National Current Affairs - 2026-05-15

Background: India launched the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) to create a robust digital health ecosystem, aiming to link healthcare records digitally. Current Context: The Union Health Ministry announced a significant expansion phase of ABDM, targeting integration of all public and private healthcare providers across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities by the end of 2026. This includes mandatory digital health IDs for citizens and interoperable electronic health records. Impact: This expansion will enhance healthcare accessibility, streamline patient data management, and improve policy formulation based on real-time health analytics, ultimately strengthening India's public health infrastructure and promoting universal health coverage.

Background: Environmental clearances for infrastructure projects have often been a point of contention, balancing rapid development with ecological preservation. Current Context: The Supreme Court of India delivered a landmark judgment, mandating stricter adherence to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) norms for all major industrial and infrastructure projects. The ruling emphasizes robust public consultation and independent expert reviews, making it harder for projects to bypass ecological safeguards. Impact: This decision is expected to significantly strengthen environmental governance, protect biodiversity, and ensure sustainable development practices across the country, potentially leading to delays or redesigns for some large-scale projects.

Background: Rapid urbanization in India has led to a significant decline in urban green spaces, impacting biodiversity, air quality, and overall urban livability. Current Context: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs unveiled the "National Urban Green Infrastructure Policy 2026," a comprehensive framework to promote the creation and maintenance of green spaces in Indian cities. It includes guidelines for urban forestry, vertical gardens, green roofs, and incentivizing local bodies for adopting green initiatives. Impact: The policy aims to improve urban air quality, mitigate the urban heat island effect, enhance public health, and foster community engagement in environmental conservation, contributing to more livable and sustainable cities.