Rail Tech Policy Context: Railway Minister rolled out two more reforms the Rail Tech Policy and second phase of e-RCT (Railway Claims Tribunal) under the government 52Reforms in 52 Weeks initiative As a part of the Rail Tech Policy the minister launched the high-tech round-the-clock Rail Tech Portal to engage start-ups, innovators and industry in addressing emerging challenge in the railways. 52 Reforms in 52 Weeks: Major Reforms in Indian Railways Aiming for Systemic Improvements in Efficiency, Governance, and Service Delivery. Focus on Safety – Consequential train accidents reduced by ~90% (135 in 2014-15 to 11 in 2025-26); aiming to bring it down to a single digit. AI & Tech Boost – Accelerating AI and advanced tech use for safety, maintenance, and operations. Talent & Training Revamp – Exploring innovative methods for talent management and skill development of employees. Food & Catering Upgrade – Major reforms for better food quality, catering, and onboard services. India–Israel Partnership for a Multi-Layered Air Defence Shield Context: The Prime Minister of India’s recent visit to Israel has given fresh momentum to defence cooperation, particularly in advanced weapons technology and missile defence under the proposed Mission Sudarshan Chakra framework. The initiative gained urgency after Operation Sindoor, during which India encountered drone and missile threats from Pakistan. In response to evolving aerial and missile challenges, India has envisioned the Sudarshan Chakra missile shield as a long-term national security project targeted for completion by 2035 under the Make in India programme. The plan is to establish a comprehensive, layered air defence network by integrating cutting-edge systems such as Iron Dome, Iron Beam, Arrow, and David's Sling with India’s existing platforms like S-400, Barak-8, and Akash. This integrated shield would secure India’s land borders and extensive coastline against a wide spectrum of threats. Sudarshan Chakra Sudarshan Chakra…
