16 April 2026 - "Daily Current Affairs" Updates

GS Paper-3: Science & Technology

⭐ Whole-Exome Sequencing (WES)

⭐ Why in News

Scientists have recently used Whole-Exome Sequencing to identify a rare genetic

disorder.

⭐ Definition & Concept

• Whole-Exome Sequencing (WES) is a genomic technique that focuses on

sequencing only the protein-coding regions of the genome.

⭐ Exons & Exome

• Exons are the protein-coding segments of DNA.

• They make up less than 2% of the human genome.

• However, they account for nearly 85% of disease-related genetic variations.

• The complete set of exons in a genome is called the exome.

⭐ Comparison with Whole-Genome Sequencing

• WES analyses only the exome, making it a targeted and efficient approach.

• In contrast, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) studies the entire genome,

including coding and non-coding regions.

⭐ Role in Disease Detection

• Most disease-causing mutations occur in exons, making WES highly effective

for detecting genetic disorders.

• It helps in understanding the genetic basis and mechanisms of diseases.

GS Paper-3: Environment & Biodiversity

⭐ Calamaria garoensis

⭐ Why in News

A new species of burrowing reed snake, Calamaria garoensis, has been

discovered in Meghalaya.

⭐ Taxonomy & Classification

• Belongs to the group of burrowing reed snakes under the genus Calamaria.

⭐ Distribution & Endemism

• Recorded mainly from the Garo Hills region of Meghalaya.

• Currently known only from this locality, indicating a restricted distribution.

⭐ Morphological Features

• Possesses smooth dorsal scales arranged in 13 rows.

• Features a short, non-tapering tail ending in a blunt tip.

• Exhibits a broad black stripe along the underside of the tail.

• Displays longitudinal body stripes along with a faint nuchal ring, aiding

identification.

⭐ Reed Snakes: General Characteristics

• Small, slender, and non-venomous.

• Typically secretive and well-adapted for burrowing.

• Common colours include brown, reddish, or blackish shades.

⭐ Distribution of Reed Snakes

• Found across South and Southeast Asia.

GS Paper-2: Polity & Governance

⭐ Right to Vote

⭐ Why in News

The Supreme Court of India recently highlighted the importance of voting while

hearing cases related to exclusion of voters from electoral rolls in West Bengal.

⭐ Nature of the Right

• In India, the right to vote is a statutory right, derived from law.

• It is not a fundamental right under the Constitution.

⭐ Constitutional Basis – Article 326

• Establishes the principle of universal adult suffrage.

• Grants voting rights to all citizens 18 years and above, subject to legal

disqualifications.

⭐ Legal Framework

Representation of the People Act, 1950

• Defines eligibility for voter registration.

• Excludes non-citizens and requires individuals to be ordinary residents aged 18+.

Representation of the People Act, 1951

• Regulates the conduct of elections.

• Allows registered voters to vote unless disqualified or under imprisonment.

⭐ Conditional Nature

• The right to vote is not absolute and is subject to statutory conditions.