The day's most exam-relevant stories, scored and mapped to the UPSC syllabus by ProjectsPilot's AI. Full Prelims/Mains/Interview analysis is inside the app.
Stop the scam: on the ‘digital arrest’ menace
The Supreme Court has issued further directions to tackle “digital arrest” scams, including RBI SOPs for temporary debit holds, operationalising e-Zero FIRs and cybercrime coordination centres, and a committee on victim compensation. The piece highlights declining complaints on the cyber reporting portal and the evolving tactics of scammers (SIM boxes, mule accounts, deepfakes).
Government Clarifies Objective and Eligibility Criteria for Reservation to Economically Weaker Sections
Government clarification on the objective and eligibility for EWS reservation, meant for economically weaker persons not covered under existing SC/ST/SEBC reservations. It cites the Constitution (103rd Amendment) Act, 2019 inserting Articles 15(6) and 16(6) and reiterates the income criterion for EWS.
PM Surya Ghar sees more than tripling of daily rooftop solar installations in 9 months: MNRE Minister Pralhad Joshi
PM Surya Ghar’s rollout under the “Muft Bijli” rooftop solar scheme has accelerated sharply, with daily installations rising over 3x in nine months. The minister also highlighted progress towards non-fossil capacity targets and ongoing beneficiary/zero-bill coverage under the scheme.
SC awards ₹83 lakh to girl left paralysed after road accident
The Supreme Court awarded compensation to a girl left paralysed after a road accident. The case highlights judicial remedies and the compensation framework for victims of serious road injuries.
RBI releases NBFC-UL list, Tata Sons figure, pressure mounts for listing
RBI released the NBFC-UL (Upper Layer) list for 2026-27, including Tata Sons, subjecting identified entities to enhanced oversight and a mandate to list within three years. The RBI noted Tata Sons’ NBFC status depends on its de-registration application outcome.
Gauhati High Court seeks status quo on encroachment in Manas Tiger Reserve
Gauhati High Court ordered Assam government and the BTC to maintain status quo on encroachment in Manas Tiger Reserve/Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site bordering Bhutan. The PIL seeks removal of unauthorised encroachments and court notices have been issued to relevant authorities.
Kerala Minister says SC directions on Mullaperiyar dam unimplemented, objects to any water level hike by T.N.
Kerala has said Supreme Court directions on Mullaperiyar dam safety are not being implemented and will approach the apex court if Tamil Nadu raises reservoir levels beyond 142 feet. The dispute follows Tamil Nadu’s Budget proposal to pursue higher water levels.
The government is considering/introducing a change to allow banks and UPI providers to charge merchants for certain UPI payments, potentially affecting the cost burden passed to customers. The development raises questions on pricing, regulation and consumer impact in India’s digital payments ecosystem.
Fresh nationwide survey during 2024-25 finds no manual scavengers
A fresh nationwide survey (2024-25) under the 2013 Act found no manual scavengers in any district. The government reported rehabilitation support under NAMASTE, including one-time cash assistance and skilling/capital support for identified beneficiaries.
Centre Releases ₹747.17 Crore to Uttar Pradesh Since 2019-20 for Implementation of SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act
The Centre released ₹747.17 crore to Uttar Pradesh since 2019-20 under a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for strengthening enforcement of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and providing relief to atrocity victims. Over 1.43 lakh victims received assistance during 2019-20 to 2025-26.
