Former Supreme Court Justice Madan B. Lokur has been appointed as Chairperson of the United Nations Internal Justice Council (IJC), which aims to enhance justice administration by ensuring equitable dispute resolution processes. The IJC, managed by the UN Secretary-General, identifies and interviews candidates for UN Dispute and Appeals Tribunal positions.
Trump's 'America First' policy aims to boost US manufacturing by reducing imports, especially from China, by introducing higher tariffs. This compromises the rules-based global order, disadvantageing smaller nations. The collapse of the WTO could hit the European Union economy four times harder than Trump's tariff hikes.
Farmers' Day, or Kisan Diwas, is celebrated on December 23 to honor the contributions of Indian farmers. Chaudhary Charan Singh, India's fifth Prime Minister, was renowned for his significant contributions to agriculture and rural development, including the Debt Redemption Bill, Land Holding Act, and social justice.
The GST Council chaired by the Union Finance Minister has reviewed tax changes, including gene therapy exemptions, increased levies on used cars, and GST treatment for various goods. The council regulates and implements GST, recommending items and services, model laws, and special rates for emergencies.
The updated NDCs reflect global climate commitments to achieve net-zero emissions and limit warming to 1.5°C. Countries like the US, UK, and Brazil focus on emission reductions, renewable energy, and carbon capture technologies. Innovations in CCS and nature-based solutions play a pivotal role in meeting these ambitious climate targets.
Murder hornets (Vespa mandarinia) are the largest hornets in the world, native to Asia but invasive in North America. They pose a significant threat to bees and agriculture, with venomous stings capable of multiple attacks. Known for their deadly impact on honeybee colonies, they can also be harmful to humans.
The Helmeted Water Toad (Calyptocephalella gayi), a "living fossil," is one of the largest frogs in the world, native to central Chile. Known for its broad head, aggressive behavior, and evolutionary resilience, it faces threats from climate change and habitat destruction. It is listed as vulnerable by the IUCN.
A Protected Area Permit (PAP) is a special permit required by foreign nationals to visit certain sensitive areas in India near international borders. Reintroduced in Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland in 2024, the PAP aims to enhance national security, regulate border movement, and protect local communities amid concerns over illegal immigration.