1. Ministry of Home Affairs issues SOPs for seafarers
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a set of Standard Operating Procedure (SOPs) as well as graded relaxations for seafarers. As per the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by the Home Ministry,the Indian seafarers on the vessel are required to undergo the COVID-19 test prior to their return at their home.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
- Union Minister for Home Affairs: Amit Shah.
2. Health Ministry starts ‘COVID India Seva’ to address citizens queries
Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan starts an interactive platform ‘COVID India Seva’ to address citizens queries on coronavirus. This main objective of this initiative is to enable transparent e-governance delivery in real-time and answering citizen queries. This platform trained experts will be able to share authoritative public health information swiftly at scale, helping to build a direct channel for communication with citizens.
3. Lebanon legalizes cannabis farming for medicinal use
The Lebanese parliament has passed the legislation to legalize the cannabis cultivation for medical and industrial purposes. Earlier, the farming of cannabis was illegal in Lebanon, but now the cannabis farming would be regulated within the country. Legalizing the cultivation of Cannabis is expected to produce high value-added medicinal products. It is also a potentially lucrative export for Lebanese economy which is in dire need of foreign currency as it is grappled with a financial crisis.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
- Prime Minister of Lebanon: Hassan Diab.
- Capital of Lebanon: Beirut; Currency: Lebanese pound.
4. Rajasthan govt launches “Aayu & Sehat Sathi” app
The state government of Rajasthan has partnered with healthcare startup MedCords to launch ‘Aayu & Sehat Sathi app to fight against COVID-19. This app helps state people to consult doctors online and place orders for their medicine requirement in the wake of a lockdown due to COVID-19.
Important takeaways for all competitive exams:
- CM of Rajasthan: Ashok Gehlot.
- Governor of Rajasthan: Kalraj Mishra.
- Capital of Rajasthan: Jaipur.