General Awareness

NATIONAL AFFAIRS - July 2016

Jul 2016

Jan 13, 2026

Amit Shah launches National IED Data Management System for counter-terrorism

Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS), a first-of-its-kind platform containing details of every bomb blast in India since 1999. The system will assist investigations and analysis across terrorism-related incidents and support strategic decision-making. Shah emphasised the utility of centralized data for crime prevention, case-building, and rapid response by security agencies. Officials noted NIDMS would enable better pattern recognition and cross-agency coordination. The launch marks a significant step in strengthening India’s counter-terrorism infrastructure and data-driven security planning.

NIDMS launched to compile all IED blast data since 1999.
Developed for use in investigations and analysis by security agencies.
Intended to improve coordination and rapid response.
Inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Aims to support data-driven national security planning.

Jan 12, 2026

PM Modi to take part in Shaurya Yatra at Somnath temple during Somnath Swabhiman Parv

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to visit Somnath in Gujarat on January 10–11, 2026, to participate in the Somnath Swabhiman Parv. The programme includes Omkar Mantra chanting, a drone show, and a Shaurya Yatra on January 11 to honour warriors who defended the Somnath Temple. The event marks 1,000 years since Mahmud Ghazni’s 1026 invasion and ties to the restoration efforts following independence. Modi will also perform darshan and address a public function at Somnath. The observance, running January 8–11, 2026, also commemorates the temple’s resilience and national pride.

PM Modi to visit Somnath during the Somnath Swabhiman Parv (Jan 10–11, 2026).
Shaurya Yatra scheduled for January 11; honours soldiers who protected the temple.
Drone show planned; Omkar Mantra chanting part of the programme.
Event marks 1,000 years since Ghazni’s 1026 invasion and restoration history.
PM to meet attendees and address a public function in Somnath.

Jan 11, 2026

UIDAI Launches 'Udai' Mascot to Simplify Aadhaar Communication

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has unveiled a resident-facing Aadhaar mascot named 'Udai' to strengthen public understanding and ease of access to Aadhaar-related services. The initiative is aimed at making Aadhaar communication simpler, more inclusive, and relatable for over a billion residents using the digital identity ecosystem.
According to UIDAI, Udai will function as a friendly communication companion to help citizens navigate various Aadhaar services. These include Aadhaar updates, authentication, offline verification, selective information sharing, technology upgrades, and responsible usage practices. The mascot is expected to improve awareness and trust by presenting complex technical concepts in a citizen-friendly manner.
The mascot and its name were selected through open national-level competitions conducted on the MyGov platform. UIDAI received 875 entries from students, professionals, and designers across the country.

Jan 10, 2026

NHAI sets two Guinness World Records for road-construction feats on Bengaluru–Kadapa–Vijayawa...

National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has set two Guinness World Records for road construction on the Vanavolu-Vankarakunta section of the six-lane Bengaluru–Kadapa–Vijayawada Economic Corridor. The records include the longest continuous Bituminous Concrete laying distance of about 29 lane kilometres within 24 hours, and the highest quantity laid in a 24-hour period, exceeding 10,000 metric tonnes. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu commended the achievement, highlighting the project as a testament to India’s highway-infrastructure vision and the dedication of engineers, workers, and field teams involved.

Two Guinness records set on Bengaluru–Kadapa–Vijayawada corridor
29 lane kilometres laid in 24 hours
Over 10,000 metric tonnes of Bituminous Concrete laid
Recognition by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister

Jan 09, 2026

All-India Tiger Estimation 2026 begins in Thanthai Periyar Sanctuary

The All-India Tiger Estimation 2026 (AITE-26) commenced in January at the Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary under the Erode Forest Division. The census uses standardized scientific methods to assess tiger populations and biodiversity. Forest department staff underwent pre-enumeration training before field operations started across four ranges—Anthiyur, Bargur, Chennampatti, and Thattakarai. More than 150 personnel are deployed to cover 52 patrol beats, ensuring systematic spatial coverage. The census is a key component of India’s wildlife management framework, informing conservation strategies and biodiversity monitoring nationwide.

AITE-26 began in January at Thanthai Periyar Sanctuary
Part of national tiger population and biodiversity assessment
Pre-enumeration training completed; field work across four ranges
Over 150 personnel; 52 patrol beats covered
Informs conservation planning and biodiversity monitoring

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