13 July 2026 - "Daily Current Affairs" Updates

Phu Quoc Island

Why in News?

At least 15 Indian tourists were killed after a tourist boat capsized off Phu Quoc Island in southern Vietnam.

About Phu Quoc Island

• Phu Quoc, popularly known as the “Pearl Island”, is Vietnam’s largest island.

• It is located in the Gulf of Thailand and is the principal island of an archipelago comprising 22 islands.

• Though politically part of Vietnam, it lies closer to Cambodia than to mainland Vietnam, giving it strategic geographical significance.

Geography and Natural Features

• Highest point: Mount Chua, rising to 630 metres.

• The island is famous for white-sand beaches and clear tropical waters.

• A significant part of the island is protected under Phu Quoc National Park.

• The national park is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is recognised for its rich biodiversity.

Climate

Phu Quoc experiences a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons:

• Dry season: November to April

• Rainy season: May to October

Tourism, Economy and Culture

• Phu Quoc is one of Vietnam’s leading tourist destinations, known for beach resorts, scuba diving, snorkelling, nature-based tourism and marine recreation.

• Its maritime tradition is reflected in fishing settlements such as Ham Ninh Fishing Village.

• The island is internationally renowned for producing fish sauce (Nước mắm) and black pepper.

Sheathia meghalayensis

Why in News?

Researchers have discovered a new species of freshwater red algae, Sheathia meghalayensis, near Crinoline Waterfalls in Meghalaya.

Where Was It Found?

• It was discovered in a cool, crystal-clear stream near Crinoline Waterfalls in the East Khasi Hills.

• The algae was found growing on submerged rocks at an altitude of nearly 1,600 metres above sea level.

Why Is This Algae Special?

Freshwater red algae are extremely sensitive to environmental changes and survive only in clean, oxygen-rich streams and rivers. Their presence is therefore a strong indicator of pristine and relatively undisturbed aquatic ecosystems.

Ecological Importance

These algae serve as valuable bioindicators. Their occurrence generally indicates:

• Good water quality

• Healthy freshwater ecosystems

• High levels of dissolved oxygen

Scientific and Economic Potential

Freshwater red algae can produce bioactive compounds with potential antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties. They are therefore valuable for pharmaceuticals, nutrition and biotechnology.

Distribution and Prelims Significance

Before this discovery, only two species of the genus Sheathia had been recorded from Northeast India: Sheathia indonepalensis and Sheathia assamica, both reported from Assam. Sheathia meghalayensis is the first species of this genus recorded from Meghalaya.

Why Has Critically Endangered Status Been Proposed?

Researchers have proposed classifying the species as Critically Endangered because:

• It is known from only one location.

• Its estimated area of occupancy is approximately 4 sq. km.

• Fewer than 100 mature individuals have been recorded.

Parrot Bornavirus 4 (PaBV-4)

Why in News?

Scientists have identified and genetically characterised Parrot bornavirus 4 (PaBV-4) in India for the first time, marking an important advancement in avian disease surveillance.

What Is PaBV-4?

• PaBV-4 is an enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus that infects parrots and other psittacine birds.

• Genus: Orthobornavirus

• Family: Bornaviridae

• It is among the most commonly detected parrot bornaviruses in captive parrots worldwide.

Major Hosts

The virus primarily infects psittacine birds such as parrots, macaws, cockatoos, parakeets and conures.

Disease Caused: Proventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD)

PaBV-4 causes Proventricular Dilatation Disease, a serious and often fatal illness affecting both the digestive and nervous systems.

Key Symptoms

Affected birds may show:

• Weight loss despite normal appetite

• Regurgitation or vomiting

• Undigested seeds in droppings

• Enlargement of the proventriculus or glandular stomach

• Neurological symptoms including tremors, ataxia, seizures and paralysis

How Does It Spread?

The virus is believed to spread through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated droppings and feather dust. However, its exact transmission pathways are not yet fully understood. A major concern is that infected birds may remain asymptomatic carriers and continue shedding the virus.

Treatment and Prevention

• No specific antiviral treatment is currently available.

• No vaccine is available.

• Management relies on supportive care, reduction of inflammation and adequate nutrition.

• Prevention depends on strict biosecurity, quarantine of newly acquired birds, routine health screening and minimising contact between infected and healthy birds.

Mojari Craft

Why in News?

The Centre has granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag to Jodhpur’s nearly 200-year-old Mojari craft, giving it official recognition and strengthening its global branding potential.

What Is Jodhpuri Mojari?

Mojari is traditional handcrafted leather footwear associated with Jodhpur. Its GI recognition acknowledges its distinctive geographical origin, craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

The Community Behind the Craft

The craft is closely linked to the Jingar community. Traditionally, the community made saddles, leather sheaths and other leather products for armies. Around 250 years ago, it gradually shifted from saddle-making to shoemaking, and Mojari eventually became its principal occupation.

Historical Significance

Originally patronised by Rajasthan’s royal families, Mojari gradually evolved into a distinctive symbol of Jodhpur’s cultural heritage.

Materials and Craftsmanship

• Jodhpuri Mojari is entirely handmade.

• Leather may come from camel, goat, cow and buffalo.

• Buffalo leather is generally used for the durable outer sole.

• Suede leather is used for the upper portion.

• Embroidery uses a special thread sourced from Surat that combines the softness of silk with the strength of nylon.

Division of Traditional Skills

• Men generally undertake leather cutting, punching and stitching.

• Women specialise in intricate embroidery and often create traditional patterns from memory before stitching.

Distinctive Design

• Mojari is constructed in two halves and usually features a richly embroidered upper.

• Traditionally, both shoes are identical and can be worn on either foot.

• Artisans also create customised versions for fashion designers and wedding collections.

• Premium Mojaris may feature gold or silver thread embroidery.

Why Is It Suited to Rajasthan?

Its traditional construction offers comfort and durability in Rajasthan’s hot and dry climatic conditions.