5th Edition – Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar: Union Minister chairs high‑level meeting of science ministries at CSIR‑Science Centre, New Delhi+ Campaign – Preparations for Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar coastal cleanliness drive+ Focus – Greater coordination among scientific institutions; integrate technology, public participation and inter‑departmental collaboration+ Outreach – Digital campaigns, documentaries, infographics, success stories to showcase India’s scientific achievements+ One of India’s largest coastal cleanliness drives; reflects science‑society partnership for environment and innovation.

New Zealand Kākāpō Population: World’s heaviest parrot Kākāpō surges from 51 birds (1995) to 325 after record 90 chicks in 2026+ Programme – Intensive conservation under Kākāpō Recovery Programme with predator‑free islands, genetic management and monitoring+ Challenge – Flightless, vulnerable to cats, rats, stoats; breeds only in rimu mast years every 2–4 yrs+ Rapid DNA sex test, nest monitoring, chick care ensured survival; reduced human intervention tested in 2026+ Habitat – Offshore islands and fenced sanctuaries; future aim to restore range including Stewart Island.

V‑Dem’s Democracy Index 2026: V-Dem Institute reports that India’s democracy has steadily declined since 2009, reaching lowest index score since the 1975 Emergency+ Concerns – UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination raised concerns over reports of human rights violations in India, including the exclusion of Muslim voters from electoral rolls+ Trend – India noted as “autocratising” with systematic weakening of democratic institutions+ Highlights – 50-year low in judicial accountability, Election Management Body autonomy, and public administration impartiality.