Why did the Supreme Court strike down ‘casteist’ provisions in India’s prison manuals? | Explained

Why did the Supreme Court strike down ‘casteist’ provisions in India’s prison manuals? | Explained

The story so far: The Supreme Court on October 3 declared that caste-based division of labour in prisons is “unconstitutional” marking a significant milestone in addressing institutional biases entrenched in India’s correctional system. Accordingly, a three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud struck down several provisions in State prison manuals that reinforced … Read more

Why is SEBI’s credibility under a cloud? | Explained

Why is SEBI’s credibility under a cloud? | Explained

The headquarters of the Securities and Exchange Board of India in Mumbai on April 19, 2023. | Photo Credit: Reuters The story so far: Over a year and a half after U.S.-based Hindenburg Research alleged corporate malfeasance, stock price manipulation and breach of minimum public shareholding norms against the Adani Group of companies, the firm … Read more

Will local job quotas pass the legal test? | Explained

Will local job quotas pass the legal test? | Explained

‘Local candidate’ is defined as anyone born in Karnataka, domiciled for at least 15 years in the State, and who can read, write and speak Kannada. File. Image for representation. | Photo Credit: AP The story so far: The Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries, Factories and Other Establishments Bill, 2024, which … Read more

What is the UV index: Levels and tanning risks explained

What is the UV index: Levels and tanning risks explained

Getty Images Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is emitted by the Sun and penetrates the Earth’s atmosphere. Some UV radiation is essential for our wellbeing, and the sun’s rays provide warmth and light. But balance is key – UV exposure can also cause dangerous skin damage. Is UV dangerous? We need to control our exposure, says Prof … Read more

How were the new Election Commissioners selected? | Explained

How were the new Election Commissioners selected? | Explained

India’s Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar speaks as Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and S. S. Sandhu look on during a press conference in New Delhi, on March 16. | Photo Credit: REUTERS The story so far: The President has appointed Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, both retired IAS officers, as Election Commissioners (ECs) to … Read more

 Who will benefit from the new CAA Rules? | Explained

 Who will benefit from the new CAA Rules? | Explained

A participant holds a placard during a protest in Bengaluru on March 13, 2024 against the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA). | Photo Credit: AFP The story so far: On March 11, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) notified the Citizenship Amendment Rules, 2024. The notification enabled the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) … Read more

What is the HbA1C test and why is it used to check for diabetes? | Explained

What is the HbA1C test and why is it used to check for diabetes? | Explained

India is estimated to have 10.13 crore people with diabetes, and another 13.6 crore people who are pre-diabetic, according to a nationwide study published in 2023. This apart, over 35% of Indians suffer from hypertension and nearly 40% from abdominal obesity, both of which are risk factors for diabetes. India accounts for 17% of all … Read more

The legal dispute over Varanasi, Mathura mosques | Explained

The legal dispute over Varanasi, Mathura mosques | Explained

Devotees line up to enter the Kashi Vishwanath temple next to the Gyanvapi mosque (background) in Varanasi on February 3, 2024. | Photo Credit: AFP The story so far: The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, is once again in focus, albeit in a context in which its objectives are being ignored. Civil suits … Read more