TIT
BITS :
1 Recent reports from
UN-Water and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) reveal alarming trends in the
degradation of freshwater ecosystems. The findings underscore the urgent need
for enhanced water management strategies and increased global commitment to
protect and restore freshwater resources.
2. Recently, the Rub
al-Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, gained attention after a tragic
incident involving two men from Telangana. They perished in this inhospitable
desert after their GPS malfunctioned, their vehicle ran out of fuel, and they
lost all means of communication. This event underscores the extreme dangers
associated with one of the world’s most perilous deserts
3. The government has
banned 156 fixed-dose combination (FDC) drugs, including popular medicines such
as Cheston Cold and Foracet, used for cold and fever and pain respectively.
4. The Supreme Court
upheld the July 1, 2024 notification issued by the Ministry of Ayush, omitting
Rule 170 of the Drug and Cosmetic Rules, 1945 which deals with the prohibition
of advertisements of Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani drugs without the licensing
authority's approval.
5. A low
female labour force participation rate (FLFPR) has been the focus of the bulk
of the discussion around women's empowerment. According to the Economic Survey 2023-24, against
a world average of 47.8% (2022), the FLFPR in India was 37% (2022-23).
6. The Himachal Pradesh
Assembly passed a Bill increasing the minimum age of marriage for women from 18
to 21 in order to support gender equality and higher education.