Prelims Focus – 25th March 2024

Mohiniyattam

In News: Eight classical dance forms, including Mohiniyattam, have recently been recognised by the Sangeet Natak Academy. 

• • Mohiniattam belongs to Kerala in southern India and takes its name from the mythic enchantress Mohini. It is carried out by way of girls in honor of the Hindu god Vishnu in his incarnation as the enchantress Mohini.
  • It is a dance of feminine grace, and has grown out of performances related to Kerala’s temples. 

• Features:

• • The dance form is characterised through swish, swaying body movements with no abrupt jerks or unexpected leaps. 
  • Mohiniyattam lays emphasis on acting and the dancer identifies herself with the individual and sentiments present within the compositions.
  • The prince Swati Tirunal of Travancore, was one of the leading architects of the dance in the 19th century. 
  • The important percussion units within the performance are the Edakka.

Pushpak

In News: ISRO has recently achieved a major milestone in the area of Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Technology after the successful launch of  “Pushpak”.

• The Pushpak was lifted by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter and was released from 4.5 km altitude.
• After the discharge, it autonomously approached the runway along with cross-range corrections.
• The Pushpak is shielded with heat-resistant substances to guard the spacecraft for the duration of atmospheric re-entry.

Order of the Druk Gyalpo 

In News: Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi was conferred the Order of the Druk Gyalpo.

• Order of the Druk Gyalpo is Bhutan’s highest civilian award.
• It was instituted as the ornament for lifetime fulfillment and is the top of the respect device in Bhutan, taking priority over all orders, decorations and medals.
• The Prime Minister has been regarded for his contribution to the growth of India-Bhutan relations.
• PM Modi is the first overseas Head of the Government to receive the honour.

Operation Indravati

Recent News:

India initiated ‘Operation Indravati’ to rescue its citizens from Haiti.

Details:

• India is keeping an eye on the situation in Haiti through its mission in Santo Domingo. 
• There are approximately 75 to 90 Indians in Haiti, and around 60 of them have notified Indian authorities that they are willing to return to India if necessary.
• Haiti is currently facing a state of emergency due to increasing violence caused by gang warfare, leading to the almost complete absence of a functioning government. 
• According to the UN, gangs control 80% of the capital city, with ongoing clashes in the remaining areas. 

World Young Rheumatic Disease Day

Recent News:

World Young Rheumatic Disease Day (WORD Day) on the 18th of March highlights the significance of early detection and awareness of rheumatic diseases in young people.

Details:

• Rheumatic disease is a term used to describe various conditions that affect the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. 
• The most common rheumatic disorder in children is Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), which includes different types of inflammatory arthritis. 
• JIA is a significant health challenge for children worldwide, with varying prevalence rates across regions. Children with JIA often experience joint pain, swelling, and limitations in their daily activities. 
• Treatment options for JIA include steroids, disease-modifying drugs, and newer biologic drugs that aim to manage symptoms and modulate the immune system. 
• However, there are challenges in terms of awareness and timely diagnosis, highlighting the need for better community awareness and referral systems. Early intervention is crucial for managing JIA and achieving the best outcomes.

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