World Civil Defence Day 2025: Date, Importance, and Theme
Observed annually on March 1st, World Civil Defence Day aims to raise awareness about civil protection, disaster preparedness, and emergency response. Established by the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO), the day underscores the vital role of civil defence forces in ensuring public safety during natural and man-made disasters. The theme for 2025 is “Civil Defence, Guarantee of Security for the Population”, highlighting the significance of effective disaster management, community involvement, and proactive measures to protect people from potential hazards.
Hollywood Legend Gene Hackman Passes Away at 95
Gene Hackman, the versatile Oscar-winning actor, was found dead at his Santa Fe home on February 27, 2025, at the age of 95. He was alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog. Hackman, known for iconic films like “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven,” left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Initial autopsy reports showed no signs of external trauma. Tributes from luminaries such as Francis Ford Coppola and Viola Davis have poured in, celebrating Hackman’s remarkable career and enduring legacy.
Zero Discrimination Day 2025: Date, Theme, and Importance
Observed annually on March 1st, Zero Discrimination Day advocates for everyone’s right to live with dignity and without discrimination. Established by UNAIDS, this day raises awareness about discriminatory practices based on gender, race, age, disability, or other factors. The 2025 theme, “We Stand Together”, highlights the significance of unity and collective action in fighting discrimination. The day encourages individuals and communities to support inclusion and fairness, promoting respect and equal opportunities for all.
Telangana’s Reservation Bill: Increasing Quotas for Backward Classes
The Congress party in Telangana is set to introduce a Bill to increase reservations for Backward Classes from 25% to 42%, raising the total reservation percentage in local bodies, public employment, and education to 62%. This move follows the ‘Kamareddy Declaration’ signed by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy before the 2023 elections. However, the proposal may face legal challenges due to the Supreme Court’s 50% reservation ceiling.
Debate on Lifetime Ban for Convicted Politicians in India
The central government has opposed a plea in the Supreme Court seeking a lifetime ban on convicted politicians, defending the six-year disqualification period established by the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The government argues that imposing a lifetime ban falls solely within the domain of Parliament and that limiting the duration of penalties ensures deterrence while avoiding undue harshness. The plea, filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay, seeks a lifetime ban on convicted politicians and the swift resolution of criminal cases against MPs and MLAs.
NASA’s PUNCH Mission: Exploring the Sun’s Atmosphere
NASA’s Polarimetry to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere (PUNCH) mission, launching on February 28, 2025, aims to study the Sun’s atmosphere and its influence on space weather. The mission will deploy four suitcase-sized satellites into Low Earth Orbit to create a comprehensive view of the Sun’s corona and its transition to the solar wind. By understanding how the Sun’s outer atmosphere becomes solar wind, scientists hope to improve predictions of space weather events that can impact Earth.