Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Kerala government has initiated a comprehensive program to enhance its long-term disaster resilience in response to recent heavy rainfall, floods, and mudslides.
Key points
- Programme focuses on tech-incentive weather forecasts and effective early warning systems.
- Includes flood mapping, desiltation of dams and rivers to improve water flow.
- AI-driven dam management and a comprehensive policy are key components.
- Removal of silt and debris from rivers aims to address flash floods and waterlogging.
Background & context
Kerala has faced significant challenges from monsoonal rains, leading to severe floods and mudslides in recent years, notably in 2018 and 2019, highlighting the need for robust disaster management strategies.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Desiltation of rivers can address 50-60% of flash flood and waterlogging issues in the state.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1 (Social Issues - Disaster Management), GS Paper 3 (Environment & Ecology, Disaster Management)
Why in news?
Telangana has launched an AI-driven platform for its emergency number 112, integrating various emergency services to ensure faster and more coordinated response.
Key points
- Integrates Police, Fire Services, Ambulance, Women Safety, Child Protection, and Disaster Response under one number.
- AI is used for intelligent call processing, location identification, and incident prioritization.
- Ensures dispatch of the nearest patrol vehicle and real-time operational monitoring.
- Aims to provide a single point of contact for citizens in emergencies.
Background & context
The 'Dial 112' initiative is a national project aimed at establishing a unified emergency number across India, similar to 911 in the US and 999 in the UK. Telangana's implementation leverages AI for enhanced efficiency.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Next-Generation Dial 112 platform in Telangana integrates multiple emergency services like Police, Fire, and Ambulance.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2 (Governance, Social Justice), GS Paper 3 (Science & Technology, Internal Security)
Why in news?
The Lok Sabha was adjourned amid protests, while the Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026, and the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, were passed in the ongoing Monsoon Session.
Key points
- Lok Sabha adjourned multiple times due to Opposition protests over issues like alleged Ram Temple donations scam and police action against students.
- Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026, passed without debate, updating laws for digital and virtual records.
- Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, passed in Rajya Sabha.
- Opposition demanded a statement from the Home Minister on alleged police excesses.
Background & context
Parliamentary sessions often face disruptions due to political disagreements. The Bankers' Books Evidence Act, 1891, is being replaced to accommodate modern digital financial records.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026, will repeal and replace the Bankers' Books Evidence Act, 1891.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2 (Indian Polity, Parliament)