{"id":7966,"date":"2026-02-02T16:05:20","date_gmt":"2026-02-02T16:05:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/?p=7966"},"modified":"2026-02-02T16:05:20","modified_gmt":"2026-02-02T16:05:20","slug":"short-notes-on-current-affairs-28-01-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mehnatt.com\/?p=7966","title":{"rendered":"Short notes on Current Affairs 28.01.2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">MoU between AYUSHEXCIL and Zepto<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Event &amp; MoU Signing<\/strong>:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Ministry of Ayush signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ayush Export Promotion Council (AYUSHEXCIL) and Zepto Limited.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Aim: To provide structured online access to AYUSH medicines and wellness products across India.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Inaugural Remarks<\/strong>:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Union Ayush Minister, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, highlighted the role of innovation-driven startups in improving access to trusted wellness products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Emphasized alignment with PM Modi\u2019s vision: integrating <strong>tra<\/strong>ditional knowledge systems with modern digital infrastructure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Goal: Empower consumers with informed choices and open new market opportunities while maintaining quality and regulatory compliance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Signatories<\/strong>:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Shri Anurag Sharma<\/strong>, Chairman, AYUSHEXCIL<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Shri Kaivalya Vohra<\/strong>, Co-Founder &amp; CEO, Zepto<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Presence of Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Features of the MoU<\/strong>:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Dedicated AYUSH Storefront on Zepto<\/strong>: Consumers can easily access verified AYUSH medicines and wellness products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Promotion of AYUSH Quality Mark (AQM)<\/strong>: Ensures certified standards, authenticity, and consumer trust.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Digital Onboarding of AYUSH Manufacturers<\/strong>: AYUSHEXCIL will identify eligible manufacturers, with a focus on MSMEs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Consumer Awareness Initiatives<\/strong>: Joint campaigns to promote authentic, science-backed information on AYUSH products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Educational Content Development<\/strong>: AYUSHEXCIL validates content; Zepto hosts and disseminates it on its platform.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Expected Impact<\/strong>:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Strengthen digital discovery and consumer trust in AYUSH products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Enable MSMEs and AYUSH manufacturers to access India\u2019s growing digital marketplace.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Encourage compliance with regulatory standards and adoption of the AYUSH Quality Mark.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Contribute to Digital India, Ease of Doing Business, Make in India, and global positioning of AYUSH.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Background on AYUSHEXCIL<\/strong>:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Launched at Global Ayush Investment and Innovation Summit, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, April 20, 2022.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Oversees exports of Ayurveda, Homoeopathy, Siddha, Sowa\/Rigpa, and Unani systems.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Supports trade facilitation for AYUSH sectors under Ministry of Ayush and Commerce.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Overall Significance<\/strong>:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Marks a step towards digitally transforming AYUSH distribution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Ensures quality, compliance, and consumer trust in traditional health products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Strengthens India\u2019s position as a global health and wellness hub.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>General Overview<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified the SWM Rules, 2026, superseding the 2016 rules.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Rules are under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and come into effect from 1st April 2026.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Emphasis on Circular Economy, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and efficient waste segregation and management.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Introduces <strong>\u201cPolluter Pays\u201d principle<\/strong>: environmental compensation for non-compliance, including false reporting, improper waste handling, or operating without registration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) issues guidelines; State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) and Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) enforce penalties.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Four-Stream Segregation of Waste<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Mandatory segregation of solid waste at source into four streams:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Wet waste:<\/strong> kitchen waste, fruit\/vegetable peels, meat, flowers \u2192 composted or processed via bio-methanation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Dry waste:<\/strong> plastic, paper, metal, glass, wood, rubber \u2192 sent to Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) for sorting and recycling.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Sanitary waste:<\/strong> used diapers, sanitary towels, tampons, condoms \u2192 securely wrapped and stored separately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Special care waste:<\/strong> paint cans, bulbs, mercury thermometers, medicines \u2192 collected by authorised agencies or at designated centres.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Bulk Waste Generators (BWGs)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Defined as entities generating \u2265100 kg\/day, or with \u226520,000 sq. m area, or \u226540,000 litres\/day water consumption.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Includes government departments, local bodies, PSUs, commercial establishments, residential societies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Introduces Extended Bulk Waste Generator Responsibility (EBWGR): BWGs must:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Process wet waste on-site, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Obtain EBWGR certificate if on-site processing isn\u2019t feasible.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Expected to reduce the burden on urban local bodies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Waste Processing &amp; Monitoring<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Graded criteria for land allocation for solid waste processing\/disposal facilities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Buffer zones mandated for facilities >5 tonnes\/day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Centralised online portal to track all stages: generation \u2192 collection \u2192 transportation \u2192 processing \u2192 disposal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Online registration, authorisation, and reporting for waste processing facilities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Mandatory audits of all waste processing facilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Roles of Local Bodies and MRFs<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Responsible for collection, segregation, and transportation of waste.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">MRFs formally recognised for sorting of solid waste and may act as collection points for e-waste, sanitary waste, special care waste.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Local bodies encouraged to generate carbon credits.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Rural and peri-urban areas receive special attention for sanitation and waste management.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Use of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF)<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">RDF: fuel from non-recyclable plastic, paper, textiles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Industries, including cement and waste-to-energy plants, must replace solid fuel with RDF.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Fuel substitution rate increased from 5% to 15% over six years.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Landfilling and Legacy Waste Dumpsites<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Landfills limited to non-recyclable, non-energy recoverable, inert waste.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Higher fees for unsegregated waste disposal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Mandatory audits of landfills; overseen by District Collectors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Mapping, biomining, and bioremediation of legacy dumpsites with quarterly progress reporting online.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Special Provisions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hilly areas and islands:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">User fees on tourists.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Regulate tourist inflow based on waste management capacity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Collection points for non-biodegradable waste.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Hotels and restaurants to process wet waste locally.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Governance &amp; Oversight<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">State and Central Committees established for effective implementation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">State-level committee chaired by Chief Secretary; provides recommendations to CPCB.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Highlights &amp; Innovations<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Integration of Circular Economy principles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Strengthening EPR for waste generators.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Emphasis on digital monitoring and online reporting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Promotion of RDF and reduced landfilling.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Focus on decentralised waste management, especially in rural, peri-urban, and sensitive areas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"font-size:17px\">This update represents a major overhaul of India\u2019s waste management framework, making it technology-driven, accountable, and sustainable, with active participation of bulk waste generators, local bodies, and citizens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Amendments to NDCT Rules 2019<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has notified key amendments to the New Drugs and Clinical Trials (NDCT) Rules, 2019.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">These amendments are aligned with the Prime Minister\u2019s directions to reduce regulatory burden and promote Ease of Doing Business in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key reforms:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Replacement of Test Licence with Prior-Intimation Mechanism<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Previously, pharmaceutical companies needed a test licence from CDSCO to manufacture small quantities of drugs for research\/examination purposes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Now, companies can proceed with drug development by submitting an online intimation, except for high-risk drugs (cytotoxic, narcotic, psychotropic).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expected to save ~90 days in the drug development life cycle.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Reduction of Processing Timeline for Test Licences<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For drugs still requiring a licence, processing time reduced from 90 days to 45 days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CDSCO handles 30,000\u201335,000 test licence applications annually, so this reform reduces regulatory delays substantially.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Simplification of BA\/BE Studies Approval<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Prior permission is no longer required for low-risk Bioavailability\/Bioequivalence (BA\/BE) studies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Studies can commence via online intimation to CDSCO.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CDSCO processes around 4,000\u20134,500 BA\/BE applications yearly, and this change accelerates study initiation, particularly for generic drugs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Digital Implementation<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Intimations and approvals to be facilitated through National Single Window System (NSWS) and SUGAM portal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensures transparent, hassle-free, and efficient submission processes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Expected Benefits<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Faster initiation of clinical research and drug testing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Significant reduction in procedural delays across drug development and approval.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Optimized manpower utilization at CDSCO.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Encourages R&amp;D-led growth in the Indian pharmaceutical sector.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aligns India\u2019s drug regulations with global best practices.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Supports public health and safety while promoting innovation and industry efficiency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">OPEC\u2019s World Oil Outlook 2025 &amp; India\u2019s Energy Role<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Event Context:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The World Oil Outlook 2025 was presented by Dr. Abderrezak Benyoucef, Head of Energy Studies, OPEC, at <strong>India Energy Week 2026<\/strong> in Goa (27\u201330 Jan 2026).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>India\u2019s Role in Global Oil Demand:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">India is projected to be the largest contributor to global oil demand growth till 2050.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Expected to add 8.2 million barrels per day (bpd) of oil demand by 2050.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Growth driven mainly by <strong>transpor<\/strong>t<strong>ation, petrochemicals, and industrial activity<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Global Oil Demand Projections:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Global oil demand to reach 123 million bpd by 2050.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Demand growth primarily in non-OECD regions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Primary Energy Demand:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">India\u2019s total primary energy demand to nearly <strong>double<\/strong>: from ~22 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe) per day in 2024 to 43.6 million boe\/day by 2050.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Globally, primary energy demand to increase by 23%, from ~308 million boe\/day to ~378 million boe\/day.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Non-OECD countries<\/strong> will account for 72% of global energy demand by 2050.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Economic Growth &amp; Global Influence:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">India projected as the fastest-growing major economy (avg. GDP growth ~5.8% annually, 2024\u20132050).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">India\u2019s global GDP share to rise from 8% (2024) to 17% (2050).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Increasing influence on global energy markets.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Demographics &amp; Urbanisation:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">India, as the most populous country, will continue to anchor population growth and energy consumption.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Global population expected to grow by ~1.5 billion by 2050, with almost all growth in non-OECD countries.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Urbanisation and improving living standards will further drive energy demand.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Investment Requirements:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Sustained investment needed to meet demand and offset natural decline in oil production.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Global cumulative oil-related investments estimated at USD 18.2 trillion (2025\u20132050), including ~USD 15 trillion in upstream investment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>India Energy Week (IEW):<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">IEW is India\u2019s flagship global energy platform, promoting secure, sustainable, and affordable energy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Provides a neutral forum for investment, policy alignment, and technological collaboration in the energy sector.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Karnataka Constituted Gig Workers Welfare Development Board<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers Welfare Development Board<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Karnataka government has officially constituted the <em>Platform-Based Gig Workers Welfare Development Board<\/em> under the 2025 Act.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The objective is to implement welfare and social security measures for gig and platform-based workers in the State.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Composition of the Board<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Labour Minister will serve as the ex-officio President of the Board.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Ex-officio members<\/strong> include senior officials from:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Labour Department<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Department of Information Technology<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commercial Taxes Department<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The <strong>Chief Executive Officer (CEO)<\/strong> of the Board will act as the Member Secretary.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Representation and Inclusivity<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Board includes equal representation from both stakeholders:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Four representatives from gig worker unions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Four representatives from aggregator platforms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Major aggregator companies represented include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Zomato<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uber<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Amazon<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Porter<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Labour organisations such as:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>App-based transport and delivery worker unions<br>are part of the Board, ensuring worker representation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Registration Requirements<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\"><strong>Mandatory registration<\/strong> introduced for:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>All aggregator platforms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>All gig workers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Aggregators must:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Complete registration within 45 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submit details of all gig workers engaged through their platforms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Each registered gig worker will receive a unique identification number.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Welfare Delivery Mechanism<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The <strong>unique ID<\/strong> will be used by the Board to:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Track workers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disburse social security and welfare benefits<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The welfare fund will be financed through:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Welfare fee collected from aggregators<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contributions from gig workers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grants from State and Union governments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Welfare Fee on Aggregators<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The State will levy a welfare fee of 1% to 1.5% on aggregator platforms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The levy will:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Vary by sector and business model<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be subject to a cap to limit the burden on platforms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The fee is designed to create a sustainable welfare fund for gig workers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Policy Rationale<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Labour Minister Santosh Lad stated that:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The levy has been kept low initially<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The aim is to ensure steady fund mobilisation without imposing an immediate financial strain on aggregator platforms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The approach reflects a balanced regulatory framework between worker welfare and platform viability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Overall Significance<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The Board institutionalises social security for gig workers, a traditionally unprotected workforce.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Karnataka becomes one of the early movers among Indian States in formalising gig worker welfare through legislation and a dedicated board.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The initiative strengthens the State\u2019s role in regulating the platform economy while promoting inclusive labour protections.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">8th-century CE Telugu inscription<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Discovery of the Telugu Inscription<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">An <strong>8th-century CE Telugu inscription<\/strong> has been discovered at Pitikayagulla village, Bestavaripeta mandal, in Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The inscription was found engraved on a stone slab placed in front of the historic Pitikesvara temple.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The find adds to the limited corpus of early Telugu epigraphical records.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Physical and Linguistic Features<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The inscription consists of four lines written in Telugu language and script as used in the 8th century CE.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The text reads:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><em>\u201cSvastisri Nandelu Vari, Chensinavanthu Prani, Milli Achari,\u201d<\/em><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>\u201cPadasina Nava Katta\u201d<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Its language and script make it valuable for epigraphical and palaeographical studies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Content and Interpretation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Epigraphists interpret the record as documenting the construction of a new embankment (nava katta).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The work is attributed to Pranimilli Achari, identified as a sculptor or craftsman.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">This suggests that artisans played an active role in public infrastructure projects, not just royal authorities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Administrative and Historical Context<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The inscription is believed to date to a period when the Renadu region was under royal administration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Notably, the text does not mention the ruling king, indicating recognition of local contributors or artisans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">It reflects organised public works, likely related to irrigation or water management.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Linguistic and Cultural Significance<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">According to K. Muniratnam Reddy, Director (Epigraphy), Archaeological Survey of India (ASI):\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The inscription represents a new epigraphical discovery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Such early Telugu records are crucial for understanding the evolution of Telugu.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The inscription provides evidence of:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Telugu transitioning from Prakrit influence to an independent literary and administrative language.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Early use of Telugu in official and functional contexts, not merely oral or literary forms.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Overall Importance<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The discovery enriches knowledge of:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Early Telugu language development<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Role of artisans in medieval society<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public infrastructure practices in early historic Andhra region<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">It is significant for historians, linguists, and epigraphists studying South Indian history and language evolution.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-ast-global-color-6-background-color has-background\">Population Census 2027<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Features<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Census 2027 will be India\u2019s first-ever fully digital census.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The first phase will be conducted from April 1 to September 30, 2027.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Enumerators will collect data using mobile applications on their personal smartphones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The initiative aims to enable the fastest possible release of Census data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Engagement of Private Technical Staff<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">For the <strong>first time<\/strong>, private technical manpower will be hired to assist government officials during the Census.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The move is intended to support the technologically intensive nature of Census 2027.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Assistance will be provided through short-term contractual staff, not permanent government employees.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Technological Systems Used<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Digital tools and platforms include:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mobile applications for field data collection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Census Management and Monitoring System (CMMS)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Houselisting Block Creator (HLBC) Web Application<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Self-enumeration portal<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The goal is to obtain digitised data directly from the field, reducing processing delays.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Manpower Deployment<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Technical Assistants and Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) will be hired at multiple administrative levels:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>State<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>District<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Municipal Corporation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tehsil (Charge) level<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Approved staffing pattern:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>State level: 4 Technical Assistants + 2 MTS<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>District level: 2 Technical Assistants + 1 MTS<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Municipal Corporations: 2 Technical Assistants + 1 MTS<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tehsil level: 1 Technical Assistant<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">With over 700 districts, this implies large-scale deployment of technical support staff nationwide.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Duration and Nature of Employment<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Hired personnel will be engaged for a maximum of 18 months, starting January 2026.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Employment will be:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Purely short-term and contractual<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Without any right to regularisation or future government employment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Engagement will be done only through outsourcing agencies, not by direct appointment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Retired government officials may also be hired if suitably qualified.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Remuneration Details<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Maximum monthly remuneration:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Technical Assistant:<\/strong> \u20b925,000<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>MTS:<\/strong> \u20b918,000<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">No additional financial benefits or liabilities will be borne by the Union government.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Payments will be routed only through the outsourcing agency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Enumerator and Census Workforce<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Around 31 lakh enumerators will be engaged for fieldwork.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">All enumerators will be government officials, mostly government school teachers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Each enumerator will survey 750\u2013800 persons.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Each enumerator will receive an honorarium of \u20b925,000.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Honorarium for other Census officials (nodal officers, clerks, etc.) ranges from \u20b930,000 to \u20b975,000.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Financial Support to States<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">States will receive one-time grants for:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Procurement of computer hardware and software<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>IT infrastructure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hiring vehicles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contingency expenses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Grant amounts:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>State level:<\/strong> \u20b910 lakh each<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>District and tehsil levels:<\/strong> \u20b91 lakh to \u20b95 lakh<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Overall Significance<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">Census 2027 marks a major shift towards digital governance in India\u2019s largest administrative exercise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The use of private technical manpower reflects the need for specialised digital expertise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li style=\"font-size:17px\">The approach aims to improve efficiency, accuracy, monitoring, and speed of data release, while limiting long-term fiscal and administrative liabilities for the government.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>MoU between AYUSHEXCIL and Zepto Event &amp; MoU Signing: Inaugural Remarks: Signatories: Key Features of the MoU: Expected Impact: Background on AYUSHEXCIL: Overall Significance: Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2026 General Overview Four-Stream Segregation of Waste Mandatory segregation of solid waste at source into four streams: Bulk Waste Generators (BWGs) Waste Processing &amp; Monitoring Roles [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center 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