In a recent development, the government of Jammu & Kashmir has dismissed four employees after identifying them as potential threats to state security. These dismissals were carried out under the authority granted by Article 311(2)(C) of the Constitution. As per Article 311 (2), members of the civil service or those holding civil posts, whether at the Union or State level, cannot be dismissed, removed, or downgraded in rank unless an inquiry is held where these individuals have had the chance to defend themselves against the charges laid upon them.
There are certain exceptions to this rule as outlined in Article 311 (2):
Exceptions to Article 311 (2)
A person may be dismissed, removed or demoted for conduct leading to a criminal conviction. In addition, if the dismissing authority finds that it is not feasible to hold an inquiry for any reason which must be documented in writing, such action may be taken. In extreme cases, where the President or the Governor is convinced the security of the state could be jeopardized by holding an inquiry, such an exercise may be deemed unnecessary.
Digital Mapping of Indian Cities
India’s mapping ecosystem is set to undergo a transformation with the strategic partnership between Genesys International, a major 3D mapping company, and Survey of India (SOI), the national authority for surveying and mapping. This union aims to launch the ‘3D Digital Twin Mapping Program’ to bring a revolution in India’s map content. The objective aligns with India’s National Geospatial Policy 2022, promoting self-dependency in geospatial data.
This joint venture will give access to novel data layers such as high-precision 3D data, digital terrain models, digital surface models, and ortho imagery. The initiative will utilize Genesys’ navigable maps of India and its array of sensors. It will also gain access to data from SOI’s CORS network which spans 902 stations across all states, delivering real-time, accurate positioning data.
Advancements in Ayurveda: Ayurveda Gyan Naipunya Initiative
The Central Council for Research in Ayurveda Sciences (CCRAS), functioning under the Ministry of Ayush, has launched the “Ayurveda Gyan Naipunya Initiative” (AGNI). The purpose of AGNI is to encourage evidence-based practices within Ayurveda and facilitate scientific validation of treatments and methodologies. CCRAS has also initiated programs like SPARK, PG-STAR, and SMART to stimulate research in Ayurveda institutions, reflecting the emerging need for evidence-backed research to tackle contemporary health challenges with Ayurvedic solutions.
The BDS Movement in Light of Israel-Hamas Conflict
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has brought the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement back into the global spotlight. The BDS movement emerged in 2005 from a coalition of over 170 Palestinian groups with the objective of garnering worldwide support for Palestinian rights.
Inspired by the successful South African anti-apartheid campaign, BDS utilizes nonviolent tactics to pressurize Israel into compliance with international law. Key demands of the movement include ending occupation and colonization, ensuring equality for Palestinian citizens, and upholding the rights of Palestinian refugees as per UN Resolution 194. This resolution asserts that refugees who wish to return to their homes must be allowed to do so, and those opting not to return should receive compensation for their property.