Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Prime Minister launched a nationwide campaign to combat substance abuse among youth, linking it to the 'Viksit Bharat' vision.
Key points
- Campaign aims to mobilize young people against substance abuse.
- Launched across over 28,000 locations with participation of over one crore youth.
- Supported by spiritual organizations, educational institutions, and industry associations.
- Activities include sports, art, culture, meditation, spirituality, and community service over 100 weeks.
- Government views youth as key to India's future; drug abuse weakens demographic advantage.
Background & context
Drug abuse is a significant social issue affecting youth health, productivity, and societal stability. Hostile nations are alleged to use drug trafficking to weaken the country.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The campaign was launched on August 2, 2026, and will run for 100 weeks.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II (Social Justice), GS Paper IV (Ethics - societal impact of drugs)
Why in news?
Tamil Nadu government has moved the Supreme Court against Karnataka for failing to release Cauvery water as per CWMA decision, amidst ongoing political criticism within Tamil Nadu regarding the state's handling of the issue.
Key points
- Tamil Nadu seeks direction for Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs for 15 days from Kabini and Krishna Raja Sagara reservoirs.
- Demands Karnataka to make good the shortfall of 26.954 TMC from June 1 to August 12.
- Karnataka CM stated water situation has 'slightly improved'.
- Tamil Nadu government alleges Karnataka has defied Cauvery Tribunal orders.
- Opposition in Tamil Nadu criticizes the state government's handling of the crisis.
Background & context
The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal was established to adjudicate the distribution of Cauvery river water between the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry. The Mekedatu reservoir project in Karnataka is a point of contention.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Tamil Nadu seeks release of 4.536 TMC of water (at 3,500 cusecs for 15 days) and to compensate for a shortfall of 26.954 TMC.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II (Inter-State River Disputes, Polity), GS Paper III (Disaster Management - drought)
Why in news?
The Supreme Court has asked the government to consider a petition arguing that Jantar Mantar is no longer a suitable location for protests due to logistical and security concerns.
Key points
- Petition suggests discontinuing Jantar Mantar as the primary protest venue.
- Proposes Ramlila Maidan or another large, secure ground as an alternative.
- Arguments against Jantar Mantar include ingress-egress issues, supply problems, and sewage concerns.
- Modern digitally mobilized protests can quickly swell in numbers, posing management challenges.
- Proximity to Parliament and government establishments raises national security sensitivities.
Background & context
Jantar Mantar has historically been a designated site for public protests and demonstrations in Delhi. The Supreme Court has previously intervened in matters related to public spaces and protests.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The petition was filed by Satish Chand Kaushik.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II (Polity, Governance, Rights)