India International Institute of Democracy & Election Management (IIIDEM) Context: India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) is celebrating its 15th Foundation Day . To commemorate the event IIIDEM organised a two-day Conference on Capacity Building and Strategic Roadmap on 16-17 June, 2026 in New Delhi. About India International Institute of Democracy & Election Management (IIIDEM) The India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) is the training and research wing of the Election Commission of India (ECI). It was set up in 2011 to train election officials and other people involved in elections so that elections in India are free, fair, and smooth. IIIDEM also works as an international centre that shares knowledge and builds skills to improve democracy and ensure honest election processes. It is one of the few institutes in the world that not only trains Indian election officials but also helps Election Management Bodies (EMBs) from other countries. The institute has a team of experienced experts who manage its training, teaching, and research work. It conducts many training programmes and courses for both Indian and foreign participants. These programmes can be residential (stay at the institute) or non-residential. Earlier, IIIDEM functioned from the Election Commission of India’s office. Now, it operates from its own full campus located in Dwarka, Delhi. Air Pollution Reaches Remote Himalayas Context: A recent study has shown that even pristine Himalayan regions are being affected by air pollution. The study focused on Munsyari, a high-altitude tourist destination in the Himalayas. Researchers warned of potential long-term health risks from continued exposure to pollutants. About the Study Conducted by researchers from the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES). ARIES is an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). Measurements were carried out during 2022–2023. The study…
