The State of the Ocean Report 2024, released by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO during the 2022 United Nations Ocean Conference, highlights several critical issues concerning the health of the world’s oceans:

1. Accelerated Ocean Warming: The report reveals a concerning rate of warming in the upper 2,000 meters of the ocean, which has significantly increased over the past two decades. The warming rate has doubled in 20 years, with a notable surge in 2023. This warming trend is particularly severe in regions such as the Mediterranean, Tropical Atlantic Ocean, and Southern Oceans, where temperatures have risen by over 2°C.
2. Rising Acidity: Oceans are becoming more acidic due to their absorption of approximately 25% of annual anthropogenic CO2 emissions. This increased acidity can have detrimental effects on marine life, particularly organisms that rely on calcium carbonate to build their shells and skeletons.
3. Increasing Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD): Since the 1960s, the ocean has experienced a 2% reduction in oxygen levels, with coastal areas being especially affected. BOD is a crucial indicator of water quality, reflecting the amount of oxygen consumed by microorganisms in the decomposition of organic matter. The decline in oxygen levels can lead to "dead zones," where marine life struggles to survive.

Overall, the report underscores the urgent need for global action to address these challenges and mitigate further impacts on ocean health.

Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO was established in 1961 to address global ocean and coastal management needs. Here's a more detailed overview:

Mission and Activities

• Knowledge Sharing: The IOC facilitates the exchange of scientific and technical knowledge among member states to enhance their capabilities in ocean and coastal management.
• Technology: It provides access to advanced technologies and data for monitoring and managing ocean resources.
• Capacity Building: The commission supports training and development programs to strengthen the expertise of individuals and institutions involved in oceanography.

Role in Sustainable Development

• Sustainable Development Goal 14: The IOC played a pivotal role in the creation of SDG 14, which aims to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources.
• Partnerships: The commission engages in various partnerships and collaborative efforts to promote ocean sustainability, working with governments, scientific communities, and international organizations.

 The IOC's work is crucial for addressing the complex challenges facing our oceans and ensuring their health and productivity for future generations

The National Litigation Policy, recently approved by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice, aims to address the significant burden of pending court cases involving the government. Here’s a summary of the policy's key points and its significance:

About the National Litigation Policy

1. Objective:
   • The policy seeks to transform the government into an efficient and responsible litigant in legal proceedings.
2. Definitions:
   • Efficient Litigant:
     • Competence: Representation by skilled and sensitive legal professionals.
     • Focus: Addressing core issues of litigation directly and effectively.
     • Coordination: Managing cases in a cohesive, coordinated, and time-bound manner.
     • Case Management: Ensuring that meritorious cases are pursued and weak cases are not unnecessarily continued.
   • Responsible Litigant:
     • Integrity: Avoiding false claims and technicalities, and ensuring that all facts and relevant documents are presented truthfully.
     • Transparency: Full disclosure to the court with no attempts to mislead or withhold information.
     • Prioritization: Focusing on welfare legislation, social reform, and issues affecting weaker sections of society.
3. Review Mechanism:
   • The policy advocates for a systematic review of pending cases involving the government to expedite their disposal.
   • Proposes a monitoring and review mechanism to ensure prompt and effective handling of important cases.

Significance of the National Litigation Policy

1. Reduction in Government Litigation:
   • By minimizing unnecessary litigation, the policy aims to free up court time for other pending cases, thus improving the efficiency of the judicial system.
2. Judicial Efficiency:
   • Supports the National Mission for Justice Delivery & Legal Reforms’ goal to reduce the average pendency time for cases from 15 years to 3 years.
3. Government Responsibility:
   • Reinforces the government’s role in protecting citizens' rights and respecting fundamental rights, emphasizing that those managing government litigation should adhere to these principles.

The policy represents a significant step towards making the government a more efficient and ethical participant in the judicial process, ultimately benefiting the overall justice system by ensuring quicker resolution of cases and better management of resources.

The Indian Navy has recently achieved a significant milestone with Sub Lieutenant Anamika B. Rajeev becoming its first woman helicopter pilot. This development marks a notable step in the integration of women into various roles within the Indian Armed Forces.

Key Highlights:

1. Sub Lieutenant Anamika B. Rajeev:
   • Achievement: She became the first woman helicopter pilot in the Indian Navy during the passing-out parade at naval air station INS Rajali, located in Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu.
   • Significance: This milestone is significant as it reflects the growing inclusion of women in diverse and challenging roles within the Indian Navy.
2. Broader Context of Women in Indian Armed Forces:
   • Air Force and Army:
     • The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Army have already made strides in integrating women into various roles, including as helicopter pilots.
     • In the IAF, there are 19 women flying advanced fighter aircraft such as MiG-21s, MiG-29s, Sukhoi-30MKIs, and Rafales. Additionally, over 145 women serve as helicopter and transport aircraft pilots across the IAF, Army, and Navy.
   • Navy:
     • The Indian Navy's induction of women as helicopter pilots aligns it with the progress made by the IAF and Army in this area.
3. Other Notable Graduates:
   • Lieutenant Jamyang Tsewang:
     • He is the first officer from Ladakh to be commissioned into the Indian Navy and has also successfully graduated as a qualified helicopter pilot.
4. Current Status of Women in the Armed Forces:
   • Roles and Limitations:
     • Women are currently not allowed to join the infantry, armored corps, or mechanized infantry. However, they are now being commissioned in the Regiment of Artillery.
     • The inclusion of women in these roles represents a significant shift in traditional roles and highlights ongoing efforts to enhance gender diversity within the Indian Armed Forces.