Draft National Electricity Policy 2026 Released for Consultation

The Ministry of Power has released the Draft National Electricity Policy (NEP) 2026 for public consultation, setting out a long-term roadmap to transform India’s power sector in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. Once finalised, the new policy will replace the National Electricity Policy notified in 2005, capturing the sweeping structural, technological, and market changes that have taken place over the last two decades.

Scientific Upscaling of Jammu’s Traditional Kaladi

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh has directed scientific institutions to upscale Kaladi, a GI-tagged dairy speciality from Udhampur district of Jammu & Kashmir. The initiative aims to expand Kaladi’s reach to national and international markets under the One District One Product framework, while preserving its traditional flavour, texture, and nutritional profile.

Lucknow’s Transition to Scientific Urban Waste Management

Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is steadily emerging as a national model for sustainable municipal waste management. With a population nearing 40 lakh and around 7.5 lakh commercial establishments, the city faces mounting environmental pressures. In response, the Lucknow Municipal Corporation has adopted a science-driven, integrated waste management framework focused on resource recovery, environmental protection, and public health.

International Conference Explores Trade–Energy Nexus

A two-day International Conference on the “Role of International Trade in Global Energy Transition” was held at National Law University Odisha, bringing together jurists, diplomats, policymakers, academics, and international experts. The deliberations focused on how global trade rules can be aligned with climate objectives to enable a fair, efficient, and development-sensitive energy transition.

Rare Ant Flies Discovered Across Urban and Natural Landscapes

Researchers from Kerala and Tamil Nadu have identified two previously unknown species of ant flies from India, revealing that both heavily human-influenced urban forests and ecologically rich natural regions continue to harbour rare and specialised biodiversity. The discoveries highlight the overlooked ecological value of fragmented green spaces as well as protected biodiversity hotspots.