What is the News? The Hayagriva Madhava Temple Committee in Assam has signed an MoU with Turtle Survival Alliance India, Help Earth, and Assam Forests Department to conserve the Black Softshell Turtle. As part of the pact, a Vision Document 2030 was also released. The document aims to raise at least 1,000 black softshell turtles by… Continue reading “Black Softshell Turtle” – Pact Signed for Conservation in Assam
Category: Daily News Updates
Delhi High Court’s order upholds ‘Right to be Forgotten’
Synopsis: Recently, in response to a petition, the Delhi High Court ordered the removal of easy access from one of its own judgments. Delhi HC upheld the petitioner’s right to be forgotten to prevent post-acquittal disgrace faced by him. However, some experts have criticized the order, stating that minor modifications would have yielded better results… Continue reading Delhi High Court’s order upholds ‘Right to be Forgotten’
India starts exporting GI-certified “Jalgaon banana” to Dubai
What is the News? In a major boost to India’s exports of Geographical Indications(GI) certified agricultural produce, a consignment of fibre and mineral-rich ‘Jalgaon Banana’ has been shipped to Dubai. About Jalgaon Banana: Jalgaon is known as the ‘banana hub’ of Maharashtra. It accounts for about 50% of the State’s banana plantation. In 2016, the… Continue reading India starts exporting GI-certified “Jalgaon banana” to Dubai
“Deep Ocean Mission” Approved by Cabinet
What is the News? The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the Deep Ocean Mission. About Deep Ocean Mission: Deep Ocean Mission aims to explore the deep ocean for resources. Also, for sustainable use of ocean resources, it aims to develop deep-sea technologies. Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences(MoES) will be the nodal Ministry for… Continue reading “Deep Ocean Mission” Approved by Cabinet
UNESCO Science Report Finds India’s investment in Research Unsatisfactory
What is the News? The UNESCO Science Report(USR) has been released. About UNESCO Science Report(USR): UNESCO Science Report is a global monitoring report. It is published every five years by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization(UNESCO). Objective: The report monitors trends in science governance worldwide to identify which development path countries are following. Latest… Continue reading UNESCO Science Report Finds India’s investment in Research Unsatisfactory
“OFB Corporatisation” Approved by Cabinet
What is the News? The Union Government has approved a plan for Ordnance Factory Board(OFB) Corporatisation. About Ordnance Factory Board(OFB): Ordnance Factory Board(OFB) is an umbrella body of 41 Ordnance Factories. Origin: In 1775, British authorities accepted the establishment of the Board of Ordnance in Fort William, Kolkata. This marked the official beginning of the Army… Continue reading “OFB Corporatisation” Approved by Cabinet
Govt. report flags lapses in “filovirus study” among Nagaland bats
What is the News? The government of India has concluded that there have been lapses in the conduct and protocols followed for the filovirus study of bats in Nagaland. What was the filovirus study about? Researchers from India, China and the US had conducted a study in Nagaland on bats and humans carrying antibodies to… Continue reading Govt. report flags lapses in “filovirus study” among Nagaland bats
Official Language Status for “Tulu Language” Demanded
What is the News? Several organizations have initiated a campaign in Karnataka and Kerala. They are demanding the official language status for Tulu. About Tulu Language: Tulu is a Dravidian language. It is mainly spoken in two coastal districts, Dakshina Kannada and Udupi of Karnataka and Kasaragod district of Kerala. Kasaragod district is called the… Continue reading Official Language Status for “Tulu Language” Demanded
Key Outcomes of the G7 Summit
What is the News? The 47th Group of Seven(G7) summit has concluded in Cornwall, UK. India also virtually participated in the summit as a guest country. What are the key outcomes of the summit? On Covid-19 Pandemic: The G7 countries have pledged to donate 1 billion vaccine doses to poorer countries by the end of… Continue reading Key Outcomes of the G7 Summit
“Small Island Developing States” faced most GDP loss in 2020: UN report
What is the News? The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development(UNCTAD) has released a report titled “Development and Globalization: Facts and Figures”. The report highlights the numerous challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Key Findings of the Development and Globalization: Facts and Figures Report: Small island developing states(SIDS) faced thrice as much fall… Continue reading “Small Island Developing States” faced most GDP loss in 2020: UN report
Defence Minister Approves New Policy for Declassification of War History
What is the News? The Defence Minister has approved a policy on archiving, declassification, compilation, and publication of war and operations histories. Why do war histories matter? War Histories give an accurate account of events, authentic material for academic research, and help counter rumours. Earlier, reports on wars and operations were never made public. Committees… Continue reading Defence Minister Approves New Policy for Declassification of War History
“Pyrostria laljii” – A New Species Discovered in Andaman and Nicobar
What is the News? Pyrostria laljii, a new species of coffee family, has been discovered in the Andaman Islands by a team of researchers from India and the Philippines. About Pyrostria laljii: Pyrostria laljii is a 15-meter-tall tree that belongs to the genus of the coffee family. It is the first species of the genus… Continue reading “Pyrostria laljii” – A New Species Discovered in Andaman and Nicobar
“iDEX-DIO” – Defence Minister Approves Budgetary Support
What is the News? The Defence Minister has approved the budgetary support of Rs 498.8 crore for iDEX-DIO (Innovations for Defence Excellence – Defence Innovation Organisation) for the next five years. About IDEX Framework: Innovations for Defence Excellence(iDEX) was launched by the Government of India in 2018. Aim: It aims to create an ecosystem to… Continue reading “iDEX-DIO” – Defence Minister Approves Budgetary Support
“PENCIL Portal” to Report Instances of Child Labour
What is the News? Union Minister of Women and Child Development appealed to citizens to report the instances of Child Labour on the PENCIL Portal or by calling on Childline-1098. This appeal came on World Day Against Child Labour. About PENCIL Portal: PENCIL Portal stands for Platform for Effective Enforcement for No Child Labour. Purpose: It… Continue reading “PENCIL Portal” to Report Instances of Child Labour
“EnVision Mission” to Venus by ESA
What is the News? European Space Agency(ESA) has announced a new mission with the name EnVision mission. About EnVision Mission: EnVision is a European Space Agency(ESA)-led mission. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is working as a contributor. Aim: The mission will carry instruments to study the Venus atmosphere and surface. Also, to monitor trace gases… Continue reading “EnVision Mission” to Venus by ESA
FSSAI bans blending of mustard oil with other cooking oil
Synopsis – Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has banned the blending of Mustard oil with other edibles oils. This step offers a ray of hope to farmers as well as to the public. Introduction- With effect from June 8, Food regulator FSSAI ended practice to add other edible oil (like from palms,… Continue reading FSSAI bans blending of mustard oil with other cooking oil
Steps to Prevent Frequent Building Collapse in Mumbai
Synopsis: Every Year Mumbai witnesses incidents of building collapse during monsoon. However, the steps taken are not adequate. Introduction In Mumbai, recently an unsafe multi-storeyed building has collapsed in a core area of the city. It resulted in the loss of the lives of at least 11 people. The disaster is a repetition of incidents… Continue reading Steps to Prevent Frequent Building Collapse in Mumbai
Need for Equity-focused Vaccination Plan in Vaccine Drive
Synopsis: To control the Covid-19 pandemic, India needs an equity-focused vaccination plan and a road map to provide equity and justice in vaccination. Introduction: According to WHO’s strategic advisory group of experts on immunisation, prioritizing socio-demographic groups is essential for universal vaccination. So, an equity-focused vaccination plan is essential for controlling the pandemic. What is… Continue reading Need for Equity-focused Vaccination Plan in Vaccine Drive
Supreme Court Directions on Migrants Without Ration Cards
What is the News? The Supreme Court of India has given directions to the Centre to provide benefits to crores of migrant labourers without ration cards. What is the issue? During a hearing of PIL for schemes on migrant workers, SC raised the following concerns regarding benefits to migrant workers. Read Also :-Child Labour in India… Continue reading Supreme Court Directions on Migrants Without Ration Cards
El Salvador is planning to make “Bitcoin a legal currency”
What is the News? El Salvador is planning to make Bitcoin a legal currency. If made, then El Salvador will be the first country in the world to officially classify Bitcoin as a legal currency. What did El Salvador do? El Salvador is planning to make Bitcoin a legal currency. This means that the bitcoin… Continue reading El Salvador is planning to make “Bitcoin a legal currency”
Pakistan Passes Bill to let Jadhav Appeal
What is the News? Pakistan’s Parliament has passed the International Court of Justice (Review and Reconsideration) Bill of 2020. About the International Court of Justice (Review and Reconsideration) Bill of 2020: The bill provides the right of appeal to death-row prisoner Kulbhushan Jadhav against the death sentence. The bill was passed after the International Court… Continue reading Pakistan Passes Bill to let Jadhav Appeal
All India Survey on Higher Education(AISHE) 2019-20
What is the News? Ministry of Education has released the report of All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2019-20. About AISHE Report 2019-20: The AISHE Report provides key performance indicators on the current status of Higher education in the country. First Report: The report was initiated in the year 2011. This is the 10th… Continue reading All India Survey on Higher Education(AISHE) 2019-20
“G7 summit” takes place in the UK: Indian PM will participate virtually
What is the News? Indian Prime Minister will participate in the Outreach Sessions of the G7 Summit in virtual format. What is G7? The G7 (Group of Seven) is an organisation of the world’s seven largest so-called advanced economies. They are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and the United States. The European Union… Continue reading “G7 summit” takes place in the UK: Indian PM will participate virtually
“Gharials Conservation” – Odisha Forest department Announces Cash Reward
What is the News? The Mahanadi Wildlife Division in Odisha has announced a cash reward of Rs 1,000 for rescuing Gharials and informing wildlife personnel. The division will also provide compensation to fishermen whose fishing nets are destroyed by gharials. About Gharials: Gharials are one of the longest of all living crocodilians. They derive their… Continue reading “Gharials Conservation” – Odisha Forest department Announces Cash Reward
Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM)
What is the News? The Government of India released funds for various activities to empower Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization(SMAM). Various activities include the establishment of Custom Hiring Centres, Farm Machinery Bank and distribution of various agricultural machinery to different states. Note: Agriculture mechanization is the process of replacing human and animal labour with machines in the… Continue reading Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM)
“Global Liveability Index” 2021 Released by EIU
What is the News? Economist Intelligence Unit(EIU) has released the Global Liveability Index 2021. About Global Liveability Index: The index assesses the locations that provide the best and the worst living conditions around the world. It assesses 140 cities around the world. Parameters: The index takes into account more than 30 qualitative and quantitative factors. These… Continue reading “Global Liveability Index” 2021 Released by EIU
What is Maharashtra’s “Beed model” of crop insurance?
What is the news? Maharashtra Chief Minister has asked the Prime Minister for state-wide implementation of the ‘Beed model’ of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). About Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) The scheme was launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Aim: To provide comprehensive insurance cover against… Continue reading What is Maharashtra’s “Beed model” of crop insurance?
Maharashtra govt clears an amendment to protect “heritage trees”
What is the News? The Maharashtra Government has cleared an amendment to the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Protection and Preservation of Trees Act,1975. What are the key features of the amended act? The key features are: Concept of Heritage Tree: A tree with an estimated age of 50 years or more shall be defined as a… Continue reading Maharashtra govt clears an amendment to protect “heritage trees”
Annual review of state laws 2020 report by PRS
Synopsis: PRS Legislative Research’s “Annual review of state laws 2020” shows that the productivity and efficacy of State legislatures is poor. Background Public information on the working of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha is readily available to Indian citizens because of the efforts of PRS Legislative Research. In contrast, the public information available on the… Continue reading Annual review of state laws 2020 report by PRS
Securing privacy and data rights in the age of social audio
Synopsis: Privacy and data rights remain out of focus on social audio. Introduction The clubhouse is a new social networking app based around audio rooms. It crossed over 2 million Android downloads last month. The main feature of the app is the unique audio medium through which its users interact. This feature makes clubhouse different… Continue reading Securing privacy and data rights in the age of social audio
Need to ban the Conversion therapy of the LGBTQIA+ community
Synopsis: The recent order of the Madras high court presents an opportunity to ban the inhuman conversion therapy of the LGBTQIA+ community. The therapy subjects them to immense physical and mental stress leading to occurrence of depression, anxiety and suicide cases amongst the community. Background: The Madras High Court called for a ban on the… Continue reading Need to ban the Conversion therapy of the LGBTQIA+ community
Dismal Healthcare systems in South Asia needs attention
Synopsis: The second wave of pandemic highlighted the lacunas in the healthcare systems in South Asia. The situation now demands the replacement of short term measures with a well-thought-out vision and political commitment for long-term healing. Background: The pandemic managed to penetrate across the countries due to the dismal state of health infrastructure and reluctance to… Continue reading Dismal Healthcare systems in South Asia needs attention
The Pros and Cons of e-Courts project
Synopsis: Pandemic has shown that the e-Courts project has the ability to revolutionize the Indian Judiciary, but its application needs to be in line with the Fundamental Right to Privacy. Why Indian courts should use digital technologies? Faster justice delivery. Clearing pendency which is around 3.27 crore cases before Indian courts. Of which 85,000 have… Continue reading The Pros and Cons of e-Courts project
Delhi Development Authority (DDA) releases Draft Master Plan for Delhi-2041
What is the News? Draft Master Plan for Delhi-2041 has been released in the public domain by Delhi Development Authority (DDA). Suggestions and objections have been invited from the public. About Draft Master Plan for Delhi-2041: Draft Master Plan for Delhi has been prepared by Delhi Development Authority(DDA) in partnership with the National Institute of… Continue reading Delhi Development Authority (DDA) releases Draft Master Plan for Delhi-2041
“Costs of Climate Change in India Report”: India may lose 3-10% of its GDP in 2100
What is the news? Costs of Climate Change in India report has been released by London-based global think tank Overseas Development Institute. About Costs of Climate Change in India Report: It looks at the economic costs of climate-related risks in India. It also points to the possibility of increased inequality and poverty due to climate… Continue reading “Costs of Climate Change in India Report”: India may lose 3-10% of its GDP in 2100
“Operation Pangea” of Interpol targets counterfeit and illicit health products
What is the News? Interpol has conducted Operation Pangea XIV to target the sale of counterfeit and illicit medicines and medical products. About Operation Pangea: Operation Pangea is an international effort to target the online sale of counterfeit and illicit health products. It also aims to raise public awareness of the potential dangers of buying… Continue reading “Operation Pangea” of Interpol targets counterfeit and illicit health products
Covid-19 vaccines are safe for “inflammatory bowel disease” patients: New research
What is the News? According to a study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, Pfizer or Moderna Covid-19 vaccines are safe for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases(IBD). They do not appear to have an increased risk of side effects from Covid vaccines. About the Research: Researchers evaluated the post-vaccination side effects in 246 adult… Continue reading Covid-19 vaccines are safe for “inflammatory bowel disease” patients: New research
“Sardar Sarovar Dam” provides irrigation water in summer for the first time in history
What is the News? Sardar Sarovar Dam usually has no water for irrigation during summers. However, for the first time in history, the dam has been filled with Narmada water. About Sardar Sarovar Dam: Sardar Sarovar Narmada Dam is a terminal dam built on the Narmada river at Kevadia in Gujarat’s Narmada district. The dam… Continue reading “Sardar Sarovar Dam” provides irrigation water in summer for the first time in history
What are “Overture supersonic aircraft” and what are its challenges?
What is the news? Plans to buy 15 new Overture supersonic Aircraft have been announced by US-based United Airlines. These aircrafts are planned to be open for passengers by 2029. What are Supersonic Flights? Supersonic aircraft are planes that can fly faster than the speed of sound. Usually, supersonic planes can travel at the speed… Continue reading What are “Overture supersonic aircraft” and what are its challenges?
Issues with recent draft rules notified by the Lakshadweep administration
Synopsis: The recent changes brought in Lakshadweep Administration in the name of public purpose is against the public interest and ethos of the island. Background: Recently, the administrator of Lakshadweep brought changes to the following acts to promote infrastructural development to boost tourism. Development Authority Regulation, Prevention of Anti-Social Activities Regulation, Lakshadweep Panchayat Regulation and… Continue reading Issues with recent draft rules notified by the Lakshadweep administration
India’s efforts to achieve SDGs
Synopsis- The idea for Sustainable development aims to maintain progressive development and at the same time retaining sustainability, catastrophe risk resilience, and community building at its heart. But, India’s efforts to achieve SDGs is commendable. Introduction World Environment Day (WED) is celebrated on June 5, every year, to encourage awareness and environmental protection. Also, one… Continue reading India’s efforts to achieve SDGs
Protecting human rights in the age of disinformation
Synopsis: Despite the threat of information disorder (spread of disinformation), human rights-friendly governance is both possible and achievable. Introduction The Supreme Court of India (SC) recently warned against any attempt to curb free speech. The UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) Special Rapporteur gave a report on “Disinformation and Freedom of Opinion and Expression”, which is… Continue reading Protecting human rights in the age of disinformation
Genomic sequencing in India needs to be scaled up
Synopsis: There is a need for rapidly expanding genomic sequencing and sharing related data in a timely & transparent manner. This will help in understanding the impact of new variants on transmissibility, severity and vaccine effectiveness. Background An effective COVID-19 pandemic response requires tracking of emerging variants, conducting studies about their transmissibility, immune escape and… Continue reading Genomic sequencing in India needs to be scaled up
Must Read Current Affairs Articles – June 10th, 2021
Good Morning dear reader We are posting Today’s Must Read Current Affairs Articles below: About Must Read News Articles: Must Read News Articles is an initiative by Team ForumIAS to provide links to the most important news articles of the day. It covers several newspapers such as The Hindu, Indian Express, Livemint, etc. This saves… Continue reading Must Read Current Affairs Articles – June 10th, 2021
9 PM Daily Current Affairs Brief – June 9, 2021
Good evening dear reader Here is our 9pm current affairs brief for you today Genomic sequencing in India needs to be scaled up Source: The Hindu Syllabus: GS3 – Science and Technology- Developments and their Applications and Effects in Everyday Life. Synopsis: There is a need for rapidly expanding genomic sequencing and sharing related data… Continue reading 9 PM Daily Current Affairs Brief – June 9, 2021
“Aducanumab” approved by USFDA for “Alzheimer’s disease”
What is the News? “Aducanumab”, a new drug for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) How does Aducanumab drug work? Aducanumab is a monoclonal antibody drug that aims at altering the course of Alzheimer disease by slowing the deterioration of brain function. Monoclonal Antibodies are… Continue reading “Aducanumab” approved by USFDA for “Alzheimer’s disease”
“Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons” and “Chemical Weapons Convention”
What is the news? The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has informed the United Nations(UN) Security Council (UNSC) that in 17 cases, chemical weapons were likely or definitely used by Syria. About Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW): OPCW is an intergovernmental organization and the implementing body for the Chemical… Continue reading “Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons” and “Chemical Weapons Convention”
“Srivilliputhur-Mudumalai Tiger Reserve” and “Vaigai River”
What is the news? The declaration of the Srivilliputhur-Megamalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu can rejuvenate Vaigai, India’s heritage river. Tiger Reserves in Tamil Nadu Srivilliputhur-Megamalai Tiger Reserve will be the 5th tiger reserve of Tamil Nadu. The other four are: Mudumalai (MTR) Anamalai (ATR) Sathyamangalam (STR) Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR) About Vaigai River:… Continue reading “Srivilliputhur-Mudumalai Tiger Reserve” and “Vaigai River”
China warns Bangladesh on joining QUAD
Synopsis: In the wake of the growing momentum of Quad, China’s aggression is expected to grow in the Indo-Pacific and States are likely to push back Chinese “cheque-book diplomacy”. Background: Recently Chinese ambassador warned Bangladesh that there will be “substantial damage” to bilateral relation if it joins the USA backed anti-China coalition “Quad” However, Bangladesh… Continue reading China warns Bangladesh on joining QUAD
How can India address its mental healthcare problem?
Synopsis: Evaluation of India’s state of mental health care and suggestions to improve them. Background Recent reports published in Lancet revealed that one in seven people in India had a mental disorder ranging from mild to severe in 2017. Mental illnesses include anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders and eating… Continue reading How can India address its mental healthcare problem?
