Current Affairs for 31 July 2026

UK Records Highest Child Exposure to Extreme Heatwaves in Three Decades

Why in News?

According to a Save the Children analysis (2026), the United Kingdom recorded its highest child exposure to extreme heatwaves since 1995, with 10.7 million children (75% of the child population) affected during the first half of 2026. The report highlights the increasing impact of climate change and extreme weather events on children's health and well-being.

Key Facts

• Country: United Kingdom
• Report: Save the Children (2026)
• Children affected: 10.7 million (75%)
• Total population affected: 52 million (74%)
• Time period: January–Mid-July 2026
• Highest exposure since: 1995

How was an Extreme Heatwave Defined?

• The study defined an extreme heatwave as a period when:
• Daytime and nighttime temperatures remained above the hottest 1% of temperatures recorded during the previous 30 years, and
• The event lasted for at least three consecutive days.
• Significance: This definition captures prolonged heat events in which even nighttime temperatures remain abnormally high, increasing health risks.

Major Findings

Worst Affected Regions in the UK

European Scenario

• Western Europe: 57 million children (around two-thirds of the region's child population) were exposed to extreme heatwaves during the first half of 2026.
• This is a sharp rise compared to the previous highest first-half figure of 9.4 million children.

Global Scenario

• During the first half of 2026:
• 132 million children experienced extreme heatwaves.
• More than 631 million people were affected worldwide.

Heatwave Exposure: Long-Term Trend

• Two of the four worst years for child heatwave exposure since 1990 have occurred within the last three years.

Why are Children More Vulnerable?

• Children are more susceptible to heat stress because:
  • Their thermoregulatory system is still developing.
  • They have a lower capacity to regulate body temperature.
  • They lose body fluids more quickly than adults.

Health Impacts

• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Heat exhaustion and fever
• Respiratory illnesses
• Kidney disorders
• Reduced learning outcomes due to school disruptions

Relevance for India

• India is among the countries most vulnerable to extreme heat due to:
  • Increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves.
  • High population density.
  • Large proportion of outdoor workers.
  • Rapid urbanisation and the Urban Heat Island Effect.
  • High exposure of children, the elderly, and economically weaker sections.

Government Initiatives in India

• National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC)
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Heatwave Guidelines
• Heat Action Plans (HAPs) prepared by states and cities
• India Meteorological Department (IMD) heatwave forecasting and early warning systems
• Promotion of climate-resilient urban planning and green infrastructure

Way Forward

• Strengthen Heat Action Plans with a special focus on children.
• Improve early warning systems and public awareness.
• Expand urban green spaces and cooling infrastructure.
• Ensure climate-resilient schools, drinking water facilities, and healthcare services.
• Accelerate greenhouse gas emission reductions and climate adaptation measures.

Conclusion

The report highlights that climate change is no longer only an environmental issue but also a public health and child rights challenge. Increasing heatwave exposure threatens children's health, education, and future productivity. Strengthening climate adaptation, improving disaster preparedness, and reducing emissions are essential to protect vulnerable populations.

Urban Challenge Fund (UCF): Transforming India's Urban Infrastructure Through Competitive Financing

Why in News?

• The Union Government has informed the Lok Sabha that 33 projects have been approved or accorded in-principle approval under the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF). 
• The scheme was operationalised with the launch of its guidelines on 15 April 2026 and aims to catalyse large-scale investments in urban infrastructure across India.

What is the Urban Challenge Fund (UCF)?

• The Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) is a new Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) to support transformative, bankable, and reform-oriented urban infrastructure projects.
• Unlike traditional grant-based schemes, UCF adopts a competitive "challenge mode" approach, under which cities compete for financial assistance by proposing high-impact, financially viable, and sustainable urban development projects.
• The scheme seeks to improve urban governance, strengthen municipal finances, and encourage private investment in India's rapidly urbanising economy.

Objectives of the Urban Challenge Fund

The scheme aims to:

• Promote transformative urban infrastructure projects. 
• Encourage cities to become engines of economic growth. 
• Improve urban governance and planning. 
• Increase the financial capacity of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). 
• Mobilise private investment in urban infrastructure. 
• Enhance service delivery through innovative urban reforms. 
• Promote sustainable and resilient urban development. 

Duration and Financial Outlay

Three Major Verticals of UCF

The scheme supports projects under three broad themes:

1. Cities as Growth Hubs

This vertical focuses on making cities engines of economic growth through:

• Industrial infrastructure 
• Business districts 
• Logistics infrastructure 
• Urban mobility 
• Innovation clusters 
• Economic corridors 

Objective: Generate employment and improve competitiveness of Indian cities.

2. Creative Redevelopment of Cities

This vertical supports:

• Redevelopment of old urban areas 
• Heritage conservation 
• Public spaces 
• Transit-oriented development 
• Mixed land-use projects 
• Smart neighbourhood development 

Objective: Improve liveability while preserving cultural heritage.

3. Water and Sanitation

Projects include:

• Water supply systems 
• Sewerage infrastructure 
• Wastewater treatment 
• Stormwater drainage 
• Urban sanitation 
• Reuse and recycling of water 

Objective: Improve urban environmental sustainability and public health.

Key Features of UCF

Competitive Challenge Mode

Instead of allocating funds uniformly, projects are selected through a transparent competitive process based on:

• Innovation 
• Financial viability 
• Reform commitment 
• Long-term sustainability 
• Urban impact 

Bankable Projects

Only financially viable projects capable of attracting market financing are eligible.

These projects are expected to generate revenues or create long-term economic value.

Limited Central Funding

The Centre's assistance is capped at 25% of the project cost.

This encourages states and cities to mobilise additional resources rather than depending solely on central grants.

Market-Based Financing

At least 50% of the project cost must be raised through market mechanisms such as:

• Municipal Bonds 
• Bank Loans 
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) 
• Infrastructure Financing 

The remaining share may be funded by:

• State Governments 
• Union Territories 
• Urban Local Bodies 
• Other approved sources 

Urban Reforms

Cities participating under UCF are expected to undertake reforms in:

• Urban Governance 
• Urban Finance 
• Urban Planning 
• Service Delivery 
• Financial Management 

Private Sector Participation

The scheme promotes greater private investment through:

• Structured risk-sharing mechanisms 
• Public-private partnerships 
• Benchmarking of service delivery standards 
• Performance-based financing 

Credit Repayment Guarantee Scheme

To help financially weaker cities access institutional finance for the first time, the government has approved a ₹5,000 crore Credit Repayment Guarantee Scheme.

Coverage

It is meant for:

• Urban Local Bodies in Northeastern States 
• Urban Local Bodies in Hilly States 
• Smaller ULBs (population below 1 lakh) in other States and Union Territories 

Guarantee

The Central Government will provide:

• Up to ₹7 crore, or 
• 70% of the loan amount, whichever is lower. 

Significance

The guarantee reduces lending risks for banks and encourages credit flow to smaller municipalities that otherwise struggle to raise funds.

Eligible Cities

The Urban Challenge Fund covers:

• Cities with a population of 10 lakh or more (2025 estimates) 
• All State Capitals 
• All Union Territory Capitals 
• Major industrial cities having population above 1 lakh 
• Smaller ULBs through the Credit Guarantee Scheme 

In principle, all cities can participate subject to the eligibility conditions and appraisal framework.

Funding Pattern

Projects Approved So Far

According to the Union Government, 33 projects have been approved or accorded in-principle approval.

State-wise Distribution

Importance of Urban Challenge Fund

Addresses India's Rapid Urbanisation

India's urban population is projected to increase significantly over the coming decades. UCF seeks to create infrastructure capable of supporting future urban growth.

Strengthens Municipal Finance

The scheme encourages cities to:

• Improve creditworthiness 
• Issue municipal bonds 
• Raise institutional finance 
• Improve financial discipline 

Promotes Fiscal Responsibility

Since cities must mobilise most of the project funding themselves, they become more accountable for project design and implementation.

Encourages Competitive Federalism

Cities compete for central assistance by demonstrating better planning, governance, and project quality.

Boosts Private Investment

Greater participation of private capital reduces dependence on government expenditure while improving efficiency and innovation.

Improves Urban Governance

The reform-linked nature of funding encourages improvements in:

• Property tax systems 
• Municipal accounting 
• Urban planning 
• Service delivery 
• Digital governance 

Challenges

• Limited financial capacity of smaller municipalities. 
• Weak municipal bond markets in many states. 
• Capacity constraints in project preparation. 
• Land acquisition and regulatory delays. 
• Uneven urban governance standards across cities. 
• Difficulty in attracting private investment in less-developed regions. 

Way Forward

• Strengthen financial and technical capacity of Urban Local Bodies. 
• Expand municipal bond markets across states. 
• Improve urban planning through GIS-based master plans. 
• Encourage innovative PPP models. 
• Ensure transparent project appraisal and monitoring. 
• Integrate UCF projects with Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT, PM Gati Shakti, and Transit-Oriented Development initiatives. 
• Promote climate-resilient and sustainable urban infrastructure. 

Conclusion

• The Urban Challenge Fund (UCF) marks a significant shift in India's urban development strategy by moving from grant-based financing to performance-linked, competitive, and market-oriented funding. 
• By encouraging urban reforms, leveraging private investment, and strengthening municipal finances, the scheme aims to create economically vibrant, sustainable, and resilient cities. 
• If implemented effectively, UCF can become a cornerstone of India's urban transformation and help cities emerge as major engines of economic growth while improving the quality of life for millions of urban residents.

US-Iran Conflict Reshapes Gulf Security Architecture: Implications for West Asia and India

Why in News?

The ongoing US–Iran confrontation has triggered major strategic shifts in West Asia (Middle East). Gulf Arab countries are strengthening defence partnerships with Pakistan, hostilities between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis have resumed, and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz and Bab-el-Mandeb Strait have intensified. These developments have significant implications for regional security, global energy markets, and India's strategic interests.

Key Highlights

Background: The US–Iran Standoff

• The United States conducted strikes targeting Iran's military capabilities related to the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to reduce Iran's ability to disrupt international shipping. 
• The strikes followed Iran's rejection of a US proposal for an alternative shipping route through Omani waters. 
• Despite the attacks, Iran continues to retain strategic influence over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil transit routes. 
• Iran and Oman are continuing negotiations to operationalise Article 5, which envisages joint administration of the Strait of Hormuz, with Saudi Arabia also participating in discussions. 
• The US may continue military pressure as its objectives regarding Iran's nuclear programme and maritime security remain only partially achieved. 

Gulf States Strengthen Defence Cooperation with Pakistan

• The evolving security environment has prompted Gulf countries to diversify their defence partnerships.

Recent Developments

• Kuwait ratified a five-year Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) with Pakistan. 
• The agreement covers: 
  • Military training 
  • Intelligence sharing 
  • Logistics cooperation 
  • Defence technology exchange 
• Qatar also agreed to expand defence and security cooperation with Pakistan. 

Strategic Significance

• Unlike the Saudi–Pakistan Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (2025), Kuwait's agreement does not require mutual military intervention during an attack. 
• The focus is on: 
  • Capacity building 
  • Defence modernisation 
  • Long-term military cooperation 
• Pakistan's economic dependence on Gulf countries further enhances Gulf leverage. 

Renewed Saudi–Houthi Confrontation

The conflict in Yemen has entered a new phase.

Recent Escalation

• The Saudi-backed Yemeni government reportedly targeted Sana'a Airport to prevent an Iranian aircraft from landing. 
• In response, the Houthis: 
  • Launched ballistic missiles into Saudi Arabia. 
  • Declared a naval blockade of the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. 
• Saudi Arabia retaliated by attacking the Hodeidah Port, Yemen's principal commercial and humanitarian port.
• The Houthis subsequently targeted Saudi Aramco facilities, leading to a partial shutdown of the Jazan Refinery. 

Simultaneous Threat to Global Shipping

For the first time in recent years:

• Strait of Hormuz 
• Bab-el-Mandeb Strait 

both experienced conflict-related disruptions simultaneously.

This has increased concerns regarding:

• Global oil supplies 
• Maritime trade 
• International shipping costs 
• Energy security 

Why Does Saudi Arabia Prefer Stability?

Saudi Arabia is increasingly focused on long-term economic transformation under Vision 2030.

Civil Nuclear Cooperation

Saudi Arabia recently signed a 123 Agreement with the United States to develop a civilian nuclear energy programme.

A prolonged regional conflict could:

• Threaten future nuclear facilities. 
• Increase nuclear safety risks. 
• Discourage foreign investment. 
• Delay economic diversification. 

The recent drone attack on the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant (UAE) has further heightened concerns over nuclear security in the region.

The 'Broken Windows Effect' in Regional Security

Experts warn that prolonged instability could create a "Broken Windows Effect", where repeated security incidents gradually undermine investor confidence.

Possible consequences include:

• Declining foreign investment 
• Reduced tourism 
• Rising insurance and shipping costs 
• Disruptions in oil exports 
• Weakening of regional economic growth 

Implications for India

1. Energy Security

• Nearly 60% of India's crude oil imports originate from West Asia. 
• Around 20% of global oil trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz. 
• Any disruption could increase India's energy import bill. 

2. Trade and Shipping

• India's trade with Europe relies heavily on the Red Sea–Suez Canal route. 
• Conflict in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait could: 
  • Increase freight costs. 
  • Delay exports and imports. 
  • Disrupt supply chains. 

3. Indian Diaspora

• Around 9 million Indians live and work in Gulf countries. 
• Escalating conflict could affect: 
  • Employment 
  • Remittances 
  • Evacuation planning  

4. Strategic and Diplomatic Interests

• India maintains strong relations with:
  • Saudi Arabia 
  • UAE 
  • Qatar 
  • Oman 
  • Iran 
  • Israel 
• Maintaining strategic neutrality while protecting national interests remains India's key diplomatic challenge.

Important Places in News

Way Forward

• Promote diplomatic dialogue to reduce regional tensions. 
• Ensure freedom of navigation through key maritime chokepoints. 
• Strengthen international maritime security cooperation. 
• Diversify India's energy import sources. 
• Expand the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). 
• Enhance India's naval presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). 

Conclusion

The evolving US–Iran confrontation has fundamentally altered the Gulf's security architecture. Gulf states are strengthening defence partnerships, Saudi Arabia is balancing security concerns with economic modernisation, and maritime chokepoints remain vulnerable to disruption.

For India, stability in West Asia is crucial for energy security, trade, diaspora welfare, and strategic interests. The developments reinforce the importance of balanced diplomacy, diversified energy sources, and secure maritime supply chains.

FAQs  

ISRO & JAXA Review Chandrayaan-5 (LUPEX) Mission Ahead of 2028 Launch: Objectives, Features, Scientific Significance

Why in News?

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) held a high-level technical review meeting at the UR Rao Satellite Centre, Bengaluru, to assess the progress of Chandrayaan-5, also known as the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX).

Important Points

• Chandrayaan-5 will be India's first joint lunar rover mission with Japan, where ISRO will develop the lander, JAXA will build the rover, and the mission will be launched aboard Japan's H3 rocket. 
• The mission aims to explore water and water-ice on and beneath the Moon's South Polar Region. NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) will also contribute scientific payloads, making it a major international lunar mission. 
• The Government also informed Parliament that Gaganyaan-1 is progressing steadily, with the Crew Module and Service Module nearing completion, while ISRO is yet to announce the revised launch schedule for the uncrewed human spaceflight mission. 

What is Chandrayaan-5 (LUPEX)?

• Chandrayaan-5 or LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration Mission) is a joint Moon exploration mission being developed by India (ISRO) and Japan (JAXA).
• It will become the first India-Japan rover mission to the Moon and one of the most advanced international lunar exploration missions.
• Its primary objective is to investigate the presence, distribution, quantity and quality of water ice in the Moon's permanently shadowed regions near the South Pole.

Why is the Lunar South Pole Important?

The lunar South Pole has emerged as one of the most scientifically important regions of the Moon because:

1. Presence of Water Ice

Scientists believe permanently shadowed craters contain frozen water accumulated over billions of years.

2. Future Human Missions

Water can be converted into:

• Drinking water
• Oxygen for astronauts
• Hydrogen fuel for rockets

3. Understanding Lunar Evolution

Studying ice deposits helps scientists understand:

• Solar System evolution
• Comet impacts
• Lunar geology
• Climate history of the Moon

Mission Architecture

Role of ISRO

ISRO will develop:

• Lunar Lander: ISRO will develop the lander to achieve a safe and precise landing on the Moon's South Pole. 
• Mission Integration: ISRO will integrate all spacecraft systems and scientific payloads for seamless mission operations. 
• Landing Technologies: ISRO will provide advanced autonomous landing technologies for soft landing in challenging terrain. 
• Navigation Support: ISRO will ensure accurate guidance, navigation, and control throughout the mission. 
• Communication Systems: ISRO will develop communication systems for reliable data exchange between the lander, rover, and Earth.

The lander will safely deploy the rover onto the Moon's surface after touchdown.

Role of JAXA

JAXA is responsible for:

• Designing the Lunar Rover: JAXA is developing a robust rover capable of operating in the Moon's harsh polar environment.
• Surface Mobility: The rover will travel across the lunar surface to explore different terrains near the South Pole.
• Scientific Exploration: It will conduct scientific experiments to study the Moon's geology and environment.
• Soil Sampling: The rover will collect and analyse lunar soil to search for water ice and other minerals.
• Rover Navigation: JAXA will equip the rover with advanced navigation systems for autonomous movement on the Moon.

The rover will travel across the lunar surface to study subsurface ice and geological formations.

International Participation

The mission also includes contributions from leading global space agencies.

This makes Chandrayaan-5 a major multinational lunar exploration mission.

Scientific Objectives

Technical Review Meeting

During the Bengaluru meeting, scientists discussed:

• Inter-spacecraft communication
• Payload integration
• Mission coordination
• Launch window
• Scientific instrument readiness
• Rover-lander interface

The review is part of regular mission preparedness before the 2028 launch.

Payload Operations Simulation

Recently, JAXA successfully conducted the second Payload Operations Simulation at the Tsukuba Space Center.

The exercise tested:

• Spacecraft operations
• Payload functioning
• Mission command systems
• Parallel scientific operations

This marks another important milestone towards mission readiness.

Scientific Payloads

The mission is expected to carry seven scientific instruments.

These instruments will study:

• Water molecules
• Hydrogen abundance
• Lunar soil
• Mineral composition
• Surface gases
• Thermal properties
• Polar environment

Why is Chandrayaan-5 Important for India?

• Strengthens India's Space Leadership
• Following the success of Chandrayaan-3, India aims to become a leader in lunar exploration.
• Boosts India–Japan Strategic Partnership: The mission reflects deep cooperation in advanced technologies and space science.
• Supports Future Human Missions: Understanding lunar water resources is essential for establishing long-term lunar bases.
• Enhances Scientific Research: Data collected will improve knowledge of the Moon's geology and origin.

Chandrayaan Missions Timeline

UPSC Prelims Facts (Chandrayaan 5)

• LUPEX stands for Lunar Polar Exploration Mission.
• Chandrayaan-5 is a joint mission of ISRO and JAXA.
• Launch vehicle: Japan's H3 Rocket.
• ISRO develops the lander.
• JAXA develops the rover.
• NASA contributes a Neutron Spectrometer.
• ESA contributes a Mass Spectrometer.
• Mission duration: 100 Earth days.
• Objective: Study water and water-ice on and beneath the lunar surface.
• Planned launch year: 2028.

Way Forward

• Strengthen international collaboration in deep-space exploration.
• Accelerate indigenous development of advanced lunar technologies.
• Expand research on space resource utilisation.
• Integrate lunar exploration with India's long-term human spaceflight programme.

FAQs

Supreme Court Rules on Ex-Post Facto Environmental Clearances: No Blanket Amnesty, Only Public Interest-Based Relief

Why in News? 

The Supreme Court has quashed the Environment Ministry's July 2021 Office Memorandum (OM) that allowed ex-post facto (retrospective) Environmental Clearances (ECs) for projects that had begun without prior approval.

Important Points 

• The Court held that an Office Memorandum (OM) cannot create a legal mechanism for granting ex-post facto Environmental Clearances. 
• A statutory notification issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 may allow a one-time, narrowly tailored amnesty only in exceptional circumstances. 
• Any future regularisation must satisfy the Supreme Court's "Public Interest Test" and cannot become a permanent mechanism. 
• The judgment strengthens the Precautionary Principle and reinforces that prior Environmental Clearance remains the legal requirement under the EIA Notification, 2006.

What is Ex-Post Facto Environmental Clearance?

• An Ex-Post Facto Environmental Clearance (EC) is an approval granted after a project has already commenced construction or operations, instead of obtaining permission before starting work.
• Under India's Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, prior environmental clearance is mandatory for specified projects before any construction or expansion begins.

What Did the Supreme Court Hold?

The Court adopted a balanced approach by distinguishing between executive instructions and statutory powers.

Key Observations

• The 2021 Office Memorandum (OM) has been declared invalid.
• An Office Memorandum cannot create a legal mechanism for regularising environmental violations.
• The Centre cannot provide a permanent or continuous amnesty for projects violating environmental laws.
• However, Parliament has delegated powers under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, allowing the government to issue statutory notifications in exceptional situations.
• Therefore, a narrowly tailored one-time amnesty may be permissible only if justified by overriding public interest.
• Every future scheme must satisfy the Supreme Court's "Public Interest Test."

Difference between Office Memorandum and Statutory Notification

Background of the Case

March 2017 Notification

• Environment Ministry issued a one-time six-month amnesty.
• Allowed projects that had violated environmental norms to disclose violations.
• Required environmental assessment and legal action where necessary.

July 2021 Office Memorandum

• Introduced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for granting ex-post facto ECs on a continuing basis.
• Effectively created a permanent regularisation mechanism for violation cases.

The Supreme Court has now ruled that this continuing mechanism is unconstitutional.

Evolution of Supreme Court's Stand

Common Cause v. Union of India (2017)

• Mining projects cannot begin without prior environmental clearance.
• Environmental assessment must occur before environmental damage takes place.

Alembic Pharmaceuticals v. Rohit Prajapati (2020)

• Ex-post facto EC violates the Precautionary Principle.
• Environmental protection cannot become an afterthought.

Pahwa Plastics v. Dastak (2022)

• Closure is not always the best solution.
• In some cases, regulation and environmental restoration may better serve public interest.

Vanashakti Case (2025–2026)

• Initial 2025 judgment completely prohibited ex-post facto EC.
• Review petition led to reconsideration.
• Final judgment now allows only a limited statutory amnesty in exceptional public-interest situations while rejecting blanket regularisation.

Public Interest Test Introduced by the Supreme Court

The Court held that any future amnesty scheme must satisfy the following conditions:

• It should be exceptional, not routine.
• It should be one-time and narrowly tailored.
• It must be based on public interest, not convenience of project developers.
• It must be introduced through a statutory notification, not an Office Memorandum.
• Environmental assessment and accountability cannot be bypassed.

Why is the Judgment Important?

• Reinforces the Precautionary Principle in environmental governance.
• Prevents misuse of retrospective approvals.
• Protects forests, biodiversity, rivers and local communities.
• Clarifies limits of executive power.
• Balances environmental protection with genuine developmental needs.

Constitutional & Legal Provisions

• Article 21 – Right to Life (includes Right to a Healthy Environment)
• Article 48A – Protection and Improvement of Environment
• Article 51A(g) – Fundamental Duty to Protect Environment
• Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006

FAQs

25 Years of the Himalayan Chandra Telescope: India Celebrates a Milestone in Astronomy

Why is it in the news?

India has celebrated 25 years of successful operations of the 2-metre Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) at Hanle, Ladakh. A three-day conference organized by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) highlighted the telescope's achievements, scientific contributions, and future expansion plans.

About the Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT)

• The Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) is a 2-metre optical telescope located at Hanle, Ladakh, at an altitude of 4,517 metres. 
• It is operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). 
• The telescope was named after Nobel Laureate Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar. 
• HCT achieved its First Light on 26 September 2000 and was dedicated to the nation in August 2001. 

Why was Hanle chosen?

Hanle is one of the best astronomical sites in the world because of:

• Over 250 clear observing nights every year. 
• Very low atmospheric water vapour, ideal for infrared observations. 
• Highly transparent skies. 
• Minimal light pollution. 
• High altitude and dry climate. 

Unique Feature

• Since June 2001, the telescope has been operated remotely in real time from the IIA campus in Hosakote, Bengaluru. 
• It uses a dedicated INSAT-3B satellite link provided by ISRO, making it one of India's earliest remotely operated telescopes. 

Scientific Contributions

Over the past 25 years, HCT has made significant contributions in astronomy, including:

• Study of gamma-ray bursts. 
• Research on supernovae and novae. 
• Discovery and study of exoplanets, including participation in the discovery of TRAPPIST-1b. 
• Spectroscopy of comets. 
• Studies of stars, nebulae, galaxies, quasars, and active galactic nuclei (AGN). 
• Long-term monitoring of young stars and variable stars. 

Current Instruments

The HCT is equipped with:

• HFOSC – Optical camera and spectrograph. 
• uTIRSPEC – Near-infrared spectrometer and imager. 
• HESP – High-resolution Echelle spectrograph. 

Future Plans

• The Union Budget has announced:
• 3.7-metre Upgraded Himalayan Chandra Telescope (UHCT). 
• 13.7-metre National Large Optical-Infrared Telescope (NLOT) at Hanle. 
• These projects will be led by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) and are expected to significantly strengthen India's astronomical research capabilities.

Hanle: India's Astronomy Hub

Today, Hanle hosts several major astronomical facilities, including:

• Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) 
• GROWTH-India Telescope 
• MACE (Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment) Telescope 
• HAGAR (High Altitude Gamma Ray) Telescope 
• Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, established to preserve the region's exceptionally dark skies. 

Significance

The Himalayan Chandra Telescope has played a key role in advancing optical and infrared astronomy in India. Its success has established Hanle as a globally recognized astronomical site and laid the foundation for India's next generation of world-class telescopes.

FAQs: Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT)

Pithora Painting Receives Geographical Indication (GI) Tag (2026)

Why in News?

• The Pithora Painting, a centuries-old ritual wall painting tradition of Gujarat's tribal communities, particularly the Rathwa tribe, has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag in 2026. 
• The recognition is expected to strengthen the preservation of India's tribal cultural heritage while improving the livelihood opportunities of traditional artisans.

What is Pithora Painting?

• Pithora Painting is a traditional tribal ritual wall art that originated in the tribal regions of Gujarat, especially in Chhota Udaipur and Panchmahal districts. 
• It is primarily practiced by the Rathwa tribe and is also associated with the Bhil, Bhilala, and Nayaka communities. 
• The art form is not merely decorative but is deeply connected with tribal faith, rituals, and cultural identity.
• The tradition dates back to approximately the 13th century and is named after Pithora De, the tribal deity believed to bless the community with prosperity, marriage, fertility, good health, and overall well-being.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Pithora Painting is created as a sacred ritual rather than for decoration. Traditionally, the paintings are commissioned after the fulfillment of a vow or during important occasions such as:

• Weddings ,Birth of a child ,Festivals ,Recovery from illness ,Seeking prosperity and protection from deities 

The painting is considered an offering to the gods and forms an essential part of the spiritual life of the tribal communities.

Artists and Ritual Process

• The paintings are traditionally executed by specialist ritual painters known as Lakharas under the supervision and guidance of a tribal priest called the Badwa.
• The entire process is treated as a sacred ceremony, beginning with rituals and prayers before the painting is started.

Surface Preparation

Traditionally, the paintings are created on the interior walls of houses, especially the main wall.

The wall is prepared by applying a mixture of:

• Cow dung 
• Clay 
• Lime or white mud (in some regions) 

This creates a smooth white surface suitable for painting.

Colours and Painting Technique

Pithora paintings are made using natural pigments obtained from:

• Leaves ,Flowers ,Minerals ,Tree bark ,Mahua ,Other organic materials .

Common colours include:

• Red ,Yellow ,Green ,Blue ,White ,Black 

Traditional tools include:

• Bamboo sticks ,Cotton swabs ,Wooden stencils ,Handmade brushes 

The paintings are known for their vibrant colours and free-flowing compositions.

Themes Depicted

Pithora paintings portray a rich combination of mythology, religion, nature, and everyday tribal life.

Common motifs include:

• Pithora De and other tribal deities 
• Hindu gods and goddesses 
• Horses (the most prominent symbol) 
• Elephants 
• Birds 
• Wild animals 
• Trees and forests 
• Rivers and mountains 
• Farming activities 
• Hunting scenes 
• Music and dance 
• Festivals and community life 

The horse is regarded as the most important symbol, representing divine power, prosperity, and blessings.

Role in Tribal Society

Pithora Painting serves multiple social and cultural functions:

• Preserves tribal mythology and oral traditions. 
• Reflects the close relationship between humans and nature. 
• Strengthens community identity. 
• Transfers indigenous knowledge to younger generations. 
• Acts as an important expression of tribal spirituality. 

Contemporary Developments

While traditionally painted only on house walls, modern Pithora artists now create artworks on:

• Canvas 
• Handmade paper 
• Cloth 
• Wooden panels 

These artworks are sold commercially, providing an important source of income for tribal artisans while helping the art gain national and international recognition.

Artists such as Paresh Rathwa and Kaushik Rathwa have emphasized that Pithora Painting remains an integral part of the identity of the Rathwa, Bhil, Bhilala, and Nayaka communities, keeping their traditions alive through artistic expression.

Geographical Indication (GI) Tag (2026)

In 2026, Pithora Painting was awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag, officially recognizing its unique cultural and geographical origin.

Importance of the GI Tag

The GI tag:

• Protects the authenticity of traditional Pithora Painting. 
• Prevents imitation and misuse of the art form. 
• Safeguards indigenous knowledge and traditional craftsmanship. 
• Enhances the national and global identity of the art. 
• Improves market access for tribal artisans. 
• Promotes rural employment and sustainable livelihoods. 
• Encourages younger generations to continue the tradition. 
• Boosts Gujarat's handicrafts and cultural tourism sector. 

According to officials, the GI recognition is expected to significantly improve the economic prospects of tribal artists while preserving one of India's most valuable indigenous art traditions.

Pithora Painting –FAQs