• 23 Nov 2024

Irrigation Department Project of UP

Why in News?

Recently, the Irrigation Department of Uttar Pradesh has initiated the process regarding the four-laning (widening) the road along the Agra Canal.

Key Points

• Project Overview:
  • Objective: The Uttar Pradesh Irrigation Department aims to widen the road along the Agra Canal into a four-lane stretch, facilitating smoother traffic flow.
  • Proposal: A memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Faridabad Metropolitan Development Authority (FMDA) has been submitted to formalize the project, estimated to cost Rs 278 crore.
• Status and Challenges:
  • Despite government approval, progress has stalled due to land ownership formalities.
  • Formal permission from the UP Irrigation Department is required as the department owns the land.
  • A Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared, and the FMDA's approval is pending for signing the MOU to initiate tenders.
• Benefits:
  • Enhanced access to Greater Faridabad, Noida, Delhi, Ballabhgarh, and the upcoming Greenfield Expressway to Jewar Airport.
  • The widened road will ease congestion on the existing two-lane stretch.
• Significance:
  • This project addresses long-standing demands for better infrastructure, promising enhanced regional connectivity and economic growth.

World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW)

Why in News?

On the occasion of the World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW), Banaras Hindu University organised an awareness programme.

• The aim is to educate patients and MBBS students about the correct use and importance of antimicrobial drugs.

Key Points

• Overview of WAAW:
  • World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is observed annually from 18^th to 24th November to raise awareness about antimicrobial resistance.
  • AMR occurs when microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi evolve and become resistant to antimicrobial medicines, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risks of disease spread, severe illness, and death.
  • Experts stressed that antimicrobial resistance contributes to approximately 300,000 deaths annually and clarified that not every fever is typhoid or requires antibiotics.
• Interactive Activities:
  • Students used a street play to effectively convey the message of AMR awareness to the audience.
  • Proper handwashing techniques were demonstrated emphasizing the role of infection prevention in combating AMR.
• Significance:
  • The initiative marked a crucial step in raising awareness and educating the public about the dangers of antibiotic resistance and promoting sustainable practices to address the issue.

Forest Fire & Landmine Explosions in Jammu and Kashmir

Why in News?

In Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, a forest fire along the Line of Control (LoC) triggered the explosion of nearly half a dozen landmines, which were part of an anti-infiltration obstacle system.

Key Points

• Explosions Triggered by Forest Fire:
  • The explosions were triggered by a forest fire that spread to Indian territory in the Krishna Ghati sector, Mendhar sub-division.
  • The fire began on the other side of the border before spreading to Indian forward areas.
  • Authorities are investigating the cause, with speculation of deliberate attempts from across the border to damage India’s anti-infiltration obstacle system.
• Casualties and Control Measures:
  • No casualties have been reported and efforts to control the flames are actively ongoing.
• Army Response:
  • The Indian Army stationed along the LoC is on high alert to prevent potential infiltration attempts by terrorists.

Line of Control

• The Line of Control (LoC) emerged from the 1948 ceasefire line negotiated by the United Nations (UN) after the Kashmir War.
• It was designated as the LoC in 1972, following the Shimla Agreement between the two countries.
• LoC is demarcated upto the Siachen Glacier (Point NJ9842)- the world's highest battlefield.
• LoC is delineated on a map signed by the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of both armies and has the international sanctity of a legal agreement.

Investigation into Allegations of “Ill-Treatment” of Civilians

Why in News?

The Army initiated an investigation into allegations of “ill-treatment” of civilians during search operations for militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district.

Key Points

• Launch of Operation:
  • The Rashtriya Rifles initiated an operation in the Kishtwar Sector, based on specific intelligence about terrorist movements.
  • The White Knight Corps confirmed the operation and ongoing monitoring of the terrorist group.
• Allegations of Civilian Ill-Treatment:
  • Allegations surfaced regarding the ill-treatment of four men from Kuath village, who were reportedly called to an Army camp.
  • Sources suggest the allegations include accusations of torture in custody.
• The Army announced an investigation to verify the claims and assured necessary follow-up actions.
• Past Allegations:
  • In December 2023 three civilians were allegedly killed in custody in connection with a terror attack in Poonch.
  • Following an inquiry, lapses in personnel conduct were reported, and the involved Army unit was relocated out of the district.
  • This situation underscores ongoing tensions and challenges in managing counter-terrorism operations while addressing allegations of human rights violations.

The Rashtriya Rifles

• It is a counter-insurgency force in India, formed in 1990, to deal with internal security in the Jammu and Kashmir region.
• They maintain public order by drawing powers from the Armed Forces (Jammu and Kashmir) Special Powers Act, 1990 (AFSPA).
• The force operates under the Ministry of Defence. The Indian Army describes RR as their "specialist elite force to combat insurgency".
• The RR is headquartered at Northern Command in Udhampur and commanded by an Additional Director General of Rashtriya Rifles (ADG RR).