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1. Ocean temperatures in the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) have reached their highest levels in 400 years, leading to significant coral bleaching events from 2016 to 2024. The GBR, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the world's largest coral reef system, stretching 2,300 km and home to diverse marine life including endangered species like the dugong and green turtle. Coral bleaching, first recorded in 1998 and recurring frequently since, results from elevated ocean temperatures and affects two-thirds of the reef. Research indicates that if global warming persists, 70% to 90% of corals worldwide could be threatened. Coral reefs, vital for marine biodiversity, shoreline protection, and medicinal research, face severe risks as less heat-tolerant species are replaced, reducing overall reef diversity and health.
2. The Delhi High Court has mandated that an FIR must be registered in cases of alleged fake encounters, reinforcing legal accountability for police actions. This ruling came in response to a petition challenging orders for an FIR against officers involved in a fatal encounter. Despite an SDM's report indicating self-defense, the court demanded a thorough investigation to verify the authenticity of the encounter versus potential murder. The court referenced the Supreme Court's Lalita Kumari vs. State of Uttar Pradesh (2013) ruling, which stipulates that an FIR must be filed if a complaint suggests a cognizable offence, even if it could lead to a closure report. It also emphasized the need for proper investigations into extrajudicial killings, citing the National Human Rights Commission’s 1997 directive to Chief Ministers.
3. The Madras High Court recently affirmed that an idol in a temple can be treated as a juristic personality in legal terms, during a case concerning the closure of a temple for a decade due to disputes over untouchability issues. The court emphasized the administration's duty to prevent illegal temple closures and uphold worship rights. Acknowledging the idol's juristic personality, the court invoked its parens patriae jurisdiction to safeguard the rights of idols, ensuring that daily rituals and worship continued. This doctrine, meaning "parent of the nation," allows the state or judiciary to act as a guardian for those unable to protect themselves. The concept of a juristic person includes entities such as gods, corporations, and animals, as defined in the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee vs. Som Nath Dass (2000) case. This recognition ensures that temples must remain operational for worship and customary rituals.
4. Recent data from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare highlights the increasing financial burden of Ayushman Bharat, particularly for the elderly. Out of nearly 6.2 crore hospital admissions until January 2024, 57.5 lakh were seniors aged 70 and above, with Rs 9,900 crore (14%) of the Rs 79,200 crore spent on their treatment. Elderly patients often require costly and intensive care, contributing to high treatment costs. State-wise, Maharashtra and Kerala have the highest elderly admission rates, while Tamil Nadu has the lowest. The upcoming expansion of Ayushman Bharat to include all individuals over 70 may add nearly 4 crore new beneficiaries, raising concerns about adequate funding. The scheme aims to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and ensure access to quality healthcare, with a focus on preventive measures and increased budgetary support for sustainability.
5. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that the Assam government did not secure the necessary forest clearance for non-forestry activities in the Sonai-Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary. The Ministry emphasized that approval from the central government, required under Section 2(1)(ii) of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, was not sought. The Sonai-Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, a vital habitat for species like the one-horned rhinoceros, forms part of the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong landscape. The Ministry recommended that the NGT address encroachment issues and unauthorized constructions. The Forest Conservation Act regulates forest land diversion, aiming to control deforestation and promote sustainable management.