Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
India is set to establish its first green methanol production plant utilizing Prosopis juliflora, an invasive shrub, as feedstock. This initiative aims to convert a significant environmental problem into a valuable marine fuel.
Key points
- The plant will be located in Kutch, Gujarat.
- Prosopis juliflora (gando baval) is a highly invasive species that has encroached upon thousands of kilometers of grasslands in Kutch.
- The produced green methanol is intended for fueling ocean-going ships.
- This project aligns with India's goals for sustainable energy and bio-fuel production.
Background & context
Prosopis juliflora was introduced by the British in the 1920s to 'green' Delhi and later by the Gujarat forest department in 1961 to combat desertification in the Rann. However, it has proven to be ecologically disruptive.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Prosopis juliflora is also known as 'gando baval' in Gujarat and 'vilayati keekar' in North India.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology, Conservation, Sustainable Development, Science and Technology.
Why in news?
The Supreme Court has urged the Union government to amend abortion laws to remove time limits for medical termination of pregnancy in cases involving minor rape victims, emphasizing the need for a more compassionate approach.
Key points
- The court advocated for amending the abortion law to exempt minor rape survivors from time restrictions.
- This directive came during a hearing on a curative petition by the government against a previous ruling.
- The court had previously allowed a 15-year-old rape survivor to terminate a 30-week pregnancy.
- The current Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act has specific time limits for abortions.
Background & context
The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, governs abortion in India. Amendments have been made over the years to increase the gestational limits under certain conditions.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Supreme Court's observation highlights the legal and ethical debate surrounding the MTP Act and survivor rights.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Polity and Governance, Social Justice, Rights and related issues.
Why in news?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced QR code-based photo identity cards for personnel at EVM counting centers to enhance security and prevent unauthorized access.
Key points
- The new ID cards feature QR codes for verification.
- The system aims to prevent unauthorized entry into counting centers.
- It was first implemented during the Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry Assembly elections counting on May 4.
- The ECI plans to extend this system to all future general and byelections.
Background & context
Ensuring the integrity of the electoral process, especially during vote counting, is crucial for democratic credibility. Various measures have been implemented over the years to safeguard EVMs and counting procedures.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The QR code ID system will be mandatory for all counting centers henceforth.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Polity and Governance, Elections, Electoral Reforms.