Daily Morning Brief - 27 July - Top News Updates from India, world, economy and odisha

India

1. Centre Constitutes High-Powered Task Force for Examination Reforms

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a high-powered task force headed by Nandan Nilekani to overhaul India's examination system. The panel will recommend technology-driven, transparent and secure reforms to restore credibility, curb paper leaks, strengthen the National Testing Agency, and improve public examinations nationwide.

2. Prahlad Joshi Takes Charge as Union Education Minister

Following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, Prahlad Joshi has been assigned the additional charge of the Ministry of Education by the President on the Prime Minister's advice. He will oversee the ministry alongside his existing portfolios, focusing on education reforms and examination governance. (Press Information Bureau)

3. Telangana CM Proposes to Reduce Age Limit for Contesting Elections

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy proposed reducing the minimum age for contesting Assembly and Lok Sabha elections from 25 years to 21 years. He argued that the reform would encourage greater youth participation in democratic governance and urged the Centre to amend the Constitution accordingly.

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World

4. Severe Wildfires Force Mass Evacuations in France

Extreme heat and prolonged drought triggered devastating wildfires across southern France, forcing over 250,000 people to evacuate. Thousands of firefighters, aircraft, and military personnel battled the flames as vast forest areas and vineyards suffered extensive destruction.

Also Read: India's Middle Class Is Drowning in Debt: 60% Spend Entire Income on EMIs

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Economy

5. Health Tax Proposed on Ultra-Processed and Junk Foods

Policy experts proposed imposing a higher tax on ultra-processed and high-fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) foods to combat obesity and lifestyle diseases. The measure aims to discourage unhealthy consumption while generating additional revenue for strengthening public healthcare services.

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Odisha

6. Odisha's Jyotirmayee Nayak Wins Indian Idol Season 16

Jyotirmayee Nayak from Odisha won Indian Idol Season 16, becoming the state's first-ever champion. The 24-year-old singer received the trophy and ₹20 lakh prize. She earlier worked as a music therapist, supporting cancer patients through music before achieving national recognition.

7. PM Modi Applauds Bhubaneswar's Rainwater Harvesting Initiative

During Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Bhubaneswar's community-driven rainwater harvesting efforts under the 'Catch the Rain' campaign. The initiative promotes groundwater recharge, pond restoration, and public participation, emerging as a national model for sustainable urban water management.