The Junior Age

Tag: The Junior Age

New Delhi Declared World’s Most Polluted Capital City in 2023

According to ‘World Air Quality Report 2023’ (“Report”) by IQAir, which tracks air quality worldwide, India was ranked as the third most polluted country in the world after Bangladesh and Pakistan. Delhi was the most polluted capital city in the world in 2023.

The Report further stated that in 2023 almost all 100 cities in the world with the worst air pollution were in Asia. Infact, 83 of the 100 cities were in India and they all exceeded the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines by more than 10 times. 

Other Key Findings of the Report:

  • The top 5 most polluted countries in the world in 2023 are Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Tajikistan, and Burkina Faso.
  • Of the top ten most polluted cities in the world, 9 belong to India.
  • Only 10 countries and territories had “healthy” air quality: Finland, Estonia, Puerto Rico, Australia, New Zealand, Bermuda, Grenada, Iceland, Mauritius, and French Polynesia.

Indian Supreme Court Recognises Right Against Climate Change

The Indian Supreme Court has recognised that the climate crisis impacts the lives of people. 

In a recent judgement, the Supreme Court has expanded the scope of fundamental rights to include “the right to be free from adverse effects of climate change.’’ The three judge bench of the apex court, comprising the Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Misra, was hearing a writ petition filed by conservationist MK Ranjitsinh regarding the conservation of two endangered species of birds, the Great Indian Bustard and the Lesser Florican. 

This judgement is a recognition of the serious threat that climate change poses to the lives and welfare of people. Courts have in the past helped to advance the cause of climate justice and protection of the environment, but this is the first time the apex court has linked environmental and climate-related issues to the fundamental rights of citizens

What are Fundamental Rights?

The Constitution of India guarantees certain rights and liberties to every Indian citizen. These rights are considered fundamental because they are essential for the all-round development, dignity, and well-being of individuals. The Fundamental Rights includes the right to equality, the right to freedom, and the right against exploitation.

Vladimir Putin Wins the Presidential Election

President Vladimir Putin won 87.8% of the vote in Russia’s election. The US has said that the Russian presidential elections were not “free or fair”. Many countries have also said that the vote was unfair, as many of the political opponents of the Russian president were jailed, to prevent them from standing against him. Vladimir Putin will now start another new six-year term, which, if completed, would make him Russia’s longest-serving leader in over 200 years, surpassing Josef Stalin. This will be his 5th term as the Russian president. Protests have taken place across Europe, after his win.

Who was Josef Stalin?

Josef Stalin was a communist dictator and leader of the Soviet Union from 1924 until 1953.

Word Check

Communist is a type of government and economic system where the government and community as a whole own everything and everyone is meant to share the wealth created.

Finland: Happiest Country in the World

The World Happiness Report came out on March 20, marking the United Nations International Day of Happiness. Once again Nordic countries are ranked on top of this list. The No. 1 country, Finland, has held onto its top ranking spot for seven years straight. 

The report is prepared after an extensive survey in more than 140 countries. The report is a partnership of Gallup, the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and an editorial board.

Word Check

Nordic countries are a group of seven countries located in Northern Europe.

Happy 65th Birthday to Barbie

The popular Barbie doll celebrated her 65th anniversary on March 9. To celebrate her iconic birthday, Mattel, the company behind Barbie dolls, launched a line of dolls inspired by celebrity women who are “one-of-a -kind-role models”, collectible dolls inspired by her 1959 outfit, and cuddly barbies. 

Did You Know?

Barbie was created in 1959 by Ruth Handler.