Today in History (June 5th, 1964)
On 5th June 1964, the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. reached preliminary agreement in Geneva to extend their scientific cooperation in space matters to cover biology and medicine.
Summary of Today’s News
The Delhi ordinance is an unabashed power-grab
On May 19, the Union government issued an ordinance to amend the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (NCTD) Act, 1991, effectively nullifying a Supreme Court judgment from May 11. The Court had recognized the elected Government of Delhi’s powers over bureaucratic appointments. The ordinance removes the Delhi Government’s control over services and establishes a National Capital Civil Service Authority, consisting of the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and Principal Secretary Home, to decide on service matters in Delhi. The Authority’s decisions will be made through majority voting, potentially allowing Union-appointed bureaucrats to overrule the Chief Minister. This Ordinance is considered against the federal structure.
Spare the rod and change the law
The Director General of Health Services (DGHS) issued an order reiterating the directive for doctors to prescribe only generic medicines instead of branded drugs. However, many doctors have concerns about the quality of generic medicines in the Indian market due to the lack of appropriate legal and scientific standards. The order fails to address these concerns and threatens doctors for non-compliance. Establishing trust in the quality of generic medicines is crucial before mandating their prescription.
Compulsory library education in 250 schools proposed
Compulsory library education will be introduced for sixth and ninth-grade students in 250 high schools in Madras. The initiative aims to promote reading habits among children and may be expanded to other schools. The new building of the Connemara Public Library was inaugurated, which houses millions of books, periodicals, and newspapers.
Understanding the Kavach system
A train accident in Odisha resulted in numerous casualties, emphasizing the need for safety measures. Kavach, an Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system, has been developed to prevent accidents by ensuring trains adhere to signals and speed limits. It activates brakes automatically and enables communication between station masters and locomotive pilots. Kavach is a cost-effective technology with high safety standards.
