Weekly News 23/5
India News
Supreme Court Affirms Right to Safe Footpaths Under Article 21
The Supreme Court has declared the right to unobstructed and disabled-friendly footpaths as part of the Right to Life under Article 21. States and Union Territories are directed to ensure proper, accessible, and barrier-free footpaths.
Supreme Court Orders Establishment of Special POCSO Courts
In a bid to expedite trials under the POCSO Act, the Supreme Court has directed the Centre and States to set up dedicated POCSO courts across all districts with high case pendency.
World News
WHO Adopts Historic Pandemic Agreement
At the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, member states adopted a Pandemic Agreement to ensure equitable access to medical resources during future pandemics. Notably, the U.S. abstained from participation, impacting WHO funding.
Honduras Opens Embassy in New Delhi to Strengthen Bilateral Ties
Honduras has inaugurated its embassy in New Delhi, aiming to bolster diplomatic and economic relations with India. This move signifies Honduras's intent to deepen engagement with South Asia.
UN Peacekeeping Ministerial: India Pledges Enhanced Capabilities
At the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial meeting in Berlin, India committed to contributing Quick Reaction Forces, women-led police units, and counter-IED teams, reinforcing its role as a major troop contributor to UN peacekeeping missions.
Economy News
India-EU Aim to Finalize Interim Free Trade Agreement
India and the European Union are working towards finalizing an interim Free Trade Agreement by July, aiming to boost economic ties amidst global trade uncertainties.
India Poised to Become World's Leading Potato Producer
India is on track to surpass China as the top potato-producing country. With major contributions from Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Bihar, this shift underscores India's growing agricultural prowess.
Science & Technology
Indian Scientists Develop Fast-Charging Sodium-Ion Battery
Researchers at Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research have developed a sodium-ion battery that charges up to 80% in six minutes and lasts over 3,000 cycles, offering a cost-effective alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
Environment and Wildlife
Brazilian Scientist Wins 2025 World Food Prize
Dr. Mariangela Hungria has been awarded the 2025 World Food Prize for her work in biological nitrogen fixation, enhancing soil health and crop nutrition, thereby transforming tropical agriculture.
Tulare Lake Reemerges in California After 130 Years
Tulare Lake, once dried up due to agricultural activities, has reappeared in California's San Joaquin Valley, attributed to significant snowmelt and atmospheric rivers, highlighting climatic shifts.
Rare Butterfly Species Recorded in Arunachal Pradesh
The 'Frostofer's Baron' butterfly (Euthalia melaekana) has been recorded in Leparada District, Arunachal Pradesh. While classified as Least Concern, its presence enriches India's biodiversity records.
Discovery of Jarosite Veins in Gujarat Offers Martian Insights
Six Jarosite veins have been discovered in Gujarat's Kutch region. Studying this mineral, also found on Mars, can provide valuable information about planetary geology and past environmental conditions.