Why in the News ? Scientists have developed an experimental protein-based pneumococcal vaccine using reverse vaccinology, showing broad protection against multiple Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes in mice. The research marks an early step towards a universal vaccine against pneumonia, meningitis and other pneumococcal diseases. Pneumococcal Disease and Need for Universal Vaccine ● Disease-causing bacterium:…
Why in the News ? The FCRA Amendment Bill, 2026 proposes a Designated Authority to take provisional possession, manage and potentially dispose of foreign-funded assets when an organisation’s registration ends. The proposal has triggered concerns about executive overreach, proportionality, institutional autonomy and constitutional safeguards. FCRA Bill: Proposed Changes and Expanded Powers ● Designated…
Why in the News ? Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan recently highlighted the continued non-use of Article 124(3), which permits appointment of a “distinguished jurist” as a Supreme Court judge. The provision has remained unused for over seven decades despite offering an alternative route beyond judges and practising advocates. Constitutional Provision and Appointment Routes ●…
Why in the News ? Foreign exchange inflows through the RBI’s special USD-INR swap facility have crossed $136 billion, exceeding initial expectations. The inflows are strengthening India’s external liquidity position while creating substantial rupee liquidity that the central bank may need to absorb. Forex Swap Facility: Scale and Purpose ● Massive mobilisation: RBI…
Why in the News? The government has raised the windfall tax on petrol and diesel exports while reducing the levy on aviation turbine fuel exports for the next fortnight. The move comes amid elevated global crude prices, geopolitical tensions and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. Windfall Tax: Latest Changes and Rationale ● …
Why in the News? A blood test for Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers, already cleared in the U.S. and available in India, can detect biological changes linked to the disease. However, experts caution that it is not a general screening test, particularly for people without symptoms. Science Behind Alzheimer’s Detection and Blood Test ● Neural…
Why in the News? A purification ritual at Haldwani’s Ramlila Ground after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s rally has triggered debate over untouchability, caste-based purity and pollution. The controversy raises questions about whether cleansing a public space after a Dalit person’s presence can attract constitutional and criminal liability. Legal Framework: Untouchability Beyond Physical Exclusion ● …
Why in the News ? Thailand’s Peaceful Society Promotion Act came into force on August 24, offering amnesty for several politically motivated offences committed between 2005 and 2025. However, exclusion of lese majeste offences, particularly involving young activists, has raised concerns over selective reconciliation. Amnesty Act: Provisions and Eligible Beneficiaries ● Broad coverage:…
Why in the News ? Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan has highlighted the prolonged non-use of Article 124(3), which permits appointment of a “distinguished jurist” directly as a Supreme Court judge. He called the provision an unused constitutional mandate requiring serious consideration. Constitutional Provision and Appointment Routes ● Article 124(3) provides three…
Why in the News ? Wakefield acceleration is gaining scientific attention as an alternative to conventional particle accelerators because it can generate extremely strong accelerating electric fields over much shorter distances. The technology could eventually enable compact, high-energy accelerators for research, medicine and advanced industrial applications. How Wakefield Acceleration Works ● Plasma medium:…