Today in History (November 21st, 1620)
On 21st November 1620, 41 male passengers aboard the Mayflower signed the Mayflower Compact before landing at Plymouth, Massachusetts. This historic agreement marked their commitment to abide by the laws of the new government they intended to establish in the New World.
Summary of Today’s News
Delhi govt. implements work-from-home policy amid severe pollution.
Delhi’s toxic air has led to government action, with offices operating at 50% capacity except essential services like hospitals and transport. Schools in Delhi and nearby cities shifted online for Classes 9-11. Stage-IV GRAP restrictions were enforced as the AQI remained ‘severe’ at 419, slightly improving from 460. Stubble burning contributed 19.82% to PM2.5 levels. Environment Minister Gopal Rai criticized BJP-led states for inadequate pollution measures and urged PM Modi to address North India’s pollution crisis.
D’Cunha committee calls for probe into ventilator purchase during pandemic
A commission led by retired judge John Michael D’Cunha investigated alleged irregularities in COVID-19 procurements during Karnataka’s BJP government. It recommended a detailed inquiry into ventilator supply under PM Cares by the Lokayukta. The Karnataka Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd. (KSMSCL) purchased 130 ventilators on March 22, 2020, despite receiving an equal number from PM Cares. KSMSCL later received 3,503 ventilators, and also procured 1,538 from seven agencies for ₹10.65 crore. Short supply of ventilators, varying costs (₹5 lakh to ₹16.25 lakh), and unexplained discrepancies were noted.
Clearing the air on Delhi’s pollution crisis.
In 1984, M.C. Mehta filed a PIL to combat air pollution, but progress has been limited due to rapid economic and population growth. Despite initiatives like the National Clean Air Programme (2019), air quality remains poor. The Supreme Court has emphasized the right to a clean environment and questioned the effectiveness of current measures. Vehicular emissions and traffic congestion are major contributors to pollution, and regional solutions, including proper funding for action plans, are needed. Lessons from Beijing’s approach, including smog forecasting and efficient public transport, can help.
India, Australia firm up renewable energy partnership
India and Australia signed a Renewable Energy Partnership (REP) focusing on solar energy, green hydrogen, and energy storage. The partnership, along with discussions on defense, security, and economic cooperation, was part of their second annual conclave at the G20 summit. The Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) aims to boost trade, following the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) of 2022, which increased mutual trade by 40%. Both leaders emphasized dialogue for conflict resolution and commitment to peace in the Indo-Pacific.
