Daily Current Affairs — 8 January 2026
6 articles • UPSC Prelims & Mains
Hydrogen Molecule As a Precision Test for Fundamental Physics
Context Recent advances in theoretical physics and experimental spectroscopy have enabled scientists to test the foundations of quantum mechanics and quantum electrodynamics (QED) using the hydrogen molecule (H₂). Background The hydrogen molecule (H₂), has long been used to test the accuracy of fundamental physical laws. With advances in experimental techniques, scientists can now measure the energy gaps between different molecular states with an accuracy of one part in 100 billion.
‘Natgrid’: The Search Engine of Digital Authoritarianism
In News Authorities started using the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) to trace and track suspects and criminals, though several practical challenges remain on the ground. Background The 2008 Mumbai terror attacks (“26/11”) exposed intelligence lapses, particularly the failure to connect disparate data about the attackers, including David Coleman Headley. In response, institutional and technological reforms were initiated, with NATGRID (National Intelligence Grid) emerging as the “crown jewe
Centre Creates Three-year PPP Project Pipeline
Context Recently, the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) has unveiled a three-year Public Private Partnership (PPP) project pipeline aimed at streamlining infrastructure development across India. Scale and Scope of the Pipeline According to the Ministry of Finance, the pipeline currently includes 852 projects across Central Infrastructure Ministries, States, and Union Territories, representing a total estimated cost exceeding ₹17 lakh crore. These projects span critical sectors such as transpo
Draft Pesticides Management Bill, 2025
Context The Agriculture Ministry released the draft Pesticides Management Bill, 2025, seeking public comments on the legislation that aims to replace the Insecticides Act, 1968, and the Insecticides Rules, 1971. Major Features Central Pesticides Board (CPB): It shall be constituted within a period of six months from the date of commencement of this Act. It is an apex regulatory body, providing scientific and technical guidance.
Digitalization of Indian Judiciary
In News Kalpetta district in Kerala’s Wayanad has become India’s first fully paperless district court system, with all judicial processes conducted digitally from case filing to final judgment. Digitalization of Indian Judiciary Artificial Intelligence is bringing a major transformation to India’s judiciary and law enforcement by improving efficiency, accessibility, and decision-making. It is aimed at reducing case backlogs, improving transparency, and enhancing access to justice.
US President Signs Order Withdrawing US from 66 International Organisations
In News The US has withdrawn from 66 international organizations, including 31 UN entities and 35 non-UN bodies. Why is the US Withdrawing? Sovereignty Concerns: Resistance to binding international rules perceived to constrain domestic policy autonomy.