US President Joe Biden granted an unconditional pardon to his son Hunter Biden, facing sentencing for federal tax and gun convictions. Pardoning power in the US and India is derived from the British monarch's "royal prerogative of mercy." In India, a pardon releases the offender from conviction, punishment, and disqualification.
The Union Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry has considered proposals to include 365 castes and communities on the Central list of Other Backward Classes (OBCs). The National Commission for Backward Classes evaluates requests, forms a panel, and sends recommendations to the Union government. The NCBC conducts public hearings and consultations.
It has launched an Air Quality Dashboard to monitor and forecast air pollution in South Asia, combining ground sensor data and satellite imagery with tools like the WRF-Chem model. This platform aids regional collaboration to address hazardous air pollution in the Indo-Gangetic plain and Himalayan foothills.
It is caused by the filovirus family like Ebola, is a deadly outbreak spreading in Rwanda, with at least 15 deaths and 66 infections. Transmitted by fruit bats and human contact, MVD causes fever, headaches, diarrhea, and hemorrhagic symptoms. No specific treatments exist, with supportive care improving survival.
India's Aravalli Green Wall Project, inspired by Africa's Great Green Wall, aims to restore 1.15 million hectares of degraded land by 2027 across Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Delhi. This 1,400 km green belt integrates afforestation, water management, biodiversity conservation, and community engagement to combat desertification spreading from the Thar Desert.
Researchers at the IASST, Guwahati, have explored the therapeutic potential of Subabul seedpods in managing insulin resistance in type II diabetes. Subabul, a protein-rich leguminous tree native to Mexico, is traditionally used for food and fodder. The study identified active compounds, advancing diabetes management through marker-assisted fractions.
India, covering 2.4% of the world's land, hosts 7-8% of global biodiversity, with over 45,000 plant and 91,000 animal species. Key initiatives include the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and flagship programs like Project Tiger. International treaties like CITES and community-led conservation enhance India's efforts to combat habitat loss and species extinction.
Women comprise 4.4% of the CAPFs, with efforts ongoing to boost their numbers. Initiatives include fee waivers, relaxed physical tests, maternity leave, and creche facilities. Despite a rise in recruitment since 2014, challenges like tough terrains and limited representation persist. Committees urge targeted recruitment drives and supportive policies to enhance participation.
