Current Affairs for 24 October 2026

Typhoon Champi in Taiwan: Key Facts, Major impacts, Georgraphical Reasons, Major Indian initiatives and Sendai Framework

Why in news?

Typhoon Champi swept past Taiwan on 24 October 2026, killing one person and injuring 527 others, as powerful winds and torrential rainfall caused widespread damage and disrupted transportation and electricity supplies.

Key Facts

What happened in Taiwan?

• Typhoon Champi passed close to Taiwan's northeastern coast, particularly the Yilan County region. Although the storm weakened from its earlier super typhoon intensity, it continued to produce strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Major impacts

• Human casualties: Taiwan's fire department reported one death after a man was swept away by waves near Liuqiu Island. A total of 527 people were reported injured.
• Electricity disruption: Taiwan Power Company reported that more than 288,000 households had experienced power outages at one point, with electricity restored to most affected homes.
• Transportation: Hundreds of flights were cancelled. The transport ministry reported 242 cancellations on Saturday, following nearly 1,000 cancellations on Friday.
• Schools and offices: Authorities extended closures across parts of northern and central Taiwan, including Taipei.
• Infrastructure damage: Strong winds uprooted trees, damaged buildings, disrupted power lines and created hazardous conditions in urban and coastal areas.

What is a Typhoon?

• A tropical cyclone that develops over the north western Pacific Ocean and reaches the required intensity of a tropical cyclone.
• It is a large rotating weather system characterised by:
  • A low-pressure centre.
  • Strong winds circulating around the centre.
  • Heavy rainfall.
  • Thunderstorms.
  • Potential storm surges and coastal flooding.
• Tropical cyclones develop over warm ocean waters and draw energy from the heat and moisture available in the atmosphere.

Difference between cyclone, typhoon and hurricane

How does a Typhoon form?

• Warm ocean water: Sea surface temperatures of approximately 26.5°C or higher over a sufficient depth provide energy and moisture.
• Evaporation: Warm ocean water evaporates, adding moisture to the atmosphere.
• Condensation: Moist air rises and cools, forming clouds and releasing latent heat.
• Low pressure: The released heat warms the surrounding atmosphere and supports rising air and a developing low-pressure system.
• Rotation: The Coriolis force helps the system develop a rotating circulation.
• Intensification: Under favourable atmospheric conditions, the system strengthens into a tropical cyclone and may reach typhoon or super typhoon intensity.

What is a Super Typhoon?

• An exceptionally intense tropical cyclone in the western North Pacific.
• The term is commonly used by the US Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) for tropical cyclones reaching maximum sustained winds of at least 130 knots, equivalent to approximately 240 km/h.
• Champi had earlier reached super typhoon intensity before weakening near Taiwan.

Major geographical reasons

• Western Pacific location: Taiwan lies in a major tropical cyclone development and movement region.
• Coastal exposure: Strong winds and waves affect coastal settlements, ports and fishing communities.
• Mountainous terrain: Heavy rainfall can trigger landslides, flash floods and river flooding.
• Urban infrastructure: Dense settlements, electricity networks and transportation infrastructure are exposed to storm damage.
• Seasonal weather: Taiwan's typhoon season generally extends through the warmer months, but tropical cyclones can also affect the island during autumn.

Typhoon Champi's impact on China

• As Champi moved north from Taiwan, Chinese authorities prepared for possible impacts along the eastern coastal province of Zhejiang.
• The storm was not expected to make landfall in China at the time of reporting, but authorities warned of strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Major preparedness measures

• Emergency teams were deployed to Zhejiang.
• Approximately 400 rescue workers and 600 pieces of equipment were readied.
• More than 41,000 firefighters were placed on emergency duty.
• Over 3,800 fishing boats returned to harbour in Taizhou.
• Offshore fish-farm workers were brought ashore.
• More than 2,000 island visitors were evacuated.
• Offshore construction projects and passenger ferry services were suspended.

Why do Typhoons cause heavy rainfall and flooding?

• Typhoons transport large amounts of moisture from the ocean towards land. When moist air rises, it cools and condenses, producing heavy rainfall.
• Flooding can occur because of:
  • Intense rainfall over a short period.
  • Rivers overflowing their banks.
  • Poor drainage in urban areas.
  • Rainfall over mountainous terrain.
  • Storm surges in coastal regions.
• In mountainous areas, intense rainfall may also trigger landslides and debris flows.

What is a Storm Surge?

• An abnormal rise in sea level caused mainly by a storm's winds pushing seawater towards the coast. It is different from an ordinary ocean tide.
• Strong winds push seawater towards coastal areas. Low atmospheric pressure also contributes to a rise in sea level. When the elevated water reaches the coast, it can cause coastal flooding.
• Storm surge becomes especially dangerous when it coincides with high tide.

Storm surge vs tsunami

Typhoons and Climate Change

• Warmer oceans: Rising ocean temperatures increase the potential energy available to tropical cyclones.
• Intense rainfall: A warmer atmosphere can hold more water vapour, increasing the potential for heavy rainfall.
• Sea-level rise: Rising sea levels increase the baseline from which storm surges occur, potentially worsening coastal flooding.
• Regional changes: Climate change may influence cyclone intensity, rainfall, movement and seasonal patterns, but these changes differ across ocean basins.

Does climate change cause every typhoon?

• No. Tropical cyclones develop through a combination of natural atmospheric and oceanic conditions.
• Climate change can influence the environment in which they form and intensify, but it is not accurate to attribute every individual storm directly to climate change without scientific analysis.

Typhoon Naming System

• Tropical cyclones are assigned names to make communication, forecasting and public warnings easier.
• The naming system in the western North Pacific is coordinated through the World Meteorological Organization's regional arrangements.
• The names are contributed by countries and territories participating in the regional system.

India's Disaster Management Framework

Major Indian initiatives

• National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP): Supports cyclone risk reduction through infrastructure, preparedness and capacity-building measures in vulnerable coastal states.
• Early Warning Dissemination Systems: Help communicate alerts to vulnerable communities.
• Cyclone shelters: Provide safe locations for people during severe storms.
• Coastal regulation and planning: Support the management of development and environmental risks along coastlines.

India and the Sendai Framework

• The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 is a global framework adopted to reduce disaster risks and losses.
• Its four priorities are:
  • Understanding disaster risk.
  • Strengthening disaster risk governance.
  • Investing in disaster risk reduction.
  • Enhancing preparedness and building back better.

FAQs

ISRO’s NVS-03: A New Boost for India’s NavIC Navigation System

Why in the News?

• ISRO’s third next-generation navigation satellite, NVS-03, is scheduled for launch on October 30, 2026. It could help restore NavIC’s ability to independently determine a user’s position.
• The government told Parliament that only three NavIC satellites were providing Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) services. At least four operational satellites are needed for basic positioning. NavIC could therefore not provide standalone positioning, although its timing service remained functional. 

What Is NavIC?

• NavIC, or Navigation with Indian Constellation, is India’s regional satellite-based navigation system. It was earlier known as the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS).
• NavIC is designed to provide positioning, navigation and timing services across India and up to about 1,500 km beyond the Indian boundary. Its core constellation is designed around seven satellites. 

Why Was NavIC’s Service Affected?

• NavIC needs signals from at least four operational satellites to provide basic positioning. In July 2026, the government said that three satellites IRNSS-1B, IRNSS-1I and NVS-01 were providing PNT services. As a result, NavIC could not independently determine a user’s position, though its timing service continued to work. 
• Some earlier NavIC satellites faced problems with their atomic clocks or reached the end of their mission lives. IRNSS-1F completed its 10-year designed mission life, and its onboard atomic clock stopped functioning. The newer satellite NVS-02 also failed to reach its intended final orbit because the required orbit-raising manoeuvres could not be completed. 

What Could NVS-03 Change?

NVS-03 is the third satellite in NavIC’s second-generation series. Its launch is scheduled for October 30, 2026. If it is successfully placed in orbit and becomes operational, the number of NavIC satellites providing PNT services could rise to four. This could make standalone positioning possible again. 

NVS-03 could:

• Help restore NavIC’s standalone positioning service.
• Strengthen India’s regional navigation capability.
• Support transport, vehicle tracking, maritime navigation and emergency services.
• Add to the planned expansion of NavIC through future satellites such as NVS-04 and NVS-05. 

How Does NavIC Work?

NavIC satellites transmit precisely timed signals to Earth. A receiver estimates its position and time by measuring how long the signals take to arrive. According to ISRO, at least four operational satellites are needed for basic positioning.

NavIC provides two types of services:

1. Standard Positioning Service (SPS): For civilian and general use.
2. Restricted Service (RS): An encrypted service for authorised users. 

NavIC signals are available in the L5 and S-bands. The second-generation satellites are also introducing the L1 band to support civilian use and improve compatibility with other global navigation satellite systems. 

NavIC and GPS: Key Differences

NavIC is best understood as a regional system and complement to global systems such as GPS, rather than as a global replacement. ISRO says NavIC’s SPS signals can work alongside GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou. 

Significance of NavIC

1. Strategic autonomy: An indigenous navigation system gives India its own source of positioning and timing services. This is important for national security and strategic applications.
2. Transport and rail services: NavIC can support transport, vehicle tracking and train-related services. The Indian Express reports that a fully operational NavIC system could help meet the goal of real-time tracking for around 12,000 trains. 
3. Maritime safety and disaster alerts: NavIC also supports one-way short-message broadcasting. ISRO says this capability can be used to send emergency warnings to fishermen at sea, including in areas without terrestrial network coverage. 
4. Technology and industry: New satellites and compatible receivers can help India build domestic capabilities in navigation chips, consumer devices and space systems.

Key Challenges

• Limited number of satellites: Standalone positioning requires enough operational satellites.
• Clock and orbit risks: Problems with atomic clocks or orbital manoeuvres can interrupt service.
• Post-launch work: A satellite must be placed in its intended orbit and checked before it can provide operational services.
• Receiver availability: NavIC’s benefits depend on phones, vehicles and other devices being able to receive its signals.
• Continuity and backup: Reliable service requires timely satellite replacements and sufficient backup capacity.

Way Forward

• Clearly communicate NVS-03’s orbital deployment, testing and operational status after launch.
• Develop NVS-04 and NVS-05 on schedule to expand NavIC’s satellite capacity and resilience.
• Continue developing indigenous atomic clocks and other critical satellite components.
• Increase the use of NavIC-compatible receivers in mobile phones, vehicles and public services.
• Preserve compatibility with other GNSS systems while strengthening NavIC’s independent capabilities.

Conclusion

• NavIC is an important part of India’s regional navigation and timing capability. The successful launch and commissioning of NVS-03 could be a significant step towards restoring standalone positioning. 
• Reliable service over the long term will also require enough operational satellites, strong indigenous technology and wider adoption of NavIC-compatible devices.

FAQs

Ashoke Sen Becomes First Indian Physicist to Win Oskar Klein Medal 2026

Why in News?

• Indian theoretical physicist Ashoke Sen has been awarded the prestigious Oskar Klein Medal 2026, becoming the first Indian physicist to receive this international honour. The award recognises his pioneering contributions to string theory, black hole entropy and string field theory.
• The International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS) announced the achievement on October 22, 2026.

About the Oskar Klein Medal

• Awarded by: Stockholm University and the Nobel Committee for Physics of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.
• Established: 1988.
• Named after: Oskar Klein, a Swedish theoretical physicist.
• Purpose: To recognise outstanding contributions to physics.
• Notable previous recipients: Chen-Ning Yang, Steven Weinberg and Hans Bethe, all Nobel laureates.

Oskar Klein Memorial Lecture 2026

As part of the recognition, Ashoke Sen delivered the 2026 Oskar Klein Memorial Lecture at Stockholm University's AlbaNova Centre on October 22, 2026.

• Lecture title: “Gravity from Strings and Strings from Gravity”.
• Theme: The relationship between string theory and gravity.
• Significance: The lecture explored ideas central to understanding fundamental particles, forces and the structure of the universe.

Ashoke Sen’s Major Scientific Contributions

1. String Theory: His research has helped advance the understanding of fundamental particles and forces and the relationship between quantum physics and gravity.
2. S-Duality: His influential work on S-duality has contributed to understanding the mathematical relationships between different formulations of string theory.
3. Black Hole Entropy: His research on the precise counting of black hole entropy has advanced efforts to explain black holes using quantum physics.
4. String Field Theory: His contributions have helped develop the theoretical framework used to study string interactions.

Major Awards and Honours

• 1989: ICTP Prize.
• 1994: Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize.
• 1998: Elected Fellow of the Royal Society.
• 2001: Padma Shri.
• 2009: Infosys Prize in Mathematical Sciences.
• 2012: Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics.
• 2013: Padma Bhushan.
• 2014: Dirac Medal.
• 2026: Oskar Klein Medal.

Significance of the Achievement

• Ashoke Sen's recognition highlights India's contribution to fundamental theoretical physics and strengthens the international visibility of Indian scientific research. 
• His work on string theory, quantum gravity and black hole entropy has contributed to efforts to address some of the most fundamental questions about the universe.
• ICTS Director Rajesh Gopakumar congratulated Sen, praising his association with the institution and his role in fostering a culture of scientific excellence.

Legislative Council: Elections and Relevance

Why is it in the news?

Elections were recently held for 28 seats in the Legislative Councils of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.

History and Status in Indian States

• Legislative Councils do not exist in all Indian states; currently, this system is in place in only six states: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
• The history of the Legislative Council is linked to the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of the British colonial era, under which a 'Council of State' was established at the central level in 1919.
• Subsequently, the Government of India Act, 1935, provided for the creation of a bicameral legislature in the provinces of India.
• The first Legislative Council in India officially began its operations in Bengal in 1937.

Constituent Assembly Debates and Perspectives on the Legislative Council

• During the drafting of the Constitution, there were significant differences of opinion among the members of the Constituent Assembly regarding the necessity and utility of a Legislative Council.
• Congress leader Brajeshwar Prasad believed that vesting all powers solely in the lower house (Legislative Assembly) at the inception of the new Constitution could be risky.
• He argued that the power of governance should rest in the hands of educated, sensible, and fair-minded individuals capable of making decisions that transcend narrow-mindedness and superstition.
• Conversely, other members of the Constituent Assembly questioned the limited powers of the Legislative Council, viewing it as an unnecessary financial burden on the public exchequer.

Why do not all Indian states have a Legislative Council?

• The primary reason why not all Indian states have a Legislative Council is that Article 169 of the Indian Constitution grants states the choice of whether or not to adopt a bicameral system.
• It is not mandatory for states; rather, it is entirely optional. 

Economic and Administrative Burden

• Maintaining a Legislative Council requires substantial financial resources.
• The state government must bear the costs of salaries, allowances, and pensions for its members (MLCs), as well as the expenses for running a separate secretariat.
• Smaller states or those with limited financial resources often choose not to establish a Legislative Council to avoid these additional expenditures.

Limited Powers and Perceived Redundancy

• Legislative Councils possess very limited powers.
• They cannot reject a 'Money Bill,' nor can they delay one for more than 14 days.
• Even in the case of ordinary bills, the final authority rests with the Legislative Assembly.
• Consequently, many states view it as an unnecessary chamber that merely delays the enactment of laws (by up to a maximum of four months).

Use for Political Interests

• It is frequently alleged that political parties use the Legislative Council to provide a 'backdoor entry' (a 'parking slot') for leaders or party workers who have lost direct elections (to the Legislative Assembly).
• This perception of it serving narrow political interests makes many states reluctant to adopt such a chamber.

Complex Process for Creation and Abolition

• Under Article 169 of the Constitution, if a state wishes to create or abolish a Legislative Council, its Legislative Assembly must first pass a resolution by a special majority.
• Subsequently, the national Parliament must enact legislation to this effect.
• As it cannot be created or abolished without the approval of Parliament, the process becomes contingent upon political will. (For instance, proposals from Assam, Rajasthan, and Odisha have remained pending in Parliament for years.)

Constitutional Provisions

• Article 169 of the Indian Constitution empowers Parliament to enact laws for the creation or abolition of a Legislative Council in any state. 
• For the creation or abolition of a Legislative Council in a state, the Legislative Assembly of that state must pass a resolution by a majority of its total membership, as well as by a majority of at least two-thirds of the members present and voting.
• Subsequently, the Parliament can create or abolish the Legislative Council by passing the resolution with a simple majority.
• According to Article 171 of the Indian Constitution, the total number of members in a Legislative Council cannot exceed one-third of the total number of members in the state's Legislative Assembly, and in no case should this number be less than 40.

Membership of the Legislative Council

Qualifications -

• Must be a citizen of India.
• Must be at least 30 years of age (the minimum age for the Legislative Assembly is 25 years).
• Must not be an insolvent or of unsound mind.

Tenure -

• The Legislative Council is a permanent house; it is never dissolved.
• Each member has a tenure of 6 years.
• Every 2 years, one-third (1/3) of its members retire, and new members are elected to replace them.

Process of Member Selection

• Members of the Legislative Council are elected indirectly through a system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote.
• One-third of the total members of the Legislative Council are elected by the elected representatives of municipalities, district boards, and other local bodies.
• One-third of the total members are elected by the state's Legislative Assembly members (MLAs).
• One-twelfth (1/12) of the total members are elected by graduates who have completed their degree at least three years prior.
• One-twelfth (1/12) of the total members are elected by teachers who have been teaching for at least three years in educational institutions within the state, at or above the secondary school level. 
• The remaining members are nominated by the Governor of the state from among prominent individuals who possess special knowledge or practical experience in fields such as literature, art, science, the cooperative movement, and social service.
• Elections to the Legislative Council are not officially contested on party symbols; however, candidates often receive direct or indirect support from various political parties.
• Political parties view Legislative Council elections as a political barometer to gauge their level of support among educated sections and professionals.

Key Functions and Powers of the Legislative Council

• Ordinary bills can be introduced in either house of the state legislature (the Legislative Assembly or the Legislative Council), similar to the process in Parliament.
• The Legislative Council cannot outright reject an ordinary bill.
• It can delay a bill for a maximum of 3 months on the first instance and for another 1 month on the second instance (a total maximum delay of 4 months). Thereafter, the bill is deemed to have been passed by both houses.
• Money bills can only be introduced in the Legislative Assembly, not in the Legislative Council.
• Once passed by the Legislative Assembly, a money bill is sent to the Legislative Council.
• The Council can retain such a bill for a maximum of 14 days.
• If the Council offers any suggestions, it is entirely at the discretion of the Legislative Assembly whether or not to accept them.
• Members of the Legislative Council may ask questions-including supplementary questions-to ministers and engage in discussions regarding government policies.
• The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible only to the Legislative Assembly.
• Consequently, the Legislative Council cannot remove the government by passing a no-confidence motion.
• The Chief Minister or other ministers may also be members of the Legislative Council.
• In the case of certain types of constitutional amendments that require the consent of the states, the Legislative Council plays a significant role.

Significance of the Legislative Council (Why is it necessary?)

The Legislative Council (the Upper House) plays a vital role within the state legislatures of India. 

Checking Hasty Legislation

• When a political party holds an overwhelming majority in the Legislative Assembly, bills are sometimes passed without comprehensive discussion.
• The Legislative Council acts as a 'revising chamber,' providing an opportunity to rectify policy flaws, unintended consequences, and drafting errors in bills.
• It serves as a check on arbitrary decisions by the Legislative Assembly and its tendency to enact laws in haste.

Involvement of Experts and Talented Individuals

• Intellectual and talented individuals-who may prefer not to engage in the rigors of direct elections (the politics of popularity) or are unable to win them-can contribute to policymaking through this body.
• The Governor nominates experts from fields such as art, science, literature, the cooperative movement, and social service.
• Additionally, the intellectual class gains representation through constituencies comprising teachers and graduates.

Political Stability and Continuity

• Unlike the Legislative Assembly, the Legislative Council is never fully dissolved; one-third of its members retire every two years.
• Even when the Legislative Assembly is dissolved (for instance, during election periods), the Legislative Council remains as a permanent body, ensuring the continuity and stability of the state legislature.

Reducing the Workload of the Legislative Assembly

• The existence of two houses allows for the distribution of legislative tasks and debates between them.
• Non-financial bills can be discussed in detail within the Council, thereby saving the time of the Legislative Assembly.

FAQ

United Nations Day 2026: History, Key Facts, Objectives, India’s Role and Challenges

Why in news?

United Nations Day is observed every year on 24 October to mark the anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter in 1945.

Key Facts

What is the United Nations?

• The United Nations (UN) is an international organisation established in 1945 after the Second World War.
• It was created to prevent future wars, maintain international peace and security, promote human rights and encourage cooperation among countries.
• The UN provides a common platform where countries can discuss international problems, negotiate agreements and work towards shared solutions.
• Its work also includes humanitarian assistance, public health, education, environmental protection and sustainable development.
• The organisation currently has 193 member states, making it a central forum for international cooperation.

Why is 24 October observed as United Nations Day?

• The United Nations Charter was signed on 26 June 1945 in San Francisco, United States.
• It came into force on 24 October 1945, after ratification by the required countries, including the five permanent members of the Security Council.
• The United Nations officially came into existence on this date.
• In 1947, the UN General Assembly designated 24 October as United Nations Day.
• The day has been observed annually since 1948 to increase awareness of the organisation's aims and achievements.

Main Objectives of the United Nations

• Maintaining international peace and security: Preventing conflicts and encouraging peaceful settlement of disputes.
• Promoting friendly relations: Developing cooperation among nations based on equal rights and self-determination.
• Protecting human rights: Promoting dignity, equality and fundamental freedoms for all people.
• Encouraging international cooperation: Addressing economic, social, cultural and humanitarian problems.
• Supporting sustainable development: Improving living standards and promoting inclusive economic and social progress.
• Upholding international law: Encouraging countries to respect international agreements and legal principles.

Major Organs of the United Nations

Role of the United Nations in Global Affairs

• Peacekeeping: UN peacekeeping missions help support ceasefires, protect civilians under authorised mandates and assist political transitions.
• Humanitarian assistance: UN agencies provide food, shelter, healthcare and other assistance to people affected by conflicts and disasters.
• Global health: The World Health Organization (WHO) coordinates international public health efforts and disease-control initiatives.
• Child welfare: UNICEF works to protect children's rights and improve access to healthcare, nutrition, education and clean water.
• Refugee protection: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) helps protect refugees and other displaced people.
• Environmental protection: The UN supports international cooperation on climate change, biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
• Sustainable development: The organisation promotes the 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted in 2015.

India's Role in the United Nations

• Founding member: India was among the original 51 members of the United Nations in 1945.
• Peacekeeping contributions: India has a long history of contributing military personnel, police officers and other specialists to UN peacekeeping operations.
• Decolonisation: India has supported the principle of self-determination and the end of colonial rule.
• Sustainable development: India's development priorities, including sanitation, healthcare, education and clean energy, are connected with the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Climate action: India participates in international climate negotiations and supports cooperation on sustainable development.
• Security Council reforms: India advocates reform of the UN Security Council to make it more representative of contemporary global realities.
• Global South: India has called for greater consideration of the priorities and concerns of developing countries in international decision-making.

What is the UN Security Council?

• The United Nations Security Council is one of the six principal organs of the organisation.
• It has 15 members, including five permanent members and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.
• The five permanent members are China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States.
• The permanent members possess veto power over substantive decisions.
• The Security Council has primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security.
• India seeks permanent membership in an expanded Security Council, arguing that its current composition does not adequately reflect today's global realities.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• The United Nations adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
• These goals aim to address poverty, hunger, health, education, gender equality, clean water, affordable energy and other development priorities.
• They also cover decent work, reduced inequalities, sustainable cities, responsible consumption, climate action and environmental protection.
• The goals are interconnected and require cooperation among governments, international organisations, businesses and communities.
• The target year for achieving the SDGs is 2030.

Importance 

• Promotes peace: Encourages countries to resolve disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.
• Raises awareness: Helps people understand the role of international institutions.
• Supports human rights: Reinforces the importance of dignity, equality and freedom.
• Encourages cooperation: Highlights the need for joint action on global problems.
• Promotes development: Draws attention to poverty reduction, education, healthcare and environmental sustainability.
• Strengthens multilateralism: Emphasises the importance of countries working together through international institutions.

Challenges 

• Ongoing conflicts: The UN often struggles to stop wars when conflicting parties refuse negotiations or major powers disagree.
• Security Council reform: Disagreements over permanent membership and veto powers make reform difficult.
• Climate change: International commitments need stronger implementation, finance and cooperation.
• Poverty and inequality: Many communities continue to lack adequate food, healthcare, education and economic opportunities.
• Funding constraints: Limited or delayed contributions can affect humanitarian and development programmes.
• Geopolitical rivalries: Competition among major powers can weaken collective decision-making.
• New global risks: Cyber security threats, artificial intelligence and misinformation require greater international cooperation.

FAQs

Khet Bachao Abhiyan 2026: Key Facts, Highlights, Agricultural Inputs, Dhaincha, Soil Health and Sustainable Farming

Why in news?

The Khet Bachao Abhiyan (Rabi 2026) was inaugurated on 22 October 2026 at Revora village, Bardez taluka, North Goa, to promote soil health conservation, balanced fertilizer use and sustainable farming practices.

Key Facts 

What is Khet Bachao Abhiyan?

• Khet Bachao Abhiyan (KBA) is an agricultural awareness initiative that encourages farmers to protect soil fertility, use fertilizers scientifically and adopt sustainable agricultural practices.
• The Rabi 2026 campaign is part of a nationwide initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. The campaign also promotes crop diversification, crop residue management, integrated pest management and climate-resilient farming.

Highlights of the Programme

• Soil-Test-Based Nutrient Management
  • Farmers were encouraged to use fertilizers according to soil test results rather than applying them without scientific assessment.
  • Soil testing helps identify nutrient deficiencies and supports the appropriate use of fertilizers.
  • It helps in improving soil fertility, reducing unnecessary fertilizer expenditure, supporting better nutrient absorption by crops and helping maintain long-term agricultural productivity.
• Balanced Fertilizer Use
  • The programme highlighted the importance of using fertilizers in a balanced and judicious manner.
  • Excessive or improper fertilizer application may affect soil health, increase cultivation costs and contribute to environmental problems.
  • Farmers were encouraged to combine chemical fertilizers with organic sources of nutrients wherever suitable.
• Sustainable Rabi Crop Production
  • Special attention was given to Rabi crops, particularly vegetables and pulses.
  • Farmers were advised to adopt quality seeds and disease-free planting material, seed and seedling treatment, biofertilizers, biopesticides, integrated water, weed, pest and disease management.
• Organic Farming and Recycling of Farm Waste
  • The programme explained how locally available livestock resources can support sustainable agriculture.
  • Recycling livestock waste can reduce dependence on external agricultural inputs and support integrated crop-livestock farming.

• Water Conservation and Climate-Resilient Agriculture
  • Farmers were encouraged to use irrigation resources efficiently and adopt climate-resilient agricultural practices.
  • The programme also highlighted efficient irrigation management, quality vegetable seedling production, sustainable nutrient management and conservation of natural resources.
  • These practices can help farmers manage agricultural risks and improve resource efficiency. 
• Government Schemes and Farmer Awareness
  • The programme also highlighted government agricultural schemes and the effective utilisation of farm resources.
  • Farmers were encouraged to utilise farm waste for soil enrichment and additional income, improve irrigation resource management, adopt climate-resilient crop production and produce and use quality seeds and planting material.

Participation and Distribution of Agricultural Inputs

• Progressive farmers also shared their experiences to encourage the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices in nearby villages.
• The programme was attended by representatives of the Directorate of Agriculture, ATMA North Goa, Vanrai NGO and local panchayat officials. 

What is the importance of Soil Health?

• Soil health refers to the ability of soil to function as a living ecosystem that supports plant growth, maintains environmental quality and sustains agricultural productivity.
• Healthy soil supports:
  • Nutrient availability: Supplies essential nutrients for crop growth.
  • Water retention: Helps maintain moisture for crops.
  • Soil biodiversity: Supports beneficial microorganisms and soil organisms.
  • Agricultural productivity: Improves the foundation for sustainable crop production.
  • Environmental protection: Helps reduce soil degradation and nutrient losses.

Soil Health and Sustainable Farming

What is Dhaincha?

• Dhaincha is a green manure crop commonly associated with soil fertility improvement.
• It is useful because:
  • It can add organic matter to soil.
  • It supports biological nitrogen fixation through its association with nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
  • It can improve soil structure and nutrient management.
  • It supports sustainable agricultural practices.
• Dhaincha seeds were distributed to farmers during the Revora programme by ICAR-KVK, CCARI.

Nationwide Khet Bachao Abhiyan

• The Revora programme is connected with the broader nationwide campaign launched from Karnal, Haryana.
• The campaign will continue until 30 November 2026.
• The nationwide campaign aims to reach approximately one crore participants through ATMA and ICAR, with 4,150 teams involving KVKs and ATMA and more than 12,000 scientists and ATMA functionaries expected to contribute.
• Activities include farmers' conferences, Kisan Chaupals, training sessions and field demonstrations at state, district, block and Gram Panchayat levels. 

Challenges 

• Excessive fertilizer use: Improper fertilizer application can affect soil quality and increase cultivation costs.
• Limited soil testing: Farmers may not always have access to timely soil testing and scientific recommendations.
• Low awareness: Knowledge about organic inputs, biofertilizers and integrated nutrient management may vary across farming communities.
• Water management: Inefficient irrigation can contribute to water wastage and soil degradation.
• Climate change: Changing rainfall patterns and extreme weather can affect soil moisture, crop productivity and agricultural planning.

FAQs

Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue 2026: Theme, Dates, Key Sessions and Significance

Why in News?

• The Indian Navy is scheduled to host IPRD-2026 in New Delhi from 3 to 5 November 2026. 
• The conference will focus on how countries can work together on maritime science, technology and research. 
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to deliver the commemorative address on the opening day. 

About Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue

• The Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue is the Indian Navy’s annual international strategic outreach initiative. It brings together maritime stakeholders to discuss shared regional challenges and identify practical areas for cooperation.
• IPRD-2026 is being organised in association with the National Maritime Foundation, the Navy’s knowledge partner and the dialogue’s principal organiser. The 2026 edition will focus on the theme “Science, Technology and Academic Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.” 
• The dialogue supports the broader framework of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the East Asia Summit in Bangkok in November 2019. It also aligns with India’s maritime vision of MAHASAGAR Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth across Regions. 

Key Points of IPRD-2026

1. Participation from 18 countries

The three-day dialogue is expected to include maritime practitioners, scientists, academicians, policymakers and experts from 18 countries. The event will provide a platform for regional participants to share ideas and explore ways to work together.

2. Five thematic sessions

The conference will hold five professional thematic sessions:

1. Academic networks, research and human capital development
2. Maritime situational awareness and protection of critical maritime infrastructure
3. Oceanographic science and climate resilience
4. Collaborative approaches to ocean governance and maritime resilience
5. Transformative maritime technologies and their dual-use implications 

3. Focus on practical cooperation

The discussions will examine ways to develop:

• Joint research projects
• Collaborative maritime technologies
• Scientific data-sharing
• Stronger institutional and academic partnerships
• Cooperation on ocean governance and maritime resilience

The dialogue aims to identify specific, actionable measures that countries can pursue through existing bilateral, trilateral and plurilateral mechanisms.

4. Beyond STEM cooperation

IPRD-2026 will look beyond science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Social sciences, life sciences and the humanities will also be considered relevant to understanding complex maritime challenges.

Significance of IPRD-2026

1. Addresses challenges shared across maritime boundaries: Climate change, pressure on marine resources, vulnerable maritime supply chains and threats to critical maritime infrastructure can affect several countries at once. Regional dialogue can help countries identify shared risks and develop cooperative responses.
2. Connects research with maritime policy: The conference’s focus on academic networks and joint research can strengthen links between researchers, policymakers and maritime practitioners. This can help turn scientific knowledge into practical policy measures.
3. Encourages responsible technology cooperation: Emerging maritime technologies can support activities such as ocean observation, navigation and maritime awareness. Their dual-use nature also raises questions about responsible development, access and governance.
4.  Supports ocean governance and resilience: Cooperation in ocean governance and climate resilience can help countries respond to environmental pressures and strengthen the ability of maritime systems and communities to withstand disruptions.
5. Advances regional cooperation: IPRD provides a forum to develop practical proposals under the wider cooperative framework of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and in line with India’s MAHASAGAR vision.

Challenges

• Countries may have different maritime priorities and strategic interests.
• Sharing scientific and maritime data requires trust and appropriate safeguards.
• Differences in technology, research capacity and funding may limit joint projects.
• Dual-use technologies raise questions about access, security and responsible governance.
• Conference recommendations will need follow-up to become sustained programmes.

Way Forward

• Create joint research and academic exchange programmes on shared maritime issues.
• Strengthen scientific data-sharing with suitable safeguards.
• Support collaborative technology development and responsible governance.
• Build regional capacity in oceanographic science and climate resilience.
• Establish follow-up mechanisms to turn dialogue proposals into practical projects.

Conclusion

IPRD-2026 will bring regional experts together to discuss how science, technology and academic cooperation can strengthen maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The dialogue’s long-term value will depend on turning its discussions into sustained partnerships and actionable regional initiatives.

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