International News

European Ports Alliance Launched

• The European Union recently inaugurated the "European Ports Alliance" to streamline efforts in combating drug smuggling and infiltration by criminal groups at ports.
• This initiative, launched at Belgium's Antwerp port, aims to foster collaboration among EU interior ministers and representatives from 16 EU ports and sea transport organizations.
• The main focus is on addressing the escalating issue of drug trafficking, particularly cocaine from Latin America, entering Europe through major ports like Antwerp.
• Criminal groups, often with international ties, engage in bribery and coercion to facilitate drug smuggling. The coordinated efforts seek to curb violence and establish a more secure environment in European ports.

Guidance on Healthcare AI Ethics

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has released comprehensive guidelines on the ethical considerations and governance of AI in healthcare, specifically addressing multimodal AI like ChatGPT.
• The guidelines delineate five broad applications of large multimodal models (LMMs) in health, ranging from diagnosis and clinical care to scientific research and drug development.
• This marks a crucial step in navigating the ethical challenges posed by the rapid advancements in AI technology, especially in healthcare applications.

State news

Donations of Cadaveric Bones in Tamil Nadu

• The pace of cadaveric bone donations in Tamil Nadu remains sluggish despite improvements in overall awareness of organ donations.
• From 2018 to 2023, there were only 248 bone donations, with major bone banks receiving a limited number.
• Initiatives like the bone bank at Cancer Institute (WIA), Adyar, established in 2019, aim to address this issue.
• However, challenges persist, and efforts are needed to enhance awareness and encourage more cadaveric bone donations.

Kolam Tribes

• The Central government has extended basic facilities to the endangered Kolam tribe under the Jan Jati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyan.
• This initiative focuses on improving the health and education of the Kolam tribe, listed as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.
• The scheme includes enhancements in road connectivity, internal roads, provision of potable drinking water, electricity, LPG gas stoves, and cylinders to uplift the living conditions of these tribal communities.

Economy News

Kerala’s Lawsuit Against Centre Seeks Relief from Borrowing Limits

• The state of Kerala has filed a lawsuit challenging the recent actions by the Centre limiting states' borrowing capacities.
• Under Article 131 of the Indian Constitution, Kerala seeks relief from the imposition of borrowing limits exceeding ₹26,000 crore.
• The state argues that these measures violate federalism and adversely impact its economy, hindering fiscal policymaking and budgetary management.

Awards News

2024 Padma Awards

• The prestigious Padma Awards, India's highest civilian honors, have been announced for 2024.
• The list includes 132 awardees across three categories, with 30 women and 8 non-resident or foreign awardees.
• The Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest award, is conferred upon distinguished personalities, including former Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and renowned dancer Padma Subrahmanyam.
• The Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri categories recognize outstanding contributions across diverse fields.

Over 1100 Personnel Receive Gallantry, Service Medals

• The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced Gallantry and Service medals for 1132 personnel across various services ahead of India's 75th Republic Day celebrations.
• These awards acknowledge brave and distinguished service in maintaining security and public safety.
• The categorization includes President's Medal for Gallantry, Medal for Gallantry, President's Medal for Distinguished Service, and Medal for Meritorious Service.

Science and Technology

Havisure Vaccine

• Indian Immunologicals Ltd (IIL) has launched Havisure, India's first indigenously developed Hepatitis A vaccine.
• Hepatitis A, a highly contagious liver viral infection, poses significant public health challenges.
• Havisure, recommended for routine immunization in children, provides an effective preventive measure.
• IIL, a subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), aims to address public health concerns related to Hepatitis A.

Soil-Powered Fuel Cell

• Scientists at Northwestern University in the USA have developed a novel fuel cell that harvests energy from microbes in the soil.
• This sustainable technology, roughly the size of a book, has the potential to fuel underground sensors for green infrastructure and precision agriculture.
• Unlike traditional batteries using toxic chemicals, this soil-powered microbial fuel cell operates by harnessing electricity from bacteria, offering a renewable alternative.

Sports News

Tamil Nadu Player Dhanush Wins Gold in Kelo India Weightlifting

• In the ongoing sixth season of the Gelo India Youth Games in Chennai, Coimbatore, Trichy, and Madurai, Tamil Nadu player Dhanush secured a gold medal in the men's kilo weight division competition.
• Lifting a total of 225 kg, Dhanush demonstrated exceptional performance, showcasing the talent and athleticism present in the youth sports scene.