriculum. Screwpine art, once a thriving and sustainable cottage industry in Thazhava, Kerala, has faced steep decline due to the rise of synthetic materials.
ISRO Curbs Resignations Ahead of Gaganyaan Mission
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has issued a temporary internal directive refusing voluntary retirement and resignations for Group A scientific and technical personnel. The restriction applies to those associated with crucial projects, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, to prevent human resource depletion during the final developmental phases.
India's Push to Renegotiate the Indus Waters Treaty
India has formally initiated a call to renegotiate the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan, pointing out fundamental shifts since its signing over six decades ago. India aims to address new, critical challenges such as demographic growth, clean energy requirements, and severe climate change impacts that are not adequately accounted for in the existing text.
Kuppam's Transition From Granite Hub to Peacock Sanctuary
Kuppam, a prominent granite quarrying hub in Andhra Pradesh, is emerging as an unexpected refuge for peacocks. The transformation is driven by favorable microclimatic changes, local farmers actively protecting the birds, and the construction of numerous farm ponds and village tanks that provide vital water sources during hot summers.
Delhi High Court Mandates Medical Care for Sonam Wangchuk
The Delhi High Court has directed the government to conduct daily medical monitoring of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike for Ladakh's constitutional safeguards. The court accepted arguments that the state cannot remain passive, as neglecting a critical hunger striker's health could raise complex issues under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
Kochi to Host Major Multinational Maritime Exercise
The Indian Navy is scheduled to host a highly anticipated multinational maritime exercise in Kochi starting July 20, 2026. The exercise is designed to improve joint operational capabilities, strengthen maritime domain awareness, and foster security cooperation among friendly foreign navies in the strategic Indian Ocean Region.
Gujarat Unveils Strategic Data Centre Policy
The Gujarat government has announced a comprehensive Data Centre Policy aimed at positioning the state as a major digital infrastructure hub. The policy introduces enticing incentives, including power tariff concessions, stamp duty exemptions, and special provisions for data centers utilizing green energy sources to promote environmental sustainability.
New Subsidy Framework to Boost Domestic Smartphone Brands
The central government has planned a targeted financial subsidy model to help Indian smartphone brands build scale and compete effectively with dominant foreign manufacturers. Rather than merely supporting low-end assembly, the new framework focuses on supporting deep localization, local component design, and indigenous brand building.
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