1. Supreme Court Raises Concerns Over Waqf Law Amendments Amid Legal Uproar

Context: In a major judicial intervention, the Supreme Court of India has critically examined key provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, currently under challenge through more than 100 petitions. The amendments have sparked a significant debate over constitutional, religious, and property rights.

Supreme Court’s Intervention: A Landmark Judicial Review

A bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, along with Justices P.V. Sanjay Kumar and K.V. Viswanathan, has expressed serious reservations regarding certain provisions in the amended law that may undermine the traditional waqf framework in India.

Three Core Issues Flagged in the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025:

1. Denotification of Waqf-by-User Properties:

The amendment removes recognition for waqf-by-user properties, i.e., lands used for religious or charitable purposes over centuries without formal registration.

• Petitioners argue this change could strip legal status from nearly 4 lakh of the 8 lakh waqf properties in India.
• The court acknowledged the historical importance of such properties, many of which existed prior to British land registration systems.

2. Inclusion of Non-Muslims in Waqf Bodies:

The Act now permits non-Muslims to serve as ex-officio members of Waqf Boards and the Central Waqf Council.

• The bench questioned whether religious institutions should be governed by individuals outside the faith.
• Petitioners contend this violates Article 26 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right of religious communities to manage their own affairs.

3. Collector’s Authority to Decide Property Status:

The amendment empowers the District Collector to determine if a property is waqf or government-owned.

• The court warned this could breach due process, as it allows an executive authority to act as a judge, creating a potential conflict of interest.

Judicial Observations and Interim Relief Proposal:

While the Supreme Court emphasized its reluctance to stay legislative acts, CJI Khanna noted this case is an exception, given its far-reaching impact.

Proposed Interim Relief (Not Yet Formally Ordered):

• Properties already judicially recognized as waqf (including waqf-by-user) should not be denotified.
• Government officials may inquire into land status, but cannot change property designation without judicial review.
• Non-Muslim appointments may continue in Waqf bodies, provided Muslims remain the majority.

The court refrained from issuing a formal order as Solicitor General Tushar Mehta sought additional time to present the government’s position. The matter is scheduled for further hearing.

Petitioners’ Key Concerns:

• Violation of Religious Freedom: The amendment allegedly infringes on Article 26, eroding the autonomy of the Muslim community.
• Historical Precedent Ignored: Petitioners stressed that waqf-by-user was acknowledged even in the Ayodhya judgment.
• Burden of Proof: Forcing donors to “prove” religious usage is seen as an unjustified intrusion into faith-based practices.

Government’s Defense:

Representing the Centre, Solicitor General Mehta argued:

• Waqf registration has been compulsory since the 1923 Act, including waqf-by-user properties.
• Only two out of 22 members in waqf bodies may be non-Muslims, and these are ex-officio roles.
• The Collector’s role is procedural and subject to judicial oversight.

Despite these explanations, the court remained unconvinced, especially on religious rights and property access issues.

2. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) — A Game-Changer in Global Trade

Context: Describing the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as much more than a trade pathway, the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry called it a “modern-day Silk Route” that will reshape international commerce and connectivity. This visionary project is poised to transform how goods, energy, and data move across continents.

What is IMEC?

The IMEC is a multinational, multimodal connectivity initiative, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the G20 Summit 2023 in New Delhi. Signatory nations include India, European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and the United States.

Core Objective:

To build a comprehensive infrastructure network encompassing ports, railways, highways, sea routes, and pipelines, linking India with the Arabian Peninsula, the Mediterranean region, and Europe.

Economic and Strategic Benefits of IMEC:

1. Reduced Logistics Costs and Transit Time:

• IMEC is projected to cut logistics costs by up to 30%.
• It is expected to reduce transportation time by around 40%, significantly accelerating supply chains.

2. Enhanced Geostrategic Positioning:

• The corridor bypasses critical maritime chokepoints like the Suez Canal, offering a secure and resilient trade alternative.
• It strengthens India’s strategic ties with the Middle East and Europe, enhancing regional influence.

3. Boost to Geoeconomic Integration:

• IMEC enables deeper economic cooperation across three major regions, fostering cross-border investments, technology exchange, and energy connectivity.

4. Counterbalance to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI):

• IMEC provides a transparent and democratic infrastructure alternative, reinforcing rules-based international trade and reducing dependency on China-centric trade routes.

Drawing Parallels: IMEC and the Historic Silk Route:

The Minister likened IMEC to the ancient Silk Route, which connected Asia with Europe from the 2nd century B.C. to the 15th century A.D.. Just like its predecessor, IMEC is expected to be a catalyst for economic prosperity, cultural exchange, and geopolitical influence.

Roadmap for Implementation: Minister’s Key Suggestions:

To ensure the success of IMEC, the Minister proposed a multi-pronged strategy:

1. Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Active engagement of industry players, academia, think tanks, and governments to align on execution plans and shared benefits.

2. Innovative Financing Models:

• Introduction of long-term IMEC Bonds and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to mobilize funding at scale and ensure project viability.

3. Sustainable and Smart Infrastructure:

• Use of green technologies, digital logistics platforms, and AI-driven route optimization for enhanced efficiency and sustainability.

A Step Toward a New Trade Order:

IMEC marks a significant milestone in shaping a new world trade order that is inclusive, diversified, and strategically secure. With India playing a central role, the corridor is set to drive economic transformation, not only for the participating countries but also for the global South, which seeks fairer trade access and connectivity.

Did You Know? – IMEC in Numbers

• Over 8,000 km of planned infrastructure spanning multiple regions.
• Potential to impact over 2 billion people across participating countries.

Projected to mobilize hundreds of billions of dollars in investment over the next decade.

3. Type 5 Diabetes Officially Recognized: A Malnutrition-Driven Diabetes Variant

Context: In a groundbreaking development, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has officially recognized Type 5 Diabetes — a malnutrition-induced form of the disease, primarily affecting lean, undernourished adolescents and young adults in low- and middle-income countries. Long overlooked, this neglected subtype is finally gaining the attention it deserves after nearly seven decades of clinical ambiguity.

What is Type 5 Diabetes?

Type 5 Diabetes is a distinct metabolic disorder where the primary issue is severely impaired insulin production due to chronic malnutrition, rather than insulin resistance as seen in Type 2 Diabetes.

• It predominantly affects young, underweight individuals with a history of poor nutrition, often beginning in the womb.
• The disease is non-autoimmune and non-genetic, setting it apart from Types 1 and 2.
• It has often been misdiagnosed as atypical Type 1 or Type 2, leading to ineffective treatment.

A Historic Step: Recognition and Endorsement

The term “Type 5 Diabetes” was formally introduced by Prof. Peter Schwarz, President of the IDF, in January 2025. It was officially recognized at the 75th World Diabetes Congress in Bangkok, marking a milestone in global diabetes research and policy.

A Long-Overdue Acknowledgment

• First described in 1955 in Jamaica as “J-type Diabetes”
• Later labeled by WHO (1985) as “Malnutrition-Related Diabetes Mellitus (MRDM)”
• Removed in 1999 due to insufficient evidence, despite strong clinical signals

Global Prevalence and At-Risk Regions:

An Underreported Epidemic:

Type 5 Diabetes is now estimated to affect approximately 25 million people globally, particularly in the Global South.

• Countries with significant cases include: India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and South Korea
• It primarily exists in economically disadvantaged communities with long-standing food insecurity

Recent Scientific Breakthroughs and Renewed Focus:

Why Now?

Recent research highlights how malnutrition during early life stages — including fetal development and childhood — causes permanent damage to pancreatic beta cells, impairing their ability to produce insulin later in life.

• Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly of zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B12, play a key role.

• Advances in epigenetic studies have shown that in-utero malnutrition alters gene expression linked to insulin production.

Key Clinical Features of Type 5 Diabetes:

How to Identify It?

Unlike other forms, Type 5 Diabetes is unique and often subtle in presentation:

• Very Low Body Mass Index (BMI): Often below 18.5 kg/m²
• Extremely Low Insulin Levels: Lower than Type 2, slightly higher than Type 1
• Minimal Body Fat: Especially in limbs and trunk
• Chronic Undernutrition: With low intake of protein, fiber, and micronutrients
• Absence of Autoimmune or Genetic Markers

The Root Cause: Malnutrition from the Womb:

A Life-Cycle Disease:

Experts emphasize that undernutrition during pregnancy, coupled with continued poor nutrition post-birth, leads to lifelong pancreatic underdevelopment.

• Children who remain lean and stunted throughout adolescence are most at risk.
• Historical factors such as colonial food policies, war-time scarcity, and intergenerational poverty have contributed to its silent spread.

Current and Emerging Treatment Approaches:

While official treatment guidelines are still being drafted, early interventions focus on nutritional rehabilitation and customized glycemic control.

Preliminary Management Strategies Include:

• High-Protein, Nutrient-Dense Diets: To reverse malnutrition and support insulin production
• Balanced Carbohydrate and Fat Intake: Customized for age, BMI, and energy needs
• Medical Management: Anti-diabetic drugs or insulin, based on individual glucose profiles
• Community-Based Programs: Especially in low-resource settings, to deliver sustainable nutrition and diabetes education

The Type 5 Diabetes Working Group, established under the IDF, aims to roll out formal diagnostic and treatment protocols within the next two years.

Why This Matters: A Public Health Turning Point

The formal recognition of Type 5 Diabetes signals a paradigm shift in how the global health community understands and addresses diabetes in undernourished populations.

Key Implications:

• Redefines diagnostic models in countries with high undernutrition
• Promotes targeted intervention programs in vulnerable populations

Influences nutrition policies, especially maternal and child health programs.

4. Silkyara Tunnel Breakthrough: A Leap Towards Seamless Himalayan Connectivity

5. New Frog Species Discovered in Assam: Leptobrachium aryatium

Context: In an exciting scientific development, researchers in Assam have identified a new species of frog, named Leptobrachium aryatium, as a tribute to Arya Vidyapeeth College, Guwahati. This discovery adds a fresh chapter to the region’s rich biodiversity.

Found in the Heart of Nature: Garbhanga Reserve Forest

The newly identified frog was found in the Garbhanga Reserve Forest, located on the southwestern edge of Guwahati, near the Assam–Meghalaya border. This forest is a biodiversity hotspot, playing a key role in maintaining the climate stability and water systems of the city.

Garbhanga is home to a stunning variety of wildlife, including:

• Asian elephants
• Rare bird species
• Colorful butterflies
• Reptiles and amphibians

Unfortunately, this delicate ecosystem is under constant threat from urban development and habitat degradation.

What Makes Leptobrachium aryatium Unique?

This newly recognized species is noted for its distinctive features, including:

• Fiery orange-and-black eyes
• A reticulated throat pattern that sets it apart from related species
• A smooth, rhythmic call at dusk, likely used for attracting mates

Originally misidentified as Leptobrachium smithi in 2004, the frog was recently confirmed as a new species through advanced molecular and morphological analysis.

About the Leptobrachium Genus:

The genus Leptobrachium includes 38 known species of robust frogs with:

• Broad heads
• Short hind limbs
• Vividly colored eyes

These frogs are distributed across Southern China, India, the Sunda Shelf, and the Philippines, typically residing in humid forests and playing a vital role in the food web.

A Call for Conservation: The discovery of Leptobrachium aryatium not only enriches our understanding of amphibian diversity but also underscores the urgent need to protect natural habitats like Garbhanga. Every new species found is a reminder of the unseen wonders of the wild and the importance of preserving them for future generations.

6. Exploring the Ancient Maritime Legacy: Dwarka & Beyt Dwarka

Context: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has initiated an in-depth scientific study to explore the submerged archaeological remains at Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka in Gujarat, aiming to uncover the secrets of an ancient maritime civilization.

Dwarka: The Ancient Port City of Lord Krishna

Dwarka, located at the mouth of the Gulf of Kutch, holds immense religious and historical significance. Revered as one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, this city is traditionally believed to be the place where Lord Krishna settled after departing from Mathura.

ASI’s findings since 1963 have revealed submerged structures, stone jetties, anchors, and fortified walls, all pointing to the existence of a prosperous ancient port city. Some key highlights include:

• Dwarkadhish Temple (Jagat Mandir): A major Krishna Bhakti shrine rebuilt in the 16th century after being destroyed by Mahmud Begada.
• Sharada Peeth: The western matha (monastery) established by the great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya.

As per legend, Krishna is said to have reclaimed land from the sea to establish Dwarka, making it the first capital of Gujarat.

Beyt Dwarka: The Sacred Island of the Mahabharata

Beyt Dwarka, also known as Shankhodhar, is an island located 30 km off the coast of Okha port in Gujarat. This island is identified in the Mahabharata as Antardvipa, a place of great mythological significance.

Archaeological excavations on the island have traced human habitation back to both the Harappan and Mauryan periods, indicating its long-standing importance as a center of trade and culture. Some fascinating facts about Beyt Dwarka include:

• Guru Vallabhacharya Temple: A temple dedicated to Guru Vallabhacharya, associated with the island.
• Historical Significance: The area was once under the rule of the Gaekwads of Baroda and was briefly seized during the 1857 rebellion by the Vaghers.

Modern Developments: Connecting Dwarka to the World

In 2024, the Sudarshan Setu, India’s longest cable-stayed bridge, was inaugurated, significantly improving access to Beyt Dwarka and enhancing tourism and research opportunities for this historical island.

Conclusion: Unveiling the Past, Connecting the Future

The ongoing archaeological explorations at Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka are revealing fascinating insights into the region’s ancient maritime history. These findings not only shed light on the past but also help preserve the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat for future generations.