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  Current News   Ecology & Environment   Pollution Wadge Bank Faces Threat from Proposed Oil Exploration The Government of India's plan to offer three oil and gas blocks for exploration and development under the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) poses a significant threat to Wadge Bank, a 10,000 square kilometre sea area south of Kanyakumari, known for its biodiversity and as India's richest fishery resource. Key Points Ideal Environment for Marine Life:  Wadge Bank's low intensity of currents, waves, and tides create an ideal environment for the accumulation of nutrients and fish food, crucial for marine life. Appeal for Withdrawal of Bids:  An activist appealed to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to withdraw the bids, emphasizing the need for diligence, assessments, and public consultations to safeguard the Wadge Bank ecosystem. Potential Impact on Fishing Community:  The activist warned that oil exploration could lead to th...

  Former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur Posthumously Awarded Bharat Ratna Recently, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, conferred the nation's highest honour, Bharat Ratna, posthumously upon former Chief Minister of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur, marking 35 years since his passing in 1988. Key Points Recognition for a Social Justice Icon:  Karpoori Thakur, renowned as "Jan Nayak," served as Bihar's Chief Minister and has been honoured for his enduring commitment to social justice and empowerment of marginalized sections. PM Modi's Commendation:  Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed delight at the decision to confer Bharat Ratna on Karpoori Thakur, recognizing his efforts as a champion for the marginalized and a symbol of equality. Brief Stint as Chief Minister:  Karpoori Thakur served as the Chief Minister of Bihar for short periods, from December 1970 to June 1971 and from December 1977 to April 1979. https://www.chronicleindia.in/current-affairs/10476-forme...

  Current News             International                      International Organizations UN General Assembly President Criticizes Security Council Structure Dennis Francis, the President of the United Nations General Assembly, is currently visiting India for five days following an invitation from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. During his stay, Francis addressed concerns about the structure of the UN Security Council. Key Points Geopolitical Realities and Council Representation:  President of the United Nations General Assembly criticized the Security Council, stating that current geopolitical realities are not adequately represented, emphasizing the urgent need for democratization. Challenges in Decision-Making:  The President highlighted that the Council has faced challenges in making necessary decisions for international peace and security, often influenced by geopolitical dyn...

  Current News                               International                           International Organizations Turkey's Parliament Ratifies Sweden's NATO Membership Bid On 23rd January, 2024, Turkey's parliament, led by President Tayyip Erdogan's ruling alliance, approved Sweden's NATO membership bid, overcoming a 20-month delay and removing a significant obstacle to the alliance's expansion. Key Points Parliamentary Approval and Voting:  The Turkish General Assembly voted 287-55 in favour of ratifying Sweden's NATO membership bid, addressing the primary obstacle to NATO expansion. Sweden's Application and Delay:  Sweden initially applied in 2022, seeking NATO membership to enhance its security amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Turkey had raised objections, delaying the approval process. NATO Membership Application Process:  A...

  MoUs between India and Netherlands, Dominican Republic & Ecuador Approved On 18th January, 2024, the Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved separate memoranda of understanding on cooperation in the field of medical products regulation with Netherlands, Dominican Republic and Ecuador. Key Points Signed MoUs: Three MoUs were signed between CDSCO, the Health Ministry’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization and competent registering authorities from countries named. Dominican Republic MoU: The MoU with the Directorate General for Medicine, Foods and Sanitary Products Organisations of Dominican Republic focuses on challenges related to counterfeit medicine in global markets. Facilitating Interaction Among Regulatory Agencies : The MoUs promote communication among regional regulators to address concerns regarding quality of medicinal products in global markets. Netherlands MoI: The Memorandum of Intent (MoI) between the FDA and the Ministry of Health...