Thursday, 17 September 2026

Why in news?

A herd of nine wild elephants, including two calves, has migrated into agricultural areas in Khanapur taluk, Belagavi district, Karnataka, causing crop damage and concern among villagers. Forest officials are attempting to guide them back to their natural habitat.

Key points

1. 1A herd of nine elephants, including two calves, has been sighted in the Belagavi forest division.
2. 2The elephants are believed to have migrated from adjoining forest areas in search of food.
3. 3They have caused damage to crops in paddy fields.
4. 4Forest officials are conducting operations to safely guide the herd back into the forest, urging villagers to maintain distance and avoid disturbing the animals.

Background & context

Human-wildlife conflict, particularly with elephants, is a growing concern in many parts of India due to habitat fragmentation and encroachment. Migratory patterns of elephants are often driven by food and water availability, leading them into human-dominated landscapes.

Why in news?

The Madras High Court ruled that a tax collected by the state under a mistaken impression need not be refunded if the payer has already recovered the amount from third parties, citing the principle of unjust enrichment.

Key points

1. 1The High Court ruled that a club cannot claim a refund for tax mistakenly collected if it had already recovered the amount from its members.
2. 2The court invoked the principle of unjust enrichment, stating the payer should not benefit from an erroneous collection if the burden was passed on.
3. 3The ruling involved a service tax refund sought by the Madras Club.
4. 4The court ordered a partial refund, as the club had recovered a portion of the tax from its members.

Background & context

The principle of unjust enrichment prevents a party from benefiting unfairly at another's expense. In taxation, this means a taxpayer cannot claim a refund if they have already passed the tax burden onto their customers and profited from it.

Why in news?

510 NCC cadets from across South India participated in an eight-day trekking expedition, 'AP TREK-I', in Tirumala, Tirupati, fostering inter-state bonding and exposing them to the region's heritage.

Key points

1. 1510 NCC cadets and 15 Associate NCC Officers from five Directorates participated.
2. 2The expedition aimed to promote inter-state bonding, camaraderie, and the spirit of 'Unity in Diversity'.
3. 3Cadets trekked the Tirumala hills and visited local attractions like the Regional Science Centre.
4. 4The event focused on developing physical endurance, team spirit, situational awareness, and cultural exposure.

Background & context

The National Cadet Corps (NCC) is a voluntary youth organization that aims to develop discipline, character, and leadership qualities among young students, preparing them for a career in the armed forces or as responsible citizens.