1 August 2024 : Daily Current Affairs

1. Privilege breach proceedings against MLAs can continue in next Assembly: Madras HC

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 2)

Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity – Judiciary

Context

The Madras High Court ruled that breach of privilege proceedings against MLAs can continue even after the dissolution of the Assembly, emphasising the importance of such privileges. This decision arose from appeals challenging a previous order that quashed notices to MLAs for displaying ‘gutkha’ sachets in the Assembly in 2017.

Analysis of the news:

Continuation of Proceedings Post Assembly Dissolution

• The Madras High Court ruled that breach of privilege proceedings against Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) can continue even after the dissolution of the Assembly to which they were elected.
• Such incomplete proceedings are not considered to have lapsed with the election of a new Assembly.

Purpose of Privileges

• The court emphasised that privileges granted to the House would be meaningless if proceedings lapsed with the tenure of a particular Assembly.
• It stated that MLAs might not take privileges seriously if the law were interpreted otherwise.

Context of the Case

• The ruling came while allowing writ appeals filed in 2021 by the then Legislative Assembly Secretary and the chairman of the Committee of Privileges.
• These appeals were against a single judge’s order in 2020, which quashed show-cause notices issued to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and 17 other DMK MLAs for displaying ‘gutkha’ sachets in the Assembly in July 2017.

Division Bench Observations

• The Division Bench criticised the single judge for “assuming the role of the Speaker” and interfering at the preliminary stage by quashing the show-cause notices.
• The matter was remitted back to the current Speaker and the Committee of Privileges for further proceedings and a final decision on merits.

Constitutional Provisions Related to Privileges of MPs and MLAs:

Article 105: Grants Members of Parliament (MPs) the right to freedom of speech and debate in Parliament without facing legal action for statements made in the House. Article 106: Provides for the salaries and allowances of MPs as determined by Parliament. Article 194: Empowers State Legislatures (MLAs) to enjoy similar privileges and immunities as MPs, including freedom of speech and debate within the Legislature. Article 105(2) and Article 194(2): Immunity from legal proceedings for anything said or any vote cast in Parliament or State Legislature. Issues Associated with Privileges of Parliamentarians in India: Abuse of Immunity: Parliamentarians may misuse immunity to make defamatory statements or evade legal accountability. Lack of Transparency: Insufficient clarity on the scope of privileges can lead to misuse and lack of accountability. Delayed Justice: Legal proceedings against MPs/MLAs can be delayed due to their privileges, affecting timely justice. Disruptive Behaviour: Privileges sometimes shield MPs/MLAs from consequences for disruptive or unethical behaviour in legislative sessions. Public Perception: Excessive privileges may lead to public dissatisfaction and erosion of trust in the political system. Way Forward: Define Privileges Clearly: Establish precise definitions and limits for privileges. Enhance Transparency: Implement transparent reporting and review mechanisms. Strengthen Accountability: Develop stringent rules for addressing misconduct. Streamline Legal Processes: Introduce mechanisms to ensure timely justice for privilege-related issues.

Practice Question:  Explain the significance of legislative privileges for parliamentarians and discuss how they influence the functioning of legislative bodies. (150 Words /10 marks)

2. Judiciary can direct govt. to conduct a performance audit of its laws, says SC

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)

Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity – Judiciary

Context

The Supreme Court affirmed its role in directing the government to conduct performance audits of statutory laws to assess their effectiveness. This follows concerns about the Maharashtra Slum Areas Act’s implementation. The Court emphasised that continuous monitoring by the government and judicial facilitation are crucial for effective law enforcement.

Supreme Court Judgment on Performance Audits of Statutory Laws:

Judicial Power and Duty:

• The Supreme Court has affirmed the judiciary’s power and duty to direct the government to conduct a performance audit of statutory laws to evaluate their actual impact on beneficiaries.
• This move is intended to ensure that laws are effectively implemented and achieve their intended objectives.

Case Background:

• The judgement was delivered in the context of the Maharashtra Slum Areas (Improvement, Clearance and Redevelopment) Act, 1971, which has faced multiple litigations.
• The Court found the implementation of this law concerning and directed a review to identify problems and assess the law’s effectiveness.

Government Duty:

• The Court highlighted that the government has a constitutional obligation to ensure statutes are effectively implemented and monitored.
• It stressed that continuous, real-time assessments of laws’ impacts are essential to uphold the rule of law and address any inefficiencies.

Court’s Role:

• The Court noted that many statutory schemes get bogged down in bureaucratic delays, which hinder their objectives.
• In such scenarios, the judiciary can play a facilitative role to ensure justice and effective implementation of laws.

Institutional Memory and Judicial Precedents:

• Justice Narasimha emphasised the value of the Supreme Court’s institutional memory and judicial precedents in guiding performance audits.
• The judiciary’s unique position enables it to assess the practical working of statutes and direct necessary reviews.

Conclusion:

• The Supreme Court underscored that reviewing the performance of statutes is a critical component of ensuring that laws function as intended and serve their purpose in practice.

Performance Audits of Statutory Laws:

Performance Audits of Statutory Laws: Performance audits of statutory laws involve evaluating the effectiveness and impact of legislation in achieving its intended objectives. This process assesses whether laws are implemented as planned and whether they benefit the intended populations. It also identifies any shortcomings or areas needing improvement, based on evidence and real-world data.   Significance: Ensures Accountability: Verifies if laws meet their intended goals. Improves Effectiveness: Identifies and addresses implementation gaps. Informs Policy Adjustments: Provides data for refining or amending legislation. Promotes Transparency: Enhances public trust in governance. Facilitates Justice: Ensures that laws serve their purpose and benefit intended communities/purpose.

Practice Question:  Discuss the Supreme Court’s recent judgement on the judiciary’s authority to direct performance audits of statutory laws. What are the implications of this judgement for the implementation and review of legislation, and how does it reflect on the role of the judiciary in ensuring effective governance? (250 Words /15 marks)

3. INDEX OF EIGHT CORE INDUSTRIES (BASE: 2011-12=100) FOR JUNE, 2024

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2039668 )

Topic: GS3 –  IndianEconomy

Context

In June 2024, the Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) rose by 4.0% compared to June 2023, with growth in coal, electricity, natural gas, steel, fertilisers, and cement. The ICI, which represents 40.27% of the Index of Industrial Production, recorded a cumulative growth of 5.7% from April to June 2024.

Index of Industrial Production (IIP):

• The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) is a key economic indicator that measures the performance of various industrial sectors in a country.
• It reflects changes in the production levels of the industrial sector over a specific period, providing insights into the overall economic activity.
• IIP is calculated based on the volume of production in sectors manufacturing, mining, and electricity.

Eight core industries of IIP:

1. Crude Oil: Weight: 8.98%
2. Coal: Weight: 10.33%
3. Natural Gas: Weight: 6.88%
4. Petroleum Refinery Products: Weight: 28.04%
5. Fertilisers: Weight: 2.63%
6. Steel: Weight: 17.92%
7. Cement: Weight: 5.37%
8. Electricity: Weight: 19.85%

• The base year for the IIP is typically chosen to serve as a reference point for comparing production changes over time – the current base year for IIP is 2011-12
• The index helps in assessing the growth or contraction of industrial output, aiding policymakers and investors in making informed decisions.
• It plays a crucial role in economic planning, policy formulation, and monitoring of industrial performance.
• A higher IIP indicates industrial growth, while a lower IIP suggests a decline in production.
• The IIP is often used by the government, researchers, and analysts to analyse trends and formulate strategies for economic development.

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of the Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI) in measuring industrial performance in India. (150 Words /10 marks)

4. STEPS TO INTEGRATE TECHNOLOGY INTO THE NEW EDUCATION SYSTEM

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2039811 )

Topic: GS2 – Governance

Context

The National Education Policy 2020 promotes integrating technology in education to support linguistic diversity. Initiatives like the Bhasha Sangam Programme, Anuvadini App, and Mission Digital India Bhashini enhance accessibility by translating educational materials into multiple Indian languages, supporting diverse learning needs and preserving linguistic heritage.

Steps taken by the government for integration of Technology in education system:

• National Education Policy 2020: Emphasises the integration of technology to enhance education and preserve linguistic diversity.
• Bhasha Sangam Programme: Run by NCERT to promote and preserve linguistic diversity through education.
• Machine Translation Cell: Translates books into scheduled languages to improve accessibility.
• Anuvadini App: Utilised by AICTE and UGC to translate undergraduate and postgraduate course materials, including technical books, into multiple Indian languages.
• e-KUMBH Portal: Hosts translated books for easy access.
• NEET, JEE, CUET: Conducted in 13 languages to accommodate diverse linguistic needs.
• Regional Language Engineering Education: Some AICTE-approved institutions offer engineering courses in 8 regional languages.
• DIKSHA Portal: Provides course materials and teaching resources in 33 Indian languages.
• ASMITA Initiative: Launched by UGC to promote Indian languages in education through translation and academic writing.
• Mission Digital India Bhashini (2022): Developed by MEITY to create open-source language technologies for 22 Scheduled Indian languages.

5. Private Sector Innovation: Paryan Alliance Aims to Revolutionize India’s Rice-Wheat Cultivation with Climate-Smart Technologies

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Govt & Politics; Page: 08)

Topic: GS3 – Agriculture GS3 – Science and Technology

Context:

The article reports on a new joint venture between RiceTec Inc. and Mahyco Pvt. Ltd. called Paryan Alliance Pvt. Ltd., which aims to enhance the sustainability of rice and wheat cultivation in India. The venture focuses on implementing climate-smart technologies like direct seeding for rice and zero tillage for wheat to reduce water, labor, and fuel use, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Analysis of News:    

Public Sector Monopoly to Private Sector Collaboration

• Traditionally, rice and wheat breeding research in India has been dominated by the public sector.
• Recently, RiceTec Inc., based in Texas, and Mahyco Pvt. Ltd., based in Maharashtra, have formed a joint venture (JV) named Paryan Alliance Pvt. Ltd. to enhance the climate resilience and sustainability of the rice-wheat cropping system.

Focus on Climate-Smart Technologies

• Paryan Alliance aims to promote direct seeding for rice (DSR) and zero tillage (ZT) for wheat, eliminating the need for traditional transplanting and field flooding for rice, and stubble burning and extensive ploughing for wheat.
• RiceTec’s ‘FullPage’ DSR solution and Mahyco’s ‘FreeHit’ ZT technology, developed with Geneshifters LLC, are central to these efforts.

Complementary Technologies for Major Crop Areas

• Paryan will implement these technologies across approximately 12 million hectares from Punjab to Bihar.
• RiceTec’s ‘FullPage’ includes DSR-compatible plant genetics and seed treatment solutions, while Mahyco’s ‘FreeHit’ focuses on ZT wheat cultivation, addressing the need to manage paddy stubble and weeds.

Reducing Resource Use and Emissions

• The JV aims to reduce water, labor, and fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Their rice and wheat hybrids, containing a mutated gene, allow the use of Imazethapyr herbicide to control weeds without harming the crops.
• This trait, introduced via mutation breeding, avoids the controversies associated with genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Enhancing Cultivation Efficiency

• Traditional rice cultivation is labor and water-intensive, involving nursery preparation, transplanting, and frequent irrigation.
• DSR can save about 30% water by eliminating these steps.
• Similarly, ZT wheat cultivation bypasses stubble burning and ploughing, directly sowing seeds and applying herbicides as needed.

Regulatory and Market Expansion

• The RiceTec/Savannah rice hybrids have been successfully tested on thousands of acres in several states.
• Mahyco is awaiting regulatory approval for the ‘FreeHit’ ZT wheat technology.
• Paryan Alliance is open to licensing their herbicide-tolerant trait to other seed companies, potentially expanding the reach and impact of their innovations.

What are the Benefits of the DSR Technique?

Reduced Water Usage: The DSR technique can reduce water usage by 15-20% compared to the traditional puddling method, which requires 3,600 to 4,125 litres of water per kg of rice. With DSR, 15-18 irrigation rounds are required against 25 to 27 irrigation rounds in traditional methods. Lower Labour Requirements: It requires less labour compared to the traditional transplantation method, where paddy seedlings have to be uprooted and replanted in the main field. Earlier Maturity: Crops grown using the DSR technique mature 7-10 days faster than those grown using the traditional method. This gives farmers more time to manage the paddy straw. Improved Soil Health: The DSR technique involves less disturbance to the soil, which can help maintain soil health and fertility, unlike the traditional method that involves extensive ploughing and puddling. Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Puddling involves saturating the soil with water and then mechanically breaking it down through techniques like ploughing or harrowing. The traditional transplantation method involves puddling of the soil, which leads to the release of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. The DSR technique does not require puddling, thus reducing methane emissions. What are the Challenges Associated with DSR Technique? Subsidised Electricity: A major reason Punjab farmers hesitate to adopt DSR is the availability of subsidised or free electricity, which reduces the incentive to switch to water-saving techniques like DSR. Weed Growth:  In conventional methods, saplings are taller than weeds from the start, while in DSR, both plants and weeds grow simultaneously, which causes issues in harvesting and increase in the cost of weed removal using manpower Lack of Awareness:  There is insufficient awareness and guidance on the benefits of DSR. Farmers are uncertain about yields from DSR, as results vary based on soil types, leading to confusion. Cost: The high cost of DSR machines is a significant barrier, especially for small and marginal farmers.   Additionally, the adoption of DSR could negatively impact skilled migrant labourers from Eastern UP and Bihar who rely on traditional paddy transplanting for employment.

PYQ: What is/are the advantage/advantages of zero tillage in agriculture? (2020)   1) Sowing of wheat is possible without burning the residue of the previous crops. 2) Without the need for a nursery of rice saplings, direct planting of paddy seeds in the wet soil is possible. 3) Carbon sequestration in the soil is possible. Select the correct answer using the code given below:   (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3   Ans: D

Practice Question:  Discuss the advantages and challenges of implementing direct seeding and zero tillage technologies in the context of climate resilience and resource efficiency. How can these innovations contribute to India’s agricultural goals and address environmental concerns? (250 words/15 m)

6. PARAKH Recommends Standardized Academic Standards for India’s 69 School Boards to Ensure Uniform Quality

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 16)

Topic: GS2 – Social justice – Education

Context:

The article discusses a report by PARAKH, a standard-setting body under NCERT, which recommends standardizing academic standards across India’s 69 school boards to ensure uniform educational quality.

Analysis of News:    

What is PARAKH?

• PARAKH has been launched as part of the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 that envisaged a standard-setting body to advise school boards regarding new assessment patterns and latest research, and promote collaborations between them.
  • It will act as a constituent unit of the NCERT.
  • It will also be tasked with holding periodic learning outcome tests like the National Achievement Survey (NAS) and State Achievement Surveys.
  • It will work on three major assessment areas: large-scale assessments, school-based assessment, and examination reforms.                

Equivalence Across School Boards in India

• Overview: The PARAKH body, under NCERT, submitted an ‘equivalence’ report to the Ministry of Education, recommending how to standardize academic standards across India’s 69 school boards, which include state boards, CBSE, ICSE, NIOS, open schools, and madrasa boards.
• Equivalence Meaning: Standardizing boards to ensure uniform academic quality across all boards, providing every student with similar educational opportunities and facilities.

Key Recommendations:

• Cumulative Assessment: Class 12 results to include marks from classes 9 (15%), 10 (20%), 11 (25%), and 12 (40%).
• Credits and Holistic Assessment: Use of a credit system for each subject, online courses, and holistic progress cards, incorporating self and teacher assessments.
• Professional Papersetters: Training teachers as professional papersetters for standardized question paper preparation.
• Standardized Question Papers: Creation of a question bank and blueprint for classes 9 to 12.
• Affiliation Guidelines: Boards to finalize school affiliation guidelines, conduct periodic reviews, and grant affiliations for a maximum of three years.
• Digital Literacy: Incorporation of digital literacy, including coding and cybersecurity, following the National Curriculum Framework.
• Preparation of Report: PARAKH assessed 32 boards, excluding Sanskrit, madrasa, and technical boards, using a questionnaire and two years’ worth of question papers. Conferences with board representatives discussed the findings and recommendations.

PYQ: Education is not an injunction, it is an effective and pervasive tool for all-round development of an individual and social transformation”. Examine the New Education Policy, 2020 (NEP, 2020) in light of the above statement. (2020)

Practice Question:  The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the establishment of PARAKH as a standardized assessment framework for student learning outcomes. Discuss the role of PARAKH in transforming the Indian education system. How can it address the existing challenges in student assessment and what implications does it have for holistic education reform in India? (250 words/15 m)

Prelims Facts

1. IAF’s largest multilateral exercise to begin this month

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

Context

The Indian Air Force will conduct its largest multilateral exercise, Tarang Shakti, during August and September. The exercise will occur in two phases at Sulur and Jodhpur, involving 18 countries, including major participants like Germany, the U.K., and the U.S.It aims to enhance interoperability and showcase India’s defense capabilities.

Analysis of the news:

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) will host its largest multilateral exercise, Tarang Shakti, in August and September, divided into two phases.
• Phase-1 will take place from August 6-14 at Sulur, Tamil Nadu, and will feature participants from Germany, France, Spain, and the U.K.
• It will include 32 foreign aircraft and over 40 IAF aircraft. The Indian Navy will also contribute MiG-29K carrier-borne fighters.
• Phase-2 is scheduled for September 1-14 at Jodhpur and will involve Australia, Bangladesh, Greece, Singapore, the UAE, and the U.S.
• This phase will feature 27 fighter jets, 2 refuelling aircraft, 2 airborne early warning and control systems, and 4 C-130 Special Forces aircraft from foreign countries, along with over 40 IAF aircraft.
• The exercise aims to foster interoperability, share best practices, and showcase the indigenous defence industry.

2. Mineral import surges 80%

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 13)

Context

India’s major mineral imports rose nearly 80% in value to ₹68,633 crore in FY24, although there was a 2% decrease year-on-year. Key imports include copper ore concentrates, phosphorite, and manganese ore, with significant increases in volume for these minerals and growth in manganese ore and bauxite shipments.

Analysis of the news:

• India’s major mineral imports, mostly non-critical, surged nearly 80% in value terms over five years to ₹68,633 crore in FY24, although imports fell by 2% year-on-year from ₹70,125 crore.
• Imports in FY19 were ₹38,604 crore.
• Major minerals include copper ore concentrates, phosphorite, manganese ore, limestone, iron ore, bauxite, asbestos, sulphur, magnesite, and fluorspar, which together account for 97% of mineral imports.
• Volume of imports for these ten minerals increased by 9% over five years to 619.42 lakh tonnes.
• Copper ore concentrate imports were the highest at ₹25,951 crore, more than doubling from ₹12,146 crore in five years.
• Iron ore imports decreased, while manganese ore and bauxite shipments grew by 60-80% from FY19 to FY24.
• Limestone imports were the highest in volume at 338.09 lakh tonnes, followed by phosphorite at 55.98 lakh tonnes.
• Critical mineral imports (excluding lithium-ion and copper) for FY24 were ₹1,396.6 crore, totaling 82,260 tonnes.

3. Tanzania evicting tens of thousands of Maasai: HRW

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 15)

Context

Tanzania is forcibly relocating tens of thousands of Maasai from their ancestral lands in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Handeni district. Human Rights Watch reports beatings by government rangers and lack of fair consent for the move.The scheme, aimed at conserving the World Heritage site, faces international criticism.

More about the  Maasai Tribe:

• Community: The Maasai are a nomadic ethnic group native to Kenya and Tanzania, known for their traditional pastoral lifestyle and cultural practices.
• Ancestral Lands: The Maasai’s ancestral lands are in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Tanzania.
• Government Relocation Plan: Tanzania’s government initiated a relocation program in 2022 to move about 82,000 Maasai from Ngorongoro to Handeni district, approximately 600 kilometres away.
• Purpose of Relocation: The government claims the move is to conserve the Ngorongoro site from human encroachment, while critics argue it is for conservation and tourism benefits.
• Human Rights Concerns: Human Rights Watch reports forced evictions, beatings by government rangers, and lack of fair consent for relocation.
• International Criticism: The World Bank and European Union have withdrawn funding due to growing concerns over the displacement and rights violations.

Human Rights Watch

Organisation: Human Rights Watch (HRW) Founded: 1978 Headquarters: New York City, USA Mission: To investigate and report on human rights abuses globally, advocating for justice and protection of human rights. Activities: Conducts research, publishes reports, and engages in advocacy to address human rights violations. Focus Areas: Includes civil and political rights, economic and social rights, gender equality, refugee protection, and the fight against torture and discrimination. Methodology: Utilises fact-finding missions, interviews with victims and witnesses, and extensive documentation to ensure accuracy and credibility in its reports. Global Reach: Operates in more than 100 countries, working with local and international partners to promote human rights and hold perpetrators accountable.

5. Tur/Pigeon Pea Shipments from Mozambique Resume After Diplomatic Intervention

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Express Network; Page: 14)

Context:

The article discusses the resumption of Tur/Pigeon pea shipments from Nacala Port in Mozambique to India, which were previously disrupted by an “anti-India” group. This resumption followed diplomatic efforts by the Indian government. The article highlights India’s dependence on pulse imports, particularly from Mozambique, and the challenges faced in ensuring a steady supply due to local obstructions and demands for ransom.

Analysis of News:       

• Disruption and Resumption: Shipments were disrupted by an “anti-India” group but resumed after intervention by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, and the Indian High Commissioner.
• Current Shipment Status: 1,400 containers (35,000 tons) have departed for India, with the remaining 400 containers expected to leave by mid-August.
• Dependence on Imports: Despite being a large producer, India relies on imports for pulses, especially from Mozambique, its main source for Tur/Pigeon peas.
• Import Statistics: In 2023-24, India imported 7.71 lakh tons of Tur/Pigeon peas, with 2.64 lakh tons from Mozambique. In 2022-23, 4.6 lakh tons were from Mozambique out of 8.94 lakh tons total imports.
• Challenges: Imports dropped due to “hurdles” in Mozambique, exacerbated by obstructions from an anti-India group demanding ransom for shipments.
• Government Intervention: Deepak Pareek highlighted these issues in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stressing the need for governmental intervention.
• Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs): Mozambique and India have an MoU for 2 lakh tons of Tur/Pigeon peas supply until 2025-26. A similar MoU exists with Malawi for 0.50 lakh tons annually.
• Overall Pulse Imports: In 2023-24, India’s pulse imports reached a record 47.38 lakh tons, nearly double the 24.96 lakh tons in 2022-23.

6. Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh Assassinated in Tehran Airstrike; Iran and Hamas Blame Israel

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 16)

Context:

The article discusses the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, allegedly by an Israeli airstrike, leading to potential increased attacks against Israel by Iran and its allied groups within the ‘axis of resistance,’ including Hezbollah, Hamas, PIJ, and the Houthis.

Analysis of News:   

• Incident: Ismail Haniyeh, a Hamas leader, was assassinated in an airstrike in Tehran on Wednesday morning.
• Accusations: Although Israel has not claimed responsibility, Hamas and Iran blame Israel and promise “major repercussions.”
• Potential Repercussions: Experts predict Iran might increase attacks against Israel through its allies within the ‘axis of resistance.’
• Axis of Resistance: Formed post-1979 Iranian Revolution, includes Iranian-backed groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), and the Houthis. This coalition opposes Israeli and U.S. influence in the region.

 Group Details:

• Hezbollah: Shiite militant group in Lebanon, formed in the 1980s, largest and most powerful in the axis, often clashes with Israel.
• Hamas: Sunni militant group controlling Gaza since 2007, opposes Zionism, supported by Iran.
• PIJ: Sunni Islamist militant group aiming for an Islamic state in Palestine, second-largest militant group in Gaza and the West Bank.
• Houthis: Zaydi Shia militant group in Yemen, controls northern Yemen, has attacked ships in the Red Sea in response to Israeli actions in Gaza.

7. Australia Launches World-First Program to Treat Infant Peanut Allergies

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 16)

Context:

Australia is introducing a pioneering nationwide program to expose infants with peanut allergies to peanuts early, aiming to reduce allergy rates and improve treatment.

Analysis of News:   

• Initiative: Australia introduces a groundbreaking program to expose infants with peanut allergies to peanuts early.
• Program Details: Funded by the National Allergy Centre of Excellence (NACE) and the Australian Government, the program partners with 10 pediatric hospitals.
• Treatment Plan: Allergic children under 12 months will follow a daily dosing schedule of peanut powder for two years.
• Goals: The program aims to achieve remission, with follow-up allergy tests and routine clinical care for at least 12 months to assess effectiveness and long-term outcomes.
• Context: Rising peanut allergy cases in developed nations are a concern. The “hygiene hypothesis” suggests that less exposure to infections due to “clean living” increases allergy susceptibility.
• Potential Impact: Studies show early peanut exposure can reduce allergy risks. Success in this program could inform treatments for other allergies.