Argentina exits World Health Organization

Argentina has announced its departure from the World Health Organization (WHO). President Javier Milei directed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to initiate the process.

Milei accused the WHO of being under political influence and failure in health management, particularly questioning the role of the organization in dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic. Milei termed the WHO a "harmful organization".

Argentina's annual contribution to the WHO was about $8 million. The US is the largest contributor to the WHO and has provided funding of about $950 million in 2024. The decision may impact Argentina's global health policy and its collaboration with other countries.

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Surajkund International Crafts Mela 2025

The 38th Surajkund International Crafts Mela started on February 7 in Faridabad, Haryana, which will run till February 23. The theme of the fair this year is 'Shilp Mahakumbh', inspired by the Mahakumbh Mela 2025.

For the first time, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh have been designated as theme states. The event will feature 648 artisans from 42 countries and over 1,000 stalls.

The fair will feature exhibitions of handlooms, handicrafts, music, dance, and multi-cuisine food. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has also been signed between Haryana Tourism Corporation and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), which will facilitate travel for tourists. BIMSTEC countries have been included as partner nations.

Surajkund Mela provides a global platform to Indian art and culture and creates new opportunities for artisans.

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North India's first green hydrogen plant in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu laid the foundation stone of North India's first 1 MW green hydrogen plant at Dabhota in Solan district. The project will be developed in collaboration with Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) and Oil India Limited, at a cost of Rs 9.04 crore.

The state government is committed to make Himachal India's first green energy state by 2026. The plant will promote the use of renewable energy sources and strengthen the state's energy self-sufficiency.

The government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Oil India Limited for the development of solar energy, green hydrogen, geothermal energy and biogas. The project is an important step towards India's green energy goals.

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National Commission for Safai Karamcharis extended till 2028

The central government has extended the term of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis for three years till 31 March 2028. Its term was to end on 31 March 2025, but it has been extended at a cost of ₹50.91 crore.

The National Commission for Safai Karamcharis monitors the implementation of the Manual Scavengers Prohibition and Rehabilitation Act of 2013 (MS Act 2013). The Act is made to ensure the safety of Safai Karamcharis and make arrangements for their rehabilitation.

The Commission takes suo motu cognizance of issues related to Safai Karamcharis and gives appropriate advice to the Central and State Governments. It was established in 1993 and was formally implemented in 1994.

This step of the government is an important initiative towards ensuring the rights and welfare of Safai Karamcharis.