Why in the News ? The latest National Health Accounts (NHA) Estimates 2022-23 reveal that despite increased government spending on healthcare, out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) remains high. The report highlights gaps in financial protection, heavy dependence on private healthcare, and low investment in preventive care, raising concerns similar to those addressed in landmark judgments like the…
Why in the News ? The nation paid tribute to former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh on his death anniversary. Several leaders, including the Vice President, Lok Sabha Speaker, and Union Home Minister, remembered his contributions to farmers’ welfare, social justice, and rural development. Legacy of a Farmers’ Champion ● Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan described…
Why in the News ? Iceland has overtaken Switzerland to become the world’s most expensive country, according to calculations based on Eurostat and central bank data. Rising tourism-driven demand, housing pressures, and inflation have significantly increased living costs in the island nation. Iceland Surpasses Switzerland in Cost of Living: ● Iceland has become the world’s…
Why in News ? Researchers from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) have documented the first confirmed record of the Rusty-spotted Cat in the National Chambal Sanctuary and southern Uttar Pradesh. The discovery highlights the need for focused conservation efforts, strengthened environmental clearances, and comprehensive wildlife monitoring in the Chambal-Yamuna landscape. Historic Discovery in National…
Why in the News ? The Delhi Cabinet has increased the annual income eligibility limit for ration cards from ₹1.2 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh under the Public Distribution System (PDS). The government also plans to introduce a CBDC-based ration distribution system for improved transparency and efficiency. Major Changes In Delhi’s Ration Card Policy: ● The…
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…