Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Houselisting and Housing Operations (HLO) phase of Census 2027 has begun, with a significant number of households opting for self-enumeration.
Key points
- Around 82 lakh households have used the self-enumeration facility.
- Field operations commenced in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh on May 1, 2026.
- This is part of the initial HLO phase of Census 2027.
- The self-enumeration window was notified for 15 days.
Background & context
The Census of India is a decennial exercise conducted by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India, under the Ministry of Home Affairs. It provides crucial data for policy-making, planning, and administration. The HLO is the first step in the census process, collecting information on houses and households.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Census 2027 has started its Houselisting and Housing Operations phase.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Population and associated issues, Social issues.
Why in news?
A recent study highlights a concerning decline in women's representation in higher-paying jobs within the formal sector and a significant lack of women in key managerial positions in NSE-listed companies.
Key points
- Almost half of NSE-listed companies have no women in key managerial positions.
- Women's representation in the formal workforce has decreased to 18% (2024-25).
- Women's share in formal jobs earning over ₹18,000/month has shrunk from 21% (2020-21) to 12% (2024-25).
- Representation of women in lower-wage positions has increased.
- The study was conducted by the Udaiti Foundation.
Background & context
Gender equality and women's economic participation are critical aspects of socio-economic development. Representation in leadership and higher-paying roles is often seen as an indicator of inclusive growth and opportunities.
★ Prelims fact capsule
As of 2024-25, only 10% of NSE-listed firms employed more than one woman in key leadership positions.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Social empowerment, Role of women in society; GS Paper 3: Indian Economy (employment trends).
Why in news?
The Telangana government is focusing on strengthening digital infrastructure in state-run schools to improve learning outcomes and prepare students for future technologies.
Key points
- Government committed to enhancing digital infrastructure in schools.
- Focus on improving learning outcomes through technology.
- Aim to make schoolchildren 'future-ready'.
- Initiative aligns with programs like 'Computer Education, AI & Robotics Learning Programme'.
Background & context
Digital education and technological literacy are increasingly important for educational advancement and future employability. Many governments are investing in schools to bridge the digital divide and provide modern learning tools.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Telangana IT Minister D. Sridhar Babu interacted with schoolchildren at a summer camp focusing on Computer Education, AI & Robotics.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Education, Governance; GS Paper 3: Science and Technology (impact of technology on education).