1.Neutrino Mass and the KATRIN Experiment
The KATRIN experiment has made a significant leap in particle physics with its latest findings (April 2025). Neutrinos, electrically neutral subatomic particles created in radioactive decay and nuclear reactions, still have an unknown mass. These particles are extremely light, weighing less than a millionth of an electron's mass. KATRIN, located in Germany, focuses on measuring the mass of the electron antineutrino by analyzing tritium decay. The experiment’s recent analysis has reduced the upper limit of neutrino mass to under 0.45 eV, nearly halving the previous estimate.

2.ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation)
The La Niña event in the tropical Pacific Ocean has officially ended, and the climate system is now in an ENSO-neutral phase, according to the NOAA. ENSO significantly impacts global weather by altering sea-surface temperatures in the Pacific. El Niño is marked by warmer-than-usual waters, while La Niña involves cooler temperatures. The neutral phase signifies a transition between these extremes. By March 2025, cool waters from La Niña have dissipated, marking the shift to ENSO-neutral conditions with more stable climate patterns.

3. Asiatic Lions
Asiatic lions are gradually extending their range beyond the Gir forests, including areas like Diu Island. Once spread across West Asia and the Middle East, they now reside solely in India, with around 674 lions counted in the 2020 census. Due to ongoing conservation efforts, the IUCN has downgraded their status from “Critically Endangered” to “Endangered” since 2008. The Gir National Park and Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, important habitats for these lions, also house other species like leopards and a variety of birds, aiding in the population’s growth.

4. The Beijing India Report 2024
The Beijing India Report 2024, released to mark the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration (1995), highlights India’s progress in gender equality and the challenges it faces in addressing the gender-climate nexus. While India has enacted key laws like the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act and the POSH Act, gaps remain in their implementation. As a signatory to various international frameworks, including the Beijing Declaration, India continues to confront challenges in achieving gender equity and addressing climate justice.

5. Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
India’s industrial output grew by just 2.9% in February 2025, marking the slowest growth in six months and falling short of the expected 4%. The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) tracks changes in industrial output and is a critical economic indicator. Growth was varied across sectors: manufacturing rose by 9%, but lower than the previous year’s 4.9%, and mining and electricity showed slower growth. The eight core industries, which account for 40.27% of the IIP, experienced a slowdown, with refinery products and electricity showing particular weakness.

6. Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
The Railway Minister recently announced that 104 of the 1,300 stations set for redevelopment under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme are now complete.
About the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme:
Launched in February 2023, this initiative aims to modernize and improve railway stations across India. The plan covers 1,300 stations with a focus on long-term development through phased improvements. Upgrades include enhanced station access, better waiting areas, toilets, lift/escalators, cleanliness, free Wi-Fi, kiosks selling local products, and improved passenger information systems. Stations will also reflect regional culture and architecture. The scheme prioritizes multi-modal connectivity, eco-friendly solutions, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and sustainable station structures. The goal is to transform stations into vibrant hubs integrated with the surrounding cities.

7. Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) Scheme
The Union Cabinet recently approved the M-CADWM as a sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY).
About the M-CADWM Scheme:
With an initial budget of ₹1,600 crore, this initiative aims to modernize India's irrigation infrastructure. The goal is to improve water efficiency using advanced technologies like SCADA and IoT, enhancing irrigation networks that reach small-scale farmers. The scheme includes underground piped irrigation systems for farms up to 1 hectare, fostering micro-irrigation. Additionally, it supports sustainable farming practices by empowering local Water User Societies to manage irrigation assets, improving long-term water management. The initiative also seeks to engage youth in modern agricultural practices.

8. Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) 'Gaurav'
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the release trials of the Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) ‘Gaurav’.
About LRGB ‘Gaurav’:
Developed indigenously by DRDO, the 1,000-kg ‘Gaurav’ glide bomb is designed to travel long distances without an engine, using aerodynamic surfaces for forward movement after being dropped from a high altitude. This minimizes the risk to pilots by allowing aircraft to stay out of range of enemy radar and air defenses. The bomb features a dual guidance system combining INS and GPS, and has a range of over 100 kilometers when launched from altitudes above 40,000 feet. It was developed in collaboration with Indian private sector partners.

9. Mahadayi River
Protests have recently erupted over the proposed land acquisition by the State Government for the Bandura Nala water diversion project in the Mahadayi river basin.
About the Mahadayi River:
The Mahadayi (Mandovi) River, shared between Karnataka and Goa, originates in the Western Ghats of Karnataka and flows into the Arabian Sea at Panaji, Goa. The river’s tributaries include Rogaro, Kushavati, and Mapusa, and it is crucial for the water needs of both states. The Kalasa-Banduri project, proposed by Karnataka, aims to divert water from the Mahadayi to the Malaprabha River in Karnataka for drinking water supply. Goa has opposed the project, leading to tensions over water resource management.

10. Mount Spurr
Dozens of mini-earthquakes have been recorded around Alaska’s Mount Spurr, raising concerns about an impending eruption.
About Mount Spurr:
Located in the Cook Inlet region of Alaska, Mount Spurr is an active stratovolcano with a peak height of 11,000 feet. It last erupted in 1992, causing significant ashfall that disrupted air traffic. The volcano is composed of andesite and includes a breached stratovolcano, a lava dome, and Crater Peak. The area is also home to glaciers and an active icefield. Recent seismic activity and gas emissions have heightened concerns about a potential eruption in the near future.