Current Affairs - National

Pune, Maharashtra, has recently reported a sudden increase in cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), a rare but serious neurological disorder. This condition occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system, leading to muscle weakness, numbness, and, in severe cases, paralysis. The exact cause of GBS remains unknown, but it is often triggered by infections, vaccinations, or major surgeries. Given the rising cases, health authorities in Pune are actively investigating the situation and implementing necessary measures to manage and control its impact.

The ‘Utkarsh Odisha, Make-in-Odisha Conclave’ is a flagship Global Investment Summit hosted by the Odisha government. It aims to establish Odisha as a leading industrial hub and investment destination in India. The event will take place at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar, which is the capital of Odisha and a key centre for economic and industrial activities in the state. The conclave aligns with the Purvodaya vision, emphasizing the growth of eastern India as a major economic powerhouse.

Indore and Udaipur have been recognized as part of the Global Wetland Cities list, an exclusive group of 31 cities worldwide that integrate wetland conservation into their urban planning. Indore, known for its cleanliness, is home to Sirpur Lake, which is designated as a Ramsar site. Udaipur, famous as the "City of Lakes," has several significant wetlands, including Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai. Their inclusion highlights efforts toward sustainable urban development and wetland preservation.

The theme for Republic Day 2025 was ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’, which translates to ‘Golden India: Heritage and Progress’. This theme highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage while emphasizing its strides in development and progress. The celebration also featured Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the Chief Guest, symbolizing India’s commitment to fostering international relations.

The Bankapur Wolf Sanctuary is located in Karnataka and is the state’s first wolf sanctuary. Spanning 332 hectares, it provides a protected habitat for the Indian grey wolf, an endangered species under the IUCN and Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, of 1972. The sanctuary features scrub forests, hills, and caves suitable for wolves, and it also supports diverse wildlife, including leopards and blackbucks. As India’s second dedicated wolf sanctuary, it plays a crucial role in conserving these apex predators in semi-arid and grassland ecosystems, addressing their declining population of 2,000–3,000 individuals.