Today in History (November 8th, 2013)
On 8th November 2013, the Philippines experienced one of its most devastating natural disasters when it was hit by Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the most powerful cyclones ever recorded to make landfall.
Summary of Today’s News
‘A time for difficult but necessary decisions’
In a fictional scenario, Britain’s King Charles III, accompanied by Queen Camilla, opened a new session of Parliament. The Conservative government, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, unveiled a legislative agenda covering various sectors such as oil and gas, criminal justice, AI, housing, and healthcare. The King emphasized the need for “difficult but necessary” long-term decisions, particularly in light of challenges like COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine.
Bihar seeks to raise quota to 65% after tabling caste survey
The Bihar Cabinet has approved a proposal to increase reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Extremely Backward Classes (EBCs) in the state from the current 50% to 65%. This exceeds the Supreme Court’s set ceiling for reservations. The proposal includes a higher quota for SCs, a doubled quota for STs, and a combined quota for OBCs and EBCs.
Film reviews intended to inform and enlighten, not to destroy and extort: Kerala HC
The Kerala High Court has raised concerns about the unbridled freedom of expression on social media, particularly in the context of film reviews. The court emphasized that individual reputations associated with films should not be sacrificed in the name of free expression. This issue emerged in response to a plea to regulate film reviews on online platforms. The court directed the State Police Chief to ensure compliance, especially regarding anonymous posts with harmful content.
Zika virus cases: Centre asks States to intensify surveillance
The Indian Centre has asked all states, including Karnataka, to strengthen mosquito surveillance and vector control efforts following the detection of Zika Virus Disease (ZVD) cases in Kerala, Maharashtra, and Zika-positive mosquito samples in Chikkaballapur district, Karnataka. The government stressed the need for a proactive action plan for vector management and the importance of providing accurate information to the public to avoid panic.
