HADR Exercise Latest News

INS Sharda, an offshore patrol vessel of the Indian Navy, has arrived at Maafilaafushi Atoll, Maldives, to participate in its first-ever Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise, scheduled from May 4 to May 10, 2025.

INS Sharda's Maiden HADR Exercise in the Maldives

• This initiative is part of India’s broader strategic vision to foster regional maritime cooperation and ensure disaster preparedness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• The deployment underscores India’s commitment to its "Neighbourhood First" Policy, wherein the Maldives holds a special strategic and cultural significance as a close maritime neighbour.
• The exercise aligns with the recently launched "MAHASAGAR" vision – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions – announced by the Prime Minister in Mauritius.
• This vision reaffirms India’s role as a net security provider and first responder in the Indian Ocean.
• The MAHASAGAR vision is an extension of India’s earlier SAGAR doctrine (Security and Growth for All in the Region), emphasising inclusive security, regional collaboration, and disaster resilience.
• According to the Indian Navy, the key objectives of this HADR exercise include:
  • Enhancing interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
  • Conducting joint drills for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, disaster response coordination, logistical support, and medical assistance.
  • Facilitating training sessions for capacity building.
  • Engaging with local communities for awareness and disaster resilience preparedness.

HADR Exercise FAQs

Q1. What does HADR stand for?
Ans. HADR stands for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, a key element of India’s defence diplomacy and regional outreach.

Q2. Which Indian agencies are involved in HADR operations?
Ans. Indian Armed Forces, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Indian Coast Guard, and the Ministry of External Affairs are involved in HADR operations.

Q3. What is the significance of India’s HADR exercises?
Ans. India uses HADR exercises to enhance regional cooperation, project soft power, and strengthen response mechanisms for natural disasters in the Indo-Pacific.

Q4. Name a recent multilateral HADR exercise India participated in.
Ans. Exercise Samudra Shakti and Exercise ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise (AIME) have included HADR components recently.

Source: PIB

Semaglutide Latest News

The recent New England Journal of Medicine study published that a weekly dose of semaglutide has shown remarkable results in treating Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH).

What is Semaglutide?

• Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, originally developed for Type 2 diabetes management.
• It is the active ingredient in drugs like Ozempic (for diabetes) and Wegovy (for weight loss).

What is MASH?

• MASH (Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis) is a serious form of fatty liver disease marked by excessive fat accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis in the liver.
• It occurs independently of alcohol use and is often linked to overnutrition, obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
• MASH is considered a progressive liver condition and can lead to cirrhosis or liver failure if untreated.

Why is This Study Important?

• There is currently no approved drug treatment for MASH, making this finding highly significant.
• The results show that semaglutide not only improves liver histology but also addresses the root metabolic dysfunctions, such as insulin resistance and inflammation.
• It provides hope for an additional therapeutic option for patients already vulnerable to cardiovascular, metabolic, and renal complications—areas where semaglutide has proven benefits.

Semaglutide FAQs

Q1. What is Semaglutide used for?
Ans. Semaglutide is a medication primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Q2. Under which drug class does Semaglutide fall?
Ans. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) receptor agonist, which improves blood sugar control and reduces appetite.

Source: IE

Saola Latest News

An international team of scientists has successfully mapped the genome of the Saola using tissue fragments obtained from hunter-collected remains, marking a critical step in understanding and conserving this species.

About Saola

• The Saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis) is one of the rarest large land mammals in the world and is often dubbed the "Asian Unicorn" due to its elusive nature.
• The Saola was first scientifically discovered in 1992 during a joint expedition by the Vietnamese Ministry of Forestry and WWF.
• The animal is characterised by long, straight, and parallel horns up to 20 inches, found in both males and females, and striking white facial markings.
• It is currently listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with an estimated population of only 50 to 300 individuals as per the 2015 assessment.

Habitat and Distribution

• The Saola is found exclusively in the mist-covered evergreen forests of the Annamite Mountains along the Vietnam–Laos border.
• These forests have little or no dry season and are known for their dense canopy and unique biodiversity.

Major Threats

• The species is threatened by widespread snaring, illegal hunting, and deforestation due to human activities such as agriculture and burning.
• Its habitat fragmentation and low reproductive numbers make it particularly vulnerable to extinction.

Why Genome Mapping Matters

• For the first time, scientists have mapped the complete genome of the saola using DNA fragments from remains found in hunter households.
• Genomic data were compiled for 26 saola individuals, offering valuable insights into genetic diversity, population structure, and conservation potential.

Key Genetic Findings

• The analysis revealed that saola populations split into two distinct genetic groups between 5,000 and 20,000 years ago, likely due to changes in forest habitats after the Last Glacial Maximum.
• The shift from hunter-gatherer to agricultural societies (~4,000 years ago) led to increased hunting, forest loss, and genetic isolation of populations.
• Each group lost different segments of genetic diversity, meaning their gene pools are complementary—when combined, they can restore overall diversity crucial for species survival.

Saola FAQs

Q1. What is the Saola, and where is it found?
Ans. The Saola is a critically endangered mammal endemic to the Annamite Mountains of Laos and Vietnam.

Q2. Why is the Saola referred to as the 'Asian Unicorn'?
Ans. Due to its extreme rarity and elusive nature, the Saola is often called the 'Asian Unicorn'.

Q3. What is the IUCN status of the Saola?
Ans. The Saola is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and hunting.

Source: DTE

Spain Latest News

A recent massive power outage across the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) has raised concerns over the integration of solar and wind energy into national power grids.

Key Facts About Spain

• Spain is located in Southwestern Europe, occupying nearly 82% of the Iberian Peninsula, making it the dominant territorial entity in this region.
• Land borders: Spain shares its borders with Portugal (to the west), France and Andorra (to the northeast), and the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar (to the south).
• Maritime borders: Spain is bounded by the Mediterranean Sea (to the southeast and east), the Bay of Biscay (to the north), and the Atlantic Ocean (to the northwest and southwest).
• Mountain ranges: The Pyrenees Mountains form a natural barrier between Spain and France, playing a crucial role in shaping climatic zones and acting as a cultural divide.
• Plateaus and Plains: The Meseta Central is a vast interior plateau, dominating the central part of Spain. The Andalusian Plain lies in the south and is agriculturally significant.
• Rivers: Spain is traversed by important rivers such as:
  • Ebro River – flows into the Mediterranean.
  • Tagus River – shared with Portugal.
  • Douro River – originates in Spain and enters Portugal.
  • Guadalquivir River – navigable and important for trade.
• Desert feature: Spain hosts the Tabernas Desert in Andalusia, recognized as the only true desert in mainland Europe, contributing to Spain’s environmental diversity.
• Islands:
  • Balearic Islands – located in the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Canary Islands – situated off the northwest coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. These are of strategic geopolitical importance.

Spain FAQs

Q1. Where is Spain located geographically?
Ans. Spain is located in southwestern Europe, sharing borders with Portugal, France, Andorra, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Q2. What is the political system of Spain?
Ans. Spain is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a King as head of state and a Prime Minister as head of government.

Q3. What is Spain’s position in the European Union?
Ans. Spain is a founding member of the EU and part of the Eurozone, using the euro as its currency.

Source: TH

Organization of Islamic Cooperation Latest News

In its recent statement, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) raised concerns over the tense situation between India and Pakistan and called for restraint and dialogue.

About Organization of Islamic Cooperation

• It is the second largest intergovernmental organisation after the United Nations, with the membership of 57 states, covering four continents.
• The Organization was established upon a decision of the historical summit, which took place in Rabat, Kingdom of Morocco on 25 September 1969, following the criminal arson of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied Jerusalem.
• Objective: It aims to preserve Islamic values, safeguard and defend the national sovereignty and independence of member states, and contribute to international peace and security. 
• The OIC is the collective voice of the Muslim world to ensure and safeguard their interest in economic, social, and political areas. 
• Headquarters: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
• Its official languages are Arabic, English, and French.
• Notable members include Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Morocco, Niger, Oman, Pakistan, the Palestinian Authority (PA), Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Turkey, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. 
• The OIC is composed of the following main bodies:
  • The Islamic Summit Conference (ISC) is the supreme authority of the OIC, which meets every three years to lay down the Organization's policy.
  • The Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meets once a year to examine the implementation of its decisions taken within the framework of the policy defined by the Summit
  • The General Secretariat is the executive organ of the OIC entrusted with the implementation of the decisions of the two preceding bodies
• To coordinate its action in the various fields of cooperation: political, economic, cultural, social, spiritual and scientific, among Member States, the Organization has created different committees at the ministerial level and a number of which are chaired by heads of states.
• The OIC partners with international mechanisms (including every specialized UN agency), governments, and civil society organizations (CSOs) to address issues of concern to its member states and Muslims worldwide.

Organization of Islamic Cooperation FAQs

Q1. Where is the headquarters of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)?

Ans. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Q2. How many countries are in the OIC?

Ans. OIC has 57 member states.

Q3. Is India a member of the OIC?

Ans. No, India is not a member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Source: TOI

Sanjay Gandhi National Park Latest News

A recent census reveals at least 54 leopards in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, highlighting coexistence of wildlife amid urbanization and conservation efforts.

About Sanjay Gandhi National Park

• It is a large protected area near Borivali in the northern part of Mumbai.
• It is situated partly in Thane District and in Mumbai Suburban District of Maharashtra.
• In the early days, the park was known as Krishnagiri National Park. However, in 1974 the name of this park was changed to 'Borivali National Park' and in 1981 to 'Sanjay Gandhi National Park' to pay tribute to late Indian leader Sanjay Gandhi.
• It covers an expansive area of 103 sq.km., making it one of the largest parks in the world located within city limits. 
• The Kanheri caves, which are located within the park, were carved out by Buddhist monks between the 1st century CE and 10th century CE.
  • The caves served as monasteries, temples, schools, and living quarters for the monks. 
  • They also contain some of the finest examples of Buddhist art and architecture in India.
  • They were chiseled out of a massive basaltic rock outcropping.
• Besides, the park also has two artificial lakes, namely Tulsi Lake and Vihar Lake. The two lakes together supply a significant amount of water to South Mumbai.
• Flora: Kadamba, Teak, Karanj, Shisham, and species of acacia, Ziziphus, euphorbias, etc are found in this National Park.
• Fauna:
  • Leopard, sambar, chital, barking deer, rusty spotted cat, hyena, common palm civet, small Indian civet, Indian crested porcupine, Indian hare, Indian flying fox, common langur, and bonnet macaque.
  • The park also boasts 251 species of birds and a large variety of butterflies.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park FAQs

Q1. Where is Sanjay Gandhi National Park located?

Ans. It is situated partly in Thane District and in Mumbai Suburban District of Maharashtra.

Q2. Which ancient site is located within the boundaries of Sanjay Gandhi National Park?

Ans. Kanheri Caves

Q3. What is the total area covered by SGNP?

Ans. It covers an expansive area of 103 sq.km., making it one of the largest parks in the world located within city limits. 

Source: HT

Alcatraz Island Latest News

The US President recently directed his administration to rebuild and enlarge Alcatraz, the infamous prison that has been shuttered for more than 60 years on a remote California island off the coast of San Francisco.

About Alcatraz Island

• Alcatraz Island, also known as'The Rock,' a rocky island in San Francisco Bay, off the coast of California, in the United States. 
• It occupies an area of 22 acres (9 hectares).
• History:
  • Sold in 1849 to the U.S. government, Alcatraz was the site of the first lighthouse (1854) on the coast of California. 
  • In 1859 the first permanent army troops were stationed at Alcatraz. 
  • Two years later it became a military prison.
  • In 1907 it was named the Pacific Branch of the U.S. Military Prison. 
  • The army left the island in 1933. 
  • Alcatraz served as a federal (national) prison from 1934 to 1963. 
  • It housed some of the most dangerous prisoners in the country. 
  • The prison was able to hold more than 330 convicts in cells that were 10 feet by 4.5 feet (3 meters by 1.5 meters). However, it was rare for more than 260 prisoners to occupy the island at one time.
  • Alcatraz was considered to be the most inescapable prison in the United States. 
  • A few inmates did escape the island. However, it is unlikely that they survived the currents of San Francisco Bay.
  • Eventually, the cost of maintaining the prison resulted in its closing in March 1963.
  • In 1972 Alcatraz became part of the newly created Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It is now open to the public and is a popular tourist destination.

Alcatraz Island FAQs

Q1. Why is Alcatraz so famous?

Ans. Alcatraz is famous primarily for being one of the most notorious and secure federal prisons in the United States.

Q2. Where is Alcatraz Island located?

Ans. It is located in San Francisco Bay, off the coast of California, in the United States. 

Q3. Why was Alcatraz shut down?

Ans. The cost of maintaining the prison resulted in its closing in March 1963.

Source: HT

Ghassem Basir Missile Latest News

Iran recently unveiled a new solid-fuel ballistic missile named Ghassem Basir.

About Ghassem Basir Missile

• It is a new medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) developed by Iran.
• It is designed to strike targets located more than 1,200 kilometers away.

Ghassem Basir Missile Features

• The missile’s length is estimated to be approximately 11 meters, with an overall weight of roughly 7 tons.
• The missile's airframe is apparently manufactured using carbon fiber composite materials, reducing structural mass and radar cross-section. 
• The warhead is reported to weigh approximately 500 kilograms. 
• The propulsion system is based on solid fuel, which enables quicker launch readiness and more stable storage conditions compared to liquid-fueled alternatives.
• It can reach speeds up to Mach 12. 
• The guidance system features a thermal imaging sensor, allowing the missile to identify and home in on targets using heat signatures during its terminal flight phase.
• Additionally, the missile is equipped with a maneuverable reentry vehicle (MaRV) that separates from the booster and is designed to decrease drag, reduce radar observability, and improve ballistic efficiency.
• It can reportedly be launched from mobile transporter-erector-launchers (TELs), including platforms that resemble civilian trucks.

Ghassem Basir Missile FAQs

Q1. Which country developed the Ghassem Basir missile?

Ans. Iran

Q2. What type of missile is the Ghassem Basir?

Ans. Medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM)

Q3. What is the reported maximum range of the Ghassem Basir missile?

Ans. Over 1,200 kilometers

Source: NDTV

ECINET Latest News

In a significant step towards streamlining electoral services, the Election Commission of India (ECI) will be launching a single-point digital platform called ECINET.

About ECINET

• It is a single-point digital platform being developed by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
• It is a new user-friendly digital interface for the electors and other stakeholders such as the election officials, political parties, and civil society.
• It will integrate and reorient over 40 of ECI’s existing mobile and web applications.
  • ECINET will subsume existing apps like the Voter Helpline App, Voter Turnout App, cVIGIL, Suvidha 2.0, ESMS, Saksham, and KYC App.
• ECINET will have an aesthetic User Interface (UI) and a simplified User Experience (UX) by providing a singular platform for all electoral-related activities. 
• This move is also designed to alleviate the burden of the users for downloading and navigating multiple apps and remembering different logins.
• ECINET will enable users to access relevant electoral data on their desktops or smartphones. 
• The data on ECINET will be entered solely by the authorized ECI official.
  • It would ensure that the data made available to the stakeholders is as accurate as possible.
  • However, in case of any conflict, the primary data as duly filled in statutory forms will prevail. 
• The data provided through ECINET will be strictly aligned within the legal framework established by the Representation of People Act 1950, 1951, Registration of Electoral Rules 1960, Conduct of Election Rules 1961, and instructions issued by ECI from time to time.
• ECINET is expected to benefit nearly 100 crore electors and the entire electoral machinery comprising over 10.5 lakh Booth Level Officers (BLOs), around 15 Lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by Political Parties, nearly 45 Lakh Polling Officials, 15,597 Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), 4,123 EROs, and 767 District Election Officers (DEOs) across the country.

ECINET FAQs

Q1. What is ECINET?

Ans. A single-point digital platform by the Election Commission of India.

Q2. Who enters data into ECINET?

Ans. The data on ECINET will be entered solely by the authorized ECI official.

Q3. How many existing mobile and web apps of the ECI will ECINET integrate?

Ans. It will integrate and reorient over 40 of ECI’s existing mobile and web applications.

Source: ET

Total Allowable Catch (TAC) Latest News

A recent dispute involving the US and Russia highlighted the geopolitical and environmental implications of TAC enforcement.

What is Total Allowable Catch (TAC) ?

• Total Allowable Catch (TAC) refers to the maximum quantity of a particular fish species that can be legally harvested from a specific water body, such as oceans, seas, or lakes, within a defined period.
• It is a regulatory measure adopted by national governments and international fisheries management agencies to ensure the sustainable exploitation of marine resources.

Why is TAC Important?

• TAC ensures the long-term sustainability of fish stocks by maintaining a minimum viable population size that can replenish naturally each year.
• In the absence of TAC, overfishing can occur, depleting fish populations to the extent that they are unable to recover, thus threatening marine biodiversity, ecosystem balance, and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
• It acts as a scientific tool for preventing resource collapse, especially in commercially valuable species.

Indian Context

• India implements a seasonal fishing ban, which functions as a TAC equivalent of zero for a specified duration to conserve fish stocks during the breeding season.
• The ban is enforced in India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for 61 days annually:
  • East Coast: From April 15 to June 14
  • West Coast: From June 1 to July 31
• This restriction aims to protect spawning fish and support regeneration of marine life during peak monsoon when fish reproduce in large numbers.

Total Allowable Catch (TAC) FAQs

Q1. What does Total Allowable Catch (TAC) mean?
Ans. TAC is the maximum quantity of a specific fish species that can be legally caught in a given period to prevent overfishing.

Q2. Who sets TAC limits?
Ans. TAC is determined by national fisheries authorities or international bodies like FAO or Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs).

Q3. How does TAC help marine ecosystems?
Ans. TAC prevents overexploitation of fish stocks, supporting marine biodiversity and long-term sustainability.

Source: TH