Why in News?

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the 10th edition of Deepotsav in Ayodhya, highlighting its cultural and spiritual significance and calling for development to reach the most deprived sections of society.

Key Highlights

• The Deepotsav journey began in 2017 on the banks of the Saryu River.

• CM Yogi described the festival as a symbol of the revival of Sanatan culture, restoration of national self-respect and revival of Ayodhya's historical and spiritual identity.

• Lakhs of earthen lamps at Ram Ki Paidi symbolised the victory of light over darkness, faith, social upliftment and local self-reliance.

• Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan, diplomats, international dignitaries, saints and devotees were among the invited guests.

• The celebrations highlighted the ideals of equality, harmony, cultural unity and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).

Why in News?

The Ministry of Labour & Employment and the Madhya Pradesh Labour Department jointly organised “Shram Samvad” in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, on 5 November 2026.

Key Highlights

• Focused on capacity-building and awareness regarding Labour Codes, labour welfare and social protection.

• Organised in collaboration with the Association of Industries Madhya Pradesh and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

• Presided over by S.R. Datta, Director, Ministry of Labour & Employment.

• More than 100 participants, including employers, industry representatives and HR, legal and finance professionals, attended.

• Officials from the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), Chief Labour Commissioner (Central) and Directorate General Labour Welfare (DGLW) also participated.

Major Discussions

• Technical sessions covered employer compliance requirements under all four Labour Codes and the Central Rules.

• EPFO and DGLW representatives discussed:

• Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PMVBRY)

• Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Scheme

• The Ministry shared the Handbook of Compliance for Employers and Compilation of Frequently Asked Questions.

• An interactive question-and-answer session addressed implementation and compliance-related queries.

Why in News?

WWF-India's EIACP Programme Centre appealed to citizens of Delhi-NCR to celebrate a cracker-free Green Diwali under the nationwide Green Diwali Campaign 2026 (20 October–8 November 2026).

Key Highlights

Supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) under Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).

Special focus on 130 cities across 24 States and Union Territories covered under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's air quality was in the 'Very Poor' category, with forecasts indicating a possibility of reaching the 'Severe' category.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) was implementing measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

Green Diwali Initiatives

Use traditional earthen diyas and eco-friendly candles.

Choose locally made gifts with minimal packaging.

Avoid firecrackers to reduce air and noise pollution.

Use natural materials for rangoli and decorations.

Minimise waste, avoid single-use plastics and promote recycling.

Organise plantation drives and community clean-up activities.

Promote donation, reuse and sustainable mobility.

Monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) through the CPCB's SAMEER app.

1. Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with security personnel at the CoBRA Operations Base in Karanpur, Bastar (Chhattisgarh), on 8 November 2026.

2. Key Highlights

The PM shared sweets and festive greetings with security personnel and honoured their sacrifices in the fight against Naxalism.

He described Diwali 2026 as the first Diwali after the country’s victory over Naxalism, stating that every district was now free from Naxalism.

He highlighted the transformation of Bastar from a Naxal-affected region towards peace and development.

He noted that, for the first time in 47 years, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) had completed a year without losing a personnel in operational duty.

He also cautioned that the threat posed by what he termed “Dimagi Naxals” remained a concern.

3. Significance

Recognises the contribution and sacrifices of security forces in counter-Naxal operations.

Highlights the link between improved internal security, peace and development in affected regions.

1. Why in News?

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting invited applications from startups for the WaveX Startup Pavilion at WAVES Bazaar, during the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa 2026.

2. Key Highlights

Eligibility: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)-registered startups working in film and allied technologies.

Selected startups will showcase innovative products, technologies and solutions to the national and international film and media industry.

Selection will be conducted through a screening and evaluation process by a committee constituted by WaveX.

Objective: Provide global visibility, networking, industry engagement and collaboration opportunities with filmmakers, production houses and investors.

3. About IFFI

Established in 1952, IFFI is one of Asia's significant film festivals.

Held annually in Goa, it promotes world cinema, creative exchange and international collaboration.

4. About WaveX

WaveX (WAVES Startup Accelerator) is an initiative of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

It promotes innovation and entrepreneurship in the Media and Entertainment sector.

Focus areas include Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR), along with media technologies.

Why in News?

• UNHCR (the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) warned that nearly 90 million forcibly displaced people live in countries highly exposed to climate hazards ahead of COP31 in Türkiye.

Key Findings

• Nearly 75% of displaced people live in countries exposed to severe climate risks.

• In the first half of 2026, over two-thirds of refugee returns were to climate-vulnerable countries.

• By 2050, one-third of refugee settlements in Sub-Saharan Africa may face at least 100 days of dangerous heat annually.

• Only 10% of climate finance reaches fragile and conflict-affected countries.

Major Climate Threats

• Droughts, floods and extreme heat.

• Water scarcity and food insecurity.

• Increased risk of displacement and health emergencies.

• Forecast El Niño may worsen climate-related risks.

Significance

• UNHCR called for increased climate adaptation finance for vulnerable and displaced communities.

• Highlights the link between climate change, conflict and forced displacement.

Why in News?

• Indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft ‘Amini’ was delivered to the Indian Navy .

• Designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata.

• Equipped with lightweight torpedoes, indigenous rocket launchers and sonars.

• Uses waterjet propulsion.

• More than 80% Indigenous Content.

Significance

• Strengthens anti-submarine warfare, coastal surveillance and mine-laying capabilities.

• Reduces dependence on defence imports.

• Supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Important Fact

• Named after Amini Island, Lakshadweep.

• Continues the legacy of erstwhile INS Amini, decommissioned in 2002.

Why in News?

India's national telemedicine service, e-Sanjeevani, has facilitated over 50 crore (500 million) consultations since its launch in November 2019. It is expanding healthcare access in remote, rural, and underserved areas through digital technology.

What is e-Sanjeevani?

e-Sanjeevani is India's free, government-run telemedicine service that connects patients with doctors through online consultations.

• Ministry: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).

• Developed by: Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Mohali, under MeitY.

Two Major Service Models

• Provider-to-Provider (Hub-and-Spoke Model): Healthcare workers at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs connect patients with doctors and specialists at higher-level hospitals through digital platforms.

• Patient-to-Provider (eSanjeevaniOPD): Patients can directly consult doctors from their homes using smartphones or computers.

Recent Technological Developments

• AI-powered Clinical Decision Support System: Helps doctors assess patients' conditions and make clinical decisions.

• ERSS-112 Integration: The platform has been integrated with the Emergency Response Support System-112, India's emergency response service.

Significance

e-Sanjeevani strengthens India's digital healthcare infrastructure and supports:

1. Digital India

2. Ayushman Bharat

3. Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM)

It is particularly beneficial for rural and remote communities with limited access to doctors and specialist healthcare facilities.

What is telemedicine?

Telemedicine refers to the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to provide medical consultations and healthcare services to patients located at a distance.

It allows doctors and patients to connect digitally without being physically present at the same location.

Why in News?

Recently, the Supreme Court allowed their use in New Delhi for two days during Deepavali, bringing them into focus.

What Are Green Firecrackers?

• Green firecrackers are specially designed fireworks that release fewer pollutants than conventional firecrackers.

• Developed by CSIR–National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), these crackers are designed to emit around 30% less particulate matter, or 20% less particulate matter, along with 10% fewer gases, compared to conventional firecrackers of the same category.

Three Types of Green Firecrackers

CSIR-NEERI has developed three major varieties:

• SWAS (Safe Water Releaser): Releases water vapor during combustion to suppress some particulate emissions.

• STAR (Safe Thermite Cracker): Uses a thermite-based composition to improve combustion efficiency and reduce emissions.

• SAFAL (Safe Minimal Aluminium): Contains less aluminium, helping lower pollution.

These technologies use modified fuel and oxidizer combinations, dust-suppressing additives, and reduced quantities of certain metals.

How to Identify Genuine Green Firecrackers?

Genuine products carry the CSIR-NEERI logo and a QR code on their packaging, allowing buyers to verify their certification.

Are Green Firecrackers Completely Safe?

• No. Green firecrackers are a relatively less polluting alternative, not a pollution-free option. They still release fine particulate matter and harmful gases that can affect respiratory and cardiovascular health. They also produce noise.

• Moreover, a city using only green firecrackers may still experience high pollution. The overall impact depends on the number of crackers burst, weather conditions, and existing air quality.

• The takeaway: Green firecrackers may reduce the environmental impact of celebrations, but cleaner air ultimately requires fewer emissions, not merely a different type of firecracker.

Why in News?

Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), Department of Telecommunications, Tamil Nadu Government and TANFINET(Tamil Nadu Fibrenet Corporation Limited) have signed an agreement under the Amended BharatNet Programme (ABP).

Key Highlights

• 5 lakh+ rural household fibre connections to receive subsidy support.

• Agreement aims to strengthen rural broadband and last-mile connectivity.

• Enables access to e-Governance, online education, telemedicine and digital payments.

About Amended BharatNet Programme (ABP)

Approved by Union Cabinet on 4 August 2023.

Objectives:Upgrade and expand the existing BharatNet network.

Provide future-ready broadband connectivity to Gram Panchayats and villages on demand.

Strengthen rural digital infrastructure.

About Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN)

• Formerly known as Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).

• Renamed under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

• Established under the Indian Telegraph (Amendment) Act, 2003, effective from 1 April 2002.

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Communications.

Why in News?

• The International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) adopted the Seoul Declaration on November 6, 2026.

• It called for respect for international law, national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

• The declaration was adopted at ICAPP's 13th General Assembly in Seoul, South Korea.

Key Highlights

• Unilateral Actions: Opposed unilateral actions and the use or threat of force in international relations.

• State Sovereignty: Supported the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.

• Non-Interference: Called for non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.

• Peaceful Settlement: Emphasised resolving international disputes through peaceful means.

• UN Charter: Called for strict adherence to the principles of the UN Charter.

• Diplomacy: Encouraged dialogue and keeping diplomatic channels open, even between rival countries.

Important Facts

• Organisation: ICAPP (International Conference of Asian Political Parties).

• Venue: Seoul, South Korea.

• Next General Assembly: Vietnam in 2028.

Why in News?

• Indian NGO REACH (Resource Group for Education and Advocacy for Community Health) has received the Kochon Prize 2026.

• The award recognizes its contribution to the fight against tuberculosis (TB).

• REACH has become first civil society in India to receive this Award.

About REACH

• REACH is an Indian non-governmental organization (NGO).

• It works to improve TB awareness, prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

• It promotes community participation and supports people affected by TB.

About Kochon Prize

• It is an international award associated with the fight against tuberculosis.

• It is presented by the Kochon Foundation, an independent Korean non-profit foundation, in partnership with the Stop TB Partnership.

• It recognizes outstanding contributions towards ending TB.

Key Facts

• Established in 2006.

• Awarded annually.

• Prize amount: US$ 65,000.

• 2026 award was jointly given to:

  1. REACH – India

  2. Centre for Health Solutions – Kenya

  3. Marshall Islands TB Control Program.

Why in News?

• National Tabletop Exercise VAJRA-SAT concluded in Bengaluru recently.

• Focus: Preparedness against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) serotype SAT-1(Southern African Territories 1).

• Theme: Detect Early, Confirm Fast, Contain Together.

• FMD SAT-1 has not been reported in India.

Major Focus Areas

• Early detection and laboratory diagnosis.

• Disease surveillance and epidemiological investigation.

• Animal movement control and emergency vaccination preparedness.

• Inter-State coordination and border vigilance.

Significance

• Strengthens preparedness against transboundary animal diseases.

• Protects livestock health, farmers' livelihoods and the livestock economy.

Why in News?

• CBN celebrated its 77th Foundation Day on 6 November 2026 at Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

About CBN

• Established: 6 November 1950.

• Headquarters: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

• Ministry: Finance (Department of Revenue).

• Functions: Regulates legal opium cultivation, monitors narcotic drug imports/exports and prevents drug trafficking.

• Competent National Authority (CNA) under UN Conventions.

Mission Yuva Raksha

• Reached 20,000+ participants during 2026.

• MoU signed with Brahma Kumaris (18 September 2026) for drug-prevention awareness and counselling.

• Strengthens anti-drug enforcement, digital governance and youth awareness.

• Vision: “Drug-Free Youth for a Developed India.”