- PANDEY TAKES CHARGE AS SEBI CHAIRMAN
SUBJECT: ECONOMY
- SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India)is a statutory body established under the SEBI Act, 1992.
- Its primary role is to regulate and develop the Indian securities market, protect investor interests, and ensure market integrity.
- Appointment of SEBI Chairperson
- Recommendation & Approval: The appointment of the SEBI Chairperson is overseen by theGovernment of India, typically involving the Department of Economic Affairs (Ministry of Finance).
- A search-cum-selection committee shortlists candidates, and the final approval is given by theCabinet Appointments Committee.
- Eligibility & Criteria: Senior bureaucrats, regulators, or financial experts with extensive experience in finance, economics, or market regulation.
- The candidate’s integrity, professional competence, and leadership record are key factors.
- Tenure: Generally appointed for3 yearsor until the age of65 years, whichever is earlier.
- Can be extended based on government discretion.
- Significance of the SEBI Chairperson
- Sets the regulatory agenda for capital markets (stock exchanges, mutual funds, brokers, etc.).
- Plays a critical role In policy formulation, investor protection measures, and corporate governance standards.
- Ensures transparency and accountability in market dealings, which is vital for India’s economic stability and foreign investment climate
2. GENE THERAPY FOR MAPLE SYRUP URINE DISEASE SHOWS PROMISE
SUBJECT: SCIENCE
- Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD)& Gene Therapy (MSUD)
- Rare genetic disorder affecting metabolism of certain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, valine).
- Named for the sweet, maple syrup-like odor of urine.
- Symptoms: Neurological damage if untreated; strict dietary management needed.
- Gene Therapy
- Concept: Introducing a healthy copy of a faulty gene into a patient’s cells to correct genetic disorders.
3. PAY COMPENSATION TO CONSTRUCTION WORKERS HIT BY GRAP, SAYS SC
SUBJECT: NATIONAL
- Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)& Construction Worker Compensation (GRAP)
- Definition: A set of anti-pollution measures in Delhi-NCR activated based on air quality levels.
- Activities Curbed: Construction, brick kilns, and other polluting industries are often restricted when air pollution peaks.
- SC Directive: States must compensate construction workers (using labour cess funds) if GRAP-related shutdowns cause them to lose livelihood.
- Reinforces social security measures for daily-wage earners affected by environmental regulations
4. COFFEE PLANTATIONS FACE MOUNTING COSTS
SUBJECT: AGRICULTURE
- Coffee Production Challenges
- Erratic weather(prolonged dry spells, sudden rains) linked to climate change, affecting yield and quality.
- Mounting costs of labor and inputs, with declining productivity of Arabica.
- Coffee Board of India
- Statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
- Functions: Promotion of coffee production, research, and export.
- Significance: Vital for plantation sector policy, ensures quality control and market support to coffee growers.
5. ICMR REPORT LINKS HIGH LEVELS OF SELENIUM IN WHEAT TO HAIR LOSS
SUBJECT: SCIENCE
- High levels of selenium(up to 31 times higher than normal) in certain wheat linked to sudden hair loss.
- Selenium
- Trace element essential in small amounts; toxic in excess (selenosis).
- Overconsumption can lead to hair and nail loss, other systemic issues.
- Relevance: Importance of nutritional surveillance.
- Role of ICMR in public health research and dietary guidelines.
