Rapid Fire Current Affairs | 05 Jun 2023

Transforming Healthcare and Celebrating Excellence

During the Silver Jubilee event of Amrita Hospital in Kochi, Kerala, the Union Home minister inaugurated two state-of-the-art research centers at the Amritapuri and Kochi campuses of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, aimed at advancing medical science and technology. The event highlighted the remarkable progress made in medical education infrastructure and the significant impact of the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, which provides free treatment to over 60 crore poor individuals. Notably, the number of medical colleges has seen a substantial increase from 387 to 648, and the establishment of 22 new All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) institutions has further expanded access to quality healthcare across the country. The Minister applauded Amrita Hospital for its exceptional achievements in medical excellence and research, including pioneering milestones such as India's first micro-blood stem cell transplant, the largest number of high-precision robotic liver transplants, and the country's first 3D printing lab.

Punjab-Himachal Pradesh Clash Over Shanan Hydropower Project

The lease on the 110 MW Shanan hydropower project located on Uhl river (Tributary of Beas), a British-era installation located in Jogindernagar, Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, is set to expire in March 2024, sparking a potential conflict between Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. The Himachal Pradesh Government has made it clear that it will not renew or extend the lease, demanding that the project be handed over to the state upon expiration. However, Punjab intends to retain control of the project and is prepared to resort to legal measures. Uhl river originates from the Thamsar glacier (in Himachal Pradesh) which is situated in the Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas and flows through the Uhl valley passing Bada Gran and Barot village of Himachal Pradesh. Uhl river is the water basin of the Beas river. Uhl river is also known as Tiun Nala and the Uhl valley is also famous as Chohar valley. After crossing the Chohar valley, Uhl river meets the Beas river 5 km downstream from Pandoh.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Enduring Legacy

Commemorating the 350^th year of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Coronation Day, the Indian Prime Minister highlighted the significance of this historic event in the context of India's present era. He emphasised that Shivaji Maharaj's coronation symbolises a chapter of immense importance, characterised by self-governance, good governance, and prosperity, which continue to inspire the nation.

Shivaji Maharaj's coronation also embodied the spirit of Swarajya (self-rule) and nationalism, with a strong focus on upholding the unity and integrity of India. To honour this legacy, the Indian Navy replaced the flag representing British rule with the emblem of Shivaji Maharaj, symbolising India's maritime pride.

He was born on 19^th February, 1630 at Shivneri Fort in District Pune in the present-day state of Maharashtra. Shivaji abolished the Jagirdari System and replaced it with Ryotwari System. He took on the titles of Chhatrapati, Shakakarta, Kshatriya Kulavantas and Haindava Dharmodhhaarak. He was a unique leader in history who demonstrated both military prowess and exceptional governance skills. He conquered forts and defeated enemies at a young age, showcasing his military leadership, while simultaneously implementing reforms in public administration to establish good governance.

Read more: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Government of India Imposes Stock Limits on Tur and Urad Dal

In a move aimed at curbing hoarding, preventing unscrupulous speculation, and enhancing affordability for consumers, the Government of India has implemented an order imposing stock limit on tur dal and urad dal.

The Removal of Licensing Requirements, Stock Limits and Movement Restrictions on Specified Foodstuffs (Amendment) Order, 2023, which came into effect on June 2, 2023, applies to wholesalers, retailers, big chain retailers, millers, and importers. This order establishes stock limits until October 31, 2023, for all States and Union Territories.

The prescribed stock limits under this order are as follows: wholesalers can hold up to 200 metric tons (MT) of each pulse individually, retailers are limited to 5 MT, big chain retailers can have 5 MT at each retail outlet and 200 MT at the depot, millers are allowed to hold the last three months of production or 25% of their annual installed capacity (whichever is higher), and importers are prohibited from holding imported stock beyond 30 days from the date of Customs clearance. To ensure compliance, legal entities are required to declare their stock positions on the Department of Consumer Affairs' portal within 30 days of the notification.

Read more: Agricultural Marketing Reforms