Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Hyderabad is undertaking a massive ₹1,340 crore project to replace all its streetlights with energy-efficient LEDs, while Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) is ensuring seamless coal supply to power stations amidst rising demand due to El Niño conditions.
Key points
- Hyderabad's GHMC to spend over ₹1,340 crore on upgrading streetlights to LED.
- All 7.61 lakh existing streetlights to be replaced with higher wattage LEDs within two years.
- New centralized control and monitoring system (CCMS) to be installed.
- SCCL prioritizes coal supply to Telangana's thermal power stations to meet increased demand influenced by El Niño.
Background & context
Energy efficiency and ensuring consistent power supply are critical for urban development and economic stability. El Niño's impact on weather patterns can lead to increased energy demand for cooling. India relies heavily on thermal power, making coal supply chains crucial.
★ Prelims fact capsule
El Niño conditions often lead to higher electricity demand.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Infrastructure, Energy, Economy, Urbanisation; GS Paper I: Social Issues (impact on quality of life).
Why in news?
A Sarpanch from Rajasthan, Neeru Yadav, represented India at the BRICS Women's Ministerial Meeting in Kochi, highlighting rural innovations and a panchayat-based development model.
Key points
- Neeru Yadav, Sarpanch from Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, presented at the BRICS Women's Ministerial Meeting-2026.
- She showcased rural innovations, women's leadership, and the panchayat development model.
- The event focused on women's leadership, economic empowerment, and sustainable rural development.
- Yadav has been contributing her salary to support the education of girl children.
Background & context
The BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) and its expanded format now includes several other nations. These meetings aim to foster cooperation and discuss socio-economic development issues, with a growing focus on women's empowerment and grassroots initiatives.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The BRICS Women's Ministerial Meeting-2026 was held in Kochi, Kerala.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: International Relations (BRICS), Governance, Role of Women.
Why in news?
Leader of the Opposition Babulal Marandi has demanded a judicial probe into an alleged multi-crore scam in the Jharkhand Skill Development Mission Society (JSDMS), citing forged bank guarantees and payments to blacklisted companies.
Key points
- Allegations of financial irregularities and corruption in Jharkhand Skill Development Mission Society (JSDMS).
- Involvement of forged bank guarantees and illegal payments to blacklisted companies.
- Companies blacklisted for fake guarantees were allegedly removed from the list and paid crores.
- Demand for a judicial inquiry and FIR against responsible individuals.
Background & context
Skill development missions are crucial government initiatives aimed at enhancing employability. Scams in such programs undermine public trust and divert resources meant for genuine beneficiaries. Jharkhand has faced governance challenges and corruption allegations in the past.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The alleged scam involves the Jharkhand Skill Development Mission Society (JSDMS).
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Corruption; GS Paper IV: Ethics in Governance.