Today’s in History (May 22nd, 1972)
Richard Nixon arrived in Moscow, the first visit by a U.S. president to the Soviet Union.
Summary of Today’s News
Understanding a human pangenome map
The genome is the complete set of genetic material in an organism, consisting of 23 pairs of chromosomes. Each chromosome is a continuous strand of DNA made up of nucleotides (A, T, G, and C). Genome sequencing is the process of determining the precise order and arrangement of these nucleotides in the genome. It involves breaking down the DNA, sequencing the fragments, and assembling them back together. Genome sequencing has revolutionized various fields, allowing scientists to understand genetic diseases, develop targeted therapies, study evolution, and more.
One in seven Indian primary schools run by a lone teacher
The Right to Education Act, 2009 in India guarantees free and compulsory education for children between the ages of six to fourteen as a fundamental right. However, there is a concerning issue of millions of Indian children studying in single-teacher schools, which is considered a violation of this act. The presence of such schools indicates a lack of infrastructure and resources, resulting in a compromised quality of education.
SBI’s Uturn: no ID card, slip to swap ₹2,000 notes
The State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest bank, has withdrawn its decision to require a slip for the exchange of ₹2,000 banknotes following public backlash. The bank now allows individuals to exchange ₹2,000 denomination banknotes up to ₹20,000 without the need for a requisition slip. Furthermore, no identity proof is required during the exchange process. The decision was communicated to SBI branches through a letter from the SBI Chief General Manager (Operations).
Manipur mayhem, a manufactured schism
Article 371C of the Indian Constitution provides a special provision for the state of Manipur. The President has the authority to issue an order that establishes a committee within the Legislative Assembly, consisting of members elected from the Hill Areas of Manipur. This order may also include modifications to the government’s rules of business and the legislative assembly’s rules of procedure. The Governor is required to submit an annual report to the President on the administration of the Hill Areas, and the executive power of the Union can be used to give directions to the state regarding the administration of these areas. The term “Hill Areas” refers to areas that the President can declare as such through an order.
