Thursday, 1 October 2026

Why in news?

Bihar cabinet approved the 'Bihar Green Hydrogen Policy, 2026' to reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy.

Key points

1. 1Aims to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on imported natural gas.
2. 2Seeks to attract private investment and generate employment in green hydrogen sector.
3. 3Aligns with the central government's 'National Green Hydrogen Mission' launched in 2023.
4. 4Sets a target to produce 1,00,000 tonnes of green hydrogen per year by 2031.
5. 5Envisions establishing 1 GW electrolyser capacity and achieving 2.5 GW renewable energy capacity through green hydrogen projects.

Background & context

Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources. It is considered a clean fuel with zero carbon emissions. The National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to make India a global hub for green hydrogen production and export.

Why in news?

RSS leader Sunil Ambekar raised concerns about demographic disparities, linking them to post-Independence marriage laws and minority education policies.

Key points

1. 1Allegation that post-Independence marriage laws created demographic imbalances by allowing certain communities multiple marriages while penalizing Hindus.
2. 2Statement made during the launch of a book titled 'Secularvaad aur Badalti Jansankhya ke Aankde'.
3. 3Call for weighing population implications when framing laws.
4. 4Connects demographic concerns to the upcoming Uniform Civil Code (UCC) implementation in 21 states by 2029.
5. 5Critique of education systems created for minorities post-Independence contributing to imbalance.

Background & context

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is a proposed set of personal laws that would apply to all citizens of India equally, replacing religion-specific laws. India's population growth rate has been a subject of policy discussion and concern for decades.

Why in news?

Congress protested in Visakhapatnam against alleged deletion of voters during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, demanding accountability.

Key points

1. 1Protests organised by the Congress in Visakhapatnam alleging deletion of lakhs of votes.
2. 2Demand for the arrest of the Chief Election Commissioner and action against those responsible for alleged voter deletion.
3. 3Allegations that the SIR process is being used to delete votes of Congress sympathisers.
4. 4Calls for protection of the right to vote and upholding democratic principles.
5. 5Similar concerns raised by an NGO in Delhi regarding low enrolment of homeless voters during a special drive.

Background & context

The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process undertaken by the Election Commission of India to update and purify electoral rolls. Ensuring accuracy and inclusivity in voter registration is crucial for democratic processes.