International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing

June 5 marks the International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing, a global initiative spearheaded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The observance highlights the urgent need to protect the world’s fisheries, marine biodiversity, and the livelihoods of millions dependent on ocean resources by eliminating illegal and unsustainable fishing practices.

Why in News?

This year, the observance coincides with the ninth anniversary of the legally binding Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA) that came into force on 5 June 2016. The agreement now includes two-thirds of the world’s coastal states, including recent signatories like the Marshall Islands, reaffirming global commitment to combat IUU fishing and promote sustainable fisheries under SDG 14.

What is IUU Fishing?

  • Illegal fishing: Conducted without permission or in violation of laws.
  • Unreported fishing: Not declared or recorded properly.
  • Unregulated fishing: Conducted by vessels with no nationality or in a manner not governed by applicable rules.
  • IUU fishing occurs in both international waters and national jurisdictions.

Key Facts

  • Estimated 11–26 million tonnes of fish lost annually due to IUU.
  • Economic losses are valued between USD 10–23 billion each year.
  • 1 in every 5 fish caught globally is from IUU sources.

Key Instruments & Agreements

  • 1995 FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries: A voluntary guideline for sustainable fishing.
  • 2009 Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA): First legally binding international treaty against IUU fishing.
  • Entered into force on 5 June 2016.
  • Enforces minimum port controls to block IUU-caught fish from entering global markets.

Aims and Objectives

  • Eliminate illegal fishing activities and ensure food security.
  • Promote long-term conservation of fish stocks.
  • Enforce international cooperation for monitoring and data sharing.
  • Safeguard livelihoods of artisanal and small-scale fishers, who form 90% of the fisheries workforce.

Background

  • Proposed in 2015 by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM).
  • Endorsed by FAO’s Committee on Fisheries.
  • Officially recognized by UN General Assembly in December 2017.
  • Aligned with SDG 14.4, which aims to regulate and end IUU fishing by 2020.

Significance

  • IUU fishing undermines marine conservation, causes biodiversity loss, and threatens coastal economies.
  • Undermines lawful fisheries, impacts fish stock sustainability, and feeds black markets.
  • Greater awareness can influence consumer behavior and promote responsible seafood choices.

Why is the RBI changing gold loan rules?

On April 9, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released draft guidelines on loans against gold collateral, seeking to harmonise lending practices across banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs). The move comes in response to inconsistencies in lending norms and a sharp spike in gold loan portfolios, especially among banks. While the proposed rules aim to enhance transparency, borrower protection, and regulatory uniformity, concerns have been raised about their impact on rural borrowers who heavily rely on gold loans for agricultural and personal needs.

Why in News?

The draft directions issued by the RBI have sparked significant debate, with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin urging the Finance Ministry to reconsider the norms, citing disruption to rural credit flows. The Finance Ministry clarified that implementation will begin only from January 1, 2026, and emphasized the need to protect small gold loan borrowers. The rules were drafted in the backdrop of alarming growth in gold loan portfolios, with banks witnessing a 104% year-on-year rise in FY24, raising concerns of regulatory gaps and over-leverage.

Why is RBI Proposing New Rules?

  • Rapid growth in gold loans: Over 50% growth in combined bank and NBFC portfolios in FY24.
  • Concerns over irregular lending practices, over-leveraging, and non-uniform valuation.
  • Rising gold prices and widening credit gaps pushed more individuals to use gold as collateral.
  • The goal is to standardise procedures, ensure borrower safety, and create a level playing field.

Key Proposals in the Draft Guidelines

  • LTV (Loan-to-Value) Cap: Remains at 75%, but accrued interest included in LTV for bullet loans.
  • Ownership Proof: Borrowers must provide proof of ownership of pledged gold.
  • Gold Valuation: Standardised method based on 22-carat gold rates.
  • Purity & Weight Checks: Mandatory uniform assessment across all lenders.
  • No Dual-Purpose Loans: Loans for consumption and income generation can’t be combined.

Top-Up/Renewal Restrictions

  • Only allowed if existing loan is standard and within LTV norms.
  • Borrowers must repay entire due amount before fresh disbursal.
  • Compensation for Delay: ₹5,000 per day if lenders delay returning gold beyond 7 days post-repayment.
  • Ban on Re-Pledging: NBFCs can’t re-pledge gold to raise funds.

Concerns and Responses

Impact on Rural Borrowers

  • Gold loans are a lifeline for small farmers and informal sector workers.
  • Changes could restrict access, especially due to stricter LTV computation.

Higher Compliance Burden

  • Smaller NBFCs may struggle due to documentation, DSCR norms, and cost escalation.
  • May lead to consolidation in the NBFC sector.

Potential Rise in Interest Rates

  • Operational costs likely to be passed on to borrowers.

Expected Impact on Borrowers

  • Reduced Loan Amounts.
  • Liquidity Constraints
  • Limited Collateral Choices
  • Increased Transparency

Balancing Growth and Regulation

  • Rising gold prices suggest continued demand for gold loans.
  • But the new norms may slow loan growth, especially for NBFCs.
  • RBI is expected to consider differentiated norms for small-ticket vs. high-value loans.
  • Aim is to build long-term resilience, reduce risk, and protect borrowers.

DBT Observes Swachhata Pakhwada 2025 with 188 Cleanliness Activities Across India

As part of the Government of India’s Swachh Bharat Mission, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the Ministry of Science & Technology actively observed Swachhata Pakhwada 2025 from May 1 to May 15, organizing 188 activities across its headquarters in New Delhi, autonomous institutions (AIs), and public sector undertakings (PSUs). The initiative was aimed at promoting cleanliness, public health, environmental sustainability, and civic participation through various outreach and awareness programs.

Why in News?

The DBT’s observation of Swachhata Pakhwada 2025 from May 1–15, 2025, received attention for its scale, innovation, and integration of science-driven cleanliness practices. Activities were launched with a pledge-taking ceremony led by the DBT Secretary and included a wide range of campaigns—from installing e-waste and sanitary disposal systems to health drives, community outreach, and environmental education, reinforcing DBT’s alignment with the national goal of a cleaner, healthier India.

Key Activities and Participation

  • Pledge Ceremony: Inaugurated on May 1, 2025, at the CGO Complex, New Delhi, with participation from DBT officials.

Scale of Participation,

  • 188 total activities conducted
  • Involvement of DBT headquarters, AIs, and PSUs
  • Enthusiastic participation from staff and students

Major Initiatives Undertaken

Infrastructure Enhancements

  • Installation of e-waste bins
  • Sanitary napkin disposal machines
  • High-capacity waste shredder machines

Health & Hygiene Activities

  • Health check-ups
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR training
  • Awareness talks on single-use plastic, stress management

Community Engagement

  • Cleanliness drives at old age homes and the National Association for the Blind, Delhi

Tree plantation

  • Community run and nature walks
  • Inauguration of ladies’ room in office
  • Environmental & Cultural Outreach:

Drives in slum areas

  • Nukkad Nataks by students to spread cleanliness awareness
  • Painting and poster-making competitions

Monitoring & Recognition

  • A review committee was constituted to oversee Pakhwada activities.
  • Review meetings were held regularly to encourage participants.
  • Awards were presented to three best-performing offices, recognizing their exceptional contributions.
  • The Joint Secretary (Admin), DBT distributed the awards.

Objective and Significance

  • Promote cleanliness and civic sense
  • Inculcate sustainable waste management practices in science institutions
  • Encourage health awareness and environmental responsibility
  • Highlight DBT’s role in leading science-integrated social missions
  • Foster participation among women, students, and marginalized communities

India Secures Presidency of IIAS for 2025–2028 Term

In a significant development for India’s global administrative leadership, India has been elected to the Presidency of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS) for the 2025–2028 term. V. Srinivas, Secretary of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), will lead the international body headquartered in Brussels. This marks a key recognition of India’s commitment to reforming and modernizing public administration.

Why in News?

On June 3, 2025, India won the presidency of IIAS after defeating Austria in the final round of voting, garnering 87 out of 141 votes (61.7%). The win comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi nominated V. Srinivas for the post in November 2024. The elections were held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, with India competing against three other nations: South Africa, Austria, and Bahrain.

About IIAS (International Institute of Administrative Sciences)

  • Established: 1930
  • Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium
  • Nature: Independent international association focused on the scientific study of public administration.
  • UN Collaboration: Not officially a UN body but actively collaborates on global public administration reforms.

Membership

  • 31 Member States
  • 20 National Sections
  • 15 Academic Research Centres
  • Key Members: India, Japan, China, Germany, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Korea, Spain, Qatar, etc.

India’s Journey and Victory

  • Member Since: 1998 (represented by DARPG)
  • Nomination: V. Srinivas nominated by PM Narendra Modi in Nov 2024
  • Candidature Support: Strong global backing across continents
  • Election Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
  • Final Contenders: India vs Austria

Voting Outcome

  • India: 87 votes (61.7%)
  • Austria: 54 votes (38.3%)
  • Significance: Reinforces India’s growing soft power and thought leadership in governance and reform.

About V. Srinivas

  • Position: Secretary, DARPG
  • Expertise: Public administration, grievance redressal, digital governance
  • Reputation: Known for administrative reforms and digital transformation initiatives
  • Role Ahead: Will guide the global agenda on administrative sciences, capacity building, and good governance.

Importance of the Presidency

  • Strengthens India’s voice in global governance forums
  • Platform to showcase India’s reform model in administrative sciences
  • Facilitates international cooperation in e-governance, transparency, and citizen-centric governance
  • Enhances India’s collaboration with academic institutions and think tanks
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India Secures Presidency of IIAS for 2025–2028 Term
Elected Leader V. Srinivas (Secretary, DARPG)
Vote Share India: 87 votes (61.7%), Austria: 54 votes (38.3%)
Nomination By Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Nov 2024)
Key Competitors South Africa, Austria, Bahrain
IIAS HQ Brussels, Belgium
Significance Strengthens India’s global leadership in public administration

Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana Launched to Boost Green Cover in Himachal

In a major push for environmental conservation and community empowerment, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana from Hamirpur on June 2, 2025. The scheme aims to increase the state’s green cover by planting fruit-bearing trees on degraded forest lands while promoting employment generation and community involvement through Mahila Mandals, Yuvak Mandals, and self-help groups (SHGs).

Why in News?

The launch of the Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana and the Green Adoption Scheme marks a strategic move by the Himachal Pradesh government to combine climate action with grassroots participation. With Himachal facing a shortage of field forest staff and growing ecological challenges, these initiatives aim to restore forest health, involve citizens, and generate local employment, especially for women and youth.

Key Features of Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana

  • Launch Date: June 2, 2025
  • Location: Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh
  • Main Objective: Increase forest green cover using fruit-bearing plantations on barren or degraded forest land.

Targeted Stakeholders

  • Mahila Mandals
  • Yuvak Mandals
  • Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
  • Employment Generation: Local communities will be paid for plantation and maintenance for five years.
  • Certificates Issued: To Amlehad and Bhawdan Mahila Mandals of Nadaun for plantation on 2 hectares each.

Green Adoption Scheme Highlights

  • Encourages corporate participation in afforestation.

Initial Phase,

  • Ambuja Company: 25 hectares
  • Adani Foundation: 10 hectares
  • UltraTech: 10 hectares
  • Recognition: Certificates handed to these firms for their participation.

Van Mitra Appointments and Women’s Role

  • Passing-Out Parade: Held for newly appointed Van Mitras.
  • Purpose: Address the shortage of forest field staff.
  • Merit-Based Recruitment: Many young women were among the selected.
  • Government Assurance: CM Sukhu assured future policy support for career growth of Van Mitras.

Broader Women Empowerment Focus

  • Reservation in Police: Increased to 30% for women.
  • Lahaul-Spiti Administration: All key officers, including Deputy Commissioner, are women.
  • Reflects a policy shift toward gender-inclusive governance.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana Launched to Boost Green Cover in Himachal
Launched By CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Scheme Name Rajiv Gandhi Van Samvardhan Yojana
Objective Increase green cover, empower communities, and generate rural employment
Green Adoption Partners Ambuja (25 ha), Adani (10 ha), UltraTech (10 ha)
Support Staff Recruitment Van Mitras selected based on merit

G7 vs G20: Key Differences Explained

The G7 and G20 are two of the most influential international groupings shaping global economic and political governance. While both aim to address global issues, their composition, objectives, and scope differ significantly. This article provides a clear, comparative understanding of G7 vs G20—an important topic for static GK and government exams.

What is G7?

The Group of Seven (G7) is an informal bloc of advanced economies founded in 1975 to discuss and coordinate economic policies. The group focuses on global economic stability, international security, climate change, and development.

G7 Members (as of 2025):

  1. United States
  2. United Kingdom
  3. Germany
  4. France
  5. Italy
  6. Canada
  7. Japan
  • European Union (as an invitee/observer)

What is G20?

The Group of Twenty (G20) was formed in 1999 in response to the Asian Financial Crisis. It is a broader platform representing both developed and developing economies, working to foster international financial stability and sustainable development.

G20 Members (as of 2025):

Includes all G7 countries plus:
8. Argentina
9. Australia
10. Brazil
11. China
12. India
13. Indonesia
14. Mexico
15. Russia
16. Saudi Arabia
17. South Africa
18. South Korea
19. Turkey

  • European Union

Key Differences Between G7 and G20

Feature G7 G20
Established 1975 1999
Members 7 countries + EU (observer) 19 countries + EU (member)
Nature Informal forum of advanced economies Broader forum of developed & developing economies
Key Focus Areas Global security, economic policy, climate change Global economy, financial stability, sustainable development
Representation ~10% of world population, ~45% of global GDP ~80% of world GDP, ~60% of global population
Meetings Annual Summit of heads of states Annual Leaders’ Summit, finance ministers’ meetings
India’s Membership Not a member (only invited occasionally) Full member since inception
Headquarters No permanent HQ No permanent HQ

India’s Role in G7 and G20

  • G7: India is not a permanent member but has been regularly invited as a guest nation (e.g., in 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2024).
  • G20: India is a founding member and hosted the G20 Presidency in 2023, with the summit held in New Delhi.

Importance in Global Governance

  • G7 is influential in setting the political tone of the West and making decisions on global crises (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war, climate change).
  • G20 plays a broader role in setting economic agendas, dealing with financial crises, debt restructuring, and inclusive growth.

Criticism

  • G7: Seen as elitist, often criticized for being exclusive and unrepresentative of the global south.
  • G20: Praised for inclusivity but criticized for lack of enforcement and actionable outcomes due to consensus-based decision-making.

Top-5 Greenest Cities in India by 2025, Know the Names

In today’s world, having clean and green cities is very important for a healthy life. Many Indian cities are working hard to plant more trees, keep the air clean and protect nature. These efforts make the cities look beautiful and safe for people and animals. Let’s look at the top-5 greenest cities in India that are leading the way in being eco-friendly.

Top-5 Greenest Cities in India by 2025

India is growing fast and so are its cities. But while some places are getting more crowded and polluted, a few smart cities are working hard to stay clean and green. Green cities are important because they keep the air fresh, fight climate change and give people a healthy place to live.

Here are the names of top-5 greenest cities in India by 2025:

  • Mysore
  • Bangalore
  • Chandigarh
  • Gandhinagar
  • Indore

Mysore, Karnataka

Mysore is often called the ”Heritage City” and now also known for being the greenest city in India. The city has many big gardens like Brindavan Gardens and tree-planting drives are regularly organized. The Mysore City Corporation’s ”Green City” project has helped reduce transport pollution by 50%. With good planning and clean streets, Mysore is a true example of nature-friendly living.

Bangalore, Karnataka

Bangalore, also called the ”Garden City of India,” is full of parks like Cubbon Park and Lalbagh. Even though it is a big tech hub, the city is taking strong steps for the environment. The local government has a Climate Action Plan that promotes clean air, better waste management and planting more trees. People in Bangalore also support eco-friendly living and green transport options.

Chandigarh

Chandigarh is called the ”City Beautiful” for a reason! It is one of the best-planned cities in India with big green belts and lovely parks such as Rock Garden. The city also wants to become a ”Solar City” by using more solar power. It is working hard to protect trees, reduce waste and make the city even greener by the year 2031.

Gandhinagar, Gujarat

Gandhinagar has one of the highest number of trees per person – around 416 trees for every 100 people! It is often called the ”Tree Capital of India.” The Gujarat government supports clean energy and green growth. The city has many green zones, solar power is growing and smart planning helps keep Gandhinagar clean and beautiful.

Indore, Madhya Pradesh

Indore is known as the ‘‘Cleanest City of India” and is now also among the greenest. The city has many gardens and green spaces. Its special waste management system includes sorting waste from the start and turning it into energy. The Madhya Pradesh government also helps the city stay clean with machines that sweep streets and programming to teach people about cleanliness and planting trees.

Which River of Uttar Pradesh is Known as the Rathwahini?

Uttar Pradesh is a land of many sacred and historical rivers. These rivers not only support agriculture and daily life but also hold great cultural and religious importance. Some rivers are known by special names because of their unique stories or connections to mythology. One such river is called ”Rathwahini,” a name that reflects tradition and history. Let’s learn more about this special river and why it is called ”Rathwahini.”

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is India’s most populated state, with about 240 million people. Located in northern India, it is famous for its rich culture and history. It is the birthplace of Lord Rama, Lord Krishna and Gautam Buddha. The state has many famous temples, monuments and tourist spots, making it an important place for both religion and tourism.

Which River of Uttar Pradesh is Known as the Rathwahini?

The Ramganga River in Uttar Pradesh is known as Rathwahini. This name comes from the Skanda Purana, where it is described as a fast-flowing river that moves like a chariot. It starts in Uttarakhand and joins the Ganga River near Kannauj, flowing through many districts and carrying religious and cultural importance.

Why is Ramganga Called Rathwahini?

The name ”Rathwahini” comes from an ancient Hindu text called the Skanda Purana, especially from the Manas Khand section. The word ‘‘Rathwahini” means ”carriage-bearing” or ”chariot-carrying.” According to the Purana, the Ramganga River was described in such a way because of its strong and fast flow, which reminded people of a running chariot. It also shows the river’s religious importance.

An Overview of Ramganga River

The Ramganga River is an important left-side tributary of the Ganga River in India. It begins in the Dudhatoli Hills of Chamoli district in Uttarakhand. Flowing through Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh, it covers about 610-650 km and joins the Ganga near Kannauj. Its main tributaries include Mandal, Khoh, Aril, Kosi, Garra, Bhagul and Dehla rivers.

India Finishes Second at Asian Athletics Championships 2025 with 24 Medals

India delivered a stellar performance at the Asian Athletics Championships 2025, held in Gumi, Republic of Korea, from May 27 to 31, clinching 24 medals in total – 8 gold, 10 silver, and 6 bronze – to secure the second position in the overall medal standings, behind China. Over 60 Indian athletes competed across 30 events, showcasing depth, talent, and national dominance in middle-distance running, relays, and hurdles.

Why in News?

India’s impressive medal haul at the 26th edition of the Asian Athletics Championships has attracted national attention due to standout individual and team performances, several national records, and successful title defenses in key events. The championships also served as a preparatory stage for Indian athletes eyeing qualification for the Paris 2026 Olympics.

Overview of India’s Participation

  • Total Indian athletes: Over 60
  • Events contested: 30 (15 men’s, 14 women’s, 1 mixed)
  • Championship dates: May 27–31, 2025
  • Host city: Gumi, Republic of Korea
  • India’s position: 2nd overall
  • China: Topped the medal table

Highlights of Medal Winners

Gold Medals

  1. Gulveer Singh: Men’s 10,000m & 5,000m (Double gold)
  2. Avinash Sable: Men’s 3000m Steeplechase
  3. Jyothi Yarraji: Women’s 100m hurdles (Retained title)
  4. Mixed 4x400m Relay: Santosh Kumar, Rupal, Vishal, Subha
  5. Women’s 4x400m Relay: Jisna, Rupal, Kunja, Subha
  6. Pooja Singh: Women’s High Jump
  7. Nandini Agasara: Heptathlon

Silver Medals

  • Rupal Chaudhary (400m), Pooja (1500m), Parul Chaudhary (3000m steeplechase & 5000m)
  • Tejaswin Shankar (Decathlon), Praveen Chithravel (Triple Jump)
  • Women’s 4x100m Relay, Men’s 4x400m Relay
  • Ancy Sojan (Long Jump), Sachin Yadav (Javelin)

Bronze Medals

  • Vithya Ramraj (400m Hurdles), Animesh Kujur (200m), Shaili Singh (Long Jump)
  • Pooja (800m), Yoonus Shah (1500m), Servin Sebastian (20km Walk)

Significance and National Records

  • Parul Chaudhary and Animesh Kujur broke national records in steeplechase and 200m respectively.
  • Subha Venkatesan was the only returning member of the 2023 gold-winning mixed relay team.
  • India’s relay dominance continued with two major golds.
  • The event boosts India’s Olympic preparation and positions it as a strong athletics nation in Asia.

Nomura Forecasts India’s GDP to Slow to 6.2% in FY26

Japanese brokerage firm Nomura has projected that India’s GDP growth will moderate to 6.2% in FY26, down from 6.5% in FY25, signaling a slowdown from the sharp 9.2% expansion recorded in FY24. The forecast, released on June 3, 2025, reflects increasing divergence between robust headline metrics such as GST collections and weaker indicators like automobile sales and bank credit growth.

Why in News?

This revision is significant as it contrasts with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) estimate of maintaining 6.5% growth in FY26. Nomura’s more cautious outlook arrives amidst mixed economic signals and growing global uncertainties that may hamper India’s economic momentum and private investment cycle.

Key Projections and Economic Indicators

  • FY24 GDP Growth: 9.2% (Post-COVID recovery momentum)
  • FY25 GDP Growth: 6.5% (Official government data)
  • FY26 Projection by Nomura: 6.2%
  • RBI Estimate for FY26: 6.5% (No change from FY25)
  • Nomura’s View: The deceleration is modest but signals a slowing economic trajectory, likely due to global factors and uneven domestic recovery.

Reasons for the Downward Projection

Divergence in economic indicators

  • Positive: GST collections remain strong.
  • Weak: Sluggish automobile sales, slow bank credit growth.
  • Global uncertainties and delayed private investment cycle.
  • Uneven recovery in consumer demand and industrial output.

Equity Market Implications

  • Despite the GDP downgrade, Nomura raised its March 2026 Nifty 50 target from 24,970 to 26,140.

Cited reasons,

  • Decline in yields
  • Stable domestic flows
  • India’s relatively low-beta equity profile
  • Investor confidence despite earnings downgrades

Sectoral Outlook

  • Overweight on domestic-oriented sectors (e.g., infrastructure, financial services).
  • Cautious on exporters due to persistent global risks.

Contrasting Views

  • BofA Securities: Warns Indian equity valuations look “full” in the short term.

Maintains positive long-term outlook due to,

  • Infrastructure development
  • Digitisation
  • Financial inclusion
  • Structural productivity gains
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Nomura Forecasts India’s GDP to Slow to 6.2% in FY26
FY26 GDP Forecast 6.2%
FY25 Actual Growth 6.5% (down from 9.2% in FY24)
RBI’s FY26 Projection 6.5%
Reasons for Slowdown Global headwinds, sluggish credit & auto sales

International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing - Part 4_14.1

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