India’s First Fully Electric Green Tug

• India launched its first fully electric green tug under the Green Tug Transition Programme.
• The project aims to replace diesel-powered tugs at major ports.
• It will significantly reduce carbon emissions and fuel costs.
• The initiative supports sustainable maritime transport and India’s climate goals.

Hydrogen-Powered Train Pilot by Indian Railways

• Indian Railways successfully completed a hydrogen-powered train pilot project.
• This marks a major step toward eco-friendly rail transport.
• Hydrogen trains emit only water vapour as by-product.
• The project aligns with India’s net-zero and clean energy objectives.

Approval of HECI Bill

• The Union Cabinet approved the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) Bill.
• It proposes a single regulatory body for higher education.
• The bill aims to improve academic quality and transparency.
• It will reduce overlap among existing education regulators.

India–France Tax Treaty Revamp

• India and France signed a revised Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA).
• The new agreement provides dividend tax relief to French companies. At the same time, India retains its taxation rights.
• The move aims to promote bilateral investment and economic cooperation.
• France is one of India’s key strategic and economic partners. The treaty revision reflects stronger India–EU economic ties.

India Eases Visa Norms for Chinese Professionals

• India announced easing of visa restrictions for Chinese professionals. The move aims to improve people-to-people and business engagement.
• It is seen as a confidence-building measure between both countries. The decision may help revive trade and industrial cooperation.
• India and China have complex but economically significant relations.

UN Focus on Global Security Challenges

• The United Nations reiterated the need for collective action on global conflicts.  Member nations emphasized multilateral cooperation.
• The UN highlighted rising geopolitical tensions worldwide. India reiterated support for UN peacekeeping missions. Global security remains a key international concern.

Progress of Gaganyaan Mission

• ISRO continued major preparations for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. Several crew module and safety tests were conducted successfully.
• The mission aims to send Indian astronauts into low Earth orbit. It will make India the fourth country to achieve human spaceflight.
• Advanced life-support and recovery systems are being developed. The mission showcases India’s growing space technology capabilities.

Expansion of 5G and 6G Research

• India expanded the rollout of 5G services across the country. The government also accelerated research on 6G technology.
• 6G is expected to offer ultra-high speed and extremely low latency. It will support smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and IoT.
• India aims to develop indigenous telecom technologies. This will strengthen digital infrastructure and connectivity.

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Governance

• India increased the use of Artificial Intelligence in governance. AI is being used in healthcare, education, and traffic management.
• It helps in faster service delivery and efficient decision-making. AI improves data analysis and policy planning. 
• It reduces human error and increases transparency. This supports the Digital India initiative.