Recently, the scientists for the first time have decoded the reference-grade whole genome sequence of a highly salt-tolerant and salt-secreting mangrove species, Avicennia marina. This study was led by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT)-Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar. Important  points: It is one of the most prominent mangroves species found in all mangrove formations in …

Recently, the Union Minister of Law and Justice informed the Rajya Sabha regarding the appointment of judges in various high courts. The minister pointed out that filling up vacancies in the higher judiciary is a continuous, integrated and collaborative process between the Executive and the Judiciary. It requires consultation and approval from Constitutional authorities at the State as well as Central level. Important  points: Article 217 of the …

Recently, the government introduced the Essential Defence Services Bill, 2021 in Lok Sabha. It seeks to replace the ordinance issued in June 2021 and prohibits any agitation and strike by anyone engaged in the essential defence services. Important  points: It includes any service in any establishment or undertaking dealing with production of goods or equipment required for defence related …

Recently, a global collaborative investigative effort has revealed that, at least 300 individuals in India, were potentially identified for targeted surveillance using sophisticated spyware called Pegasus. However, the government has claimed that all interception in India takes place lawfully. Communication surveillance in India takes place primarily under two laws – the Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Information Technology …

Recently, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested the New Generation Akash Missile (Akash-NG) and the Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM). In June 2021 a new generation nuclear capable ballistic missile Agni-P (Prime) was successfully test-fired by the DRDO. In February 2021 India also successfully test-fired indigenously-developed anti-tank guided missile systems ‘Helina’ and ‘Dhruvastra’. Defence Research & Development …

Recently, the first human death was recorded due to Bird Flu in India this Year. This was caused by H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus. Earlier, China reported the first human infection of H10N3 bird flu. Important points: A disease caused by avian influenza (AI) Type A viruses found naturally in wild birds worldwide. AI viruses are broadly classified as low pathogenic AI …

Recently, “Aiming for Sustainable Habitat: New Initiatives in Building Energy Efficiency 2021” was launched by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). These initiatives seek to enhance energy efficiency in the building sector and were launched as part of ‘Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav’. Bureau of Energy Efficiency The BEE is a statutory body established through the Energy Conservation Act, 2001 under …

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in 2018 identified 351 polluted river stretches in India. CPCB study reveals that discharge of untreated wastewater is one of the main causes of river pollution. The assessment of water quality for identification of polluted river stretches found that 31 states and Union territories (UT) had rivers and streams that did not …

Recently, the Union Cabinet has approved a six-month extension to the commission appointed to examine sub-categorisation of Other Backward Classes (OBCs), up to 31st January 2022. This is the eleventh extension for the commission, which was initially due to submit its report in March 2018. Important points: It will enable the Commission to submit a comprehensive report on …

Recently, the Association of Geospatial Industries released a report titled “Potential of Geospatial Technologies for the Water Sector in India”. The report mentions opportunities in the Water sector that can benefit from the use of Geospatial technologies. As the severity of the water crisis in India increases every year, central and state government agencies …