Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Madras High Court has ordered the Tamil Nadu government to file a status report on why tourist traffic is allowed on the Kalhatty Ghat Road, implying a potential closure to tourists. This has led to protests from local businesses.
Key points
- The court is questioning the continued permission for tourist vehicles on the Kalhatty Ghat Road.
- Tourist vehicles are already prohibited from descending the road.
- The road passes through critical tiger and elephant habitats within the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve.
- Conservationists have long advocated for regulating traffic due to rising roadkills and wildlife disturbance.
Background & context
The Kalhatty Ghat Road is a vital route through the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity. Increased tourist vehicle movement has raised concerns about its impact on wildlife.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Kalhatty Ghat Road is located within the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Geography (Ecological importance of forests, conservation). GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology (Biodiversity conservation, impact of human activities on ecosystems).
Why in news?
Australia is set to return three ancient artefacts, including a Chola-era bronze trident, a granite Nandi idol, and a Karthikeya sculpture, stolen from Tamil Nadu temples. This repatriation aligns with PM Modi's visit to Australia and strengthens cultural ties.
Key points
- The artefacts date back to the 11th and 12th centuries and were stolen from Tamil Nadu temples.
- The items include a bronze trident, a granite Nandi idol, and a basalt Karthikeya sculpture.
- Repatriation is being done under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT).
- The move signifies the growing cooperation between India and Australia on cultural heritage protection.
Background & context
The theft and illegal trafficking of ancient idols from Indian temples have been a persistent issue. India has been actively pursuing the recovery of such artefacts through diplomatic channels and international cooperation.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The repatriated artefacts are from the Chola period and date back to the 11th and 12th centuries.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Art and Culture (Indian heritage, protection of cultural property). GS Paper 2: International Relations (Bilateral cooperation, cultural diplomacy).
Why in news?
Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is on an indefinite hunger strike, entering its 13th day, demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities and the resignation of the Union Education Minister.
Key points
- Wangchuk is on day 13 of his fast, which is in support of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) agitation.
- The protest demands government accountability for alleged examination irregularities.
- Wangchuk asserts his constitutional right to protest and warns against any attempt to remove him.
- He stated his hunger has 'stabilised' and he feels energetic despite physical fatigue.
Background & context
Sonam Wangchuk is a prominent education reformist and environmental activist from Ladakh, known for his innovative educational initiatives and advocacy for the region's autonomy and environmental protection.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Sonam Wangchuk is an educator and climate activist from Ladakh.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 4: Ethics (Integrity in public life, accountability). GS Paper 2: Governance (Issues related to education, examination reforms, citizen's participation in governance).