Kalpasar Project: Gujarat's Ambitious Multipurpose Water Infrastructure Project Explained

Kalpasar Project: Gujarat’s Ambitious Multipurpose Water Infrastructure Project Explained

The Kalpasar Project, officially known as the Gulf of Khambhat Development Project, is one of India’s most ambitious water infrastructure projects. The project aims to address water scarcity, irrigation, drinking water supply, transportation, and renewable energy needs in Gujarat, particularly in the Saurashtra region.

Recently, the Central Government informed the Rajya Sabha that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Kalpasar Project is at an advanced stage of finalisation, indicating progress towards the implementation of this long-pending mega project.

What is the Kalpasar Project?

The Kalpasar Project (Gulf of Khambhat Development Project) is a proposed multipurpose infrastructure project that involves constructing a 64-kilometre-long dam (dyke) across the Gulf of Khambhat in Gujarat.

The project seeks to create one of the world’s largest coastal freshwater reservoirs by storing freshwater that currently flows into the Arabian Sea through several rivers.

Key Objectives of the Project

The project has multiple objectives aimed at improving water and infrastructure development in Gujarat.

Major Objectives

Increase freshwater availability.
Provide irrigation to drought-prone regions.
Supply drinking water.
Reduce travel distance through a highway and railway corridor.
Generate renewable energy.
Promote regional economic development.

Major Features of the Kalpasar Project

1. World’s Largest Coastal Freshwater Reservoir

The project proposes constructing a 64-km-long dam across the Gulf of Khambhat.

This will create a freshwater reservoir covering approximately:

2,000 square kilometres

The proposed reservoir will have a gross storage capacity of 13,000 Million Cubic Metres (MCM).

For comparison:

Kalpasar Reservoir: 13,000 MCM
Sardar Sarovar Dam: 9,460 MCM

This would make Kalpasar one of the largest freshwater storage projects in the world.

2. Rivers Feeding the Reservoir

The reservoir will store freshwater from four major rivers:

Sabarmati
Mahi
Dhadhar
Narmada

Instead of flowing directly into the Arabian Sea, the freshwater will be conserved for productive use.

3. Irrigation Benefits

The project is expected to provide irrigation to nearly:

10 lakh hectares

across nine districts of the Saurashtra region, significantly improving agricultural productivity.

4. Drinking Water Supply

One of the project’s primary objectives is to improve drinking water availability in water-scarce areas of Gujarat, especially Saurashtra.

5. Highway and Railway Corridor

A highway-cum-rail corridor will be developed over the proposed dam.

This corridor is expected to reduce the distance between:

Bhavnagar and Surat

from approximately:

356 km to about 177 km

This represents a reduction of nearly 179 km, improving connectivity and reducing travel time.

6. Renewable Energy Generation

The Kalpasar Project also includes the development of approximately:

2,470 MW

of hybrid renewable energy capacity on reclaimed land that remains submerged during high tide.

The generated electricity will be used for:

Pumping freshwater.
Supporting irrigation systems.
Meeting regional energy requirements.

International Cooperation

The Netherlands is providing technical expertise and engineering support for the Kalpasar Project due to its globally recognized experience in:

Coastal engineering
Water resource management
Flood control
Land reclamation

Why is the Kalpasar Project Important?

If implemented successfully, the Kalpasar Project could become one of India’s most transformative infrastructure initiatives.

Expected Benefits

Improved water security.
Enhanced agricultural productivity.
Reliable drinking water supply.
Better road and rail connectivity.
Increased renewable energy generation.
Economic development in coastal Gujarat.
Sustainable management of freshwater resources.

Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) Completes 150 Years

The Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), India’s oldest scientific research institution, is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026. Established in 1876 by visionary physician and social reformer Dr. Mahendralal Sircar, the institution has played a pioneering role in promoting scientific research and nurturing generations of Indian scientists.

Over the past one and a half centuries, IACS has become synonymous with scientific excellence, innovation, and nation-building, making significant contributions to physics, chemistry, biology, materials science, and interdisciplinary research.

Foundation of IACS

The Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) was founded on 29 July 1876 in Calcutta (now Kolkata).

At a time when scientific research in colonial India received little official encouragement, Dr. Mahendralal Sircar envisioned an institution where Indians could pursue scientific research independently and contribute to the advancement of global knowledge.

His objective was to promote science education, encourage original research, and create an environment where scientific inquiry could flourish.

Role During the Bengal Renaissance

The establishment of IACS coincided with the Bengal Renaissance, one of India’s most influential intellectual and cultural movements during the 19th century.

The movement encouraged progress in:

Science
Education
Literature
Philosophy
Social reform
Arts

IACS emerged as one of the leading scientific institutions of this era, helping lay the foundation for modern scientific research in India.

Contributions to Indian Science

Over the last 150 years, IACS has made outstanding contributions across various scientific disciplines.

Its researchers have contributed to:

Physics
Chemistry
Materials Science
Biological Sciences
Chemical Sciences
Interdisciplinary Research

The institution has also trained thousands of scientists who have contributed significantly to India’s scientific and technological development.

Nobel Prize Connection

One of the most historic achievements associated with IACS came through Sir C. V. Raman.

It was at the laboratories of IACS that Raman discovered the Raman Effect on 28 February 1928, a breakthrough that earned him the 1930 Nobel Prize in Physics, making him the first Asian scientist to receive the Nobel Prize in the sciences.

The discovery is commemorated every year as National Science Day in India on 28 February.

IACS Today

Today, the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science functions as an autonomous research institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.

The institution continues to undertake cutting-edge research in frontier areas of science and collaborates with national and international research organizations.

Significance of the 150th Anniversary

The sesquicentennial celebration recognizes:

150 years of scientific research.
India’s rich scientific heritage.
Contributions of Indian scientists to global knowledge.
Promotion of scientific temperament.
Continued commitment to innovation and research excellence.

The milestone also highlights the importance of investing in science, technology, and innovation to address future global challenges.

Banks Collected ₹7,086 Crore as Minimum Balance Penalties in FY26: Government

Banks in India collected ₹7,086.63 crore as penalties for non-maintenance of the Minimum Average Balance (MAB) in savings and current accounts during FY 2025–26, according to information shared by the Ministry of Finance in the Rajya Sabha.

Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary, in a written reply, informed Parliament that private sector banks collected ₹4,948.71 crore, while public sector banks (PSBs) collected ₹2,137.92 crore as minimum balance charges during the financial year.

Private Sector Banks Collected Nearly 70% of Total Charges

Private sector banks accounted for nearly 70% of the total minimum balance penalties collected during FY26.

Top Private Banks by Minimum Balance Charges

Bank	Amount Collected (₹ Crore)
HDFC Bank	1,798.14
Axis Bank	1,081.33
ICICI Bank	353.50
Kotak Mahindra Bank	290.65
Yes Bank	195.05
IDBI Bank	175.15

Together, HDFC Bank and Axis Bank accounted for nearly 58% of the total charges collected by private sector banks.

Public Sector Banks (PSBs) Collection

Public sector banks collected ₹2,137.92 crore during FY26.

Top PSBs by Minimum Balance Charges

Bank	Amount Collected (₹ Crore)
State Bank of India (SBI)	477.27*
Bank of Baroda	394.10
Indian Bank	299.17

Note: SBI’s collection pertains only to current accounts, as the bank waived minimum balance charges on savings accounts in March 2020.

Most PSBs Have Discontinued Savings Account Penalties

The government informed Parliament that:

10 out of 12 Public Sector Banks have completely discontinued penal charges for non-maintenance of the minimum average balance in savings accounts.
The remaining two PSBs have rationalized such charges based on their board-approved policies and commercial considerations.

Are Jan Dhan and Zero-Balance Accounts Exempt?

Yes.

The government clarified that Basic Savings Bank Deposit Accounts (BSBDAs), including accounts opened under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), are completely exempt from minimum balance requirements.

Features of BSBDAs

No minimum balance requirement.
No penalty for non-maintenance of balance.
Free basic banking services.
Cash deposits and withdrawals.
ATM/Debit Card facility.

Currently, around 730 million BSBDAs, including PMJDY accounts, are exempt from minimum balance penalties.

RBI Guidelines on Minimum Balance Charges

According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), banks are permitted to levy minimum balance charges on savings and current accounts, provided they follow:

Board-approved policies.
Transparent and reasonable pricing.
Charges proportionate to the cost of providing banking services.

Banks must also:

Inform customers through SMS, email, letters, or other communication channels.
Provide sufficient time for customers to restore the required minimum balance before imposing penalties.

Financial Health of Public Sector Banks Improves

Replying to another question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister Pankaj Chaudhary stated that the financial position of Public Sector Banks has improved considerably.

Key Improvements

Healthy balance sheets.
Record profits.
Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPAs) at multi-decadal lows.
Strong credit growth across sectors.

Government Introduces ECLGS 5.0

The Minister also informed Parliament that the Government launched Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0 in May 2026 to help businesses affected by the West Asia crisis.

Key Features of ECLGS 5.0

100% guarantee coverage for MSMEs.
90% guarantee coverage for non-MSMEs and scheduled passenger airlines.
Credit support of up to ₹2.55 trillion.
₹5,000 crore specifically earmarked for the scheduled passenger airline sector.
Implemented through the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Ltd. (NCGTC).

Global Tiger Day 2026 Report: India’s Tiger Population Rises to 3,682; Tiger Reserves Increase to 58

On the occasion of Global Tiger Day 2026, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav highlighted India’s remarkable progress in wildlife conservation over the past 12 years. Addressing the celebrations organized by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) in New Delhi, the Minister stated that India’s tiger population has increased to 3,682, while the number of Tiger Reserves has risen to 58 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The event was attended by Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, senior government officials, wildlife experts, frontline forest personnel, students, and other stakeholders committed to wildlife conservation.

India’s Growing Success in Tiger Conservation

During his address, Shri Bhupender Yadav emphasized that wildlife conservation extends beyond protecting animals and involves building a harmonious relationship between people and nature.

He noted that over the last 12 years, India has witnessed significant growth not only in the number of tigers and tiger reserves but also in:

Elephant Reserves
National Parks
Wildlife Sanctuaries
Protected Areas
Community Reserves
Wetlands

The Minister attributed these achievements to sustained conservation efforts, scientific management, and increased public participation.

NTCA Launches Integrated Eco-Tourism Webpage

A major highlight of the event was the launch of the NTCA Eco-Tourism Webpage, an integrated digital platform that provides authentic information about all Tiger Reserves across India.

Key Features

Direct links to official Tiger Reserve websites.
Online safari booking information.
Accommodation booking facilities.
Promotion of responsible and sustainable eco-tourism.
Easy access to verified information for visitors.

The initiative aims to encourage nature-based tourism while ensuring ecological sustainability.

Importance of Knowledge Sharing in Conservation

The Minister stressed that wildlife conservation is not limited to scientific data but also includes traditional knowledge, field experience, and the dedication of forest officials.

He encouraged wildlife officers and conservationists to document their experiences so that practical insights can contribute to future conservation policies and management strategies.

Capacity Building and International Cooperation

Shri Yadav highlighted the importance of continuous capacity building for forest officers by adopting global best practices.

He also emphasized the growing role of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) in promoting international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and scientific collaboration for the conservation of big cats across the world.

NTCA Awards Presented

To recognize outstanding contributions in wildlife conservation, the NTCA Awards were presented to:

Wildlife officers
Forest officials
Conservation professionals
Frontline forest personnel

The awards acknowledged exemplary work in tiger conservation and protected area management across the country.

Nationwide Tiger Conservation Awareness Campaign

As part of the Global Tiger Day celebrations, NTCA organized a nationwide awareness campaign through Eco-Clubs under the Ministry’s Environment Education Programme.

Special emphasis was placed on:

Schools located near Tiger Reserves
Student participation
Wildlife awareness activities
Painting competitions
Sketching competitions
Slogan-writing competitions
Mask-making competitions based on the theme “Save Tiger”

Publications Released

Five important publications focusing on wildlife conservation and scientific management were released during the event:

STRIPES – NTCA Outreach Journal (July 2026 Edition)
Security Audit Report of 24 Tiger Reserves
Habitat Suitability Assessment for Sloth Bears Across Tiger Landscapes in India
Tigers of the World (Published by IBCA and Global Tiger Forum)
The Rehman Khera Tiger by Chandra Prakash Goyal and Satya Prakash Yadav

These publications aim to strengthen research, policy-making, and public awareness regarding wildlife conservation.

Background: Global Tiger Day

Global Tiger Day is observed every year on 29 July to raise awareness about tiger conservation worldwide.

The day was established during the St. Petersburg Tiger Summit (2010), where the 13 Tiger Range Countries launched the Global Tiger Recovery Program (GTRP).

The summit also introduced the ambitious TX2 Goal, which aimed to double the global wild tiger population by 2022.

Threats to Tigers

Despite conservation success, tigers continue to face several challenges:

Poaching
Illegal wildlife trade
Habitat loss
Habitat fragmentation
Human-wildlife conflict
Climate change

Today, wild tigers occupy less than 8% of their historical range, while three subspecies—the Bali Tiger, Javan Tiger, and Caspian Tiger—have become extinct.

SSB Reserves 50% Constable (GD) Posts for Ex-Agniveers Under New Recruitment Rules 2026

In a major step to provide employment opportunities to former Agniveers, the Government of India has notified the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) Recruitment Rules, 2026, reserving 50% of Constable (General Duty) vacancies for ex-Agniveers.

The new recruitment rules also provide significant relaxations, including exemption from certain recruitment tests and age relaxation, making it easier for former Agniveers to join the SSB after completing their service under the Agnipath Scheme.

50% Reservation for Former Agniveers

Under the SSB Recruitment Rules, 2026, 50% of all Constable (GD) vacancies will now be reserved for former Agniveers.

Eligible candidates who have successfully completed their tenure under the Agnipath Scheme will compete for these reserved vacancies, subject to fulfilling the prescribed eligibility criteria.

The move is part of the Government’s broader initiative to facilitate the rehabilitation and employment of trained Agniveers after their military service.

Recruitment Exemptions for Ex-Agniveers

Recognising the military training received by Agniveers during their service, the new recruitment rules grant several exemptions.

Former Agniveers will be exempted from:

Written Examination
Physical Standard Test (PST)
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)

However, candidates will still have to complete:

Document verification
Medical examination (where applicable)
Other eligibility requirements prescribed under the recruitment rules

These exemptions are intended to simplify the recruitment process while recognising the skills and physical training acquired during service in the Armed Forces.

Age Relaxation for Former Agniveers

The new rules also provide relaxation in the upper age limit.

Age Relaxation Details

First Batch of Agniveers: 5 years upper age relaxation
Subsequent Batches: 3 years upper age relaxation

The age relaxation aims to provide adequate time for former Agniveers to transition into civilian employment after completing their military service.

Recruitment Rules Effective Immediately

The SSB Recruitment Rules, 2026 came into force immediately after their publication in the Official Gazette.

All future recruitment for the post of Constable (General Duty) in the Sashastra Seema Bal will now be conducted according to these revised provisions.

About the Agnipath Scheme

The Agnipath Scheme, launched by the Government of India in 2022, recruits young men and women into the Armed Forces as Agniveers for a four-year period.

After completing their tenure, a portion of Agniveers is retained for longer service, while the remaining personnel are encouraged to pursue opportunities in government departments, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), state police forces, public sector organisations, and the private sector.

The latest SSB recruitment policy is another step towards ensuring meaningful post-service career opportunities for ex-Agniveers.

About Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)

The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) is one of India’s Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Key Responsibilities

Guarding India’s borders with Nepal and Bhutan
Preventing cross-border crimes and smuggling
Promoting a sense of security among border populations
Supporting national internal security operations

Venezuela Formally Withdraws from the International Criminal Court (ICC); What It Means

Venezuela has formally notified the United Nations (UN) of its decision to withdraw from the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the International Criminal Court (ICC). The announcement was made by Foreign Minister Felix Plasencia, who described the decision as “firm and irrevocable” and said it was taken on the instructions of Interim President Delcy Rodríguez.

The move comes amid growing criticism of the ICC by several countries and adds to the challenges facing the Hague-based court.

Why Has Venezuela Withdrawn from the ICC?

According to the Venezuelan government, the decision was based on concerns that the ICC has shown a “geographical bias” by disproportionately targeting countries in Africa and Latin America.

The government argued that the court has not treated all regions equally and questioned its impartiality in investigating international crimes.

What Is the International Criminal Court (ICC)?

The International Criminal Court (ICC) is an independent international judicial institution established under the Rome Statute, which came into force in 2002.

The court investigates and prosecutes individuals accused of the world’s most serious crimes, including:

Genocide
Crimes against humanity
War crimes
Crime of aggression

Headquarters

Location: The Hague, Netherlands

Will Venezuela’s Withdrawal Stop the ICC Investigation?

No.

Under Article 127 of the Rome Statute, a country’s withdrawal becomes effective one year after the formal notification is received by the United Nations.

More importantly, withdrawal does not affect investigations or legal proceedings that have already begun before the withdrawal takes effect.

Therefore, the ICC can continue its ongoing investigation into alleged crimes against humanity in Venezuela, which was officially opened in 2021.

Background of the ICC Investigation

The ICC launched an investigation after finding a reasonable basis to believe that Venezuelan security forces and pro-government groups may have committed crimes against humanity during the crackdown on anti-government protests that began in 2017.

Relations between Venezuela and the ICC have remained strained in recent years. In 2025, the court closed its office in Venezuela, citing insufficient progress by national authorities in investigating the alleged crimes.

United States Welcomes the Decision

The United States welcomed Venezuela’s withdrawal and reiterated its longstanding criticism of the ICC.

The U.S. State Department argued that the court had spent years investigating former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro without reaching meaningful conclusions and urged other ICC member states to consider withdrawing from the Rome Statute.

Growing Challenges for the ICC

Venezuela’s withdrawal comes at a time when the ICC is facing increasing political and institutional challenges.

Recent developments include:

Several countries have questioned the court’s impartiality.
Chad has also announced plans to withdraw from the ICC, citing concerns over unequal treatment.
Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger had previously taken similar steps.
The ICC recently lost its elected Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, following his dismissal by member states over allegations that he denies.

These developments have intensified debates over the future effectiveness and legitimacy of the International Criminal Court.

Why Is This Development Important?

Although Venezuela’s withdrawal is unlikely to halt ongoing investigations, it carries significant diplomatic and political implications.

The decision:

Signals a major shift in Venezuela’s foreign policy.
Raises questions about future cooperation with the ICC.
Adds pressure on the international justice system.
Highlights ongoing debates regarding the court’s impartiality and effectiveness.

Rivers of Jaipur: Complete List of Major Rivers, Their Origin, Length and Importance

Know about the important rivers flowing through Jaipur district. Learn about Banganga River, Aravalli origins, seasonal rivers, irrigation, and groundwater recharge.

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan, located in the semi-arid zone of Northwestern India. Although the area is characterized by low levels of precipitation, there are several rivers in the region, which play an important role in agriculture, groundwater recharge processes, irrigating the land and maintaining the natural environment. Most of these rivers are characterized by seasonal activity, providing their waters mainly during the southwest monsoon.

Among these rivers Banganga is the biggest and the most important of the rivers flowing in Jaipur district. There are also other rivers. Thus, Morel, Dhund, Sabi (Sahibi), Bandi, Masi, Dai and Sakha rivers join the river system of the region, contributing to the lives of rural population.

Key Rivers of Jaipur

Jaipur district is home to a number of rivers that mainly originate from the Aravalli hills and pass through some portions of eastern Rajasthan.

Rivers	Approximate Length	Origin	Significance
Banganga River	380 Km	Aravalli Hills around Bairath (Viratnagar)	The longest river in Jaipur district
Morel River	300 Km	Aravalli Hills of Jaipur	A tributary of Banas river
Dhund River	120 Km	Jaipur Region	Significant river for local drainage
Sabi (Sahibi) River	300 Km	Aravalli hills	Flows to Haryana and Delhi
Bandi River	45 Km	Jaipur district	Helps in groundwater recharge
Masi River	95 Km	Phagi region	Very important for agriculture
Dai River	90 Km	Aravalli region	Key to rural villages and farming
Sakha River	60 Km	Jaipur district	Seasonal river which regulates local ecosystems

1. Banganga River

The Banganga River is the largest and most important river in Jaipur district. It originates in the Aravalli Hills near Bairath (Viratnagar) and runs through Jaipur, Dausa, and Bharatpur before draining into the Yamuna river system.

Although it is mainly a rain-fed river, it is important in providing irrigation, recharging ground water and supporting rural economies during monsoon.

Key Facts

Approximate Length: 380 km
Origin: Aravalli Hills near Bairath (Viratnagar)
The major districts: Jaipur, Dausa, Bharatpur
Drainage: Drains into the Yamuna river system
Type: Temporal river

2. Morel River

The Morel River is a major tributary of the Banas River and plays an integral role in the drainage system of eastern Rajasthan.

The river originates in the Aravalli Hills, near Jaipur and flows through the districts of Jaipur, Dausa, and Sawai Madhopur. It receives its water mainly during the monsoon period and enables agricultural activities to flourish in its basin.

Key facts

Approximate length: 300 km
Point of origin: Aravalli Hills near Jaipur
Tributary of Banas River

3. Dhund River

The Dhund River is considered one of the most significant rivers in Jaipur. Apart from flowing through various areas in the district, it mainly acts as a natural drainage path during monsoon season.

Though it is only seasonal in nature, it plays an important role in preventing flooding and promoting groundwater recharge.

Key facts

Approximate length: 120 km
Seasonal river
Receives water from the southwest monsoon
Important for local drainage and groundwater recharge

4. Sabi River (Sahibi River)

Sabi River (also known as Sahibi River) starts in Aravalli Hills and crosses through Rajasthan to reach Haryana and finally empty into Najafgarh Lake basin close to Delhi.

Sabi river is known as one of the significant seasonal rivers of the north western part of India that contributes in the drainage of various states.

Interesting facts about Sabi River

Length: about 300 km
Source: Aravalli Hills
Flows through Rajasthan and Haryana.
Empties into Najafgarh basin close to Delhi.

5. Bandi River

Bandi River is a small seasonal river in Phulera, Phagi, and surrounding areas of Jaipur district. Although it stays dry throughout the year, it is crucial for groundwater recharge and the sustenance of the nearby villages during the monsoons.

Important Facts

Estimating length: 45 km
Passes through Phulera and Phagi
Seasonal river
Aiding in water recharge

6. Masi River

Masi River runs through the Phagi area of the Jaipur district and serves as an important water supply for nearby farming communities.

The river acts as a source of replenishment for the groundwater and helps in agriculture despite being a seasonal river.

Key details

Approximate Length: 95 km
Runs through the Phagi region
Assists agriculture and irrigation
Replenishes water reserves

7. The river Dai

This river begins in Aravalli region and flows through countryside of Jaipur district.

The river provides support for agriculture, close villages, and groundwater replenishment, mainly during monsoons.

Important Information

Approximate length: 90 km
Origin: Aravalli region
Seasonal river
Supports farming and villages

8. The Sakha River

The Sakha River is a small river in the Jaipur district that collects most of its water during the southwest monsoon season.

While it may be a small river, it plays a vital part in maintaining local ecosystems and biodiversity when it rains.

Important Details

Length of River: approximately 60 kilometers
Season river
Maintain ecosystems

Interesting Facts About Rivers of Jaipur

The Banganga River claims the title of the longest river in the Jaipur region.
Most of the rivers in Jaipur get their starting point from the Aravalli mountains.
Almost all the major rivers in the area are seasonal rivers, mainly flowing down during the southwest monsoon.
The Morel River is one of the important tributaries of the Banas River.
The Sabi (Sahibi) River flows out of Rajasthan into Haryana and Delhi.
Seasonal rivers are important for groundwater recharge in the eastern part of Rajasthan.

Rajnath Singh Unveils Indian Coast Guard Reforms to Promote Gender Equality and Simplify Ex Gratia Benefits

In a landmark move to promote gender equality and improve the welfare of personnel, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled two major policy reforms for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on 29 July 2026. The reforms introduce a gender-neutral framework for officer induction and streamline the process of providing ex gratia compensation to the families of personnel who go missing at sea while on duty.

The policy announcements were made during an event held at Kartavya Bhavan-2, New Delhi, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard Paramesh Sivamani, and other senior officials.

Gender-Neutral Framework for Indian Coast Guard Officers

The first policy reform establishes a comprehensive, women-centric yet gender-neutral framework for the induction and career progression of officers in the Indian Coast Guard.

Under the new policy:

Women candidates will now be inducted into both Short Service Appointments (SSA) and Permanent Appointments (PA) on par with male officers.
Short Service Appointments (SSA) have also been opened for male candidates, ensuring equal opportunities for both genders.
The policy provides equal opportunities for career progression, beginning from the initial training stage.
Existing Permanent Appointment (PA) women officers will be eligible for promotion to higher ranks, subject to fulfilling the prescribed eligibility criteria.
Women officers currently serving under Short Service Appointment (SSA) will have the option to convert their service into Permanent Appointment (PA), subject to the stipulated conditions.

The Ministry of Defence stated that the reform reflects the Government of India’s commitment to “Nari Shakti” and equal opportunity in India’s maritime security framework.

Faster Ex Gratia Benefits for Families of Missing Personnel

The second policy reform focuses on improving the welfare of families of Coast Guard personnel who go missing during operational duties at sea.

Key Features

The Indian Coast Guard will have the authority to declare personnel “presumed dead” for the purpose of granting ex gratia compensation if they go missing at sea while on duty.
The reform significantly simplifies and accelerates the process of providing:
- Ex gratia compensation
- Terminal benefits
- Financial assistance to the Next of Kin (NoK)
The initiative aims to eliminate prolonged administrative delays and provide timely financial support to families during difficult circumstances.

Rajnath Singh Highlights Government’s Commitment

Speaking on the occasion, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Coast Guard for its outstanding service over the past five decades and expressed confidence that these reforms would further strengthen the force’s morale and operational effectiveness as it approaches its Golden Jubilee in 2027.

He also reaffirmed the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government’s commitment to building a modern, capable, technologically advanced, and future-ready Indian Coast Guard.

Why These Reforms Are Important

The newly announced reforms are expected to:

Promote gender equality in India’s maritime security forces.
Expand career opportunities for women officers.
Ensure fair and transparent recruitment and promotion policies.
Provide quicker financial relief to families of personnel missing during duty.
Enhance morale, operational efficiency, and inclusiveness within the Indian Coast Guard.

Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme (BSCC): Eligibility, Benefits, Loan Amount, Documents & How to Apply

The Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme (BSCC) is a flagship program under the Department of Education, Government of Bihar, which was started for the students to gain access to higher studies without facing any financial problems. Under the scheme, eligible students will have access to an educational loan of 4 lakh rupees at cheaper interest rate for their tuition fees, cost of books, laptops, and other expenditures incurred for getting education.

The scheme is part of Mukhyamantri Nishchay Swayam Sahayata Bhatta Evam Kushal Yuva Program (7 Nischay Yuva Mission) and aims to enhance accessibility to higher education for students across Bihar.

What is the Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme?

The Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme offers a loan to students who have passed the Class 12 exams and wish to pursue higher studies but do not have adequate funds to do so.

The loan covers all kinds of professional, technical, polytechnic, and degree courses which are recognized by approved institutions. The repayment starts only after the completion of the course and securing of a job, thus relieving the students of financial pressure during their studies.

The Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme at a Glance

Name of the Scheme: Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme (BSCC)
Initiated by: The Department of Education, Government of Bihar
Maximum Loan: Upto ₹4 Lakhs
Target: Farmer Students Those who are in higher studies
Interest Rate: Low for girls, disadvantaged, and transgender students at 1 percent.
Method of Application: Online.
Website of the Scheme: https://www.7nishchay-yuvaupmission.bihar.gov.in

Benefits of Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme

The program provides different advantages to those students who satisfy the basic criteria for higher studies.

Education loans of up to ₹4 lakh.
Applicable for traditional, technical, vocational, and polytechnic programs.
The loan covers tuition fees, exam fees, purchase of books, laptop, instruments, etc.
Repayment of the loan starts after completion of the study program and the person is employed.
Women, disabled persons, and transgender persons can get loans at low interest of just one percent.
The terms of loan repayment and recovery are made easy by the government-backed scheme.

Eligibility Conditions

Applicants must fulfill these eligibility requirements for the Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme:

They need to be a resident of the state of Bihar.
Age should not be more than 25 years according to the guidelines.
Completion of the Class 12 examination or its equivalent is needed.
Acceptance or admission in the approved educational institution should be done.
Completion of the course should be done.

Courses Covered Under the Scheme

Students can get loans for all types of higher education programs. Below are some of the programs on which loans can be availed.

B.A.
B.Sc.
B.Com.
B.Tech.
MBBS
Polytechnic courses
Engineering programs
Technical education
Professional degree programs
Other higher education programs approved

How to Fill Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme Form

Students have to perform the listed steps in order to apply for the Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme online.

Step 1: Apply Online

To access the official portal of 7 Nischay Yuva Mission you need to click on the “New Applicant Registration” option.

Step 2: Fill in Required Information

The next step is completing the online registration by submitting the following information,

Name
Aadhaar ID Number
Contact Number
Email ID

Once done, verify the OTP and then submit the application.

Step 3: Login

Now that the registration is successful, login using the Username and Password shared via SMS and email.

Step 4: Complete Personal Information Information

Now fill the information requested in the Personal Information section of the form.

Step 5: Apply for BSCC

The next step is selecting the Bihar Student Credit Card scheme option to complete the online application form.

Step 6: DRCC Visit

Once your application is submitted the District Registration and Counselling Centre (DRCC) will fix an appointment with you. You will have to visit the DRCC carrying your self-attested documents.

Step 7: Acceptance of the Loan

After verifying all the relevant documents and getting approval of the loan, the applicant will get an SMS and an email regarding the loan.

Step 8: Fulfill Bank Requirements

Get the Student Credit Card and the sanction letter from the DRCC, go to the bank specified in the loan application, do the paperwork and get the loan.

Documents Required

The following documents must be made available to the applicants,

Completed application form
Aadhaar card
PAN card
Full mark sheet and certificate of class 10
Full mark sheet and certificate of class 12
Letter of admission
Fee structure of the college
Approved course curriculum
Passport sized photographs
Income certificate
Income tax returns (if applicable)
Bank statements for past six months
Proof of residence (passport, driving license, voter card, etc.)
Scholarship documents (if applicable)
Recent tax receipt

Loan Payback

The Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme has one of the greatest benefits in the form of the flexible loan repayment plan it offers to students.

Loan payback usually starts when the courses are finished and the borrower is working, so there is no financial pressure during studying years.

Features of Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme

The loan system is government-supported.
It gives financial aid to students for their higher studies.
Low interest rates are offered by this scheme.
1% discount on the interest rate is provided to some selected borrowers.
All costs of studying are covered by the scheme apart from tuition costs.
It can be easily applied for online.
Repayment of the loan is highly flexible.

SBI to Become First Indian Bank to Issue Basel III-Compliant AT-1 Perpetual Bonds in 2026

State Bank of India (SBI) is set to become the first Indian bank in 2026 to issue Basel III-compliant Additional Tier-I (AT-1) Perpetual Bonds, marking a significant step towards strengthening its capital base. The country’s largest public sector bank plans to raise ₹5,000 crore through the bond issuance as part of its broader capital-raising strategy for the financial year.

SBI to Raise ₹5,000 Crore Through AT-1 Perpetual Bonds

SBI is expected to launch the ₹5,000 crore Basel III-compliant AT-1 Perpetual Bond issue within the next two weeks. The proposed bonds will include a five-year call option, allowing the bank to redeem the bonds after five years, subject to approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other regulatory authorities.

The issuance forms part of SBI’s previously approved plan to raise up to ₹60,000 crore during the current financial year through various debt instruments.

Part of SBI’s ₹60,000 Crore Capital Raising Plan

In June 2026, the SBI Board approved a proposal to raise up to ₹60,000 crore through multiple debt instruments, including:

Infrastructure Bonds
Basel III-compliant Additional Tier-I (AT-1) Bonds
Tier-II Bonds

The objective is to strengthen the bank’s capital position, support business expansion, and meet evolving regulatory capital requirements.

What Are Basel III-Compliant AT-1 Perpetual Bonds?

Additional Tier-I (AT-1) Perpetual Bonds are debt instruments issued by banks to strengthen their capital base under the Basel III regulatory framework.

These bonds are classified as Additional Tier-I Capital, helping banks:

Improve the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR).
Meet Basel III regulatory norms.
Enhance their ability to absorb financial losses during periods of stress.
Support future lending and business growth.

Unlike conventional bonds, Perpetual Bonds do not have a fixed maturity date. However, they generally include a call option, allowing the issuing bank to redeem the bonds after a specified period, subject to regulatory approval.

Previous AT-1 Bond Issuances

The upcoming SBI issue follows recent capital-raising exercises by Indian banks.

Canara Bank was the last Indian bank to issue AT-1 Perpetual Bonds, raising ₹3,500 crore in November 2025 at a 7.55% coupon rate.
SBI last issued Perpetual Bonds in October 2024, raising ₹5,000 crore with a 7.98% coupon rate and a 10-year call option.

The new issuance will make SBI the first Indian bank to issue Basel III-compliant AT-1 Perpetual Bonds in 2026.

Why This Bond Issue Is Important

The issuance is expected to provide several benefits for SBI:

Strengthens regulatory capital under Basel III norms.
Improves the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR).
Supports credit growth and future lending.
Diversifies long-term funding sources.
Enhances the bank’s financial resilience.

About State Bank of India (SBI)

Particular	Details
Bank Name	State Bank of India (SBI)
Founded	1955
Headquarters	Mumbai, Maharashtra
Chairman	Challa Sreenivasulu Setty
Slogan	“The Banker to Every Indian”

Key Highlights

SBI will become the first Indian bank in 2026 to issue Basel III-compliant AT-1 Perpetual Bonds.
The bank plans to raise ₹5,000 crore through the bond issue.
The bonds will carry a five-year call option, subject to regulatory approval.
The issuance is part of SBI’s ₹60,000 crore capital-raising programme for FY 2026–27.
AT-1 Perpetual Bonds help banks strengthen capital, improve CAR, and comply with Basel III regulations.
SBI’s Board approved the ₹60,000 crore fundraising plan in June 2026.