28 June 2025: PIB Summary For UPSC

1. India to host 2029 World Police & Fire Games in Ahmedabad

(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), June 28, 2025)

Topic: GS Paper 2 (Polity, Sports, Infrastructure)

Context

India has won the bid to host the 2029 World Police & Fire Games, recognizing its infrastructure prowess. Ahmedabad will host over 50 events for police, fire, emergency and disaster personnel.

Content

Background

• Games held biennially since 1985; 20 editions so far—India first participated in 2007.

• In 2023, India won 343 medals at Winnipeg—largest overseas haul .

Highlights

• Global recognition: Hosting is a testament to India’s modernization in sports infrastructure under PM Modi’s leadership.

• Ahmedabad chosen: Seen as a rising destination for major sports events.

• Participation: Open to serving/retired police, fire, medical and disaster services.

• Medal performance: Since 2007, Indian contingents won over 1400 medals.

• Team selection: Based on performance at annual All India Police Games; governed by All India Police Sports Control Board (53 member-organisations) .

Analysis

• Boosts sports diplomacy and soft power.

• Encourages public safety and first-responder fitness.

• Encourages infrastructure development in non-metropolitan cities.

• Provides impetus for domestic sports ecosystem in uniformed services.

Way Forward

• Enhance preparedness via early planning committees.

• Improve annual Police Games standards to build elite athletes.

• Leverage event legacy for community sports engagement.

• Build disaster-safety public awareness parallel to event.

Practice Question: “Analyze the impact of India hosting the 2029 World Police & Fire Games on its sports infrastructure, first-responder capabilities, and international image.”

2. Teak leaf extract: Natural biodegradable shield tool against high-power lasers

(Source – PIB (Press Information Bureau), June 28, 2025)

Topic: GS Paper 3 (Science & Technology)

Context

RRI researchers, supported by DST, have explored an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative—teak leaf extract—for optical power-limiting applications in fields ranging from medical to military.

Content

Background

High-power lasers require protection mechanisms to safeguard sensors and human eyes. Current materials (graphene, nanoparticles) are expensive and environmentally risky.

Study Highlights

• • • Source material: Discarded teak leaves rich in anthocyanins (reddish‑brown pigment).

    • Processing: Dried → powdered → solvent extraction → centrifugation → reddish dye.

    • Testing methods: Z‑Scan, Spatial Self‑Phase Modulation under continuous-wave & pulsed lasers.

    • Findings: Reverse saturable absorption (RSA)—more intense the light, greater absorption—ideal for optical limiting.

Analysis

• • • Harnesses waste into high-value photonic application—aligns with bio-economy goals.

    • Non-toxic, biodegradable, and sustainable compared to synthetic alternatives.

    • Opens new avenues in green photonics: eyewear, sensor shields, coatings.

Way Forward

• • Improve pigment stability for commercial use.

  • Scale-up extraction and integration into protective gears.

  • Field-test in real-world optical devices.

  • Explore other plant-based NLO materials.

Practice Question: “Discuss the significance of using plant-based natural dyes, such as teak leaf anthocyanins, in developing sustainable photonic materials. How can this approach contribute to India’s green technology agenda?”

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