Republic Day 2026: History, Significance, Theme, Awards & All You Need to Know
Republic Day 2026 marks the 77th anniversary of India becoming a sovereign democratic republic with the enforcement of the Constitution on 26 January 1950. The day celebrates constitutional values, democratic governance, national unity, and cultural diversity. This article explains the history, significance, theme, celebrations, parade highlights, and Republic Day awards, making it a complete guide for students, aspirants, and citizens.
Explained: Why Himachal Pradesh Wants 100% Import Duty on Foreign Apples
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the Centre to impose a 100% import duty on foreign apples to protect local growers from cheaper imports. The demand follows India’s decision to cut duties on New Zealand apples under the FTA, raising concerns over falling prices, climate-stressed orchards, and farmers’ livelihoods in Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir, where apples form the backbone of the rural economy.
Cabinet Approves Extension of Atal Pension Yojana Till 2031: All You Need to Know
The Government of India has extended the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) till 2031 to strengthen old-age social security for workers in the unorganised sector. Launched in 2015, the scheme offers a guaranteed monthly pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 after the age of 60. Citizens aged 18–40 years can enroll, except income tax payers, ensuring financial stability during retirement.
US Intervention in Venezuela and the Revival of the Monroe Doctrine
The US intervention in Venezuela marks a major shift in American foreign policy, reviving the Monroe Doctrine and raising concerns over sovereignty, resource politics, and regional stability. With Venezuela holding the world’s largest oil reserves, the move highlights Washington’s renewed interventionism driven by energy security, hemispheric dominance, and geopolitical strategy, reshaping Latin America’s political future.
SabhaSaar Initiative: AI Tool for Gram Sabha Governance | Current Affairs
The SabhaSaar Initiative is an AI-enabled governance reform launched by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj to modernise Gram Sabha documentation. It converts audio and video recordings of Panchayat meetings into structured, multilingual text summaries using advanced AI infrastructure. Integrated with the e-GramSwaraj portal and powered by the India AI Mission, SabhaSaar enhances transparency, accountability, and efficiency in grassroots governance, supporting Digital India and e-Governance objectives.
India Adds Two New Ramsar Sites: Siliserh Lake and Kopra Jalashay
India has added Siliserh Lake (Rajasthan) and Kopra Jalashay (Chhattisgarh) to its Ramsar Sites list, highlighting their global ecological importance. With this inclusion, India now has 75 Ramsar Sites, reflecting its commitment to wetland conservation. These wetlands support endangered species, migratory birds, and vital ecosystem services, while promoting the Ramsar Convention’s principle of sustainable and wise use of wetlands.