SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme Latest News

The Indian government recently announced that Pakistani nationals will not be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES).

About SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme

• The SVES was launched in 1992.
• Under the scheme, certain categories of dignitaries from SAARC countries are issued a special travel document. 
• This special instrument exempts them from the need for visasand other travelling documents to travel among these countries.
• Currently, the list includes 24 categories of entitled persons, which include dignitaries, judges of higher courts, parliamentarians, senior officials, businessmen, journalists, sportspersons, etc.
• Visa stickers are issued by the respective member states to the entitled categories of that particular country. 
• The validity of the visa sticker is generally for one year.
• The implementation is reviewed regularly by the immigration authorities of SAAR member states.

What is SAARC?

• The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established on December 8, 1985.
•  SAARC is an economic and political regional organisation of countries in South Asia.
• The Secretariat of the Association was set up in Kathmandu, Nepal, in January 1987.
• SAARC has eight member countries — Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
• SAARC aims to accelerate the process of economic and social development in its member states through increased intra-regional cooperation.

SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme FAQs

Q1. How many countries are included in SAARC?

Ans. SAARC has eight member countries — Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Q2. Where is the Secretariat of SAARC located?

Ans. Kathmandu, Nepal

Q3. When was the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) launched?

Ans. 1992

Source: TH

INS Surat Latest News

Indian Navy's guided missile destroyer INS Surat successfully test-fired a medium-range surface-to-air missile in the Arabian Sea recently.

About INS Surat

• It is the fourth and final ship of the Project 15Bstealth guided missile destroyer class, popularly known as the Visakhapatnam class.
• It ranks among the largest and most sophisticated destroyers in the world.
• It has 75 percent Indigenous content and is equipped with state-of-the-art weapon-sensor packages and advanced network-centric capabilities.
• It was designed by the Navy's Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, Mumbai.
• It was commissioned into the Indian Navy in January 2025.

INS Surat Features

• It is the Indian Navy’s first Al (artificial intelligence)-enabled warship, which will utilise indigenously developed Al solutions to enhance its operational efficiency manifold.
• With a displacement of 7,400 tonnes and an overall length of 164 metres, INS Surat is a potent and versatile platform equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, including surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles, and torpedoes.
• It is powered by a Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) propulsion set comprising four gas turbines.
• It has speeds in excess of 30 knots (56 km/h).

INS Surat FAQs

Q1. Which project is INS Surat under?

Ans. It is the fourth and final ship of the Project 15B stealth guided missile destroyer class.

Q2. Which is India's first AI enabled warship?

Ans. INS Surat

Q3. Which organization designed INS Surat?

Ans. Warship Design Bureau of the Indian Navy

Source: TH

Chlorpyrifos Latest News

The 2025 COPs (Conferences of the Parties) of the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions are being held in Geneva (April 28–May 9) to address hazardous chemicals like chlorpyrifos.

About Chlorpyrifos

• Chlorpyrifos, a pesticide classified as ‘moderately hazardous’ by the World Health Organisation, is still approved for use in India on 18 crops, despite bans in over 40 countries.
• It is linked to neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, irreversible brain damage in unborn children, and the ability to contaminate distant ecosystems due to its mobility.

Global and National Advocacy

• Pesticide Action Network (PAN) India:
  • It advocates placing chlorpyrifos under Annex III of the Rotterdam Convention, requiring prior informed consent before trade.
  • It calls for its inclusion under Annex A of the Stockholm Convention, which demands a complete global ban, though exemptions are usually allowed.
  • It stresses that safer alternatives are already available, making a total ban both feasible and necessary.
• Unauthorised Use in India: A 2022 report found the illegal use of chlorpyrifos and other agrochemicals like paraquat, raising serious regulatory and enforcement concerns.

What is CIBRC?

• The Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee (CIBRC) operates under the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage, part of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• It was established in 1970 to ensure the safe regulation of insecticides across India, particularly focusing on minimising risks to human health, animal safety, and the environment.
• Legal backing:
  • The Insecticides Act, 1968 forms the statutory basis for CIBRC. It came into effect from 1st August 1971 along with the notification of the Insecticides Rules, 1971.
  • The Act mandates the regulation of import, manufacture, sale, transport, and use of insecticides through a centralised registration process.

Chlorpyrifos FAQs

Q1. What is Chlorpyrifos?
Ans. Chlorpyrifos is a broad-spectrum organophosphate insecticide used in agriculture to control pests like termites, beetles, and worms.

Q2. Under which law is pesticide regulation handled in India?
Ans. Pesticide use is governed by the Insecticides Act, 1968, and the Insecticides Rules, 1971.

Source: DTE

Doctrine of Prospective Overruling Latest News

The Supreme Court in its recent Judgment, emphasised that the invocation of the Doctrine of Prospective Overruling or the Attribution of Prospectivity to a decision must not be resorted to in a routine manner without the Court satisfying itself that the circumstances demand such a solution.

About Doctrine of Prospective Overruling

• It allows courts to apply legal decisions only to future cases,without affecting past actions or judgements made under the old law.
• This doctrine ensures that individuals or entities who acted in reliance on a previous legal rule are not penalized when the law is reinterpreted or overruled. 
• It contrasts with retrospective rulings, where the new interpretation of the law applies to both past and future cases. 
• It is a deviation from the traditional Blackstonian view of law, viz., the duty of the Court was "not to pronounce a new rule but to maintain and expound the old one".
• The doctrine was first recognized in American jurisprudence and has been adopted in countries like India and the UK. 
• Its primary goal is to ensure fairness and avoid legal chaos by maintaining stability in past legal transactions while allowing the law to evolve.
• Indian Jurisprudence on the Doctrine of Prospective Overruling:
  • The doctrine of prospective overruling was introduced into Indian jurisprudence by the Supreme Court in the landmark case of I.C. Golaknath vs. the State of Punjab (1967). 
  • This case marked a turning point in Indian constitutional law, as the Supreme Court explicitly recognised and applied the doctrine for the first time.
  • The whole purpose of the doctrine is to avoid reopening settled issues and also prevent multiplicity of proceedings; in effect, this means that all actions prior to the declaration do not stand invalidated.
  • All the subordinate courts are bound to apply the law to future cases only. 
  • There may also be instances where the Supreme Court may specify the datewhen the declaration shall come into effect, thereby not disturbing the decisions taken before such a date. 
  • All this happens during the process of invalidating a law or overruling a decision.

Doctrine of Prospective Overruling FAQs

Q1. What is the Doctrine of prospective overruling?

Ans. It is a legal principle where a court's decision applies only to future cases and not to past or pending ones. 

Q2. In which landmark Indian case was the Doctrine of Prospective Overruling first introduced?

Ans. I.C. Golaknath v. State of Punjab

Q3. Which legal tradition contrasts with the idea of prospective overruling?

Ans. Blackstonian theory

Source: VERDICTUM

New Method to Estimate Helium Abundance in the Sun Latest News

Indian scientists from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have successfully developed a novel method to accurately estimate the abundance of Helium in the Sun’s photosphere using indirect spectral analysis.

Background 

• Helium is the second most abundant element in the Sun, but direct detection in the Sun’s photosphere is extremely difficult due to the absence of Helium spectral lines in the visible range.
• Traditionally, Helium abundance was estimated indirectly using:
  • Solar wind or corona data,
  • Extrapolation from hotter stars,
  • Helioseismology (solar interior vibrations).
• These methods were not based on direct photospheric observations and hence lacked precision.

What is the New Method?

• Scientists used spectral lines of neutral Magnesium (Mg I) and neutral Carbon (C I), along with molecular lines of MgH, CH, and C₂, observed in the Sun’s photosphere.
• This method is based on the principle that the relative abundance of Helium affects the availability of Hydrogen, which in turn influences the formation and strength of molecular lines (e.g., CH and MgH).
• The researchers matched the atomic and molecular abundances of Magnesium and Carbon for different Helium-to-Hydrogen (He/H) ratios.
• The technique confirmed that only at a He/H ratio of ~0.1 do the atomic and molecular line abundances agree, validating the assumed solar value.

About Helium

• Helium (He) is a noble gas with a closed-shell electronic configuration, making it stable and chemically inert.
• Discovered in 1868 by Jules Janssen and Norman Lockyer via a yellow spectral line during a solar eclipse. 
• Named after the Greek word ‘Helios’, meaning Sun.
• Largest global reserves: United States, Algeria, and Russia.
• India’s Rajmahal Volcanic Basin (Jharkhand) is a significant helium reservoir trapped for billions of years.

New Method to Estimate Helium Abundance in the Sun FAQs

Q1. What is the primary source of helium in the Sun?
Ans. Helium in the Sun is primarily produced through nuclear fusion of hydrogen atoms in its core.

Q2. What is the approximate composition of the Sun by mass?
Ans. The Sun is composed of about 71% hydrogen, 27% helium, and 2% heavier elements.

Source: PIB

Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPVs) Latest News

The keel laying ceremony of Yard 3040, the fourth Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) being built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE), Kolkata, was held recently.

About Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs)

• The Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) have an approximate displacement of 3000 tonnes.
• They are designed for multi-role maritime operations, including:
  • Coastal defence and surveillance
  • Search and rescue (SAR) missions
  • Protection of offshore assets such as oil rigs and platforms
  • Anti-piracy operations in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and beyond
• These vessels will be equipped with modern sensors and armaments, enhancing the Indian Navy’s maritime domain awareness and low-intensity maritime conflict capabilities.

Project Background

• The construction of the NGOPVs is part of a contract signed on 30 March 2023 for the indigenous design and development of 11 patrol vessels.
• These contracts were awarded to: Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) – the Lead Shipyard (7vessels) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) – the Follow Shipyard (4vessels)
• The project reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the national initiatives of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’.

Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPVs) FAQs

Q1. What are Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs)?
Ans. NGOPVs are multi-role naval ships designed for maritime surveillance, anti-piracy, pollution control, and EEZ patrol duties.

Q2. Which Indian organisation is responsible for building NGOPVs?
Ans. Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) are developing these for the Indian Navy.

Source: PIB

Measles-Rubella Latest News

The Measles-Rubella (M-R) Elimination Campaign 2025–26 aims to achieve 100% immunisation coverage by administering two doses of the M-R vaccine to all eligible children.

About Measles

• Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects young children and can lead to serious complications or death, especially in malnourished children or those with weakened immunity.
• It is caused by an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus, classified under the genus Morbillivirus in the Paramyxoviridae family, with only one serotype.
• Common complications include blindness, encephalitis, severe diarrhoea, ear infections, and pneumonia.
• It spreads through respiratory droplets and remains one of the leading causes of vaccine-preventable deaths globally.

About Rubella

• Also known as German Measles, Rubella is a mild viral infection that predominantly affects children and young adults.
• It is caused by the Rubella virus, an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus, different from the measles virus.
• Rubella is less infectious and milder than measles, but it poses a major risk during pregnancy.
• Infection in pregnant women may lead to Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), which causes irreversible birth defects like deafness, heart defects, and intellectual disabilities.
• Rubella and measles may have similar rash symptoms, but they are caused by different viruses.

Measles-Rubella FAQs

Q1. What is the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign?
Ans. The MR campaign is a public health initiative launched by the Government of India to eliminate measles and control rubella by vaccinating children aged 9 months to 15 years.

Q2. What type of vaccine is used in the MR campaign?
Ans. A live attenuated combined vaccine is used, which protects against both measles and rubella viruses.

Source: PIB

Nilgiri Tahr Latest News

The second annual synchronised estimation of Nilgiri tahr in Tamil Nadu and Kerala that began recently will cover 36 new blocks in addition to the 140 blocks surveyed last year.

About Nilgiri Tahr

• The Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius, former name is Hemitragus hylocrius) is an endangered mountain ungulate endemic to the southern part of the Western Ghats. 
• It is also known by the name Nilgiri Ibex or simply Ibex. Locally the animal is called ‘Varayaadu’.
• It is the only mountain ungulate in southern India.
• It is also the state animal of Tamil Nadu.

Nilgiri Tahr Habitat and Distribution

• The species is found in a roughly 400 km stretch in the Western Ghats, which falls in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. 
• These tahrs inhabit the open montane grassland habitat of the southwestern ghats montane rain forests ecoregion. 
• At elevations ranging from 1200 to 2600 m, the jungle opens into grasslands interspersed with pockets of stunted forests, known as ‘sholas.’
• The Eravikulam National Park (Kerala) has the highest density and largest surviving population of Nilgiri tahr. 

Nilgiri Tahr Features

• The Nilgiri Tahrs are stocky goats with short, coarse fur and a bristly mane. 
• The males are found to be larger than the females, and have a darker color when mature. 
• Both sexes have curved horns, which are larger in the males.
• Adult males develop a light grey area or ’saddle’ on their backs and are hence called ‘saddlebacks’. 
• The Nilgiri Tahr has a short grey-brown or dark coat. 
• There are facial markings, particularly distinct in mature males.
• Females and immature males are an overall yellowish-brown to grey, with the underparts being paler.

Nilgiri Tahr Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Endangered 
• Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, 1972: Schedule I 

Nilgiri Tahr FAQs

Q1. What is the IUCN status of Nilgiri tahr?

Ans. Endangered 

Q2. Where is Nilgiri Tahr endemic to?

Ans. The Nilgiri Tahr (also known as Nilgiri Ibex) is found primarily in the Western Ghats of southern India.

Q3. The Nilgiri Tahr is the state animal of which Indian state?

Ans. Tamil Nadu

Source: TH

Human Gene Therapy Trial for Haemophilia Latest News

BRIC-inStem, Bengaluru, has successfully conducted India’s first-in-human gene therapy trial for Haemophilia in collaboration with CMC Vellore.

About Gene Therapy

• Gene therapy is a biomedical technique that involves modifying or replacing faulty genes in a person’s cells to treat or prevent diseases.
• The primary objective is to introduce a functional gene to compensate for a mutated or disease-causing gene.
• Gene therapy approaches include:
  • Replacing a mutated gene with a healthy copy.
  • Inactivating a malfunctioning gene.
  • Introducing a completely new gene into the body.
• Unlike conventional medicines, gene therapy targets the root genetic causes inside cells, rather than just addressing symptoms.
• Current clinical trials focus on both inherited and acquired disorders, using methods such as:
  • Ex vivo modification of hematopoietic stem cells and T-lymphocytes.
  • In vivo gene delivery or use of gene-editing reagents directly into the patient’s body.

About Haemophilia

• Haemophilia is a rare genetic bleeding disorder where blood clotting is impaired due to mutations in genes encoding clotting proteins.
• These genes are located on the X chromosome, making males more susceptible.
• It affects about 1 in 10,000 people, with India having a significant patient load.

About BRIC-inStem

• BRIC-inStem, part of the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), integrates 14 autonomous research institutions under one national umbrella.
• It has pioneered translational and regenerative research, including:
  • Gene therapy
  • Anti-viral germicidal masks (developed during COVID-19)
  • ‘Kisan Kavach’ pesticide shield for farmers
• Biosafety Level III Lab at BRIC-inStem is essential for studying high-risk pathogens under the One Health Mission.

Human Gene Therapy Trial for Haemophilia FAQs

Q1. What is gene therapy in the context of Haemophilia?
Ans. Gene therapy involves delivering a functional copy of the faulty gene responsible for Haemophilia to the patient’s liver cells to enable the production of clotting factors.

Q2. Which clotting factor is deficient in Haemophilia A?
Ans. Factor VIII is deficient in Haemophilia A, while Factor IX is deficient in Haemophilia B.

Source: PIB

Sea of Marmara Latest News

A 6.2 magnitude earthquake whose epicenter was in the Sea of Marmara hit Istanbul recently.

About Sea of Marmara

• It is a small inland sea that is completely bordered by the transcontinental nation of Turkey.
• It covers an area of 11,350 sq.km. 
• It is about 280 km long and has a maximum width of 80 km at its widest point.
• It separates the Asian and European parts of Turkey.
• In the northeast, it is connected to the Black Sea via the Bosphorus Strait, whereas in the southwest, it is linked with the Aegean Sea via the Dardanelles Strait.
• It serves as a transitional zone between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. 
• Salinity: 
  • Cold, fresh Black Sea water entering through the Bosporus meets warm and salty water of Mediterranean Sea origin flowing in through the Dardanelles Strait. 
  • This creates the situation where fresher water is located near the surface and much saltier water near the bottom.
• Climate: The sea has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and coldand wet winters.
• Earthquakes: The North Anatolian Fault, which runs beneath the sea, has caused several massive earthquakes in the region.
• Major Islands:
  • Marmara Island, Prince Islands, Avşa, Imrali, Ekinlik, and Paşalimani Islands.
  • Marmara Island is Turkey’s second-largest island as well as the largest island in the Marmara Sea. It is also a rich source of marble. 
• Some of the important coastal towns and cities that are located along the Sea of Marmara include Istanbul, Izmit, Balikesir, Yalova, Tekirdag, Bursa, and Çanakkale.

Sea of Marmara FAQs

Q1. What connects Black Sea to Sea of Marmara?

Ans. The Bosporus Strait connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.

Q2. Which country is the Sea of Marmara in?

Ans. The Sea of Marmara is entirely within the country of Turkey. 

Q3. Which major fault line lies beneath the Sea of Marmara?

Ans. North Anatolian Fault

Source: ET