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1. Antarctica is experiencing record-breaking deep-winter heatwaves, with temperatures rising up to 28°C above normal. This phenomenon is caused by the weakening of the polar vortex, reduced sea ice, high global warming rates, and the warming Southern Ocean. The consequences include accelerated ice melt, contributing to rising sea levels and threatening coastal populations. It also disrupts ocean circulation, impacting climate regulation, and disrupts local ecosystems, endangering species like polar bears and penguins. Additionally, the reduction in ice cover decreases the Earth’s albedo, creating a feedback loop that exacerbates global warming.
2. SJVN Green Energy Limited (SGEL) has launched the 90 MW Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project, located on the Narmada River in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh. This project is the largest floating solar park in India and aims to cut carbon emissions by 230,000 tons, aiding India’s net-zero goals by 2070. Additionally, it will help conserve water by reducing evaporation. As of June 2024, India's solar energy capacity stands at 85.47 GW, contributing to a total renewable energy capacity of 195.01 GW, which includes wind, biomass, small hydropower, waste-to-energy, and large hydropower.
3. Researchers studying microorganisms in extreme environments, such as microwave ovens, have uncovered fascinating insights into their evolutionary adaptations. Dominant microorganisms in these settings predominantly belong to the Bacillus, Micrococcus, and Staphylococcus genera, which are commonly found on human skin and frequently touched surfaces. Additionally, bacteria linked to food-borne illnesses, including Klebsiella and Brevundimonas, were also identified in household microwaves. Notably, laboratory microwave ovens were found to contain the greatest genetic diversity of bacteria. Despite the microwave's function of using electromagnetic waves to generate heat and inactivate most microorganisms in food, certain bacteria can thrive in these conditions. This research sheds light on the resilience and adaptability of microorganisms, including extremophiles that survive in harsh environments such as hydrothermal vents and sub-zero Antarctic ice.
4. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that the Assam government did not obtain the necessary forest clearance for non-forestry activities within the Sonai-Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary. This clearance, required under Section 2(1)(ii) of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, mandates central government approval for any diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes. The MoEFCC highlighted that no such proposal was submitted, pointing out that these activities necessitate prior central approval. The Sonai-Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Assam, India, is crucial for its diverse wildlife, including the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, and is part of the larger Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong landscape. The Ministry has advised the NGT to address encroachment issues and emphasized that state governments have the authority to manage unauthorized constructions or illegal settlements.
5. Recent data from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reveals that the Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance Scheme (PM-JAY) faces increasing financial strain due to the rising healthcare needs of the elderly. Out of 6.2 crore hospital admissions until January 2024, 57.5 lakh were for individuals aged 70 and above, with Rs 79,200 crore spent over six years. The cost of treatment for elderly patients is notably high due to chronic conditions. The expansion of the scheme to include all seniors over 70 may add nearly 4 crore new beneficiaries, raising concerns about the adequacy of the current Rs 7,300 crore budget. Ayushman Bharat aims to enhance Universal Health Coverage by providing up to Rs 5 lakh per family per year for hospital care, but sustainability and increased funding remain critical challenges.