Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The State is conducting its Assembly elections with a high voter turnout and tight security. Various candidates are vying for power, with the DMK-led alliance seeking to retain power against the AIADMK-led NDA.
Key points
- Over 5.73 crore voters participated.
- 4,023 candidates were in the fray.
- Tight security and crackdowns to prevent inducements.
- International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP) delegates observed the polling process.
- High voter turnout reported across the state, with special arrangements for senior citizens and differently-abled individuals.
Background & context
Tamil Nadu has a history of dynamic electoral politics with major regional parties like DMK and AIADMK dominating the political landscape. The state has consistently seen high voter participation.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The total electoral strength in Tamil Nadu for the 2026 elections was 5.73 crore.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1 (Indian Society: elections, voter behaviour), GS Paper 2 (Indian Polity: electoral process, election commission, conduct of elections)
Why in news?
The first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections recorded a high voter turnout amid reports of sporadic violence and intimidation. The polling decided the fate of 1,478 candidates.
Key points
- Over 75% voter turnout recorded till 3 p.m. in the first phase.
- Polling took place in 16 districts across 152 constituencies.
- Incidents of violence, voter intimidation, and attacks on candidates were reported.
- Dakshin Dinajpur, Paschim Medinipur, and Jhargram districts reported high turnout.
Background & context
West Bengal has a complex political history with frequent electoral contests marked by intense campaigning and significant voter engagement. The state Assembly has 294 seats.
★ Prelims fact capsule
In the first phase, West Bengal registered 78.77% voting as of 3 p.m.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1 (Indian Society: elections, social issues), GS Paper 2 (Indian Polity: electoral process, election commission, law and order during elections)
Why in news?
The results for the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) Exam-1 in Karnataka were announced, with several students achieving top scores, including a perfect score of 625/625.
Key points
- Several students achieved a perfect score of 625/625.
- Toppers came from various districts including Raichur, Chikkamagaluru, Udupi, Vijayapura, and Davangere.
- Backgrounds of toppers varied, including children of lecturers, teachers, farm labourers, and aspiring scientists.
- Students attributed their success to goal-oriented study plans, teacher encouragement, and parental support.
Background & context
The SSLC examination is a crucial stage in the Indian education system, marking the end of secondary schooling. High-stakes examinations like SSLC often highlight disparities and achievements across different socio-economic backgrounds.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Students like Sukhadeva, Brunda M. Tapse, and Bharath G. secured a perfect score of 625/625 in the Karnataka SSLC Exam-1.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1 (Indian Society: education, role of women and other disadvantaged sections)