Daily News Analysis Report: 14 October 2024

Precision Medicine in India

Precision medicine is transforming healthcare by customizing treatment based on individual genetic profiles. In India, this approach is gaining momentum, especially after the Human Genome Project’s completion. The Indian precision medicine market is projected to grow significantly, contributing to the national bioeconomy. However, regulatory challenges persist, necessitating stronger oversight to protect individual rights and maximize benefits.

Global Hunger Index 2024

India ranked 105th out of 127 countries in the Global Hunger Index, indicating serious hunger levels. The report highlights alarming statistics: 13.7% of the population is undernourished, with significant child stunting and wasting rates. Despite government initiatives like the Mid Day Meal Programme and Poshan Tracker, more robust measures are needed to address these issues effectively.

Rupee Hits an All-Time Low Against the US Dollar

The Indian rupee’s depreciation to an all-time low of 84 against the US dollar is attributed to factors like rising crude oil prices and foreign investment outflows to China. This depreciation impacts imports, inflation, and investor sentiment. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) employs measures like forex market intervention and interest rate adjustments to stabilize the currency.

Nuclear Disarmament

The Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Nihon Hidankyo underscores ongoing global efforts for nuclear disarmament. The humanitarian and environmental consequences of nuclear weapons necessitate international cooperation for disarmament treaties like the NPT and TPNW. Despite geopolitical challenges, incremental progress remains crucial for global peace.

Nobel Prize in Medicine 2024: Discovery of MicroRNA

Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun received the Nobel Prize for their discovery of microRNA, which plays a critical role in gene regulation. This discovery opens new avenues for understanding diseases and developing treatments, highlighting the importance of continued research in molecular biology.

News In Short

• Aurora: Auroras were captured at India’s highest observatory in Hanle, Ladakh.
• National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR): Raised concerns about state funding for madrasas unless they adhere to the Right to Education Act.
• Symbol Allocation to Political Parties: New rules introduced by the Election Commission of India for symbol allocation to Registered Unrecognised Political Parties.
• UNIFIL Mission: UN peacekeepers were reportedly fired upon by Israeli Defense Forces in Lebanon.
• Murine Typhus: A case was reported in Kerala.
• PM GatiShakti National Master Plan: Celebrated three years since its launch.
• WTO Cuts Trade Growth Outlook: Revised its projection for world merchandise trade growth down to 3%.
• Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) Battery: Deployment announced by the U.S. amid conflict with Hezbollah.
• Dragon Drones: New weapon used in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
• Biopolymers: India’s first demonstration facility inaugurated in Pune.

Conclusion

The events of 14 October 2024 reflect significant developments in healthcare, economy, and international relations