NATIONAL UPDATES:
1. e-Shram Microsites and Occupational Shortage Index Launched: Recently, the Government of India launched two major initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of unorganised workers. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to enhance employment outcomes and streamline access to government welfare programs. The initiatives were introduced by Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya during a meeting with State and Union Territory Labour Ministers. They allow unorganised workers to access both central and state government welfare programs.The microsites simplify the registration process for these workers and provide a single point of access to various employment opportunities and skilling programs.They are multilingual, catering to workers from diverse linguistic backgrounds. This feature ensures that workers can navigate the platform comfortably in their preferred language.
2. Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2023-24: The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) for 2023-24 reveals critical vital information about India’s economic landscape. The survey indicates shifts in spending patterns across rural and urban areas. These changes reflect broader economic transformations and evolving societal priorities. As India approaches the Union Budget 2025, addressing consumption and income inequality is crucial. The government may need to enhance purchasing power for lower-income households and increase disposable income for the middle class. Potential interventions could include tax relief and support for small businesses. Encouraging private sector job creation is also vital for sustaining economic momentum.
3. Gujarat Declares First Biodiversity Heritage Site: Recently, the Gujarat Biodiversity Board announced the designation of the ‘Inland Mangrove Guneri’ in Kutch as the state’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS). This initiative aims to protect a unique mangrove ecosystem that thrives in a non-tidal environment. The site spans 32.78 hectares and is for its ecological diversity. The declaration represents a milestone in Gujarat’s commitment to biodiversity conservation. The primary objectives of declaring a site as a BHS include enhancing biodiversity conservation. It aims to promote harmony between nature and society. The initiative seeks to encourage conservation ethics and improve the quality of life for local communities. It also addresses the rapid loss of biodiversity in intensively managed areas.
4. Ammonia Pollution in Yamuna: Recent events have brought into light the ongoing water crisis affecting Delhi, primarily due to ammonia pollution in the Yamuna River. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has accused the Haryana government of releasing excessive ammonia levels, which jeopardises the water supply for millions of Delhi residents. This situation has sparked a political and environmental debate over the management of the river and its tributaries. In the Yamuna, where pollution levels often exceed treatment plant capacities. The Delhi Jal Board can only process water with ammonia levels below one part per million (ppm). Elevated ammonia levels lead to disruptions in the water supply, especially during winter months when freshwater inflow is minimal. This results in a public health concern as residents rely on treated water for daily needs.
5. Supreme Court of India – A People’s Court Evolution: The Supreme Court of India has undergone transformation since its inception in 1950. Celebrating 75 years, Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna brought into light its role as a “true people’s court”. This transformation reflects its commitment to social, economic, and political justice. Despite its achievements, the Supreme Court faces three major challenges. First, the backlog of cases leads to delays in justice. Second, the rising costs of litigation hinder accessibility for the average citizen. Third, the prevalence of falsehood undermines the integrity of justice. Addressing these issues is crucial for the court’s continued effectiveness.
6. Prayagraj MahaKumbh Mela Stampede: The Prayagraj MahaKumbh Mela is Hindu pilgrimage that attracts millions of devotees. On January 29, 2025, a tragic stampede occurred during the Mauni Amavasya celebrations, leading to injuries and fatalities. The day is considered highly auspicious, drawing an estimated 10 crore devotees to the Triveni Sangam for a holy dip. The stampede happened between 1 AM and 2 AM as devotees rushed towards the Sangam for the Amrit Snan. A barrier collapsed, causing panic and chaos. Reports indicated that misinformation exacerbated the situation, leading to a surge in the crowd. Many devotees were injured, prompting immediate medical assistance.
7. Elephant Spotted in Namdapha National Park After 12 Years: Recent developments in Namdapha National Park have sparked renewed interest in wildlife conservation. An adult male elephant was recorded in the park after a 12-year absence. This sighting is for both ecological research and community engagement in conservation efforts. Namdapha is crucial for biodiversity. It features diverse ecosystems ranging from tropical evergreen forests to temperate broadleaf forests. The park’s elevation ranges from 200 to 4,571 metres. This variation supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it an essential ecological zone.
INTERNATIONAL UPDATES:
1. Legal Challenges of US Birthright Citizenship: Birthright citizenship has recently been at the forefront of legal debates in the United States. A U.S. District judge blocked an executive order by President Trump that sought to redefine this principle. The ruling marks the ongoing struggle over citizenship rights in America. The 14th Amendment emerged from a long fight against slavery. It was designed to dismantle the legal framework supporting racial hierarchy. It works alongside the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery, and the 15th Amendment, which granted voting rights irrespective of race. The 14th Amendment directly challenged the Dred Scott decision of 1857, which denied citizenship to African Americans.
2. US Funding Freeze Threatens Global HIV Treatment Efforts: The recent funding freeze imposed by the United States government has raised concerns regarding the future of HIV treatment and care worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that this halt could lead to increased illness and death among those living with HIV. The President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has played important role in combating the HIV epidemic for over two decades. It has provided treatment and care to millions, and the current funding pause jeopardises these efforts. The funding pause reflects a broader trend of the US stepping back from global health leadership. This includes the decision to withdraw from the WHO and reinstating the Mexico City Policy, which restricts funding for foreign organisations that provide abortion-related services. Critics argue that these actions undermine global health initiatives.
3. International AI Safety Report: The International AI Safety report, released in 2025, outlines critical challenges associated with rapidly evolving artificial intelligence technologies. This comprehensive document addresses various threats, including job displacement, environmental impact, and security risks. The report stems from discussions held during the 2023 global AI safety summit.. AI presents new challenges in cybersecurity, particularly through autonomous bots that can identify vulnerabilities in open-source software. However, current AI systems are not yet capable of executing attacks independently. This limitation reflects the ongoing development of AI technologies and their potential misuse.
4. Israel Cuts Ties with UNRWA: In October 2024, Israeli parliament (Knesset) had passed laws to stop the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. The laws also prohibit any contact between Israeli authorities and UNRWA. They came to effect on January 30, 2025. As the occupying power, Israel holds responsibility for the welfare of the population in the occupied territories. The termination of UNRWA’s mandate raises questions about Israel’s obligations under international law and the potential implications for public services in the region.
5. Resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: India and China have recently agreed to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, marking moment in bilateral relations. This decision follows Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Beijing and comes after months of negotiations to resolve military tensions at the Line of Actual Control. The yatra, which was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent geopolitical tensions, is now set to recommence under existing agreements. Many believe that completing the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra leads to Moksha or liberation. The pilgrimage includes the Kailash Kora, a circumambulation of the mountain, which takes several days. The mountain’s mysteries, including its unique shape and sounds, have intrigued scientists and spiritual seekers alike.
OTHER UPDATES:
DEFENCE
1. Red Cross Raises Alarm Over Ebola Risks in Goma: The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has expressed serious concerns regarding the potential escape of Ebola samples from a laboratory in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo. Ongoing fighting in the city has raised fears of power cuts that could compromise the integrity of these samples. The ICRC urges immediate action to protect these pathogens, warning of catastrophic consequences if they were to spread. The ICRC marks the critical need to safeguard laboratories holding dangerous pathogens like Ebola. Power outages and conflict can lead to catastrophic scenarios where these samples are compromised. The situation in Goma puts stress on the importance of maintaining biosecurity in conflict zones.
2. India’s Role in United Nations Peacekeeping Missions: India has a long-standing commitment to United Nations peacekeeping missions. This commitment is brought into light by recent events in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Following the tragic deaths of peacekeepers, UN officials expressed gratitude for India’s contributions. India has deployed number of troops and police personnel to various missions, showcasing its dedication to global peace. UN peacekeeping involves activities aimed at maintaining or restoring international peace.Established in 1948, it operates under principles of consent, impartiality, and non-use of force except for self-defence.
Today, approximately 100,000 personnel from 125 countries are engaged in active missions worldwide.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Gov for U.S. Agencies: OpenAI has recently introduced ChatGPT Gov, a tailored version of its AI model designed specifically for U.S. government agencies. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of public services while ensuring compliance with stringent security standards. By providing access to advanced AI tools, OpenAI seeks to empower policymakers to improve government operations. Several government entities have successfully implemented ChatGPT. The Air Force Research Laboratory uses it for administrative tasks and AI education. Los Alamos National Laboratory employs the platform for scientific research. Additionally, Minnesota’s Enterprise Translations Office has improved translation services, while Pennsylvania’s pilot program has reduced time spent on routine tasks.
2. Implications of Earth’s Magnetic North Pole Shift: Recent studies have brought into light changes in the Earth’s magnetic north pole. This shift has deep effects on the behaviour of charged particles in the Earth’s magnetosphere. About these changes is crucial for predicting space weather and safeguarding satellite systems. The magnetic north pole was discovered by Sir James Clark Ross in 1831 in northern Canada. Since then, it has moved , now located approximately 400 kilometres northwest of its original position. Historical movements have varied, with the pole typically moving about 10 kilometres per year over the last 400 years. Recent activity has shown unprecedented acceleration, warranting close monitoring by scientists.
3. ISRO Achieves 100th Launch Milestone: On January 29, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) marked milestone by successfully completing its 100th launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The mission involved the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F15), which carried the NVS-02 satellite into orbit. This launch not only represents a technical achievement but also marks India’s growing capabilities in space exploration and technology. ISRO’s journey began with its first launch on August 10, 1979, involving the Satellite Launch Vehicle-3 (SLV-3 E10). Over the years, ISRO has developed six generations of launch vehicles, advancing its capabilities. The successful launch of NVS-02 is a testament to this evolution.
BANKING AND FINANCE
1. Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises (ASUSE) 2023-24: The Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises (ASUSE) for 2023-24 reveals growth in India’s unincorporated non-agricultural sector. Released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on 24 December 2024, the survey emphasises the sector’s crucial role in employment and GDP contribution. The unincorporated non-agricultural sector employed over 12 crore workers during the survey period, an increase of more than one crore from the previous year. Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal accounted for over one-third of this workforce. Internet usage for business purposes rose from 21.10% to 26.70%. This reflects a strong trend towards digitalisation within the sector, particularly among trading establishments.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
1. Christine Carla Kangaloo Receives Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award: The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award has been awarded to Christine Carla Kangaloo, the President of Trinidad and Tobago. This recognition marks her contributions to public affairs and her role in enhancing India’s global reputation. The award was presented by the High Commissioner of India during a Republic Day reception. Kangaloo’s achievements were celebrated at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, where she served as the chief guest. Indian diaspora has significant impact on Trinidad and Tobago. Descendants of Indian indentured workers now make up approximately 42 per cent of the nation’s population. They have enriched the cultural, social, and economic landscape of Trinidad and Tobago through their traditions and heritage.
2. Wing Commander Akshay Saxena Receives Vayu Sena Medal
: Wing Commander Akshay Saxena has been awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for his exceptional contributions during anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea. This recognition marks the increasing threats posed by piracy in international waters, particularly from Houthi rebels targeting merchant vessels. The operation, conducted on 16 March last year, was part of the Indian Navy’s Operation Sankalp, aimed at ensuring maritime security in the region. INS Talwar, a Talwar-class frigate, plays role in Operation Sankalp. This vessel is equipped for anti-air, anti-ship, and anti-submarine warfare. Its deployment marks India’s commitment to securing its maritime interests, particularly given its reliance on oil imports from the Gulf region.
No comments:
Post a Comment