Recently, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched the Elder Line, the first Pan-India toll-free helpline number (14567) for Senior Citizens, ahead of International Day of Older Persons, which is observed on 1st October every Year. Earlier SAGE (Seniorcare Aging Growth Engine) initiative was launched. Important points: It provides information, guidance, emotional support – particularly on pension, medical and legal …

Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO) tested a new version of the Akash Missile – ‘Akash Prime’ – from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha. Earlier, DRDO launched the Akash-NG (New Generation) and the Man Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM). Defence Research & Development Organisation It is the Research & Development wing of the Ministry …

The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched the first-ever global strategy to defeat meningitis – ‘Global Roadmap to Defeat Meningitis by 2030’. Important points: The roadmap includes three visionary goals: Eliminate epidemics of bacterial meningitis. Reduce cases of vaccine-preventable bacterial meningitis by 50% and deaths by 70%. Reduce disability and improve quality of life after meningitis …

Recently, the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) directed Karnataka to immediately release the balance quantum of water to Tamil Nadu. However, CWMA dropped discussion on the Mekedatu reservoir project following “strong protest” from Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Puducherry. Important points: It involves 3 states and one Union Territory (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Puducherry). The genesis …

Recently, NASA has launched an earth monitoring satellite called Landsat 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The satellite is a joint mission of NASA and the US Geological Survey (USGS). This satellite is referred to as NASA’s’ new eye in the sky’ that will help study climate change. Important points: Landsat-9 is the continuation of a …

Recently, the US Congressional report on terrorism stated that Pakistan is home to at least 12 groups designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO). The report named Terrorist and Other Militant Groups in Pakistan, released by the bipartisan research wing of US Congress in the Quad summit 2021. Earlier, in February 2021, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)had decided …