Context: Natural hydrogen, also known as geologic hydrogen, is gaining global attention as a clean, low-cost, and abundant alternative to fossil fuels and industrially produced hydrogen. With vast reserves potentially lying beneath the Earth’s surface including in India this fuel could play a transformative role in the global energy transition. What is Natural Hydrogen? Historical Discovery Current Reserves and Potential India’s Geological Potential: India is geologically suited for natural hydrogen generation due to: Despite the high potential, exploration in India remains nascent. A structured roadmap for surveying and testing is needed. Advantages of Natural Hydrogen Challenges TH

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate WAVES 2025 (World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit) at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai, , May 1 2025. This four-day summit is the first of its kind organized by the Government of India, highlighting India’s ambition to be a global media and entertainment powerhouse Major Participants Special Initiatives and Cultural Events Government Vision The Indian Express

Context: The Government of India has initiated inter-ministerial consultations to revise the benchmark costs for EV public charging infrastructure, a move driven by changing technology and cost structures since the last revision in 2022. This update falls under the ₹10,900-crore PM E-Drive Scheme, with ₹2,000 crore earmarked specifically for charging infrastructure subsidies. Key Points Cost Revision Underway Drivers of Cost Change Subsidy Structure & Infrastructure Targets Strategic Rollout Plans Policy Implications Mint

Context: The Supreme Court of India has ruled that access to digital services is a part of the fundamental right to equality, life, and dignity. The ruling reinforces the need for inclusive digital governance, especially for persons with disabilities (PwDs) and marginalized groups. Access To Digital Services Access to digital services refers to the ability of individuals and communities to access and effectively use digital technologies and resources. This includes having the necessary hardware, software, internet connectivity, and digital literacy skills to participate fully in the digital world. Essentially, it’s about ensuring everyone can utilize digital tools and platforms for various aspects of life, from education and healthcare to employment and social connections.  Origin of the Case Critique of Current KYC Processes Substantive Equality Principle Upheld Broader Issues Identified 20 Directions Issued to Government Implications for Policy and Governance TH

Context: Vembanad Lake, India’s longest and Kerala’s largest lake, is under serious ecological stress. Spanning 96.5 km and draining six major rivers, it supports agriculture, biodiversity, and livelihoods across Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam. The lake is part of the Vembanad-Kol wetland system, a Ramsar site, but has shrunk drastically due to human encroachment, pollution, and weed infestation. Key Environmental Challenges Shrinking Surface and Depth Pollution and Biodiversity Loss Unregulated Human Activities Vembanad Lake Rejuvenation Project Administrative Framework Short-Term Objectives Long-Term Targets Progress So Far Challenges Ahead TH

Context: In response to a terrorist attack in Jammu & Kashmir (Pahalgam), India’s Cabinet Committee on Security announced the suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan. India demands Pakistan “credibly and irrevocably abjure cross-border terrorism” for the treaty to be reinstated. Legally, the IWT has no exit clause, it can only be terminated through mutual agreement, as per Article XII(4). Legal and Diplomatic Complexity Operational Levers India Can Use Infrastructure Constraints Broader Geopolitical Risks TH

Context: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that caste enumeration will be part of the next Census. This marks a significant shift in India’s demographic data collection approach. Historical Context Legal and Operational Framework Emerging Political Dynamics Challenges and Sensitivities Census Timeline TH