SCHEMES

• The Union Government will map all Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) drinking water assets, including pipelines, on the PM Gati Shakti portal. The GIS-based integration, developed by BISAG-N, aims to enhance planning, monitoring, and management of rural water supply. Launched in 2019, JJM targets tap water for all rural households, while PM Gati Shakti, launched in 2021, enables multi-ministerial coordination for infrastructure projects. The integration ensures efficiency, transparency, and evidence-based decision-making in rural governance.
• On September 23, 2025, the Centre amended Schedule-I of MGNREGA (2005) to mandate minimum spending on water conservation and harvesting works at the block level. The share of such projects now depends on groundwater classification by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)—65% in over-exploited/critical, 40% in semi-critical, and 30% in safe blocks. The move aims to ensure sustainable water management, employment generation, and improved livelihood security in rural India.

SCIENCE

• The 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to John Clarke, Michel H. Devoret, and John M. Martinis for their groundbreaking research on quantum tunnelling, a phenomenon allowing particles to pass through barriers. Their mid-1980s work linked quantum theory to real-world technology, forming the foundation of quantum circuits essential to quantum computing, sensors, and cryptography. Their discoveries revolutionized digital technology, bridging fundamental quantum mechanics with modern computing and secure communication systems.
• For the first time in recorded history, global renewable power generation has surpassed coal, marking a pivotal shift toward sustainable energy. According to Ember, a London-based energy think tank, solar grew 31% and wind 7.7% in the first half of the year, adding over 400 TWh collectively. The rise in renewables outpaced electricity demand, while fossil fuel output declined slightly. This milestone supports Net Zero goals, reduces carbon emissions, and drives green investment, innovation, and employment.
• The South Western Railway (SWR) has begun implementing Kavach, India’s indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system by RDSO and Indian industry partners. Covering 3,692 route km in two phases, it will equip 299 locomotives with Loco Kavach. Featuring Safety Integrity Level-4 (SIL-4) certification, Kavach prevents signal overshooting, enforces speed control, and avoids collisions. Using RFID and radio communication, it enhances safety, reduces human error, supports Atmanirbhar Bharat, and advances railway modernization.

MISCELLANEOUS NEWS

• Celebrated on October 8, 2025, the 93rd Air Force Day marks the establishment of the IAF in 1932. The 2025 theme focuses on Operation Sindoor, showcasing the IAF’s operational excellence, precision strikes, and strategic air power. From its first flight on April 1, 1933, the IAF has evolved into the world’s fourth-largest air force, performing national defence, humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and precision operations, honoring the courage, sacrifice, and professionalism of air warriors.