10-March-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

RBI’S RUPEE CHALLENGE

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is facing a tough decision on whether to let the Indian rupee depreciate due to global capital outflows and the strengthening of the US dollar. The central bank must balance currency stability, investor confidence, and foreign exchange reserves.

• The Indian rupee has been under pressure due to external economic factors, prompting discussions on RBI’s approach to currency management.
• While some depreciation may be necessary, the challenge lies in preventing market panic and ensuring economic stability.

RBI’s Dilemma on Rupee Depreciation

• There is a debate on whether the RBI should allow the rupee to weaken, stepping in only during excessive volatility.
• A stronger US dollar is attracting global investments, leading to capital outflows from emerging economies, including India.
• The key issue is determining a manageable level of depreciation without triggering economic instability.

Impact of Investor Expectations on Currency Value

• Market perception plays a crucial role in rupee depreciation.
• Foreign investors may withdraw capital if they anticipate a continuous decline in the rupee’s value.
• A sharp drop in the rupee reduces the worth of foreign investments in India, leading to further capital outflows.
• If the RBI signals a non-interventionist stance, it may unintentionally accelerate depreciation.

Risk of Depleting Foreign Exchange Reserves

• The RBI uses foreign exchange reserves to stabilize the rupee, but excessive intervention can drain these reserves.
• If investors see RBI’s actions as unsustainable, it could worsen capital outflows.
• Maintaining a strong reserve position is crucial for preventing a loss of confidence in the rupee.

Historical Context: Liberalization and Exchange Rate Management

• Since the 1990s, India has followed a market-driven exchange rate system with limited intervention by the RBI.
• Unlike Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), which is stable, foreign portfolio investments (FPI) are highly volatile and can exit quickly.
• The rupee has followed a long-term depreciation trend, moving from ₹45.56 per USD in 2010-11 to ₹82.78 per USD in 2023-24.
• Structural challenges in the economy mean exchange rate management alone cannot prevent depreciation.

Factors Behind Long-Term Rupee Depreciation

Higher Inflation in India

• India’s inflation is relatively higher than that of developed economies.
• Higher inflation reduces the rupee’s purchasing power, requiring depreciation to maintain balance.
• Depreciation also increases import costs, fueling further inflation in essential goods like oil.

Trade and Current Account Deficits

• India imports more than it exports, leading to persistent trade deficits.
• Remittances from Indians working abroad help but are not enough to close the gap.
• Dependence on foreign capital to bridge the deficit makes India vulnerable to currency fluctuations.
• A lack of competitiveness in manufacturing limits export growth and foreign investments.

India’s Vulnerability to Currency Crises

• Liberalization of capital flows has exposed India to currency instability.
• The rupee has seen sudden declines rather than a steady depreciation, increasing economic uncertainty.
• While India has avoided a full-blown currency crisis, managing the rupee remains a challenge.

Conclusion

The RBI must carefully manage the rupee’s depreciation to avoid market panic. While gradual depreciation may be inevitable, the central bank must intervene judiciously to prevent excessive volatility.

TRUMP’S PROPOSAL TO RENEGOTIATE THE IRAN NUCLEAR DEAL: IMPLICATIONS AND CHALLENGES

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reached out to Iran’s Supreme Leader to discuss the possibility of renegotiating the nuclear deal. This comes amid economic difficulties in Iran and shifting geopolitical equations in the Middle East.

Background: The JCPOA and U.S. Withdrawal

• The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal, was signed between Iran and P5+1 (China, France, Russia, the UK, the U.S., and Germany).
• Iran agreed to limit its nuclear activities in exchange for the removal of international sanctions.
• In 2018, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the deal, citing concerns over Iran’s ballistic missile program and regional influence.
• The U.S. reimposed sanctions, leading to Iran reducing its compliance and increasing uranium enrichment.

Significance of JCPOA for India

• Lifting of sanctions could revive India’s strategic interests, including the Chabahar Port and Bandar Abbas Port, improving connectivity.
• India’s International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) project, which passes through Iran, could benefit from renewed economic ties.
• Strengthening trade with Iran can help counter China’s influence in Pakistan’s Gwadar Port.

What Was the JCPOA?

• Iran agreed to reduce its nuclear stockpile, including centrifuges, enriched uranium, and heavy water, which are crucial for nuclear weapons.
• The deal allowed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to conduct strict inspections to ensure compliance.
• Western nations lifted nuclear-related sanctions, though other sanctions on human rights and ballistic missiles remained.
• While the U.S. eased restrictions on Iranian oil exports, financial sanctions limited trade opportunities.
• The agreement initially helped stabilize Iran’s economy, but after the U.S. withdrawal, Iran resumed its nuclear activities and faced economic hardships.

Developments After the U.S. Exit

• European countries tried to salvage the deal, but U.S. sanctions forced companies to withdraw from Iran.
• Iran expanded its nuclear program, surpassing JCPOA limits.
• Under Biden, indirect negotiations were held, but no agreement was reached.
• By 2023, diplomatic talks had stalled, with Iran’s economy struggling and regional tensions escalating.

Why is Trump Seeking a New Deal?

• Iran’s economic struggles have made it more open to negotiations.
• The Middle East’s geopolitical landscape has changed, with Iran’s influence growing through regional proxy groups.
• The U.S. faces challenges in balancing its support for Israel while managing relations with Arab nations.

Challenges in Renegotiation

• Mistrust between the U.S. and Iran remains a key obstacle.
• Iran may reject a deal with stricter terms than the original JCPOA.
• Regional conflicts and Iran’s nuclear advancements complicate diplomatic efforts.

Conclusion

Trump’s renewed interest in engaging with Iran signals a potential shift in U.S.-Iran relations. However, deep-rooted tensions, Iran’s nuclear progress, and geopolitical conflicts pose hurdles to a new agreement.

SC RESTRICTS ARREST POWERS OF TAX OFFICIALS

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS

The Supreme Court has ruled that tax officials under the Customs Act and CGST Act must follow legal safeguards while making arrests, ensuring procedural fairness.

SC’s Judgment on Arrest Powers

• The Supreme Court’s decision aims to prevent the misuse of arrest powers by tax officials, ensuring that their actions align with legal procedures under the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
• This ruling enhances transparency and accountability in tax enforcement.

• In the case Radhika Agarwal v. Union of India, the Supreme Court stated that tax officials under the Customs Act, 1962 and CGST Act, 2017 have powers similar to the police and must follow procedural safeguards under the CrPC, 1973.
• This aligns with previous rulings that restrict unchecked powers of enforcement agencies, such as in Arvind Kejriwal v. Directorate of Enforcement (2025) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.

Safeguards for Due Process in Arrests

The Supreme Court emphasized that although tax officials are not police officers, their powers of investigation and arrest require adherence to CrPC norms, including:

• Presenting the accused before a magistrate within 24 hours.
• Informing the accused’s family or friends about the arrest.
• Allowing the accused to have a lawyer present during interrogation.
• Ensuring that tax officials do not overstep their legal powers.

Conditions for Arrest Under Tax Laws

• The Customs Act, 1962 (Section 104(4)) and the CGST Act, 2017 allow arrest without a warrant for serious offenses like tax evasion over ₹50 lakh. However, the Supreme Court mandated that:

• Officials must have concrete evidence to justify an arrest.
• They must record written reasons for their decision.
• The accused must be informed of the grounds of arrest to enable a proper legal defense.

• These guidelines, initially framed in Kejriwal v. ED, now apply to tax law enforcement as well.

Preventing Misuse of Arrest Powers

• The Supreme Court recognized concerns over tax officials using arrest threats to force businesses to pay disputed taxes. The ruling ensures that:

• Forced tax payments made under pressure can be legally challenged and refunded.
• Officials found misusing their powers may face disciplinary action.
• The CBIC (Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs) must establish guidelines to prevent arbitrary arrests.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s ruling introduces much-needed checks on tax officials’ arrest powers, balancing enforcement with legal protections. This decision strengthens the rule of law and safeguards individuals from coercive actions.

Practice Question:

1. With reference to the powers of the Supreme Court of India, consider the following statements:

1. The Supreme Court has the power of judicial review to determine the constitutionality of laws.
2. It has original jurisdiction in disputes between two or more states.
3. The Supreme Court can grant special leave to appeal from any judgment or order passed by any court in India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: D

Explanation:

The Supreme Court has judicial review powers under Article 13, allowing it to strike down unconstitutional laws.

Under Article 131, the Supreme Court has original jurisdiction in disputes between states or between the Union and states.

Under Article 136, the Supreme Court can grant Special Leave to Appeal (SLP) against any judgment from any court in India (except military tribunals).

BUILDING RESILIENT TELECOM INFRASTRUCTURE

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

Telecom infrastructure plays a crucial role in disaster management by ensuring uninterrupted communication. Strengthening telecom networks against natural calamities is essential to minimize disruptions and enable effective emergency responses.

CDRI’s Report on Telecom Resilience

• The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) was established in 2019 to enhance infrastructure durability against disasters.
• The latest report assesses the Indian telecom sector’s preparedness and suggests strategies for reducing network failures during crises.

Significance of Telecom Networks in Disaster Response

• Essential for Emergency Communication: Telecom services help authorities coordinate rescue and relief operations during disasters.
• Preventing Delays: Network failures can slow down emergency responses, putting lives and property at greater risk.
• Vulnerabilities: Telecom networks are often disrupted due to overhead cables, exposed towers, and power dependency, making them susceptible to cyclones, earthquakes, and floods.

How Disasters Affect Telecom Networks?

• Damage to Towers: Strong winds and earthquakes can topple telecom towers, leading to service disruptions.
• Cable Disruptions: Overhead fiber cables can snap, cutting off internet and mobile services.
• Coastal Vulnerability: Undersea cables connecting India to the global internet can be damaged, affecting nationwide connectivity.
• Power Failures: Most telecom outages occur due to electricity failures, making network restoration difficult.

Challenges in Restoring Telecom Services

• Undersea Cable Repairs: Repairing undersea cables requires specialized ships, leading to long delays in network restoration.
• Power Supply Restoration: Telecom towers depend on backup batteries and fuel generators, which may not function due to fuel shortages during disasters.
• Monitoring Network Disruptions: Real-time monitoring is crucial for identifying and fixing network failures quickly.

Measures to Strengthen Telecom Resilience

• Enhancing Power Supply: Strengthening the electricity network for telecom services can minimize power-related failures.
• Building Stronger Towers: Telecom towers, especially in coastal and cyclone-prone areas, should be designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.
• Better Coordination Between Stakeholders: Improved data collection and collaboration between telecom providers and disaster management agencies can accelerate recovery efforts.
• Encouraging the ‘Dig-Once’ Policy: Laying multiple underground utilities (fiber-optic cables, water, and gas pipelines) together reduces damage risks during future infrastructure work.

Conclusion

Small steps, such as placing backup generators on higher ground to prevent flood damage, can significantly improve network resilience.

GLOBAL OBESITY CRISIS: A GROWING HEALTH CHALLENGE

TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU

Obesity is becoming a major global health issue, affecting both adults and children. Lifestyle changes, processed food consumption, and reduced physical activity are key factors behind its rise.

Current Global Obesity Trends

• By 2050, 3.8 billion adults and 746 million children are projected to be overweight or obese.
• In 2021, around 45% of the global population (2.11 billion people) were classified as overweight or obese.
• India has 180 million overweight or obese individuals, and this number is expected to increase significantly in the coming decades.

Rising Obesity in India

• Obesity is increasing across all age groups, affecting both urban and rural populations.
• By 2050, India could surpass China in certain obesity-related statistics.
• Lifestyle changes, urbanization, and high-calorie processed foods are major contributors to this health crisis.

Defining Obesity: New Medical Criteria

Traditionally, Body Mass Index (BMI) is used to classify obesity:

• Overweight: BMI 25-30
• Obese: BMI above 30

New definitions also include:

• Waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio for better assessment.
• Clinical obesity (with physical symptoms) and pre-clinical obesity (identifying those at risk).

Health Impacts of the Obesity Epidemic

• Rising Childhood Obesity – Increasing obesity rates among children will result in higher adult obesity levels in the future.
• Higher Risk of Lifestyle Diseases – Obesity raises the likelihood of diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.
• Increased Healthcare Costs – Managing obesity-related diseases puts financial strain on healthcare systems.
• Weakened Immunity – Obese individuals are more vulnerable to infections and complications.
• Double Burden of Malnutrition – Many low-income countries struggle with both malnutrition and obesity, worsening health outcomes.

Causes Behind the Obesity Epidemic

• Unhealthy Diets – Increased dependence on processed foods rich in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.
• Influence of Large Food Corporations – Weak regulations allow global food companies to aggressively market unhealthy products in developing nations.
• Urbanization & Sedentary Lifestyle – Limited physical activity, increased screen time, and greater reliance on fast food.

Solutions to Tackle Obesity

• Strengthening Local Food Markets: Promoting traditional, nutritious foods to reduce reliance on processed food products.
• Government Regulations: Taxing unhealthy foods, restricting junk food advertisements, and improving food labeling policies.
• Improving Healthcare Facilities: Expanding treatment centers for obesity management and increasing access to weight-loss therapies.
• National Action Plans: Encouraging government policies to address obesity, particularly in developing nations.
• Medical Innovations: Increasing access to GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs (e.g., semaglutide) while addressing affordability issues.

Conclusion

The global obesity crisis demands urgent action through better policies, awareness, and lifestyle changes. Governments, healthcare providers, and individuals must work together to prevent obesity and promote a healthier future.

CLOSING THE GENDER GAP IN HIGHER JUDICIARY

TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU

Despite progress in the legal profession, women remain underrepresented in higher judiciary roles in India. Systemic barriers, lack of transparency in appointments, and gender biases limit their elevation to High Courts and the Supreme Court.

• Women in India have made notable strides in the legal profession over the past century.
• However, their representation in the higher judiciary remains significantly low due to institutional challenges and gender disparities.

Progress of Women in the Legal Field

• Women have been part of the Indian legal system for nearly a century.
• The first female lawyer was allowed to practice in 1924.
• Over the years, more women have entered the profession, with some being designated as Senior Advocates.
• Women judges are common in lower courts, showing progress in legal participation.

Underrepresentation in the Higher Judiciary

• Women account for only 14.27% of High Court judges (109 out of 764).
• Some High Courts have only one-woman judge, while three have none.
• The largest High Court has just three women judges, making up only 2% of the total strength.
• Women are often appointed later in their careers, reducing their chances of reaching top positions.
• Only one High Court currently has a woman Chief Justice.

Women’s Representation in the Supreme Court

• Representation in the Supreme Court is even lower.
• Only two women judges currently serve, with one set to retire in 2025.
• Since 2021, 28 judges have been appointed to the Supreme Court, but none were women.
• In the past 75 years, only one woman has been elevated directly from the Bar, compared to nine men.

Barriers to Women’s Appointment

Various reasons are cited for the low representation, including:

• Fewer senior women lawyers eligible for appointment.
• Assumptions that women do not seek judicial positions.
• Biases in selection processes that demand higher standards from women than men.

The real cause is systemic gender disparity in the legal profession.

Challenges in the Appointment Process

• The collegium system is opaque and lacks clear criteria for judicial selection.
• Most collegium members are men, leading to an unconscious bias.
• Even when women’s names are recommended, they often face delays or rejection.
• Since 2020, nine women candidates were recommended, but five were rejected.

Need for Gender Balance in Judiciary

• A more gender-diverse judiciary ensures fair representation and inclusivity.
• Women judges bring diverse perspectives to court rulings.
• Greater trust in the judicial system can be fostered with balanced representation.

Steps to Improve Women’s Representation

Transparent and Fair Appointments

• The collegium must define clear selection criteria.
• Lawyers should be allowed to express their interest in judgeship.
• Appointment decisions should follow fixed timelines to avoid delays.

Gender Diversity as a Priority

• At least one-third of judges in High Courts and the Supreme Court should be women.
• Gender representation should be considered along with other factors like region and caste.

 Merit-Based Selections

• While merit should be the key factor, diversity should also be actively encouraged.
• A balanced judiciary strengthens public confidence in the legal system.

Conclusion

Women’s appointment to the judiciary should become routine rather than exceptional. A gender-balanced judiciary will enhance equity, representation, and fairness in legal proceedings.

Practice Question

1. With reference to the Collegium System in India, consider the following statements:

1. The Collegium System is established through a constitutional amendment.
2. It is responsible for the appointment and transfer of judges in the Supreme Court and High Courts.
3. The government has no role in approving the names recommended by the Collegium.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B

Explanation:

The Collegium System is not established by a constitutional amendment; it evolved through Supreme Court judgments (Three Judges Cases).

The Collegium is responsible for appointing and transferring judges in the Supreme Court and High Courts.

The government has a role in approving Collegium recommendations, as it can return names for reconsideration, though the Collegium can reaffirm its choices.

DID THE IRON AGE IN INDIA BEGIN IN TAMIL NADU?

TOPIC: (GS1) HISTORY: ECONOMIC TIMES

A recent study from Tamil Nadu suggests that the Iron Age in the region began around 5,300 years ago (4th millennium BCE), much earlier than previously thought. This challenges the belief that iron use in India started later.

• The Iron Age marked a major technological shift, allowing societies to develop stronger tools and weapons.
• Recent excavations in Tamil Nadu suggest that iron was used much earlier than in northern India, raising new questions about the origins of iron smelting in India.

KEY FACTS ON THE IRON AGE IN INDIA

The Iron Age in India is generally believed to have begun around 1200 BCE, though recent findings in Tamil Nadu suggest it could have started as early as 3,345 BCE – 2,953 BCE.

Early Iron Use

• Radiocarbon dating from sites in Uttar Pradesh (Malhar, Raja Nala Ka Tila) suggests iron was used between 1800 BCE – 1000 BCE.
• The earliest iron tools found in India date back to around 1400 BCE.

Major Iron Age Cultures in India

• Painted Grey Ware Culture (PGW) – Associated with the Ganga-Yamuna Doab region (1200 BCE – 600 BCE).
• Northern Black Polished Ware Culture (NBPW) – Linked to the rise of urbanization in the Mahajanapada period (700 BCE – 200 BCE).
• Megalithic Culture of South India – Found in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, known for large burial structures.
• Sites with Iron Artifacts
• Uttar Pradesh – Jhusi, Allahabad, Raja Nala Ka Tila, Malhar
• Madhya Pradesh – Eran, Kayatha
• Odisha – Golbai Sasan
• Tamil Nadu – Adichanallur, Mayiladumparai, Kodumanal
• Iron Tools and Usage
• Early iron tools were used for agriculture, warfare, and construction.
• The introduction of iron plows helped expand farming and boost agricultural productivity.
• Weapons like iron swords, daggers, and arrowheads became common during this period.
• Impact of the Iron Age
• Led to urbanization – Growth of cities like Kashi, Ujjain, and Pataliputra.
• Expansion of trade – Iron tools increased agricultural surplus, leading to trade with other regions.
• Rise of powerful kingdoms – Iron weapons helped in military expansion and state formation.

• New Findings on the Iron Age in Tamil Nadu

  • New evidence suggests iron usage in Tamil Nadu around 3,345 BCE – 2,953 BCE.
  • This contrasts with earlier research that placed the Iron Age in India around 700-600 BCE.
  • While regions north of the Vindhyas were still using copper, Tamil Nadu may have already transitioned to iron due to the absence of copper resources.

  Previous Research on Iron Use in India

  • The Iron Age was a crucial period that led to advancements in technology and warfare.
  • Earlier studies suggested that iron technology came from migrants entering India from the West.
  • Radiocarbon dating pushed the estimated beginning of iron use in India to the 16th century BCE.
  • Excavations in Uttar Pradesh found iron tools, furnaces, and manufacturing evidence from 1800–1000 BCE.
  • By the second millennium BCE, iron production was widespread in the eastern Vindhyas and the Central Ganga Valley.

  Excavations and Discoveries in Tamil Nadu

  • Recent excavations uncovered iron tools dating back 4,200 years.
  • A new study has pushed this timeline further back to around 5,300 years ago.
  • Key excavation sites:
    • Mayiladumparai
    • Sivagalai
    • Adichanallur
    • Kilnamandi
  • Findings suggest an early and independent iron-working culture in Tamil Nadu.

  Significance of the Discoveries

  • If the dating is accurate, Tamil Nadu may have used iron before other parts of India.
  • This raises the possibility of iron technology developing independently in South India.
  • The findings challenge the idea that iron smelting was introduced from the West.
  • These discoveries provide new insights into ancient Tamil society, technology, and trade.
  • However, more research is needed to confirm whether Tamil Nadu was the first region in India to enter the Iron Age.

  Conclusion

  The new findings suggest that Tamil Nadu may have played a pioneering role in iron technology. Further research and excavations will help understand India’s early technological advancements and cultural history.

  Practice Question:

  1. With reference to the Iron Age in India, consider the following statements:
  1. The Iron Age in India is believed to have started around 1200 BCE, but recent discoveries in Tamil Nadu suggest an earlier date.
  2. The Painted Grey Ware Culture is associated with the use of iron tools in the Ganga-Yamuna Doab region.
  3. Iron technology in India was introduced by migrants from West Asia.
  4. Megalithic culture, known for large burial sites, is primarily found in South India.

  Which of the statements given above are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 1, 2, and 4 only
  3. 2 and 3 only
  4. 1, 3, and 4 only

  Answer: B

  Explanation:

  Traditional studies place the Iron Age around 1200 BCE, but recent excavations in Tamil Nadu suggest it may have started as early as 3,345 BCE – 2,953 BCE.

  The Painted Grey Ware (PGW) Culture (1200 BCE – 600 BCE) is associated with early iron use in the Ganga-Yamuna Doab.

  Iron technology in India appears to have developed independently, rather than being introduced by migrants from West Asia.

  The Megalithic Culture of South India is known for large burial structures and iron artifacts.

  HANTAVIRUS: A DEADLY RODENT-BORNE INFECTION

  TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS

  Hollywood actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their home. Autopsy reports confirmed that she died due to hantavirus infection, highlighting the dangers of rodent-borne diseases.

  

• • Hantavirus is a virus carried by rodents that can cause severe lung and kidney diseases in humans.
  • It spreads through contact with rodent urine, feces, or saliva but does not transmit from person to person.

  What is Hantavirus?

  • A group of viruses spread by rodents, affecting humans when they inhale virus-contaminated particles.
  • Found in North and South America, Europe, and Asia, causing serious respiratory and kidney issues.

  Types of Hantavirus Diseases

  Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)

  • Occurs mainly in the Western Hemisphere.
  • Transmitted by deer mice and affects the lungs.

  Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS)

  • Found in Europe and Asia.
  • Causes kidney-related complications and internal bleeding.

  Symptoms of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)

  Early Symptoms:

  • Fever, fatigue, muscle pain.
  • Nausea, dizziness, and abdominal discomfort.

  Advanced Symptoms:

  • Shortness of breath due to fluid buildup in the lungs.
  • Chest tightness, coughing, and low oxygen levels.

  Fatality Rate:

  • Around 38% of patients with severe lung infection do not survive.

  Is There a Cure for Hantavirus?

  • No specific cure or vaccine for HPS.
  • Early detection and supportive treatment can improve survival chances.
  • Oxygen therapy, antiviral medications, and intensive care may help in severe cases.

  How to Prevent Hantavirus Infection?

  • Rodent Control – Seal cracks and holes in homes to prevent rodent entry.
  • Safe Cleaning Practices –
    • Use gloves, N95 masks, and damp cloths to clean rodent droppings.
    • Avoid sweeping or vacuuming to prevent virus particles from becoming airborne.
  • Disinfection Measures – Clean contaminated areas with bleach solutions or disinfectants.
  • Awareness & Hygiene – Educate people on risks and prevention methods in high-risk areas.

  Conclusion

  The hantavirus outbreak highlights the serious health risks posed by rodents. Proper hygiene, rodent control, and safe cleaning practices are essential to prevent future infections.