1. Discovery of Gene to Reduce Grain Breakage in Rice Milling
Why in News
Scientists from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) have discovered an important gene that reduces grain breakage during rice milling. This research has been published in The Plant Cell journal and is being considered a major achievement in agricultural science.
Purpose
The main objective of this research is to improve rice quality and enhance the economic condition of farmers. Grain breakage during rice milling not only reduces product quality but also decreases its market value, which can lead to better profits for rice producers.
Important Information
This gene enhances the hardness and structural strength of rice grains. Researchers found that this gene strengthens the cell wall of rice endosperm, reducing the likelihood of grain breakage during milling. India’s annual rice production is approximately 120 million tons. Breakage during milling causes losses worth billions of rupees annually. The commercial use of this technology could significantly increase farmers’ income.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Discovering Institution | Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) |
| Publication Journal | The Plant Cell |
| Rice Production in India | 120 million tons annually |
| Broken Rice Price | 30-40% less than whole rice |
| Affected Area | Endosperm cell wall |
| Potential Beneficiaries | Rice farmers and mill owners |
Conclusion
This scientific discovery is a significant achievement in Indian agricultural research. Improvement in rice quality will not only enhance farmers’ economic conditions but also strengthen India’s food security and export capacity. This research will contribute to making India a global leader in agricultural science.
2. Caste-based Discrimination and Honor Killing
Why in News
Recent incidents of caste-based discrimination and honor killing have come into discussion again. Social justice and human rights organizations have condemned these incidents and demanded strict legal action. This issue reflects the conflict between the deep-rooted caste system in Indian society and modern constitutional values.
Purpose
Studying this issue is necessary to understand caste-based inequality prevalent in Indian society and to strengthen the principle of equality provided by the Constitution. It provides an important foundation for policy formulation and legal reforms in the direction of social reform.
Important Information
The caste system has been prevalent in Indian society for thousands of years. Honor killing occurs when family or community members murder a person for violating traditional beliefs. Inter-caste marriage, love marriage, and challenging social traditions are major causes. Article 14 of the Indian Constitution provides the right to equality, and Article 15 prohibits discrimination based on caste.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Related Constitutional Articles | Articles 14, 15, 17, 21 |
| Major Legal Sections | IPC Sections 302, 120B |
| Annual Incidents | Approximately 300-400 (NCRB data) |
| Most Affected States | Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, UP |
| Important Judgment | Arjun vs State of Tamil Nadu (2017) |
| Related Commission | National Human Rights Commission |
Conclusion
Caste-based discrimination and honor killing are serious problems in Indian society that are contrary to constitutional values. The solution to these problems is possible not only through legal action but through comprehensive social awareness and education.
3. Need for National Blood Bank for Animals
Why in News
Recognizing a significant gap in animal healthcare services in India, veterinary experts and policymakers have emphasized the need to establish a national blood bank for animals. Despite having over 530 million livestock, India currently has no systematic and standardized blood transfusion system for animals.
Purpose
The main objective of this initiative is to improve animal health services and reduce animal mortality rates. Establishing blood banks will enable better treatment of critically ill animals, ultimately strengthening livestock owners’ economic security and the country’s milk production capacity.
Important Information
India is the world’s largest milk-producing country, and a large portion of its rural population depends on animal husbandry. The country has over 530 million livestock including cattle, buffalo, goats, sheep, and other animals. Technical challenges include different blood characteristics in various animal species, requiring special equipment and trained personnel for collection, testing, storage, and distribution.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Livestock Population in India | 530+ million |
| Current Blood Banks | Zero (for animals) |
| World Ranking in Milk Production | First position |
| Families Dependent on Livestock | Approximately 70 million |
| Dairy Sector’s GDP Contribution | 4.2% |
| Annual Milk Production | 220+ million tons |
Conclusion
Establishing a national blood bank for animals is an urgent need for India’s livestock sector. This initiative will not only improve animal health but also strengthen the rural economy. The government should take immediate steps in this direction and prepare a comprehensive plan in collaboration with veterinary colleges, private institutions, and livestock owners.
4. Meghalaya’s Plan to Make Pre-marital HIV/AIDS Testing Mandatory
Why in News
In July 2025, Meghalaya’s Health Minister announced that the state is seriously considering making pre-marital HIV/AIDS testing mandatory, following Goa’s model. This decision was taken considering the increasing HIV cases in Northeast India and public health challenges.
Purpose
The main objective of this scheme is to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and reduce infection risks among newlywed couples. Pre-marital screening can lead to early identification of not only HIV but also other sexually transmitted diseases. This initiative is being undertaken keeping in mind community health protection and future generation welfare.
Important Information
Goa is the first state in the country where pre-marital HIV testing has been mandatory since 2012 under the Goa Public Health (Amendment) Act 2010. According to National AIDS Control Organization data, HIV cases in Meghalaya are increasing at an alarming rate. This proposal is based on Article 21 of the Constitution under the right to life and public health protection principles.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Law Implementation in Goa | Since 2012 |
| Goa’s Related Law | Public Health (Amendment) Act 2010 |
| Meghalaya’s Population | Approximately 3.3 million |
| HIV Rate in Northeast | Above national average |
| Testing Cost | Free at government facilities |
| Related Constitutional Article | Article 21 |
Conclusion
The proposal to make pre-marital HIV/AIDS testing mandatory in Meghalaya is a positive step from a public health perspective. If implemented correctly, this could be a significant step towards HIV control in Northeast India.
5. Sri Aurobindo Ghosh’s Birth Anniversary
Why in News
On August 15, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the great revolutionary, philosopher, and spiritual guru Sri Aurobindo Ghosh on his birth anniversary. The celebration of his birth anniversary along with Independence Day underlines how significant his contribution was to the national freedom struggle.
Purpose
The purpose of celebrating Sri Aurobindo Ghosh’s birth anniversary is to introduce the new generation to his revolutionary ideas, patriotism, and spiritual philosophy. Taking inspiration from his life and works to work towards personality development and nation-building is the main goal of this celebration.
Important Information
Sri Aurobindo Ghosh was born on August 15, 1872, in Calcutta. In 1906, he entered active politics and led the Swadeshi movement. He edited magazines like “Vande Mataram” and “Karmayogi.” In 1910, he left active politics and adopted spiritual life, moving to Pondicherry. He gave the theory of “Integral Yoga” and wrote invaluable works like “Savitri” and “The Life Divine.”
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | August 15, 1872 |
| Birth Place | Calcutta (now Kolkata) |
| Death | December 5, 1950, Pondicherry |
| Education | Cambridge University, England |
| Major Works | Savitri, The Life Divine, Synthesis of Yoga |
| Ashram Establishment | 1926, Pondicherry |
| Edited Magazines | Vande Mataram, Karmayogi |
| Political Activity Period | 1906-1910 |
Conclusion
Sri Aurobindo Ghosh was a multifaceted personality who left an indelible mark from the national freedom struggle to the spiritual world. His life is proof of how a person can transform from a political revolutionary to a great philosopher and spiritual guru.
6. Voter List Revision in Bihar
Why in News
Before the upcoming assembly elections in Bihar, the Election Commission published a draft of the voter list on August 1, 2025, under special intensive revision, removing approximately 6.5 million voters’ names. This extensive revision has sparked widespread discussion in political circles.
Purpose
The main objective of this revision is to make the voter list more accurate and authentic. The goal is to enhance electoral process transparency and reliability by removing duplicate names, names of deceased persons, incorrect information, and people with temporary addresses.
Important Information
The Election Commission conducted door-to-door surveys and verified each voter’s information. Verification was done based on Aadhaar card, voter ID card, and residence certificate. Digital verification systems were used in this voter list. Cross-checking with biometric data identified fake registrations. This technical improvement has reduced possibilities of electoral fraud in the future.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Names Removed | Approximately 6.5 million |
| Draft Publication Date | August 1, 2025 |
| Bihar’s Total Population | 12.4 crore (2011 census) |
| Assembly Seats | 243 |
| Previous Voter Count | Approximately 7.3 crore |
| Related Law | Representation of People Act 1950 |
| Objection Period | 30 days |
| Digital Verification | Aadhaar-Voter linking |
Conclusion
The voter list revision in Bihar is a bold and necessary step that is important for electoral reform. Although there are some practical problems, in the long term, this will strengthen the democratic process.
7. Indian Renewable Energy Day (August 20)
Why in News
Indian Renewable Energy Day is celebrated annually on August 20. The purpose of this day is to increase public awareness about the importance of renewable energy and encourage the use of clean energy instead of traditional energy sources. Currently, the Indian government has set a target to achieve 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030.
Purpose
The main objective of this day is to accelerate the development of renewable energy in India and ensure energy security. The goal is to highlight the role of renewable energy in combating climate change challenges, reducing carbon emissions, and balancing economic development with environmental protection.
Important Information
India launched the National Solar Mission in 2010 with a target of 100 gigawatts of solar energy by 2022. India has surpassed this target and now has an ambitious goal of 500 gigawatts by 2030. Rajasthan’s Bhadla Solar Park is one of the world’s largest solar parks. India ranks fourth globally in wind energy production. The renewable energy sector has provided employment to approximately 1 million people in India.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Day Date | August 20 |
| 2030 Target | 500 GW non-fossil energy |
| Current Renewable Capacity | 180+ GW |
| Global Ranking (Solar) | Third position |
| Global Ranking (Wind) | Fourth position |
| Employment Generation | 10+ lakh people |
| International Solar Alliance Members | 100+ countries |
| Major Scheme | PM-KUSUM |
Conclusion
Indian Renewable Energy Day reflects the country’s commitment to energy policy and environmental protection. India has made remarkable progress in renewable energy and is making significant contributions to achieving global climate goals.
8. World Mosquito Day (August 20)
Why in News
World Mosquito Day is celebrated annually on August 20. The purpose of this day is to spread awareness about mosquito-borne diseases and encourage prevention measures. This day holds special significance due to increasing cases of dengue, malaria, and chikungunya in India.
Purpose
The main objective of this day is to promote global efforts for prevention, control, and elimination of mosquito-borne diseases. This day honors the discovery of Sir Ronald Ross, who proved in 1897 that malaria spreads through female Anopheles mosquito bites. He received the Nobel Prize in 1902 for this discovery.
Important Information
According to WHO data, over 700 million people are affected by mosquito-borne diseases annually, and approximately 1 million people die. According to the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program, over 280,000 dengue cases were recorded in 2024. The most effective way to prevent mosquito-borne diseases is to destroy mosquito breeding sites. Water sources like pots, tanks, coolers, and drains need cleaning.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Day Date | August 20 |
| Establishment Year | 2007 (London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine) |
| Global Affected People | 70+ crore annually |
| Annual Death Rate | 10+ lakh people |
| Dengue Cases in India (2024) | 2.8+ lakh |
| Nobel Prize Winner | Sir Ronald Ross (1902) |
| Main Vectors | Anopheles, Aedes, Culex |
| Most Affected Continent | Africa |
Conclusion
World Mosquito Day reminds humanity of the danger of mosquito-borne diseases and underlines the need for collective efforts to combat them. Through cleanliness, awareness, and community participation, these diseases can be controlled.
9. Tanya Hemanth’s Badminton Title
Why in News
Indian shuttler Tanya Hemanth won the women’s singles title at Syed Modi International 2025 on August 16, 2025. This victory is evidence of emerging young talent in Indian badminton and a positive sign for upcoming international tournaments.
Purpose
Tanya Hemanth’s achievement reflects the future possibilities of Indian badminton. By becoming an inspiration for young players, this victory shows that international success can be achieved through continuous practice and dedication.
Important Information
Tanya Hemanth is an emerging Indian badminton player transitioning from junior to senior level. Her playing style is aggressive and technically refined. Indian badminton has been making remarkable progress over the past two decades. Through Khelo India program, TARGET Olympic Podium Scheme, and National Sports Development Fund, badminton players are receiving comprehensive support.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Player | Tanya Hemanth |
| Tournament | Syed Modi International 2025 |
| Victory Date | August 16, 2025 |
| Category | Women’s Singles |
| Indian Olympic Medals (Badminton) | 2 (Silver – Sindhu) |
| Badminton Association of India | Established 1934 |
| Indians in World Rankings | 15+ (in top 50) |
| Major Training Centers | Gopichand Academy, Padukone Academy |
Conclusion
Tanya Hemanth’s victory at Syed Modi International is a sign of the bright future of Indian badminton. This success shows that sports development programs in India are working in the right direction and young talents are getting appropriate opportunities.
10. Transformation in Public Distribution System
Why in News
Comprehensive digital reforms have been implemented in India’s Public Distribution System (PDS) in recent years. Through Aadhaar-enabled targeting, biometric authentication, real-time inventory tracking, and One Nation One Ration Card scheme, this system has become more efficient, transparent, and corruption-free.
Purpose
The main objective of PDS reform is to strengthen food security, reduce corruption, and ensure seamless access to subsidized food grains to targeted beneficiaries. Digitization has increased system transparency and benefited migrant workers.
Important Information
PDS has been operating in India since independence, but earlier the leakage rate was 40-50%. After digital reforms, the leakage rate has reduced to less than 5%. One Nation One Ration Card scheme has proved to be a game-changer for migrant workers. 23 crore duplicate and fake ration cards have been cancelled. Government expenditure has saved Rs 90,000 crores.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Total Beneficiaries | 81.35 crore |
| Old Leakage Rate | 40-50% |
| Current Leakage Rate | Less than 5% |
| Savings Amount | 90,000+ crore rupees |
| Cancelled Fake Cards | 23+ crore |
| ONORC Coverage | 36 states/UTs |
| e-PoS Machines | 5+ lakh |
| Monthly Transactions | 230+ crore |
Conclusion
The digital transformation of India’s Public Distribution System is an excellent success story that shows how proper use of technology can bring positive changes in the lives of crores of people.
11. Shift from Calories to Nutrition
Why in News
A significant change is being observed in India’s food security sector where after ensuring calorie adequacy, nutrition security has now become the main challenge. Healthy diet remains inaccessible for more than 60% of the population, mainly due to high prices of nutrient-rich foods.
Purpose
Studying this issue is necessary to understand various forms of malnutrition in India and determine policy direction for their solutions. Focusing not only on quantity but also quality of food is extremely important for the health of future generations and national development.
Important Information
According to NFHS-5, 35.5% of children in India suffer from stunting, 19.3% are affected by wasting, and 32.1% are underweight. Anemia rate among women is 57% while among men it is 25%. The average daily cost of a healthy diet is Rs 59, which is 70% of the income of families below the poverty line.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Stunted Children | 35.5% (NFHS-5) |
| Wasted Children | 19.3% |
| Anemia in Women | 57% |
| Daily Cost of Healthy Diet | Rs 59 |
| Population with Unaffordable Healthy Diet | 60%+ |
| Poshan Abhiyaan Target | Reduce stunting to 25% |
| Millet Production Growth | 38% after 2014 |
| Anganwadi Centers | 13+ lakh |
Conclusion
India’s shift from calories to nutrition is an important development phase that shows the country is reaching the next level of food security. The solution requires a holistic approach that includes agricultural policy, expansion of social security schemes, nutrition education, and awareness campaigns.
12. PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana
Why in News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana in his Independence Day speech on August 15, 2025. This scheme has been launched with an outlay of Rs 1 lakh crore and aims to reach approximately 3.5 crore youth. This is one of the government’s most ambitious employment generation schemes designed to tackle the country’s unemployment problem.
Purpose
The main objective of this scheme is to create quality employment opportunities for youth in India and make them economically empowered. Taking advantage of demographic dividend, this scheme wants to develop skilled human resources. This scheme will play an important role in making India a 5 trillion dollar economy by 2030.
Important Information
The scheme has three components: direct employment generation, skill development, and self-employment support. It aims to create 50 lakh new jobs in manufacturing, service sector, and agriculture-based industries. 2 crore youth will be provided with Industry 4.0-compatible new skills. Focus will be on future-oriented sectors like artificial intelligence, robotics, data science, and digital marketing.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Total Budget | Rs 1 lakh crore |
| Targeted Youth | 3.5 crore |
| Direct Employment | 50 lakh |
| Skill Training | 2 crore |
| Self-employment Support | 1 crore |
| Implementation Period | 5 years (2025-2030) |
| Priority States | UP, Bihar, WB, Rajasthan |
| Main Focus Sectors | IT, Manufacturing, Green jobs, Services |
Conclusion
PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana is a revolutionary initiative that will change India’s employment landscape. If implemented correctly, this scheme can contribute to making India a 5 trillion dollar economy by 2030.
13. National Deep Water Exploration Mission
Why in News
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the National Deep Water Exploration Mission in his Independence Day speech on August 15, 2025. This ambitious mission aims to unlock 600-1,200 million metric tons of oil and gas reserves. This is a revolutionary step towards India’s energy security and self-reliance that will take the country’s hydrocarbon exploration to new heights.
Purpose
The main objective of this mission is to reduce India’s oil and gas import dependency and ensure energy security. By exploring hydrocarbon resources hidden in deep-sea areas, India can fulfill a large part of its energy needs through domestic production.
Important Information
India imports about 85% of its crude oil requirement and 50% of natural gas needs from abroad. About 30% of the world’s hydrocarbon reserves are hidden in deep-sea areas. Extensive exploration will be conducted in the Arabian Sea off the western coast and the Bay of Bengal off the eastern coast. The mission has the potential to create 5 lakh direct and indirect employment.
Fact Table
| Description | Facts |
|---|---|
| Targeted Reserves | 600-1,200 million metric tons |
| Current Import Dependency (Crude Oil) | 85% |
| Current Import Dependency (Natural Gas) | 50% |
| Annual Import Bill | 120+ billion dollars |
| Targeted Depth | 400-3000+ meters |
| Expected Employment | 5+ lakh |
| Main Areas | Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal |
| Major Government Companies | ONGC, OIL, GAIL |
Conclusion
The National Deep Water Exploration Mission is a historic step towards India’s energy independence. This mission will not only provide economic benefits but also make significant contributions to making India self-reliant in the energy sector.