Synopsis: With worsening trajectory of climate change parameters across the world, an increased incidence of zoonotic diseases is also being witnessed. What are the key drivers of increased incidence of zoonotic viruses? Viruses account for almost 50% of new and emerging diseases. Since mid-20th century about 75% of all emerging viruses are zoonotic, they spill… Continue reading COP26, Covid & our species
Author: Luv Sharma
The Court’s order on Pegasus still falls short
Synopsis: Instead of constituting a committee to inquire into the allegations made in the Pegasus case, SC could have made use of other prerogative powers available to it. Introduction On October 27, the Supreme Court of India appointed an independent committee to inquire into the Pegasus case. But the court’s order still falls short of… Continue reading The Court’s order on Pegasus still falls short
How to create a truly digital public
Synopsis: Technological solutions for social services should be more citizen centric. At present these solutions are more suitable for elite class instead of marginalised class. Introduction Government has recognized the power of technology in ensuring inclusion at a massive scale. Technology is being used for social services such as receiving vaccines and rations to paying for cooking gas… Continue reading How to create a truly digital public
Run-up to COP26: Wonder rice may help reduce emissions, offer good yield
Contents1 What is the news?2 Why were new varieties developed?3 What are key features of the new varieties being developed?4 At which locations the newly developed varieties are being tested? What is the news? Scientists at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in Manila have come up with new DSR rice varieties. Must Read: What… Continue reading Run-up to COP26: Wonder rice may help reduce emissions, offer good yield
Carbon removal and phasing out of coal
Synopsis: Possibility of phasing out coal, challenges involved and major issues with carbon removal technologies. Contents1 Why phasing out of coal is necessary?2 What are the global coal CO2 emission trends?3 Who are the major consumers of coal?4 What are some issues with the carbon removal technologies? Why phasing out of coal is necessary? Among… Continue reading Carbon removal and phasing out of coal
SC Judgment on Pegasus spyware case – Explained, pointwise
For 7PM Editorial Archives click HERE → Contents1 Introduction2 What is the rationale behind this move by SC?3 What are SC’s views on considerations of national security?4 What are SC’s views on surveillance vis-a-vis privacy of an individual?5 What is the significance of the SC’s order?6 What are the challenges before the expert committee?7 What is the way… Continue reading SC Judgment on Pegasus spyware case – Explained, pointwise
Why India shouldn’t sign on to net zero
Synopsis: India should not declare a net zero target. Instead it should stake a claim to a fair share of global carbon budget. Contents1 Introduction2 Why the timeline to reach net zero emission reduction target is flawed?3 4 Why India must not declare a net zero target?5 Why India must claim its fair share of… Continue reading Why India shouldn’t sign on to net zero
The perils of natural experiments and randomized controlled trials
Synopsis: The RCTs that have swept economics and won Nobel recognition remain rather unreliable in comparison with clinical trials. We should be sceptical about the policy conclusions of randomized control trials used in economics and social sciences. Introduction Randomized Clinical Trials have revolutionized medicine and led to many life-saving treatments, drugs and vaccines. But, we… Continue reading The perils of natural experiments and randomized controlled trials
COP 26: Greening of polar ice should top agenda; here’s why
Synopsis: Greening of the poles must be a top priority for the upcoming COP26 meeting Contents1 Introduction2 What is the reason behind greening of polar ice?3 Why is Arctic region is getting warmer?4 What is the impact of greening?5 How is Antarctic region being impacted by greening of polar ice?6 What is the way forward?… Continue reading COP 26: Greening of polar ice should top agenda; here’s why
Explained: Climate targets set, missed
Synopsis: Response of the developed world to the climate change issue, the erosion of Kyoto protocol and impact of three decade long climate diplomacy in addressing challenges related to climate change. Contents1 Introduction2 How has developed world responded to the problem of climate change?3 What were the objections of developed nations against the Kyoto protocol?4… Continue reading Explained: Climate targets set, missed
