IMPORTANT DAYS
World Sickle Cell Day celebrated on 19 June
• World Sickle Cell Day is observed every year on June 19 to raise awareness about sickle cell disease.
• The theme for this year is "Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally."
• On December 22, 2008, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution recognizing sickle cell disease as a major public health issue.
• The resolution also acknowledged sickle cell disease as one of the world's most significant genetic disorders.
• It calls on Member States to promote awareness of sickle cell disease both nationally and internationally on June 19 each year.
• Sickle cell disease comprises a group of inherited blood disorders that affect red blood cells, making them stiff and sickle-shaped.
DEFENCE
CDS Anil Chauhan released India’s first joint doctrine for cyberspace operations
• CDS Anil Chauhan has unveiled India's first joint doctrine for cyberspace operations.
• Cyberspace has become a vital and complex area in modern warfare.
• This doctrine offers a strategic guide for military commanders, staff, and practitioners.
• Hostile actions in cyberspace can affect India's economy, social cohesion, political decision-making, and defense capabilities.
• The doctrine focuses on the military aspects of cyberspace operations.
• Developing joint doctrines is key to achieving jointness and integration within the armed forces.
• Cyberspace is now recognized as a critical domain, alongside traditional areas like land, sea, and air.
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Pyongyang.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Pyongyang for the first time in 24 years.
• His last visit to North Korea was in July 2000, following his first election.
• During his previous visit, he met Kim Jong Il, the father of current leader Kim Jong-un.
• Putin and Kim Jong-un aim to strengthen their bilateral military partnership.
• This visit could have significant security implications for the Korean Peninsula and beyond.
• Kim Jong-un extended the invitation to Putin during his visit to Russia’s Far East in September 2023.
• A partnership agreement between Russia and North Korea may be signed during this visit.q
• After visiting North Korea, Putin will proceed to Vietnam.
Thailand became the first South Asian country to recognize same-sex marriage.
• Thailand has made history by becoming the first South Asian country to recognize same-sex marriage.
• The country's Senate passed the final reading of the marriage equality law, which will come into effect 120 days after receiving royal approval.
• This makes Thailand the third Asian nation, following Nepal and Taiwan, to enact such legislation.
• Known for its vibrant LGBT culture and high level of tolerance, Thailand is already a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
• The new law further solidifies its reputation as a progressive and inclusive nation.
LAW AND AMENDMENTS
New postal law 'Post Office Act 2023' came into force.
• The Post Office Act 2023 has come into force following a Central Government notification effective from June 18.
• This new law replaces the Indian Post Office Act of 1898.
• The "Post Office Bill, 2023" was introduced in Rajya Sabha on August 10, 2023, and passed on December 4, 2023.
• It was subsequently passed in Lok Sabha on December 18, 2023.
• The President of India gave his assent to the Act on December 24, 2023, and it was published by the Ministry of Law & Justice in the Gazette of India.
• The Act aims to simplify the legislative framework for citizen-centric services, ensuring government scheme benefits reach the last mile and enhancing ease of living.
• The special facility for storage, processing, and distribution of letters previously available to the post office has been discontinued.
• To promote "maximum governance and minimum government," the Act includes no penal provisions.
• The new postal law sets standards for item addressing, address identifiers, and the use of postcodes.
