The Union government has released Draft Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Rules 2025, focusing on data privacy, compliance, and processing mechanisms. The rules require parental consent, data fiduciaries, robust consent management, data localisation, breach reporting, and government data processing safeguards. Challenges include platform redesign, data collection, storage, and lifecycle practices overhaul.
Great Nicobar Island (GNI), located at the southernmost tip of the Nicobar archipelago, spans 910 km². Known for its tropical forests, unique fauna like the Dugong and Saltwater Crocodile, and ecological reserves like the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, it is home to indigenous tribes such as the Shompen and Nicobarese.
Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) is a drought-tolerant legume widely used in food preparations. Originating in southern Africa, it thrives in diverse soils and is commonly grown by small farmers in developing regions. Known for its high protein content, cowpea is a key crop in West Africa and parts of India.
China's approval of the world's largest hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River raises significant concerns for India, especially regarding water flow, ecological disruption, and regional cooperation. The project could affect agriculture, biodiversity, and water security in India, highlighting the need for enhanced diplomatic engagement, data sharing, and international advocacy.
The Uttarakhand government has launched the Winter Char Dham circuit to promote off-season tourism. The Char Dham, comprising Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, attracts pilgrims year-round. Winter tourism aims to boost the economy while addressing concerns of overcrowding, wildlife disturbance, and environmental degradation through sustainable management practices.
The Srisailam Temple in Andhra Pradesh is a prominent Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva as Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Shakti as Bramarambha. Located in the Nallamala Hills, it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and an architectural marvel in the Dravidian style, with historical significance from the Satavahana, Kakatiya, and Vijayanagara periods.
The National Security Act (NSA), enacted in 1980, allows preventive detention for up to 12 months to safeguard national security, public order, and essential supplies. Detainees can be held without formal charges or legal representation, raising concerns about potential abuse of power and human rights violations. It draws its constitutional basis from Article 22.
Tripura achieved a significant milestone in biodiversity documentation with the first-ever sighting of the Banded Royal butterfly (Rachana jalindra indra) in the state. This rare species, protected under Schedule II of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, is found in various regions of northeastern India and prefers dense forest habitats.