Today in History (June 26^th, 1997)

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (also called Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone) was first published, in London; the book launched the hugely popular series about a boy wizard.

Let’s revise

A) Under which Article of the Indian Constitution the names of the state can be changed?

1. 5
2. 6
3. 7
4. 3

Ans. (4)

B) Recently in new the Teesta River is originated from ____

1. West Bengal
2. Bangladesh
3. Sikkim
4. Assam

Ans. (3)

C) Which Article of the Indian Constitution gives powers to the Parliament to made any treaty with foreign nations?

1. 51
2. 253
3. 12
4. 13

Ans. (2)

D) Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation is the subsidiary organisation of ____

1. SBI
2. PNB
3. RBI
4. NABARD

Ans. (3)

Summary of Today’s News

Indian PM may visit Russia very soon

• The article reports that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Moscow for bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
• This visit, which would be Modi’s first to Russia since the onset of the Ukraine war, is part of the annual summit mechanism that has been on hold for the past few years.
• Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed the preparations for Modi’s visit, although specific dates have not been finalized.
• The visit is tentatively planned for early July, but the Indian government has not officially commented on the details.
• Additionally, Modi is scheduled to visit Russia again in October for the BRICS Summit hosted by Putin.
• This upcoming bilateral meeting is notable as Modi recently canceled his plans to attend the SCO Council meeting in Kazakhstan in early July.

Uttar Pradesh government approved ordinance to deal with exam paper leaks/offenders

• The move follows recent paper leaks in the State Police Constable Recruitment exam and State Public Service Commission (SPSC) tests. Ordinance Approval: The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved an Ordinance to combat question paper leaks and unauthorized methods in exams.
• Penalties: Offenders face jail terms ranging from two years to life imprisonment and fines up to ₹1 crore.
• Scope: The Ordinance applies to exams conducted by the SPSC, Subordinate Service Selection Board, Uttar Pradesh Board, universities, and other designated institutions. It covers recruitment, regularization, promotion, and entrance exams.
• Financial Recovery and Blacklisting: The financial burden due to affected exams will be recovered from those responsible, and involved service providers will be blacklisted and may have their properties confiscated.
• Legislative Process: The Ordinance was proposed instead of a Bill since the Assembly is not in session. After Cabinet approval, it will be fully processed and implemented.

Will Agnipath scheme will be done away with?

1) Agnipath Scheme Overview:
• Announced on June 14, 2022, for recruitment into the armed forces.
• Replaces permanent recruitment with a four-year term for Agniveers.
• Up to 25% of Agniveers can be permanently retained.
2) Election Impact:
• The scheme was a significant issue in the recent general election.
• NDA allies, JD(U) and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), have called for a detailed discussion.
3) Government’s Stance:
• Open to discussions and potential changes to the scheme.
• Defence Ministry’s Department of Military Affairs (DMA) is reviewing feedback from the forces.
4) Current Concerns:
• Shortage of personnel, especially below officer ranks, due to paused recruitment during COVID-19.
• Only 25% of Agniveers are retained, adding to the personnel shortfall.
• Compressed training schedules due to the short four-year term.
5) Proposals for Change:
• Increase intake numbers and permanent recruitment percentage to at least 50%.
• Raise the age limit for entry through the technical route from 21 to 23 years.
6) Feedback and Review:
• Navy and Air Force have compiled feedback; the Army is still in process.
• Recommendations will be compiled by the DMA and sent to the Defence Ministry for review.