General Awareness

NATIONAL AFFAIRS - November 2019

Nov 2019

Jul 15, 2026

India Launches SHANTI Campaign for UNSC Candidature

India has launched the SHANTI campaign in July 2026 to back its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2028–29 term. SHANTI stands for Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust, and Integrity. The campaign aims to mobilize support from UN member states ahead of the election scheduled for June 2027. Officials say the bid reflects India's push for a more representative global order and stronger South–South cooperation. Diplomats emphasize continued engagement with major powers and regional blocs to secure broad backing while highlighting priorities such as reform of the UN and a rules-based international system.

Campaign launched: July 2026
Candidature: UNSC non-permanent seat, 2028–29
SHANTI meaning: Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms, Trust, and Integrity
Election timeline: June 2027
Focus on Global South representation and UN reform

Jul 14, 2026

Assam conducts statewide drug disposal campaign; first narcotics incinerator opened

Assam, Daulasal (Nalbari district), July 2026 — The state launched a statewide drug disposal campaign in Daulasal, Nalbari district. During the operation, seized narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances valued at ₹472.51 crore were destroyed. Assam also inaugurated its first dedicated narcotics incinerator at Daulasal to ensure safe disposal of future seizures. Officials emphasised strict enforcement and public awareness to curb drug abuse and improve health outcomes. The incinerator is expected to handle resources from across the state, reducing environmental risks from improper disposal. The drive showcased cross-agency coordination among police, excise, and health departments.

Campaign launched in Daulasal, Nalbari district
Narcotics and psychotropic substances worth ₹472.51 crore destroyed
First dedicated narcotics incinerator inaugurated
Aims to improve disposal safety and public health
Inter-agency cooperation highlighted
Prevents environmental contamination from waste

All India Water Secretaries' Conference discusses water management in New Delhi

New Delhi, July 2026 — The All India Water Secretaries' Conference was held in New Delhi under the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil chaired the gathering, which brought together around 200 senior officials from states and union territories. Discussions covered water conservation, dam safety, irrigation reforms, groundwater management, and the Catch the Rain 2026 campaign. Participants reviewed ongoing water policy measures, inter-state cooperation, and infrastructure needs to improve water use across sectors. The conference served as a platform to align national and state actions with the goal of sustainable water resources management.

Conference held in New Delhi under Jal Shakti Ministry
Chaired by Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil
Around 200 senior officials participated
Topics include conservation, dam safety, irrigation reform
Groundwater management and Catch the Rain 2026 discussed
Aim to align national and state water policies

Jul 11, 2026

Jaipur ranks 6th in 2026 Happy City Index; only Indian city in top 10

Jaipur has been placed 6th in the 2026 Happy City Index, the only Indian city in the global top 10. The index evaluates quality of life, healthcare, governance, community participation, and resident well-being. In Jaipur, residents praise accessible public spaces, cultural life, and active neighbourhood groups that engage with city authorities. City officials say the ranking reflects sustained investment in basic services, water supply, sanitation, and transportation. Experts note that while the city leads in culture and participation, ongoing efforts in air quality and green mobility remain priorities. The report is released annually and informs urban planning debates across India. Local leaders say the ranking will help attract investment and tourism and motivate further improvements.

Jaipur ranked 6th globally in the 2026 Happy City Index; the only Indian city in the top 10.
Index evaluates quality of life, healthcare, governance, community participation, and resident well-being.
Residents praise public spaces, cultural life, and active neighbourhood groups.
Ranking reflects investment in basic services, water supply, sanitation, and transportation.
Local leaders expect the ranking to attract investment and tourism and spur improvements.

Jul 09, 2026

Narmada Project payment pact signed by four states

A pact was signed in New Delhi in July 2026 among Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Maharashtra to settle a long-pending payment dispute related to the Narmada Project. The agreement aims to resolve financial disagreements over water-sharing and project costs. Uttar Pradesh reportedly did not participate in the pact. The settlement constitutes a major step toward inter-state cooperation on the huge hydroelectric and irrigation project, potentially paving the way for more streamlined funding and implementation. Officials noted the pact could help accelerate ongoing development initiatives linked to dam development and water distribution in participating states.

Signatories: MP, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra
Location: New Delhi
Subject: Narmada Project payment dispute
Date: July 2026
Non-participant: Uttar Pradesh
Impact: potential acceleration of project funding and implementation

Jul 07, 2026

Jalalabad renamed Parashurampuri in Shahjahanpur, UP

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet approved renaming Jalalabad town in Shahjahanpur district as Parashurampuri in July 2026. The decision, taken under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, follows local resolutions and Centre approvals. Proponents say the name reflects the association with Lord Parashuram, while critics note cultural and administrative considerations. The move is part of a broader trend in several states to rename places in line with history, culture, or religious associations. Local residents and business interests are watching for potential changes in signage, official documents, and public perception as the name change proceeds.

Jalalabad town renamed Parashurampuri
Decision by Uttar Pradesh Cabinet in July 2026
Led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
Follows local resolutions and Centre approvals
Impact on signage and administration anticipated

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