- MENSTRUAL LEAVE A MUST CANT BE LEFT TO FIRMS DISCRETION (SOCIAL ISSUES)
- Menstrual leave is a policy allowing women to take leave during menstruation.
- It addresses the discomfort and health issues many women face, such as dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia.
- Countries like Japan and South Korea have implemented such policies, recognizing the need for gender-sensitive workplace environments.
- In India, the debate is polarized.
- Proponents argue it promotes gender equality and acknowledges women’s health needs.
- For instance, Bihar has had menstrual leave since 1992, and companies like Zomato have adopted it.
- Critics, however, fear it may reinforce gender stereotypes and reduce women’s employability.
- They argue that it could lead to discrimination in hiring and career progression.
- The issue also intersects with socio-economic factors.
- Many women in informal sectors lack access to basic menstrual hygiene, let alone leave.
- Thus, while menstrual leave is a step towards inclusivity, it must be part of broader efforts to improve menstrual health and workplace equality.
- In conclusion, menstrual leave is a progressive policy but requires careful implementation to avoid unintended consequences. It should be complemented by broader gender-sensitive reforms and awareness campaigns to ensure holistic improvement in women’s workplace conditions.
2. FARMERS IN A.P HOPEFUL AS WATER STORAGE RISES IN ALMATTI DAM (GEOGRAPHY)
- Recent rainfall in the Krishna river catchment areas has raised hopes among Water Resources Department (WRD) officials and farmers.
- Rising Water Levels: The Almatti Dam in Karnataka is experiencing significant inflows of 23,678 cusecs as of July 13, with current storage at 92.17 tmcft. The full reservoir level is 1,705 ft.
- Water Release: The Andhra Pradesh government has released 1,500 cusecs of Krishna water from the eastern delta regulator on the Prakasam barrage, aiding agricultural activities.
- Agricultural Impact: Farmers have initiated Kharif operations, preparing seedbeds.
- They are optimistic about further water releases from Almatti Dam, which would benefit downstream reservoirs and support irrigation needs.
3. TREASURY OF JAGANNATH TEMPLE IN PURI OPENED AFTER 46 YEARS (ART AND CULTURE)
- Historical Inventory: As per the 1978 inventory, the Ratna Bhandar contains 454 gold articles weighing 128.38 kg and 293 silver articles weighing 221.53 kg. These items belong to the deities Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannath, and Devi Subhadra.
- Safety and Structural Concerns: The Archaeological Survey of India had previously inspected the Ratna Bhandar in 2008 but could not enter the inner chamber. Concerns about the structural stability and safety of the ornaments had been raised over the years.
- Government Action: The current government, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, constituted a high-level committee to oversee the process. The committee, chaired by former Orissa High Court judge Justice Biswanath Rath (retd.), supervised the cataloguing of valuables.
- Significance:
- Ancient Legacy: The Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, dates back to the 12th century. The Ratna Bhandar has been an integral part of the temple’s history, housing the precious jewels and ornaments of the deities.
- Royal Patronage: Historically, the kings of Odisha, particularly the Gajapati rulers, have contributed to the wealth stored in the Ratna Bhandar. These treasures symbolize the temple’s rich heritage and the devotion of its patrons.
- Ritualistic Importance: The ornaments from the Ratna Bhandar are integral to several key rituals, including the annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), Snana Yatra (Bathing Festival), and other ceremonial occasions. The use of these jewels enhances the sanctity and grandeur of these events.
- Cultural Heritage: The treasures within the Ratna Bhandar are not just religious artifacts but also cultural heritage items, representing the artistic and metallurgical skills of ancient Odisha.
4. A CELEBRATION OF INDIGENOUS SEEDS SOWS CHANGE IN THE FARM LANDSCAPE (AGRICULTURE)
- Beej Utsav (Seed Festival) — A popular movement aimed at preserving indigenous seed varieties in the tribal-dominated regions of southern Rajasthan.
- Objective: Preserve indigenous seed varieties to promote crop diversity and climate resilience.
- Participants: Thousands of tribal people from nearly 1,000 villages in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.
- Events: Series of Beej Utsavs (seed festivals) held in the last week of June; around 90 events.
- Activities: – Learning techniques for preserving indigenous seeds.
- Seed exchange among farmers.
- Pledge to protect and use indigenous seeds in regular farming.
- Key Location: Sera Nagla village in Banswara district.
- Organizers: – Main: Vaagdhara (voluntary group focused on tribal livelihood issues).
- Facilitators: Krishi Evum Adivasi Swaraj Sangathan, Gram Swaraj Samooh, Saksham Samooh, Baal Swaraj.
- Significance: Indigenous seeds are compatible with local farming conditions, economically practical, and environmentally sustainable.
- Recognition: Farmers preserving seeds honored as Beej Mitra and Beej Mata.
- Varieties Displayed: Over 50 indigenous seed varieties, including grains, pulses, and vegetables.
5. THREE DIE OF ASPHYXIATION AT ILLEGAL COAL MINE IN GUJARAT (GEOGRAPHY)
- Issue: Frequent deaths of labourers due to unsafe working conditions in illegal coal mines in Surendranagar district, Gujarat.
- This year alone, 10 people have died in four incidents.
- The mines lack essential safety gear and are operated with the involvement of local politicians.
- Solution: Strict Enforcement: Implement stringent laws and regular inspections to shut down illegal mines.
- Safety Regulations: Ensure mandatory safety gear and training for all workers.
- Accountability: Prosecute those responsible, including local politicians involved in illegal mining.
- Awareness Campaigns: Educate workers about the dangers of illegal mining and their rights.
- Alternative Livelihoods: Provide alternative employment opportunities to reduce dependence on illegal mining.
ONE LINER
- Tamil Nadu Technology Centre MoU with Microsoft, Amazon
- The government has implemented T.N Health System Reform Project to improve healthcare with the support of World Bank
