- HMPV INFECTION NOT NEW, NO CAUSE FOR ALARM : CENTRE
SUBJECT: HEALTH
- The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), first identified in 2001, has been in global circulation for years.
- It spreads through air and causes respiratory infections across all age groups
- Recent cases in Karnataka and Gujarat involved no travel history and patients are recovering.
- The Health Ministry emphasized that HMPV is not new and there is no unusual surge in influenza-like illnesses or severe respiratory diseases in India.
- HMPV surveillance is active under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP).
- WHO and Indian health agencies remain vigilant, particularly in light of increased cases in neighboring countries.
2. END OF GLOBAL CLIMATE POLICY
SUBJECT: ENVIRONMENT
- Transition from G7-driven climate policies to a Global South-led framework.
- Emphasis on”just transition”to address social dimensions of climate action.
- Disparity in emissions responsibility: G7 accounts for 25% of emissions with only 10% of the global population.
- Calls for alternate sustainability forums like BRICS
- Role of international cooperation under UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.
- Balancing developmental needs with emission reduction goals
3. VARIOUS COUNTRIES DECLARE 2024 HEAT RECORDS
SUBJECT: GEOGRAPHY
- 2024 recorded as the hottest year in many countries since industrial records began.
- India experienced its second-warmest year since 1901
- Increased frequency of climate-related disasters (e.g., floods, droughts, wildfires).
- Economic losses estimated at $310 billion globally.
- Reflects need for stronger action under Paris Agreement and National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
- Importance of climate resilience and adaptation measures
4. INTERGRATION OF J&K INTO RAILWAY NETWORK A MONUMENTAL STEP
SUBJECT: NATIONAL
- Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL)and Chenab Rail Bridge.
- Part of India’s efforts to improve connectivity in remote regions
- Boosts economic development and tourism in J&K.
- Strengthens national integration and security.
- Infrastructure development under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan
5. THE COLLEGIUM AND CHANGES IT MAY STILL BE EARLY DAYS
SUBJECT: POLITY
- Framework under Article 124and Article 217for appointments to the Supreme Court and High Courts.
- Ensures judicial independence but lacks transparency
- Inclusion of interviews for elevation to the judiciary.
- Exclusion of candidates with close relatives already in the judiciary
- Balancing judicial autonomy with accountability.
- Concerns over the executive’s role in judicial appointments
- Role of the judiciary inseparation of powers.
- Need for reforms in judicial appointment processes for transparency.
