Daily Current Affairs — 22 May 2025
5 articles • UPSC Prelims & Mains
Global Forest Watch
Context India lost 18,200 hectares (ha) of primary forest in 2024 compared to 17,700 hectares in 2023, according to new data from Global Forest Watch (GFW). Indian Findings Overall Tree Cover Loss Decreases: India saw a 6.9% decrease in total tree cover loss between 2023 and 2024, indicating some progress in forest conservation efforts. Increase in Humid Primary Forest Loss: Contrarily, humid primary forest loss increased by 5.9% in 2024, highlighting ongoing challenges in preserving old-growth
Integrating Mission LiFE with National Action Plan on Climate Change
Context The government is considering adding Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) to the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). Mission LiFE At the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP26), India announced Mission LiFE, to bring individual behaviors at the forefront of the global climate action narrative. The mission envisions replacing the prevalent ‘use-and-dispose’ economy with a circular economy, which would be defined by mindful and deliberate utilization.
Centre Urges States to Implement Labour Codes
Context The Union Government has urged states and Union Territories (UTs) to align their existing labour laws with the spirit and provisions of new labour codes. Progress at the State Level Labour being on the Concurrent List, states must frame their own rules under the new codes. Many states have proactively begun amending their respective labour laws to reflect the intent and provisions of the new codes.
Mizoram Declared India's First Fully Literate State
In News Mizoram has been declared India’s first fully literate state, marking a historic milestone in the state’s educational journey. Present Status Indias total literacy rate for individuals aged 7 and above, across both rural and urban areas, stands at 80.9% for the period 2023–24. Mizoram has achieved full literacy status, reaching 98.2%, surpassing the 95% threshold set by the Ministry of Education as per the 2023–24 PLFS survey.
Urban Flooding
Context Bengaluru rain has led to widespread waterlogging, severe damages and traffic disruptions. Types of Floods Flash floods are caused by rapid and excessive rainfall that raises water heights quickly, and rivers, streams, channels or roads may be overtaken. River floods are caused when consistent rain or snow melt forces a river to exceed capacity.