Best UPSC Coaching
Best UPSC Coaching
RECOGNISE ‘THIS LEAVE’ AS A WOMAN’S RIGHT TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU Legislative efforts for menstrual leave in India have seen advocacy through Private Member Bills, with varying provisions aimed at recognizing menstruation as a natural process and promoting gender equality. About Menstrual Leave: Menstrual leave refers to the provision of
THE UN SECRETARY-GENERAL'S PANEL ON CRITICAL ENERGY TRANSITION MINERALS The United Nations (UN) has established a panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals to develop global principles for the minerals value chain, aiming to ensure environmental and social standards and justice in the energy transition. This initiative is crucial in the context of renewable energy technologies
CASE BEFORE SUPREME COURT: CAN GOVT REDISTRIBUTE PRIVATELY OWNED PROPERTY? The Supreme Court (SC) of India is currently hearing a case concerning the government's authority to acquire and redistribute privately owned properties, focusing on whether private properties can be considered "material resources of the community" under Article 39(b) of the Constitution. This case arose from
THIS IS THE YEAR TO GET THE SDG GOALS BACK ON TRACK TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: THE HINDU The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established in 2015, aim to tackle global challenges by 2030. Despite initial progress, recent reports suggest significant obstacles remain, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Urgent action is needed, focusing
HOW THE NEXT GOVERNMENT WILL PUSH ‘BALANCED FERTILISATION’ After the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the government is expected to prioritize balanced fertilization as a key policy goal to address issues in Indian agriculture. Despite efforts to regulate fertiliser consumption, urea usage has surged, highlighting the need for a more balanced approach. Balanced
HUNDREDS OF GLACIAL LAKES EXPANDING IN HIMALAYAN REGION, FLAGS ISRO The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has observed a concerning trend of large-scale expansion in glacial lakes in the Himalayan region between 1984 and 2023. This expansion, documented through satellite monitoring, poses significant risks to downstream areas and highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures
MAHARASHTRA GEARS UP FOR TIGER TRANSLOCATION TO SAHYADRI RESERVE IN BID TO REVIVE NUMBERS TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS Maharashtra plans to translocate tigers from Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) to Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR) to revive the tiger population in the Northern Western Ghats forests. Reason for Translocation: Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR) currently
TIME TO TALK TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Mullaperiyar dam, situated in Kerala but under the ownership and operation of Tamil Nadu, stands as a focal point of ongoing disputes between the two states. Despite repeated interventions by the courts, concerns regarding dam safety and maintenance remain unresolved. Tamil Nadu
THE KOTAK MAHINDRA BANK CONTROVERSY TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU On April 24, 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) barred Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB) from onboarding new customers online and issuing fresh credit cards due to deficiencies in its IT systems. Reasons for Restrictions: RBI identified serious deficiencies in KMB's IT inventory,
CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS ARE NATURE’S INGENIOUS SOLUTION FOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT IN INDIA Constructed wetlands have emerged as innovative and nature-based solutions for wastewater treatment, offering a comprehensive approach to address the diverse array of pollutants present in industrial and municipal wastewater. About Constructed Wetlands: Constructed wetlands are engineered systems designed to replicate the natural processes of
HEAT WAVES AND ANTICYCLONES Heat waves and anticyclones are significant atmospheric phenomena that have profound impacts on weather patterns and climate conditions. As the world faces the consequences of global warming, it becomes imperative to comprehend the intricate relationships between these phenomena and their implications for regional weather variability. Heat Waves and Global Warming: Heat
CARBON FARMING Carbon farming has emerged as a sustainable agricultural approach aimed at mitigating climate change by enhancing carbon sequestration in soils and vegetation. This method integrates regenerative farming practices to improve soil health, increase agricultural productivity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. About Carbon Farming: Carbon farming focuses on managing agricultural and forestry practices to
UNPLANNED CONSTRUCTIONS, WASTEWATER SEEPAGE CAUSING LAND SUBSIDENCE IN CHENAB VALLEY In recent years, the Chenab Valley, encompassing districts like Ramban, Kishtwar, and Doda, has witnessed alarming incidents of land subsidence, leading to the destruction of numerous houses. This phenomenon poses significant challenges to the region's infrastructure, environment, and community livelihoods. About Land Subsidence: Land subsidence
TURMOIL AND TEST TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU Haryana faces political instability as three independent MLAs withdraw support from the ruling BJP. Former coalition partner, the JJP, extends support to Congress, challenging BJP's majority. Assembly Composition: 90-member State Assembly, currently with 88 members. BJP-led government holds 43 seats, falling short of
THE FRAYING OF THE MODEL CODE OF CONDUCT TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The MCC is a set of guidelines framed by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure fair, peaceful, and civilized elections in the country. Free and fair elections are integral to the Indian Constitution. Article 324 grants
INDIA OFFERED SUGARCANE SOP VASTLY IN EXCESS OF WTO LIMITS: US AND AUSTRALIA The Agreement on Agriculture (AoA) is a global treaty instituted by the World Trade Organization (WTO) as part of the Uruguay Round negotiations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). It aims to remove trade barriers, promote transparent market access,
INDIAN SPACE SITUATIONAL ASSESSMENT REPORT (ISSAR) 2023 The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) released the Indian Space Situational Assessment Report (ISSAR) for 2023. This report provides a detailed overview of India's space assets and their vulnerability to potential collisions in space. Space Object Population: Globally, 3,143 objects were added to space in 2023 from 212
STRONGLY REFUTE ALLEGATIONS LEVELLED IN AUSTRALIA PANEL REPORT ON CHILD LABOUR: COMMERCE MINISTRY Recent allegations by Australia's Joint Standing Committee on Trade and Investment Growth regarding child labour in India amidst negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) have sparked controversy. The Australian panel's report cited concerns raised by groups such as the Community
NAVIGATING INDIA’S TRANSITION TO SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING PwC India, a professional services network, recently released a report titled 'Navigating India's Transition to Sustainability', focusing on sustainability efforts among leading Indian companies. The report analyzes how companies are adapting to the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) disclosures mandated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India
WORLD BANK'S "RECIPE FOR A LIVABLE PLANET" REPORT The World Bank's "Recipe for a Livable Planet" report provides a comprehensive framework for addressing the impact of the agrifood system on climate change. It emphasizes the urgent need for global action to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from food production while ensuring food security. Key Highlights
MORE SOLAR STORMS BREWING AFTER LAST WEEK’S AURORAE AS SUN ‘WAKES UP’ TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU On May 10, a significant solar storm occurred, triggered by sunspot AR 3664, which unleashed three coronal mass ejections towards Earth. Solar storms and the stunning aurorae they create are a source of wonder
PARLIAMENT AN UNSAFE WORKPLACE DUE TO SEXUAL MISCONDUCT BY MPS, SAY UNIONS The recent cases of alleged sexual harassment involving Members of Parliament (MPs), Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and government employees have highlighted a concerning issue: the criminalization of politics. This phenomenon raises significant ethical questions about moral responsibility and professional ethics. What Does
NEW UN REPORT CALLS FOR TRILLIONS MORE IN DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENT TO RESCUE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS The United Nations (UN) recently released a report highlighting the urgent need for increased investment to achieve the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Staggering debt burdens and high borrowing costs faced by developing countries hinder their ability to
STATE OF EMPLOYMENT IN INDIA India has witnessed a significant surge in employment over recent years, generating over 80 million additional jobs between 2017-18 and 2022-23. This rapid growth has sparked discussions about its underlying causes and the sustainability of this trend. Key Trends in Employment Growth: Historical Growth: Analysis of NSSO data from 1983
SMART CITIES MISSION The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched by the Government of India in June 2015. The mission aims to transform 100 cities across the country to enhance the quality of life for citizens through sustainable and inclusive development, leveraging advanced technologies. The mission's deadline, initially set for 2020,
SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS RIGHT TO LIFE OF FOETUS The Supreme Court recently declined a plea from a 20-year-old unmarried woman seeking to terminate her over 27-week pregnancy. This decision upheld the Delhi High Court's earlier ruling. The case brings into focus important aspects of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act and the rights associated
NO FRESH MINING LEASES, RENEWALS IN ARAVALLIS, SUPREME COURT ORDERS The Supreme Court has recently halted new mining licenses and renewals in the Aravalli ranges based on a report by the Forest Survey of India (FSI). Despite a significant increase in Haryana's revenue from legal mining over the past decade, environmental concerns have necessitated stringent
STATE CANNOT ACQUIRE PROPERTY WITHOUT PROPER PROCEDURE: SC TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Supreme Court ruled that the state cannot acquire private property for public use without following mandatory procedures. Even with compensation, acquisition without proper procedure is unconstitutional. Right to Property: The right to property is a constitutional right
NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of diverse conditions caused by various pathogens like viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins. These diseases often afflict impoverished communities in tropical regions, leading to severe health, social, and economic consequences. About Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) NTDs have complex epidemiology, often linked to environmental factors.
TAMIL NADU: A CASE FOR ALLOWING RESERVATION OVER 50 PER CENT TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The congress party proposes a constitutional amendment to raise the 50% reservation cap for obc, Sc’s, and st in government positions and colleges. concerns arise mainly from elites due to legal and economic arguments. opposition
2 DISTRICT JUDGES QUESTION COLLEGIUM PICKS, SUPREME COURT NOTICE TO HIMACHAL HC Two senior-most district judges from Himachal Pradesh have recently approached the Supreme Court, claiming that their merit and seniority were disregarded by the Himachal Pradesh High Court Collegium during the judge selection process. What is the Collegium System? The Collegium System involves the
ISSUES WITH THE SCHEME FOR CARE AND SUPPORT TO VICTIMS UNDER POCSO ACT The Scheme for Care and Support to Victims under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act aims to provide comprehensive support to minor pregnant girl child victims. However, recent observations highlight several discrepancies and challenges in its implementation. Discrepancies in
WHY IS THE EUROPEAN UNION PROBING FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM? TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU The European Union has initiated a new investigation into Meta’s social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram, over concerns about child safety and compliance with the bloc's Digital Service Act (DSA). This investigation centers on the potential exploitation of
19TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS FORUM ON FORESTS India recently participated in the 19th Session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) at the UN Headquarters in New York, showcasing its achievements in forest conservation and sustainable management. The session highlighted India's initiatives and proposals aimed at enhancing global forest governance and addressing
GOING TO POLICE SHOULD BE LAST RESORT IN MATRIMONIAL DISPUTES: SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT The Supreme Court made significant observations while ruling on a petition filed by a husband against the Punjab and Haryana High Court's decision. These observations provide guidance on approaching marital disputes, emphasizing caution and alternative methods of resolution. Key Observations: Caution Against
CRITICAL TIMES CALL FOR STRONG JUDICIAL ADJUDICATION TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), a significant piece of legislation in India, has sparked widespread debate and controversy since its enactment. As the Supreme Court of India prepares to review the constitutionality of the CAA and its accompanying rules,
NITI AAYOG REPORT FINDS ‘HUGE GAP’ IN CANCER SCREENING AT AYUSHMAN CENTRES The NITI Aayog report highlighted critical gaps in cancer detection in India, raising concerns about public health risks. It focused on the screening programs at Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) meant for early detection of cancers like oral, breast, and cervical
HARNESSING DEGRADED LANDS FOR BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION The Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India organized a meeting to explore the potential of cultivating biomass on degraded land for green biohydrogen production and bioenergy generation. Key stakeholders and research institutes participated to discuss strategies and initiatives in this regard. Key Highlights: Biomass Cultivation Prospects:
CLIMATE CHANGE, A PASSING CLOUD IN INDIAN POLITICS TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The fifth phase of India's general election has concluded, revealing a significant omission in the electoral rhetoric of the major political parties: the critical issue of climate change. This neglect stands out sharply amid global environmental crises and
INDIAN MANUFACTURING NEEDS MORE SOPHISTICATION: FINANCE MINISTER The recent report by the International Panel of Experts on Sustainable Food Systems (IPES-Food) sheds light on the growing threat of 'land squeeze,' where the demand for land outpaces its availability, posing significant challenges to farmers and food production globally. Key Highlights of the Report: Rising Land Prices:
A VEGETABLE TRIUMVIRATE, INFLATION AND THE TAKEAWAY TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU Inflation, a crucial economic indicator, reflects changes in the general price level and cost of living. In India, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures inflation, with a basket of 299 items including vegetables, which hold a 6.04% weight. In FY2023-24, vegetable
INDIAN MANUFACTURING NEEDS MORE SOPHISTICATION: FINANCE MINISTER The manufacturing sector in India plays a significant role in the country's economy, contributing 17% to GDP and employing over 27.3 million workers. The government aims to increase its contribution to 25% of the economy by 2025, as part of the Make in India initiative. While certain sectors
WHY INDIAN HOUSEHOLD SAVINGS FELL TO A SIX-YEAR LOW IN FY23 The decline in India’s household net financial savings to GDP ratio has raised concerns about the financial well-being of households and the overall stability of the economy. This decline is attributed to increased borrowing and structural shifts in the economy rather than a mere
POWERFUL, SYMBOLIC TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU The recent announcements by Ireland, Norway, and Spain to formally recognize the state of Palestine mark a significant shift in international sentiment towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Statements from Leaders: Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris emphasizes the symbolic value of recognizing Palestine. Norway’s Prime Minister supports moderate
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT NAGALAND INSURGENCY The Naga insurgency is one of the longest-running ethnic conflicts in India, primarily driven by the quest for Naga sovereignty and autonomy. The conflict has deeply affected the socio-political dynamics of the northeastern region of India. Recently, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) accused the National Socialist Council
HIGHER EDUCATION IN INDIA The University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently introduced regulations to facilitate the entry of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEIs) in India. This move is seen as a significant step, comparable to the economic reforms of 1991, aimed at enhancing the quality and competitiveness of India's higher education system. Current Scenario of
THE MISSING LINKS IN IMEC, AS SHOWN BY THE GAZA WAR TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Chabahar Port Agreement, signed on May 13, 2024, symbolizes a decade-long collaborative effort between India and Iran to develop a vital maritime link that connects India with Afghanistan and Central Asia. This agreement is not
SPACE TOURISM Space tourism, once a futuristic dream, is now becoming a reality with individuals like Gopi Thotakura venturing beyond Earth's atmosphere. This burgeoning industry offers recreational trips to space, presenting both opportunities and challenges. What is Space Tourism? Space tourism involves providing recreational space travel experiences for tourists. Types: Suborbital flights offer
MICROPLASTICS Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than five millimetres in diameter, have become a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, posing significant threats to ecosystems and human health. These minuscule plastic fragments originate from various sources, including the breakdown of larger plastics and deliberate manufacturing of tiny particles for commercial use. Recent studies have shed light on
THE SPECTRE OF NUCLEAR CONFLICT, ONCE AGAIN TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – SOURCE: THE HINDU In the aftermath of major wars and conflicts, it is common to question whether ruling elites had the foresight and preparedness to prevent these crises. As some nations today engage in sabre-rattling and threaten the use of nuclear weapons, these
BIMSTEC ACQUIRES ‘LEGAL PERSONALITY’ AFTER CHARTER COMES INTO FORCE The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) achieved a significant milestone with the entry into force of its charter on 20th May 2024. BIMSTEC is a regional organization comprising seven member states situated around the Bay of Bengal, aimed at fostering
THE RECENT UNREST IN PAKISTAN-OCCUPIED KASHMIR The unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has heightened due to economic woes, including soaring prices and financial strain. Pakistan's economy faces significant challenges, marked by high inflation, escalating energy costs, and trade disruptions with India. These factors have contributed to economic instability in regions like PoK, exacerbating the already
INDIA HOSTS THE ANTARCTIC PARLIAMENT Antarctica, a continent long shrouded in mystery and isolation, is now experiencing a surge in human activity, driven by tourism, scientific research, and geopolitical interests. Against this backdrop, the ongoing 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Kochi, Kerala, serves as a crucial platform for deliberating on the future of
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT Solid waste management is a critical issue in India, particularly in urban areas like New Delhi, where improper waste disposal and management pose severe threats to public health and the environment. With India generating millions of tonnes of waste annually, effective management practices are essential to mitigate these risks. About Solid Waste
PROMOTING COMPETITION IN DIGITAL MARKETS: THE AI CHALLENGE During the 15th annual day celebrations of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), the Chairperson emphasized the inclination of digital markets towards heightened market concentration, potentially leading to monopolistic tendencies. Key Highlights of the Event: The CCI Chairperson pointed out that the dominance of digital platforms over
GLOBAL NUCLEAR LANDSCAPE The global landscape is witnessing a resurgence of nuclear anxieties, driven by geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and regional conflicts. In this context, India faces multifaceted challenges and opportunities in its nuclear program and energy sector. Evolution of the Global Nuclear Landscape: Russia-Ukraine War: Russia's veiled nuclear threats during the Ukraine conflict have
WHY CAN ACCUSED PERSONS IN PRISON CONTEST POLLS BUT NOT VOTE? TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS In India, the right to vote and the right to be elected are governed by specific sections of the Representation of People Act, 1951 (RP Act). While the Supreme Court has recognized free and fair
BLAMING COURT VACATION FOR PENDENCY MISSES THE REAL PROBLEM TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY AND GOVERNANCE – SOURCE: THE HINDU The efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial system are fundamental to upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice for all. However, recent discussions surrounding the working hours of judges have reignited debates on the
EXPERT PANEL FAVOURS REOPENING ELEPHANT CORRIDOR, SHIFTING CHINNAKANAL COLONIES TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The expert panel appointed by the Kerala High Court has submitted a report outlining recommendations to address the human-wildlife conflict in Chinnakanal, Idukki district. The report highlights the case of Arikomban, a wild elephant relocated due to
FARM LOAN WAIVERS Farm loan waivers are governmental measures aimed at relieving farmers from the burden of repaying certain agricultural loans, typically announced during election campaigns to garner support from the farming community. These waivers are implemented to alleviate agrarian distress caused by factors like crop failure, natural calamities, or economic hardships. Governments allocate funds
RBI’S INCOME RISES 17% TO ₹2.75 LAKH CR., SPENDING FALLS 56% TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU RBI income went up by 17%, reaching ₹2,75,572.32 crore, which shows we're making more money. At the same time, spending dropped by a big 56.3% to ₹64,694.33 crore, meaning we're being careful with how we spend. These
RAILWAYS TO CONSTRUCT CANOPY BRIDGES ACROSS TRACK IN ASSAM GIBBON HABITAT TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY – SOURCE: THE HINDU The Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Jorhat district, Assam, is home to the Hoolock gibbon, India’s only ape. A railway track divides the sanctuary, disrupting the gibbons' natural movement and habitat. Canopy Bridges Purpose: Facilitate gibbons' safe movement
WIPO TREATY ON INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, GENETIC RESOURCES, TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE The recently concluded World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) treaty on Intellectual Property (IP), Genetic Resources (GRs), and Associated Traditional Knowledge (ATK) marks a significant achievement for countries of the global South, including India. Adopted by a consensus of over 150 countries, the treaty aims to balance
CYCLONE REMAL: 31 KILLED AS RAIN, LANDSLIPS WREAK HAVOC IN NORTHEAST The recent Cyclone Remal caused severe landslides in northeastern India, resulting in significant casualties. This highlights the urgent need for enhanced multi-hazard disaster resilience. While early warnings for cyclones have improved, landslide prediction and prevention remain a challenge. What is a Landslide? A landslide
JAMES WEBB SPACE TELESCOPE SPOTS EARLIEST-KNOWN GALAXY: WHAT A NEW STUDY SAYS TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – SOURCE: INDIAN EXPRESS Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), revealing the most distant galaxy ever observed. This ancient galaxy, named JADES-GS-z14-0, existed a mere 400 million years after the Big