Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Telangana experienced severe heatwave conditions, with several districts recording maximum temperatures above 43-45°C and one location hitting 46°C.
Key points
- Mendora in Nizamabad recorded the highest temperature at 46°C.
- Ten districts recorded temperatures above 45°C.
- IMD forecasts above-normal temperatures for Telangana in May.
- Southern peninsular India is expected to see higher-than-normal daytime temperatures.
Background & context
India often experiences heatwaves during the summer months, particularly in the northern and central plains. However, increased frequency and intensity of heatwaves are being linked to climate change.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Telangana's Mendora recorded 46°C during the recent heatwave.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Geography (Climate Patterns, Natural Hazards); GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology (Climate Change Impacts).
Why in news?
Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted the growing challenge posed by the nexus between narcotic dealers and terrorists to the country's internal security.
Key points
- J&K L-G accused an 'inimical neighbour' of targeting youth with drugs.
- The nexus between drug dealers and terrorists is a significant internal security threat.
- Security forces are working to thwart the designs of these elements.
Background & context
The issue of drug trafficking and its links to funding terrorism has been a persistent concern for India, particularly in border regions and conflict zones like Jammu and Kashmir.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The nexus between narcotic dealers and terrorists is identified as a challenge to India's internal security.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 3: Internal Security (Challenges to Internal Security, Border Management, Terrorism).
Why in news?
Concerns were raised by political parties regarding the integrity of counting processes and unauthorized access to counting centers in recent Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.
Key points
- AIADMK petitioned the ECI to prevent unauthorized entry into counting centers in Tamil Nadu.
- Allegations of misuse of press passes for unauthorized entry were made.
- In West Bengal, TMC workers alleged BJP flag-bearing cars were allowed near EVMs.
- Mamata Banerjee had previously staged a protest against alleged unauthorized entry into a strongroom.
Background & context
Ensuring free and fair elections is a cornerstone of India's democratic process. Issues related to counting, security of EVMs, and access to counting centers are critical for public trust.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Fresh voting was ordered in West Bengal's Falta Assembly constituency due to electoral issues.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Governance (Electoral Reforms, Election Commission of India's Role).