Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
Jammu and Kashmir experienced severe weather conditions for three consecutive days, leading to flash floods, landslides, civilian casualties, and damage to infrastructure. Educational institutions were closed, and pilgrimages were suspended.
Key points
- At least 22 civilian deaths reported due to flash floods and landslides.
- Significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including roads and electricity supply to Poonch and Rajouri districts.
- Amarnath Yatra and other pilgrimages suspended.
- Administration initiated rescue operations and set up control rooms to manage the crisis.
- IMD predicted further rainfall, necessitating preparedness.
Background & context
Jammu and Kashmir is prone to natural disasters like landslides and flash floods, especially during the monsoon season, due to its mountainous terrain. Climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of such events.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The IMD (India Meteorological Department) provides weather forecasts and warnings for natural disasters.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 1: Geography (Natural Hazards), GS Paper 3: Disaster Management (Preparation, Mitigation, Response).
Why in news?
Widespread protests erupted across the country and abroad against alleged irregularities, including paper leaks, in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for medical admissions. The issue led to demands for the resignation of the Union Education Minister and a judicial inquiry.
Key points
- Allegations of paper leaks and irregularities in the NEET examination.
- Protests by students and political parties, including railway blockades and demonstrations.
- Sonam Wangchuk, an activist on an indefinite fast, was moved to a private hospital following a Delhi High Court order.
- Opposition parties, including BJD, demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
- Concerns raised about the integrity of the examination system and its impact on students' futures.
Background & context
NEET is a highly competitive entrance examination for undergraduate medical courses in India. Irregularities in high-stakes examinations have been a recurring issue, raising questions about fairness and transparency.
★ Prelims fact capsule
NEET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Governance (Government policies and interventions), GS Paper 3: Education (Issues related to education, examination system).
Why in news?
The outbound portability feature of Rajasthan's MAA Yojana has enabled around 30,000 patients to receive free specialized medical treatment in other states, highlighting the success of inter-state health scheme integration.
Key points
- Approximately 30,000 Rajasthan patients received free treatment in other states in six months.
- Over ₹17 crore in claims submitted for treatments like heart surgery, cancer therapy, and dialysis.
- The MAA Yojana is integrated with Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) for broader access.
- Beneficiaries can access cashless treatment up to ₹25 lakh in empanelled hospitals nationwide.
- Aims to provide quality medical access beyond state borders without financial burden.
Background & context
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) is a flagship national health protection scheme. State-specific schemes with portability features enhance healthcare access for beneficiaries.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The integration of MAA Yojana with PMJAY allows beneficiaries to use their health benefits across empanelled hospitals nationwide.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Social Justice (Health, Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections), GS Paper 3: Economy (Healthcare sector).