Current Affairs for 22 June 2026

Two new species of microscopic snails discovered in Meghalaya caves

Why in the News ?

Scientists have discovered two new species of micro-snails in limestone caves in India's northeastern state of Meghalaya. The discovery highlights the undiscovered diversity hidden in India's biodiversity-rich Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot. Researchers identified two new species—Georissa meghalayaensis and Acmella bensoni-in the Krem Puri and Arwah cave systems of Meghalaya.

Georissa meghalayaensis: A new species named after Meghalaya

• The first new species, Georissa meghalayaensis, was discovered near the entrance of the Krem Puri Cave.
• It is distinguished from its closely related snails by its orange-red color and the reticulated projections on its shell.
• Scientists named it "meghalayaensis" in honor of the state of Meghalaya, as the species is currently found only in this region.

Acmella bensoni: A tribute to the pioneer of Indian malacology

• The second new species, Acmella bensoni, was found on the inner walls of the Krem Puri and Arwah caves. Its shell is small, slightly translucent, and white in color.
• This species is named in honor of the renowned 19th-century scientist William H. Benson, who is considered a pioneer of malacology (the study of molluscs) in India.

Microscopic in size, but of great scientific importance

• Both of these snails are so small that they are difficult to see with the naked eye. Their distinctive features can only be clearly identified with the aid of a microscope.
• Scientists believe that studying the structure and evolution of these species will contribute significantly to understanding subterranean ecosystems.

The Rich Biodiversity of the Indo-Burma Hotspot

• Northeast India is part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, one of the world's 36 major biodiversity hotspots. This region represents a confluence of biodiversity from Southeast Asia, China, and the Indian subcontinent.
• According to experts, the region contains more than 1,200 limestone caves, which provide ideal habitats for shellfish like mollusks. Despite this, limited studies have been conducted on its microbial diversity.

Tourism poses a growing threat

• Researchers have warned that increasing tourism activities in caves could pose a threat to these fragile ecosystems.
• Specifically:
  • Excessive tourist traffic
  • Artificial lighting
  • Construction of stairs and other structures
• Can impact the natural habitat of these microorganisms. Scientists have stressed the need for sustainable tourism to preserve cave ecosystems.

Why is this discovery important for biodiversity conservation ?

• This discovery demonstrates that India's underground ecosystems harbor numerous species yet to be identified. Despite their tiny size, these organisms play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.
• The discovery of new species not only enriches India's biodiversity but also provides new directions for conservation science, evolutionary studies, and ecological research.

NCRB-Abhigyan, CrPI, e-Prosecution 2.0 and e-Forensics 2.0: A Digital Leap in India’s Criminal Justice System

Why in News ?

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched NCRB-Abhigyan, CrPI, e-Prosecution 2.0 and e-Forensics 2.0 to modernize India’s criminal justice system.

What Are These Four Systems ?

1. NCRB-Abhigyan App

The NCRB-Abhigyan App is a real-time identity verification and criminal record checking system developed to assist law enforcement agencies in the field.

• Enables instant fingerprint scanning during field operations 
• Quickly retrieves criminal history and background details of individuals 
• Helps police officers in on-the-spot identification and verification 
• Strengthens rapid decision-making during investigations 

Purpose : To ensure fast, accurate, and reliable identity verification during criminal investigations and field policing activities.

2. CrPI System (Centralized Criminal Identification System)

The CrPI System is a nationwide integrated biometric and identification database designed to support criminal investigation processes across India.

It includes a wide range of identity data such as :

• Fingerprints and palm prints 

• Iris and retina scans 

• DNA samples (including blood, saliva, and other biological traces) 

• Photographs, signatures, and handwriting records 

All this data is securely stored in the central database maintained by the NCRB and can be accessed only by authorised law enforcement agencies.

Purpose : To build a unified and comprehensive national identification repository that enhances accuracy and efficiency in criminal investigations.

3. e-Prosecution 2.0

e-Prosecution 2.0 is a fully digital prosecution management system that connects police departments, public prosecutors, and the judiciary on a single platform.

• Tracks criminal cases from FIR registration to final court judgment 
• Enables digital submission of charge sheets, reports, and case updates 
• Provides real-time monitoring of case progress and legal proceedings 
• Reduces dependency on manual paperwork and physical file movement 

Purpose: To improve transparency, reduce procedural delays, and enhance efficiency in the prosecution process.

4. e-Forensics 2.0

e-Forensics 2.0 is a digital forensic evidence management system designed to modernize the handling of scientific evidence in criminal investigations.

• Digitizes forensic reports including DNA analysis, cyber forensics, ballistic reports, and fingerprint examinations 
• Ensures secure and direct transfer of forensic findings to investigators and courts 
• Maintains a strong chain of custody for all pieces of evidence 
• Improves coordination between forensic laboratories and law enforcement agencies 

Purpose : To strengthen scientific accuracy, reliability, and speed in criminal investigations through digital forensic integration.

How the System Works Together

• Crime scene evidence (DNA, CCTV footage, fingerprints) is collected 
• CrPI system and forensic labs process and analyse the data 
• NCRB-Abhigyan helps in instant identity verification of suspects 
• e-Prosecution 2.0 manages the entire legal case workflow digitally 
• The system ensures seamless coordination from investigation to justice delivery 

DNA Records and National Database Expansion

• More than 1 lakh DNA profiles stored in the NCRB database 
• Biological samples such as blood and saliva are being collected 
• Over 2,600 measurement collection units established nationwide 
• National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS) holds over 1.27 crore fingerprint records, enabling rapid inter-state matching 

Concerns

• Data Privacy Issues : Large-scale collection of biometric and DNA data raises concerns about individual privacy. 
• Data Security Risks : Centralised databases may face risks of cyberattacks or misuse. 
• Scope of Collection : Broad categories of individuals eligible for data collection may raise questions of proportionality. 
• Retention Period : Long-term storage of sensitive data requires strong safeguards. 
• Oversight Mechanism : Need for independent monitoring to ensure lawful access and prevent misuse. 

 Way Forward

• Strong Data Protection Framework : Align implementation with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. 
• Judicial and Institutional Oversight : Ensure checks on data collection and usage. 
• Cybersecurity Strengthening : Advanced encryption and regular audits of databases. 
• Standardised Procedures : Uniform protocols across states for data collection and storage. 
• Training of Personnel : Capacity building for police and forensic staff for proper handling of digital systems. 
• Periodic Review : Regular evaluation of the law and systems to ensure balance between security and privacy.