• 29 Jan 2026

One District-One Cuisine Launched in Uttar Pradesh

Why in News? 

The Uttar Pradesh government launched the One District–One Cuisine (ODOC) initiative during Uttar Pradesh Diwas 2026. 

Key Points 

• Launch by: The initiative was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. 
• Objective: To identify, preserve and promote one signature traditional dish from each district of Uttar Pradesh. 
  • Inspired by the One District–One Product (ODOP) model and focuses specifically on culinary heritage. 
• Coverage: Each district will be associated with a unique local cuisine such as Agra’s Petha, Mathura’s Peda, Varanasi’s Malaiyo, etc. 
• Economic Impact: Expected to boost local entrepreneurship, food-based MSMEs, employment generation, and tourism. 
• Global recognition : Seeks to give international recognition to Uttar Pradesh’s traditional dishes and food artisans. 
  • Local cuisines will be promoted through food festivals, fairs, tourism circuits, and cultural events. 
• Policy Alignment: Complements ODOP scheme and strengthens cultural economy and soft power of the state.

Read More: One District–One Product (ODOP), MSMEs 

Operation Sahyadri Checkmate launched by DRI

Why in News? 

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) conducted a major operation under the codename “Operation Sahyadri Checkmate” in the Sahyadri ranges. 

Key Points

• Operation: The DRI launched Operation to disrupt clandestine drug production networks in the remote Sahyadri forest region. 
• Location: Hidden mobile methamphetamine (mephedrone) lab in Sahyadri ranges, disguised as a poultry farm. 
• Seizure: 21.912 kg of mephedrone and 71.5 kg of raw materials capable of producing ~15 kg of drugs. 
  • Market Value: Estimated illicit value of ₹55 crore. 
• Strategy: Combination of intelligence‑led surveillance and late-night interception. 
• National Security: Prevents organised drug trafficking, protects public health, and disrupts criminal networks. 
  • The operation demonstrates the critical role of DRI in safeguarding national security. 

Read More: Sahyadri,  Directorate of Revenue Intelligence 

NITI Aayog Launched Three Reports on Circular Economy in Jaipur

Why in News? 

The NITI Aayog launched three comprehensive reports on strengthening the circular economy in India focusing on end‑of‑life vehicles (ELVs), waste tyres, e‑waste, and lithium‑ion batteries in Jaipur, Rajasthan in January 2026. 

Key Points 

• Event: The reports were released during the International Material Recycling Conference (IMRC) 2026 at Jaipur, Rajasthan. 
  • Organised by: The Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI). 
• Objective: To analyse challenges and opportunities in the circular economy ecosystem and recommend policies for infrastructure development, formalisation of sectors, and revenue generation.  
  • The reports focussed on strengthening the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework and boosting resource efficiency in key waste sectors. 
• Strategic Relevance: Aligns with India’s vision of resource‑efficient, low‑carbon development under the Viksit Bharat 2047 framework. 
• Clean Energy Role: Highlights the growing demand for lithium‑ion batteries amid rising electric vehicle (EV) sales and the need for sustainable end‑of‑life management. 

Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI):  

Established: MRAI was incorporated on 1 November 2011. 

Role: Apex body representing the recycling industry in India, promoting sustainable waste management practices.

Read More:  NITI Aayog, Circular economy, Extended Producer Responsibility, Viksit Bharat 2047, Electric vehicle (EV) 

SIAT 2026 Inaugurated in Pune

Why in News? 

Union Minister for Heavy Industries H. D. Kumaraswamy, inaugurated the Symposium on International Automotive Technology (SIAT) 2026 in Pune, Maharashtra. 

Key Points 

• Organiser: The symposium is organised by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). 
• Focus: SIAT 2026 highlights innovation, safety, clean mobility, electrification, and future‑ready transportation systems. 
  • Reinforces India’s ambition for global automotive technology leadership and transition to sustainable mobility. 
• EV Push: This also highlighted government initiatives such as FAME‑II, PM E‑DRIVE and PLI Auto which support electric vehicle adoption, EV charging infrastructure and domestic manufacturing. 
• New Facilities: Three new facilities were inaugurated at ARAI’s Mobility Research Centre (MRC) in Takwe (near Pune) to enhance research, testing and certification infrastructure. 
• Clean Mobility: The symposium emphasised the need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower emissions, and promote electrification of both passenger and commercial vehicles. 

Read More: FAME‑II, PM E‑DRIVE , PLI, EV 

Wings India 2026

Why in News? 

The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced that Wings India 2026, Asia’s largest civil aviation event, will be held in January 2026 at Begumpet Airport, Hyderabad. 

Key Points 

• Theme: The theme is “Indian Aviation: Paving the Future – From Design to Deployment, Manufacturing to Maintenance, Inclusivity to Innovation and Safety to Sustainability.” 
• Nature of Event: Wings India 2026 is a global civil aviation exhibition and conference covering the entire aviation value chain including airports, airlines, manufacturing, MRO and logistics. 
• India's Aviation Growth: India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing civil aviation markets with a significant increase in passenger traffic, aircraft induction and airport infrastructure. 
  • Wings India 2026 promotes regional air connectivity, which is the core objective of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme. 
• Focus: The event highlights India’s push towards aircraft manufacturing, Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) and aerospace component production. 
  • The sessions also focus on airports and infrastructure, aircraft leasing, air cargo, drones, advanced air mobility, training, and women in aviation. 
• Sustainability Initiatives: Emphasis is placed on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), green airports and adoption of digital and eco-friendly aviation technologies. 

Read More:  UDAN scheme, Sustainable Aviation Fuel 

Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana in Punjab

Why in News? 

The Punjab Government has announced the launch of the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana, under which all residents of Punjab will be provided cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh per family per year, making it one of the most comprehensive state-level health cover schemes in India. 

Key Points 

• Administered by: Punjab State Health Agency. 
• Objective: To ensure universal access to quality healthcare and reduce out-of-pocket expenditure for citizens. 
• Beneficiaries: All bonafide residents of Punjab are eligible, with no income or socio-economic criteria. 
  • Beneficiaries will be verified using Aadhaar card and voter identity card. 
  • The scheme aims to cover around 65 lakh families, benefiting nearly 3 crore people. 
• Healthcare Services Covered: The scheme covers secondary and tertiary healthcare, including major surgeries, ICU care, diagnostics and medicines. 
  • Treatment will be available in government and private hospitals within and outside Punjab. 
• Financial Model: The operational model involves both insurance and state funding. 
• Significance: Punjab becomes among the few Indian states offering universal cashless medical coverage without income restrictions. 

Read More: Universal access to healthcare,   Aadhaar card 

Telangana Police Introduces Doorstep FIR Registration

Why in News? 

The Telangana Police has launched a first-of-its-kind citizen-centric initiative allowing victims to register First Information Reports (FIRs) at their residence or chosen location. 

Key Points 

• Objective: To reduce procedural delay, protect the dignity and safety of victims, and remove barriers for those unable to visit police stations.  
• Applicable Cases: Initially applicable to specified categories of cognisable offences, including those under laws such as the POCSO Act, SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, and Telangana Prohibition of Ragging Act. 
• Procedure: Police officers will visit the victim’s residence, hospital or place of offence, record the initial statement, secure the crime scene, and later formally register the FIR at the police station.  
  • After registration, a copy of the FIR is provided at the same location via email, WhatsApp, or hard copy if required.  
• Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): SOPs have been issued to ensure uniform implementation. 
• Policy Alignment: Aligns with victim-centric policing, criminal justice reforms, and Article 21’s guarantee of access to justice. 

Read More: POCSO Act, SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, Article 21 

Ashok Chakra 2026 Awarded to Shubhanshu Shukla

Why in News? 

President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Ashok Chakra to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force (IAF) during the 77th Republic Day 2026. 

Key Points 

• Ashok Chakra: India’s highest peacetime gallantry award for acts of conspicuous bravery, self-sacrifice or valor. 
  • Award Criteria: The Ashok Chakra is conferred for most conspicuous bravery or self-sacrifice in peacetime, equivalent in prestige to the Param Vir Chakra, which is awarded in wartime. 
• Awardee: Shubhanshu Shukla recognized for leadership, courage and exemplary conduct during the Axiom‑4 space mission. 
  • He became the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station. 
  •  His recognition highlights India’s growing capabilities in human space missions and places space service on par with traditional acts of gallantry. 
• National Importance: Reinforces India’s focus on aerospace achievements, defense valor and scientific contribution, inspiring youth and recognizing pioneering efforts. 

Read More:  77th Republic Day 2026, Axiom‑4 space mission, International Space Station