SCHEME

• The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹1,500 crore scheme (FY 2025–26 to 2030–31) to promote recycling of e-waste, lithium-ion batteries, and other scraps to recover critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. The scheme offers capital (20%) and operational subsidies (linked to sales), with special support for small/new recyclers. Expected outcomes include 270 kilo tonnes annual recycling capacity, 40 kilo tonnes mineral output, ₹8,000 crore investments, 70,000 jobs, and reduced import dependence for green energy and EV industries.

SOCIAL ISSUES

• The WHO reports a global mental health crisis with over 1 billion people affected. Anxiety and depression account for two-thirds of cases, with the sharpest rise among youth (20–29 years). Suicide, the leading cause of young deaths, saw 727,000 global deaths in 2021. India faces rising suicides (1.64 lakh in 2021) and severe manpower shortages. While the UN aims for a one-third reduction in suicides by 2030, projections show only 12% unless urgent measures are taken.

ECONOMY

• The 56th GST Council meeting approved GST 2.0, a major tax reform effective September 22, 2025. It replaces four slabs with a two-slab structure (5% & 18%) plus a 40% demerit rate for sin/luxury goods. Essentials, healthcare, education, and agriculture items see lower taxes, easing household and farmer burdens. Automobiles, electronics, and white goods also become cheaper. Reforms include automated refunds, quick registration, and correction of duty structures, aimed at boosting demand, MSMEs, and compliance ease.

SCIENCE

• Scientists found 55-million-year-old jarosite in Gujarat’s Matanomadh village, an Earth site resembling Martian conditions. Such “analog sites” help test rovers, instruments, and human survival for planetary exploration. ISRO’s Himalayan Outpost for Planetary Exploration (HOPE), inaugurated in Ladakh’s Tso Kar Valley in July 2025, simulates Mars-like conditions—thin air, freezing cold, and high UV. Its objectives include astronaut training for Gaganyaan, Mars, and lunar habitats. India already succeeded with Mangalyaan (2014–2022) and plans Mangalyaan-2 by 2026.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Semicon India 2025, announcing the next phase of the India Semiconductor Mission (2021, ₹76,000 crore). The mission aims to build fabs, testing plants, and design ecosystems. Government initiatives include plug-and-play infrastructure, single-window clearance, incentives, and training 60,000 engineers. Chips, called “digital diamonds,” power modern technology. With a $600 billion global market set to reach $1 trillion, India seeks a major share, despite supply chain and manufacturing challenges.
• Kerala’s health sector successfully treated a 17-year-old boy with a rare dual infection of amoebic meningoencephalitis and Aspergillus flavus fungus. This is believed to be the first documented case globally where a patient survived both infections. After being treated at two different hospitals, the boy underwent multiple neurosurgeries. He made a full recovery after three months of intensive treatment, showcasing a significant medical achievement for the state. This case highlights the expertise of the medical teams involved.

INTERNATIONAL ISSUES

• The 21st edition of Yudh Abhyas (Sept 1–14, 2025) between India and the US is being held at Fort Wainwright, Alaska. Conducted annually, it enhances tactical, peacekeeping, and combat readiness skills. The 2025 exercise involves India’s Madras Regiment and the US Army’s 11th Airborne Division, featuring heliborne drills, drone surveillance, high-altitude warfare, and electronic warfare. Strengthening defence ties despite trade tensions, it builds on key pacts like LEMOA, COMCASA, BECA, and INDUS-X, reinforcing Indo-US strategic cooperation.