Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
ASHAs' field experiences are being used to develop an AI-enabled training platform and voice chatbot to improve cervical cancer screening and community counselling in rural Assam.
Key points
- Development of AI-enabled training platform and multilingual voice chatbot.
- Leverages inputs from Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) on their challenges and needs.
- Aims to strengthen cervical cancer screening and community counselling in rural areas.
- Pilot study funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research.
- Focuses on addressing frequently asked questions by community members.
Background & context
Cervical cancer remains a significant health issue, particularly in rural areas with limited access to healthcare. ASHAs play a crucial role in community health initiatives. AI and digital tools are increasingly being explored to enhance healthcare delivery and public health awareness.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The project is a pilot study funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Health, GS Paper 1: Social Issues, GS Paper 3: Science & Technology
Why in news?
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids in Punjab in connection with a money laundering probe, leading to accusations from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of the BJP 'weaponizing' central agencies ahead of assembly elections.
Key points
- ED raids conducted at offices of Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) and premises linked to housing officials.
- AAP accuses BJP of using central agencies for political intimidation before elections.
- Protests by AAP workers outside GMADA office.
- Allegations of disruption to government work and inconvenience to the public.
- Previous instances of alleged misuse of central agencies cited by AAP.
Background & context
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is a law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing economic laws and fighting economic crime in India. Central agencies like the ED, IT Department, and CBI are often at the centre of political debates regarding their alleged misuse for political motives.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The raids were in connection with an alleged money laundering probe.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 2: Polity, Governance, GS Paper 1: Society, GS Paper 3: Economy
Why in news?
Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport (BEST) has launched a special campaign to address consumer complaints of inflated bills following the rollout of smart meters, including on-the-spot bill verification and check-meter installation.
Key points
- Special redressal campaign 'Smart Meter and Billing Help Desks' set up across customer care wards.
- Offers on-the-spot bill verification, on-site meter testing, and check-meter installation.
- Response to growing consumer complaints about unexpected increases in electricity bills.
- Smart meters record electricity consumption in real-time, eliminating manual readings.
- Similar initiatives by Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) have also faced criticism.
Background & context
Smart meters are digital devices that record electricity consumption in real time and transmit the data to the utility provider. They aim to improve efficiency and transparency but can lead to issues if not properly calibrated or if billing systems are not robust, leading to consumer dissatisfaction.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Smart meters record electricity consumption in real-time.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 3: Economy, Infrastructure, GS Paper 2: Governance