India Current Affairs [Nation & States] MCQs

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 45th edition of PRAGATI, a platform for pro-active governance and timely implementation. Eight major projects worth over ₹1 lakh crore were reviewed, including six metro projects, one road connectivity, and one thermal power project. States were directed to enhance rooftop solar installations under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana with improved vendor ecosystems and quicker processes. PRAGATI has reviewed 363 projects worth ₹19.12 lakh crore across 45 editions. PRAGATI is a multi-purpose platform launched on March 25, 2015. It addresses common people’s grievances while monitoring key government programs and projects. The platform reviews both central and state government projects. It promotes e-transparency and e-accountability among stakeholders.

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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) took suo motu cognizance of rising suicides in Kerala’s Peringammala Panchayat, where 23 suicides occurred in 2024, following 138 suicides between 2011 and 2022. The NHRC is an independent statutory body established on October 12, 1993, under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. It safeguards rights related to life, liberty, equality, and dignity, as per the Constitution and international covenants.

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SJVN Ltd, formerly known as Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited, signed an MoU with the Bihar Government to develop the 1000 MW Hathidah Durgawati Pumped Storage Project (PSP) in Kaimur district, Bihar. The project will generate 2,308.65 million units annually and cost ₹5,663 crore. It will create around 5,000 jobs and boost Bihar’s renewable energy and storage capabilities. SJVN plans to invest ₹10,000 crore for PSP development in Bihar. Four PSPs were allocated to SJVN, with Hathidah Durgawati prioritized for its viability. SJVN is also developing 12,000 MW of PSPs across other states to support India’s renewable energy goals.

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Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi declared unseasonal rain a natural calamity. The decision aims to compensate farmers for crop damage using the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). Farmers with 33% or more crop loss will receive assistance as per the relief code. About ₹291.59 crore in aid will be provided to 6,66,720 affected farmers. Unseasonal rain damaged crops on 2,26,791 hectares of agricultural land between December 20-28. The announcement was made at the ‘Krushi Odisha Conclave’ 2025 in Bhubaneswar.

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The Miyawaki Technique, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, accelerates forest growth by planting native species closely together. This method enhances biodiversity, improves soil quality, and creates lush green spaces even in urban areas. In Prayagraj, over 1.2 lakh trees of various species have been planted using this technique, contributing to better air quality and environmental conservation ahead of the Mahakumbh 2025. The dense forests help absorb carbon, reduce pollution, and restore ecological balance, showcasing an effective approach to urban greening and sustainability.

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The union Minister of Labour & Employment launched multilingual functionality on the e-Shram portal. The e-Shram portal supports and empowers the unorganized workforce by creating a National Database of Unorganised Workers (NDUW). The portal now supports 22 languages, upgraded using MEITY’s Bhashini project. Previously, the portal was available only in English, Hindi, Kannada, and Marathi.

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Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of hospital registrations under the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, with 5,834 hospitals, including 2,949 government and 2,885 private facilities. The state has issued Ayushman cards to 5.13 crore beneficiaries out of 7.43 crore eligible individuals. 53.93 lakh patients have received free treatment worth Rs 8,483 crore. All state-run medical colleges, district hospitals, and community health centers are enlisted. The government aims for at least one member from 92% of eligible families to receive the “golden card.”

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Madhya Pradesh High Court launched the TWARIT (Transmission of Warrants, Summons, and Reports by Information Technology) platform to digitally transmit warrants, summons, and reports. The platform replaces paper-based systems, making legal proceedings faster, more efficient, and transparent. It enhances the justice delivery system, reducing delays and saving time for courts, law enforcement, and the public. TWARIT enables electronic delivery of legal documents like court summons and arrest warrants.

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The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) recently set up a new Regional Office in Varanasi. IWAI, established under the Inland Waterways Authority of India Act (1985), focuses on developing and maintaining Inland Water Transport infrastructure on national waterways. It receives grants from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. The headquarters is in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, with regional offices in Guwahati, Patna, Kochi, Bhubaneswar, and Kolkata. The Varanasi office will oversee development works on the Ganga and its tributaries in Uttar Pradesh, including rivers like Betwa, Chambal, and Gomti.

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Uttarakhand becomes the first state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) from January 27, 2025. The UCC aims to bring uniformity in personal civil matters, eliminating discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender. It covers marriage, divorce, succession, and inheritance laws, ensuring equal rights for all. Marriage registration will be mandatory within 60 days, with special provisions for older marriages. Scheduled Tribes and some protected communities are excluded from the Act.