Why in the News ? The Supreme Court agreed to examine a petition challenging the constitutional validity of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017. Petitioners argued that the Rules dilute protection for many wetlands, weaken environmental clearances for projects affecting wetlands, and violate India’s obligations under the Ramsar Convention, 1971. Supreme Court’s Examination Of…
Why in the News ? The Supreme Court ruled that when an appellate court convicts an accused for the first time in a criminal case, it must itself hear the accused on the issue of punishment and cannot transfer the sentencing process to a lower court. Supreme Court’s Key Observations: ● A bench comprising Justice…
Why in the News ? The Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgment reinforcing environmental democracy by restricting ex post facto environmental clearances. The ruling emphasized that retrospective environmental clearances violate the precautionary principle and undermine the environmental impact assessment process mandated under the EIA Notification. Key Highlights Of The Supreme Court Judgment : ● The…
Why in the News ? The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched the PM-AJAY Portal and AJAY Mobile App to digitize implementation of Scheduled Caste welfare schemes. The initiative aims to improve transparency, real-time monitoring, and efficient delivery under the PM-AJAY Scheme. Key Features Of PM-AJAY Portal And Mobile App : ● Union Minister…
Why in the News ? The QUAD Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in New Delhi reviewed progress on Indo-Pacific cooperation and launched the Indo-Pacific Maritime Surveillance Collaboration. The grouping also reaffirmed its commitment to counter-terrorism, critical technologies, maritime security, and a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Key Outcomes Of QUAD Foreign Ministers’ Meeting : ● The…
Why in the News ? Cambodia’s new conscription law has officially come into force amid rising border tensions with Thailand. The law mandates compulsory military service for young men and introduces strict penalties for draft evasion during peacetime and wartime situations, implemented without post facto legal challenges. Key Features Of Cambodia’s New Conscription Law: ● …
Why in the News ? The Kerala government has announced the creation of a dedicated Department for the Welfare of Elderly People, becoming the first Indian state to do so. The move highlights growing concerns over India’s ageing population and the need for stronger elderly care systems, including proper environmental clearances for healthcare infrastructure development….
Why in the News ? The continuous fall in the Indian rupee against the US dollar has triggered debate on whether the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should actively defend the currency using forex reserves or allow market forces to determine its real exchange value. Reasons Behind Rupee Depreciation And RBI Intervention: ● The exchange…
Why in the News ? The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced major citizen-friendly reforms under the PM-WANI framework to simplify public Wi-Fi access. The reforms aim to expand affordable internet connectivity through easier login systems, including QR-based access, thereby strengthening India’s digital public infrastructure and promoting inclusive digital growth. Key Reforms Under PM-WANI: ● …
Why in the News ? The Supreme Court issued notice to the Central Government on a PIL demanding stricter prohibition of child labour in entertainment and hospitality-related sectors. The Court also directed the NCPCR to prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for rescue and rehabilitation of affected children, ensuring their right to a pollution free…