Daily Current Affairs — 7 January 2026
3 articles • UPSC Prelims & Mains
Role of Biomaterials in Advancing Sustainable Manufacturing
In News Biomaterials are becoming a central focus in the development of materials for products as nations transition to more sustainable manufacturing methods. Biomaterials Biomaterials are materials derived wholly or partly from biological sources, or engineered using biological processes, that are designed to replace or interact with conventional materials. They are increasingly used across sectors such as packaging, textiles, construction, and healthcare.
CAG Flags States' Fiscal Stress
Context According to the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG), India’s states began FY24 with robust revenue inflows but closed the year facing increasing fiscal strain. Major Findings Total revenue receipts of states were at ₹37.93 lakh crore in FY24. States’ own tax revenue formed the largest component at about 50%, followed by the share in Union taxes at nearly 30%, grants-in-aid at around 12% and non-tax revenue at just over 8%.
Rethinking India’s Skilling Outcomes
Context Over the last decade, India has built one of the largest skilling ecosystems in the world, yet skilling has not become a first-choice pathway for most young Indians. About The India Skills Report 2025 shows that only about 2% of graduates pursue additional skilling certifications after completing degrees. Between 2015 and 2025, India’s flagship skilling programme, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), has trained and certified around 1.40 crore candidates, reflecting serious publi