Major updates: Activist Sonam Wangchuk weakens on 19th day of fast, Supreme Court issues crucial advice on school language policy, and ISRO fights talent exodus.

Key Takeaways

  • Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk loses 9kg during 19-day hunger strike; Delhi HC orders daily medical monitoring.
  • Supreme Court Justice B.V. Nagarathna advises against introducing a third language in Class 9 to reduce student stress.
  • ISRO issues memorandum to prevent the exodus of scientists from critical missions like Gaganyaan.
  • PM Modi to flag off India's first hydrogen-powered train in Haryana.

The nation is closely monitoring the deteriorating health of environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk. On the 19th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, protesting against alleged irregularities in the NEET examination, Wangchuk has reportedly lost over 9 kg. Following concerns over his condition, the Delhi High Court has directed the Centre and the Delhi government to ensure strict daily clinical monitoring of his health to prevent any life-threatening complications.

Judicial Intervention in Education Policy

In a significant observation regarding the education system, Supreme Court Justice B.V. Nagarathna has raised concerns about the implementation of the Three-Language Scheme. She suggested that the government should reconsider introducing a third language in Class 9, noting that students are already under immense pressure with Board exams approaching in just a year. The court emphasized that education policy should aim to reduce student stress rather than adding academic burdens.

Science, Security, and National Missions

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is currently grappling with a significant brain drain. With nearly 100 personnel resigning, the Department of Space has issued a memorandum to curb the exodus of highly skilled scientists and engineers, particularly those vital to the Gaganyaan mission. Simultaneously, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its crackdown on national security threats, conducting searches at 13 locations across five states in connection with alleged terror-funding and illegal infiltration networks.

Infrastructure and Economic Shifts

On the infrastructure front, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch a landmark project in Haryana: India's first hydrogen-powered train. This initiative marks a major leap toward sustainable and green transportation. Meanwhile, in the economic sector, the government has adjusted fiscal policies by increasing the windfall tax on diesel and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) while reducing the levy on petrol exports to balance the market dynamics.