According to a recent evaluation by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles deaths worldwide have surged by 43% from 2021-2022. This devastating increase has been linked to decreasing vaccination rates, particularly in low-income countries where the risk of measles-related fatalities is highest. These regions report a vaccination rate of merely 66%, showing no signs of recovery from the decline during the global pandemic.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted through respiratory droplets from the breath, sneeze or cough of an infected individual. The causative agent is a single-stranded, enveloped RNA virus with 1 serotype, a member of the genus Morbillivirus in the Paramyxoviridae family. Humans are the only natural hosts of this virus.
Tamil Nadu Government Files Complaint Against Governor’s Withholding of Re-passed Bills
The SC (Supreme Court) has entertained a complaint lodged by the Government of Tamil Nadu against the Governor, who allegedly continually defers Bills. The Government argues that this act contravenes the rights of the Tamil Nadu people to the benefits of important laws approved by the House. According to the government, the Constitution does not sanction the Governor’s “discretion” to indefinitely withhold re-passed Bills by the State Legislative Assembly.
Israel Designates Lashkar-e-Taiba as Terrorist Group
In the run-up to the 15th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, Israel has designated the Pakistan-based extremist group, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), as a terrorist organization, signaling its dedication to the global fight against terrorism. Israel has also appealed to India to classify Hamas as a terror organization. Many countries, including the USA, UK, European Union, Canada, Australia, and Japan, have already declared Hamas a terrorist entity.
Preserving the Kolkali Art of Kerala
Kolkali, a traditional art form of Kerala’s Malabar region, is celebrated to commemorate St. Thomas’ (a disciple of Jesus Christ) arrival in India in 52 AD. Kolkali is believed to incorporate elements from Kalaripayattu, a martial art practiced in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The performers move in a circle, rhythmically striking sticks to accompanying music which escalates in pitch until reaching its climax. This art form is prevalent among the Dravidians and has greatly influenced folk dance forms in different parts of India.
Revolutionary Online Coaching Platform: SATHEE
The Ministry of Education (MoE) and IIT-Kanpur have unveiled SATHEE, an innovative online platform set to transform entrance exam preparation in India. This initiative seeks to level the playing field for aspirants from varied backgrounds by offering free, accessible coaching. SATHEE uses Artificial Intelligence to personalize learning experiences and provides a comprehensive 45-day crash course for exams like JEE and NEET.