24th JULY 2026 ENGLISH TNPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS PDF TNPSC SHOUTERS
Successful First-Phase Test of 'Kusha' Missile
- The 'Kusha' long-range missile has been indigenously developed to rival Russia's S-400 air defense system. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the first-phase test of the Kusha missile yesterday at APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.
- According to a Ministry of Defence press release, the Kusha missile system accurately intercepted and destroyed an electronic target simulating an aerial threat approaching at high speed and high altitude.
- The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the 'Bhavya Rasayan' scheme, aimed at developing India's chemical industry. Under this initiative, three chemical parks will be established. The scheme was originally announced in the Union Budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
- The project will be implemented at a cost of ₹3,030 crore. The 'Bhavya Rasayan' scheme aims to boost the production of raw materials and foster the growth of the chemical industry. Infrastructure facilities will be developed in alignment with the demand for chemicals, thereby enhancing the industry's global competitiveness.
- The scheme will promote and enhance the production of chemicals and petrochemicals used across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and nutrition.
- Under this initiative, the Central Government will take steps to create three dedicated chemical parks, each spanning an area of 2,000 acres. These parks will feature infrastructure tailored for the chemical industry, including wastewater treatment plants and robust water supply systems.
- The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of third and fourth railway lines on the Ballari-Guntakal section, spanning the states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The project will be implemented at a cost of ₹1,264 crore and is set to boost both passenger travel and freight transportation.
- Covering three districts across Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, this project will expand the existing railway network by 46 kilometers. More than seven lakh people are expected to benefit from this initiative. It will also improve connectivity to tourist attractions such as Ballari Fort and the Kumaraswamy Temple.
- The designated route is a vital corridor for transporting commodities including iron ore, coal, steel, and fertilizers. The proposed expansion will increase freight transport capacity by 16.22 million tonnes. Additionally, the project will enhance employment and self-employment opportunities in the region.
- The Union Cabinet has decided to introduce stringent amendments to the 'Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024,' aimed at curbing examination malpractices.
- Under these provisions, individuals involved in offenses such as question paper leaks face a maximum prison term of 10 years and a fine of up to ₹10 crore.
- Under the 'Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024', offenders can currently face a prison term of 3 to 5 years and a fine of ₹10 lakh. Following the amendment to the Act, the prison term can extend to 5–10 years, and the fine can reach ₹10 crore.
