13-May-2025
News In Shorts
News in Shorts
CoPs of BRS Conventions concluded at Geneva
- The recently concluded Conferences of the Parties (CoPs) to the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (BRS COPs) in Geneva, Switzerland, focused on the theme “Make visible the invisible: sound management of chemicals and wastes.”
- These biennial conferences aim to advance global action on hazardous chemicals and waste management, with India being a party to all three conventions.
- The conventions focus on reducing hazardous waste, ensuring the safe management of chemicals, and eliminating persistent organic pollutants (POPs) to protect human health and the environment.
S-400
- The S-400 'Sudarshan Chakra', a long-range air defence system from Russia, is India’s key asset for countering aerial threats like stealth aircraft, missiles, and drones.
- India acquired the system in a ₹35,000 crore deal with Russia in 2018, with three squadrons now operational.
S-400
Group of Friends of Traditional Medicine
- The Sixth Meeting of the Group of Friends of Traditional Medicine (GFTM) was held in Geneva, bringing together global representatives to strengthen traditional medicine in healthcare.
- The meeting supported the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034 and highlighted India's leadership in promoting evidence-based traditional medicine.
- Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha emphasized India’s commitment through initiatives like the National AYUSH Mission and integration of emerging fields such as AI in traditional medicine.
Bharat Bodh Kendra
- Union Minister Manohar Lal inaugurated the ‘Bharat Bodh Kendra’ at the India Habitat Centre (IHC) in New Delhi, a dedicated space to explore India’s cultural heritage through curated books on art, philosophy, spirituality, and history.
- The initiative aims to preserve and promote India's intangible heritage, fostering cultural literacy and heritage education.
- The Kendra offers resources for scholars and public engagement, supporting interdisciplinary research on India’s traditions.