India Becomes 4th Largest Producer of Green Energy
India overtook Germany to take the fourth slot as a renewable energy-producing nation with 180 GW of installed capacity.
Solar is the maximum source followed by wind, then biomass and small hydro.
Clean energy growth is supported through National Green Hydrogen Mission and International Solar Alliance.
Growth constraints include grid infrastructure and storage solutions, as well as funding for large projects.
Global Agreement on Pandemic Prevention at WHO Summit
WHO member countries signed a treaty on pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response, with an emphasis on equitable vaccine distribution and early warning systems.
The treaty focuses on the strengthening of health systems in poor countries to counter future global health crises.
India’s role includes vaccine manufacturing through initiatives like COVAX and partnerships under GAVI.
The treaty emphasizes the need for global solidarity in addressing health emergencies.
Supreme Court Rules on Right to Marry Under Article 21
The SC reiterates that the right to marry is an integral part of the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The judgment highlights that interfaith and intercaste marriages require protection from harassment by society.
The court urged the establishment of support systems such as counseling and safe houses for couples.
This judgment strengthens constitutional safeguards against discrimination in personal choices.
India Hosts BIMSTEC Energy Ministers’ Meeting
The energy ministers discussed transnational energy grids, renewable energy cooperation, and infrastructure development.
BIMSTEC aims to integrate the energy markets of its nations through the proposed Bay of Bengal Energy Grid.
India is leading with renewable energy capabilities, offering capacity-building programs for member nations.
Energy ties are therefore strengthened in line with BIMSTEC’s aim towards regional economic and sustainable development.
India Approves Universal Basic Income Pilot in Ladakh
Ladakh is to become the first place in the country to experiment with Universal Basic Income (UBI), distributing unconditional cash transfers to the citizenry.
The test is designed to evaluate effects on poverty reduction, employment, and access to healthcare.
Critics have expressed concerns over fiscal viability and potential for lower labor participation.
UBI fits into broader debates globally on welfare models that balance social equity and economic efficiency.
UNESCO Recognizes Kalbelia Dance as Intangible Cultural Heritage
Kalbelia Dance, which is performed by Rajasthan’s Kalbelia tribe, showcases the community’s traditions and cultural identity.
Kalbelia Dance is famous for its energetic movements and snake-like gestures, symbolizing harmony between humans and nature.
Recognition promotes tourism and global appreciation of India’s diverse cultural heritage. The challenges are preserving the dance form amidst declining traditional patronage.
RBI Tightens Oversight on Digital Lending Apps
The RBI has mandated strict norms for digital lending apps focusing on transparency, grievance redressal, and customer protection.
Guidelines prohibit recovery agents from using coercive practices and ensure data privacy for borrowers.
The move comes amid rising complaints of predatory lending practices and misuse of personal data.
Enhanced regulatory oversight aims to build trust in the growing fintech ecosystem.
Key Terms and Concepts
National Green Hydrogen Mission: India’s initiative to promote green hydrogen production and export to meet renewable energy targets.
COVAX : A global collaboration ensuring equitable vaccine access, supported by India’s vaccine manufacturing capabilities.
Universal Basic Income (UBI): A social welfare model offering fixed income to all citizens without conditions, aiming to reduce poverty.
BIMSTEC: Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation; a regional group for economic and security cooperation.
Intangible Cultural Heritage: Practices, traditions, and cultural expressions recognized by UNESCO as important to cultural heritage.
